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It's amazing what you can accumulate over a lifetime.
Closets are filled, dressers bulge and there's no room left in
the cupboard. For safer and easier living as you age, maybe it's
time to reverse the accumulation process. Here are some ways you
can start to get your house in order.
Donate or give things away. Give an early inheritance by
sharing prized possessions--like special dishes or pictures--with
relatives. As you do this, share the history and special meaning
of the possession with that person.
You might consider sorting extra clothing, appliances,
furniture or other household items and donating them to a
charitable organization. The value of these donated goods can be
counted as a contribution for income tax purposes.
If you have historical pictures, clothes, books or other
items, contact the local museum or historical society about
donating them for their archives.
Another way to cut down on clutter is to have a garage or
yard sale. If you don't want to hold your own sale, consider
joining with friends and neighbors. The work and cost of
advertising is shared and it usually turns into a fun, social
event.
An alternative to holding your own sale is to use a
consignment store. This works especially well for good-quality
clothing; and some stores specialize in used household items.
Another way to use the garage sale concept without the work is to
donate items to an organization that is holding a garage or
rummage sale as a fundraiser.
If you haven't seriously sorted and discarded household
possessions, now is the time. Throw away outdated medicines,
cosmetics, perfumes, old magazines, books, papers or other files.
Appliances or other household items that no longer are useable or
repairable should be discarded. Items like plastics, glass, cans,
paper or cardboard can be taken to a recycling center.
There may be items you aren't ready to give away to friends
or family yet. Pack them in sturdy boxes, seal and label them
clearly. If the boxes contain items for certain persons, label
with that information also. Make sure the boxes are stored in a
safe, out-of-the-way location.
Finally, take time to organize drawers and cupboards with
things you use regularly. In the kitchen, store dishes and
equipment used daily in lower cupboards and shelves where they
are easily accessible. Items used seasonally--like the turkey
roaster or canning jars--can be stored in less accessible storage
areas. If they are stored in high cupboards, make sure you use a
safe step stool when retrieving them, or ask someone to assist
you.
Papers, such as account ledgers, statements or other items,
often should be organized where they can be obtained quickly.
Make sure they are organized where family members who might need
the information in the event of your death or disability could
locate them easily.
By taking some time to organize your lifetime of
possessions, you'll make your house ready for easier living as
you age.
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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