Cleaning Up After the Death of a Loved One

Organizing has become a huge industry. In this high-stress hectic world of a 50+ hour workweek, demand for family and personal time, and the need to make the most of our time- people have turned to places like Ikea, the Container Store and others to manage their household goods.

This trend is evident in many American homes and magazines. The one place that it is often absent is the homes of our parents and grandparents. The challenge will come at one of the worst times of our lives.

What will your life be like when your parent/s or grandparent/s pass away? Outside of the emotional distress of the situation you are likely to face a home or multiple homes full of things. Things that may make their way to your home for temporary storage - until YOU manage to sort and distribute them. This will be another area ripe for stress between you and your siblings, spouse and/or children. The process could take months- perhaps even years.

What can you do?
One, encourage everyone you know to have a will. In my will I note where I want "things" to go- even clothing. I share my legal documents and wishes with all of the people involved with such- before they really need to act on that information. I allow them to ask questions. I make it an issue more of preparation and easing their burden than a grim talk of the inevitable.

Two, have a plan in place if YOU find yourself in this situation. Know the local resources that will liquidate "things" in an estate sale and the charity shops and organizations that will pick things up at your door.

Three, identify the treasures in someones life that you would cherish- that necklace that Aunt Grace wore all of the time, that wrap that Mother always had available, Father's favorite book.... Everything else should become a treasure in someone else's family/home. Get rid of the things that won't be cherished by your forever. Don't allow 2-3 households of stuff to live under your roof. Give a gift to each child/relative but find peace with getting rid of the rest. If you sell the items, give the money to the deceased favorite charity.

This is an inevitable yet tough situation to think about- but you'll do yourself so much good if you do. Families benefit from planning. Do your part today.