More than a third of Americans report feeling overwhelmed by clutter. Taking the time now to deal with the piles of cookbooks, old VHS tapes and even that one pantry full of expired canned goods could improve everything from your finances to your health.
With that in mind, here are five rules to help you break the habit of accumulating frivolous stuff in your golden years and finally declutter your space.
1. Consider clutter a health risk (because it is)
Excessive clutter isn’t just bad home decor, it’s also a potential health hazard, especially for older Americans. From dust mites and mold to fire and fall hazards, too much stuff around the home can put your health and safety at risk, according to the Aging Life Association.
Meanwhile, a study published in the Innovation in Aging journal in 2023 reports roughly 32% of hoarders experienced a fall in the year prior, while 60% were worried about tripping over their clutter. If you suffer from any medical issues, such as bad eyesight or hip tendonitis, the clutter in your home could become a serious hazard.
Fall risks aside, nearly one-third of participants in the same study noted they’re also dealing with at least one health hazard like mold or an insect infestation in their homes. Their overall wellbeing was also impacted, with 43% experiencing low physical functioning and 50% reporting a high degree of loneliness.
With all this in mind, decluttering and limiting purchases can be a very safe and healthy practice in retirement.
2. Follow the ‘one in, one out’ rule
This rule, which limits any new purchases until similar items are offloaded from your inventory, is a simple and effective way to combat clutter. Any new kitchen gadgets, coats or hobby items must earn their way into your home by removing one comparable item from your clutter.
The goal is not minimalism; it’s about maintaining a stable inventory of items in the home. Following this rule diligently should help you overcome many of the emotions involved in making impulse purchase decisions.
If the idea of having to lug boxes down to your local donation center sounds daunting, there are plenty of charities you can call to come pick up your castaways for free. Knowing your old clutter will help fund a cause you care about doesn’t hurt either.
3. Don’t pay storage fees
Many families buy so much stuff that they end up needing to rent extra space to store it all.
