Spring Cleaning for Seniors
When we think about spring cleaning, our thoughts generally turn to washing windows, and cleaning out the nooks and crannies of our homes that otherwise did not garner our attention throughout the year. And although it has become a decidedly American tradition, its origins are based in various cultural and ethnic practices. It was and continues to be a means to prepare for and welcome holidays and to remove the ‘soot and grime’ left behind by winter’s hibernation.
Spring cleaning and cleaning in general is not the same as organizing of course, as each can be an activity unto itself. They do travel hand in hand, however, and while we all benefit from both cleaning and organizing, there are special considerations for the senior population.
Declutter for Good Health
By now it’s no secret that living in a clutter-free environment benefits our physical and mental well being. As we all continue to age, our bodies and minds are prone to changes which often make us vulnerable in our own homes. For seniors, decreases in hearing, vision and mobility for instance can all contribute to an increasingly untidy home and therefore, risk. Here are a few examples.
Clutter Risk: any amount of clutter that stays in the pathways within our homes poses a fall risk. The CDC reports that more than one in four people over the age of 65 falls each year. And the odds of falling again are doubled after the first fall. To state the obvious, removing fall and tripping hazards saves your body from potentially serious injury, not to mention the cost of subsequent medical care which can quickly spiral out of control as well as the potential of not being able to return or remain at home.
Expired Food Risk: expired foods of all kinds presents challenges to seniors who may be more susceptible to nutrient deficiencies. Food borne illnesses, digestive issues, allergic reactions and potential toxicity are threats to all, and especially to seniors who may have weakened immune systems or other underlying health conditions. While waste-not, want-not is a common mindset among this group, it is far safer to discard expired food items than to risk dangerous and avoidable health consequences.
Expired Medications Risk: Similar to expired foods, expired meds can present serious health risks. Some meds lose their potency or undergo chemical changes over time. At the least, treatment may become ineffective; at worst serious adverse conditions may result. It’s not uncommon for seniors to take multiple medications, so it is very important to review them regularly. Eliminate confusion by removing any expired meds or those no longer necessary. Many pharmacies and municipal safety centers offer medication drop boxes making it easy to dispose of them safely.
Environmental Risk: Our homes are magnets for dust, and natural irritants especially during allergy season when it’s tempting to throw open the windows and let in the springtime air. On the flip side, the air quality in a senior home can easily be negatively affected by irritants like smoke, mold or other pollutants. Symptoms related to common respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can worsen if these environmental risk factors are not alleviated. Some remediation includes safety assessments and home modifications which may be conducted independently or via community services. Access to healthcare is also crucial to monitor and treat adverse reactions to these environmental hazards.
The rewards to a home free of clutter, expired foods and medications and environmental risks are many. Not only is a clutter-free home visually pleasing, but it is also known to alleviate stress. A clutter-free home promotes better sleep, improves focus, and eliminates frustration and confusion, all important features of good senior health. It also promotes socialization. While many seniors live in isolation, a home that is a clean and safe haven is a welcome invitation to friends and family.