Moving an aging parent into a care facility can be difficult enough; however, what do you do with all the accumulated "stuff" which Mom or Dad owns? There won't be much additional room for storage or family keepsakes at Mom or Dad's new home so you will have to do something with it all. As someone who has helped to move my parents numerous times in their later years, here are just a few ideas which can help you:
Store it: Explore the options for local storage in your city or town. Here, you can rent a storage locker (various sizes are typically available) for either a short or long-term time period. While this is not the ideal answer as the monthly storage charges can add up quickly, you can buy some time until you make some more permanent decisions with what to do with these items.
Donate it: Is there a community service centre/association in your area which can use your parent's old couch or bookshelf? Call around to inquire ... maybe you'll even find someone who will offer pick-up? This will save you both time and effort.
Delegate it: Can you find a new home for any of Mom or Dad's possessions? Is there someone in your family or a neighbour's youngster who has just moved out? That microwave oven or television set could be greatly appreciated by someone just setting up a first apartment.
Discard it: While you may have great sentimental attachment to Mom or Dad's possessions, you must be realistic. You will not be able to keep the full collection of items yourself (although holding onto a number of smaller keepsakes can be a good thing). Work through all of what Mom or Dad owns ... if you do not want something or if you cannot donate or delegate it, then discard it.
By minimizing the amount of parental "stuff", you can reduce your personal stress level.
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