The Benefits of Senior Volunteering: Giving Back to the Community

As the holiday season approaches, many families are excited about the festivities, gatherings, and the warmth that comes from celebrating with loved ones. However, for seniors, the holidays can sometimes evoke a different sentiment, especially when their homes are cluttered and overwhelming. At A Call to Order, we believe that decluttering not only creates a more organized space but also cultivates joy and comfort during this special time. In this blog, well discuss how decluttering can transform senior homes into serene sanctuaries, offering a few tips on how to embark on this rewarding journey.The Emotional Weight of ClutterIts no secret that clutter can induce feelings of stress and anxiety. For seniors, this burden can become significantly heavier. Aging can bring about physical limitations, mood fluctuations, and even feelings of loss or nostalgia. The accumulation of belongings, once cherished, can start to serve as a reminder of whats gone. The transition from cluttered environments to clean spaces not only visually uplifts homes but can also enhance emotional well-being. Decluttering before the holidays not only prepares a space for festivities but also creates an inviting environment for family gatherings. Imagine a peaceful home where your loved one can enjoy the laughter and joy of shared moments without the distraction of clutter. Thats the magic of creating a comfortable space. Tip 1: Embrace Memories, Let Go of ExcessWhen embarking on the decluttering journey, its essential to approach it with sensitivity and empathy. Start by setting aside time to sort through belongings, emphasizing the emotional significance of each piece. A great way to engage your loved one in this process is to invite them to share stories about the items theyve kept. This can be a wonderful bonding experience and can also help them to understand which items truly hold value for them. Actionable Steps:Create Categories: Designate separate areas for items to keep, donate, and discard.Use the One-Year Rule: If your loved one hasnt used or enjoyed an item in the past year, it may be time to let it go.Utilize Memory Boxes: Encourage them to keep a small box for particularly cherished items this helps preserve memories while still reducing clutter.Simplify Spaces for a Stress-Free HolidayOnce the tough decisions about what to keep have been made, its time to create a simplified living space thats easy to navigate and joyful to inhabit. A clean, organized home can significantly lighten the holiday load, allowing everyone to focus on what truly matters: creating memories with family. Tip 2: Optimize Storage and Layout for ComfortAfter decluttering, its essential to think about the layout of furniture and storage solutions. A well-organized, open space enhances movement and reduces hazards. Consider these steps to optimize their environment in a way that ensures safety and ease of access.Actionable Steps:Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to facilitate conversation and movement. Create cozy corners for relaxation, ensuring pathways are clear.Accessible Storage Solutions: Use bins, baskets, or labels to store items neatly. Place frequently used items within easy reach to foster independence and comfort.Holiday Spirit Decor: Once the clutter is cleared, add some holiday touches. Whether its a simple wreath or a collection of family photos, personal touches can bring warmth and joy.The Emotional PayoffAs you embark on this journey of decluttering with your senior loved ones, remember that the emotional payoff can be profound. Clearing their homes of clutter can lead to renewed energy and enthusiasm for the holiday season, allowing them to focus on what truly matters family, love, and connection. A serene environment sets the stage for memorable family gatherings, enhancing the holidays in a deeply meaningful way.At A Call to Order, we are passionate about helping seniors create spaces that reflect joy and ease. Decluttering may initially seem like a daunting task, but with the right approacha sprinkle of love and patienceit can transform into a fulfilling experience. As we gear up for this joyful season, lets ensure that our senior loved ones feel comforted and treasured in their homes. With every item sorted, we pave the way for a warm and peaceful holiday season filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments. Lets celebrate the magic of the holidays by creating a home that invites joy! If you need assistance in your decluttering journey or would like a helping hand, dont hesitate to reach out. Together, we can embrace the spirit of the season while creating space for comfort and connection. Happy holidays from all of us at A Call to Order!

In a world filled with constant change and digital distractions, it can be easy to overlook one of lifes most meaningful aspects: our memories. Memories shape who we are, connecting us to significant people, places, and experiences that have enriched our lives. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of preserving these moments as timeless treasures. In this blog, we will explore the significance of keeping memories close to your heart and share practical tips to help you organize and cherish them effectively.The Value of Memories in Our LivesMemories are like a thread woven through the fabric of our lives, providing context and meaning to our existence. Heres why preserving memories is essential:Emotional ConnectionRoots of Identity: Our memories are a core part of our identity. They remind us of our experiences, journeys, and growth. By reflecting on our past, we understand ourselves better and connect with our roots.Nurturing Relationships: Memories often serve as the foundation of our relationships. Shared experiences create bonds that can foster connection and understanding between loved ones. Remembering milestones, laughter, and even challenges not only honors those moments but also strengthens our ties with others.Legacy and ReflectionCreating a Legacy: Preserving memories allows you to create a legacy for future generations. By documenting your experiences, stories, and values, you can pass down essentials that highlight what matters most to your family.Opportunity for Reflection: Taking time to reflect on your memories offers a sense of peace and nostalgia. It allows you to appreciate the journey youve taken and can serve as a reminder of the resilience and joy you possess.Tips for Preserving Timeless TreasuresWhile memories can sometimes feel ephemeral, there are numerous ways to keep them alive and accessible. Here are actionable tips to help you organize and honor your cherished moments:Step 1: Organize Physical KeepsakesCreate a Memory Box: Invest in a beautiful box or container where you can store physical keepsakes such as letters, postcards, photographs, and small mementos. Label each item with a date and a brief description to capture the essence of its significance.Sort and Curate: Regularly go through your collection to remove duplicates and items that no longer resonate with you. This curation helps maintain focus on the most meaningful treasures and keeps your collection manageable.Step 2: Digital DocumentationScan Important Documents and Photos: In today's digital age, its essential to preserve memories electronically. Use a scanner or a mobile scanning app to digitize important documents, photos, and keepsakes. This ensures that you have backups of your cherished items, even if the originals wear out or get lost.Create Digital Albums: Organize your digital photos into albums on your computer or cloud storage. You can create thematic collections (such as vacations, family gatherings, or milestones) to make them easily accessible. Regularly updating them can also spark joy as you take trips down memory lane.Step 3: Storytelling and JournalingStart a Memory Journal: Dedicate a journal to documenting your favorite memories, experiences, and reflections. You can write about significant events, feelings associated with certain moments, or stories passed down through generations. This practice provides an excellent outlet for self-expression and introspection.Share Family Stories: Consider scheduling regular family gathering times where you can share and document stories. Utilize voice recording apps to capture these moments with family and friends. These shared narratives create a deeper connection to your past and preserve family history for future generations.Step 4: Display Your MemoriesCreate a Memory Wall: Dedicate a wall or a section of your home to display photos, art, and keepsakes that tell your story. This not only showcases your memories but also invites conversations with guests who can appreciate your journey.Use Shadow Boxes: For three-dimensional treasures like souvenirs, awards, or delicate items from special events, consider using shadow boxes. This allows you to create beautiful and meaningful displays while protecting items from wear and tear.Step 5: Regularly Reflect and CelebrateCelebrate Milestones: Make it a tradition to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, and other milestones where you can revisit cherished memories together. Create new traditions that involve sharing stories or looking through old photo albums, further enriching your memories.Schedule Regular Memory Check-ins: Take the time to reflect on your memories regularly. Whether its through quiet personal moments or gatherings with loved ones, revisiting memories can evoke warm feelings and gratitude, reinforcing their significance.Conclusion: Keep Your Memories Close to HeartAt A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe that memories are invaluable treasures that deserve to be cherished and preserved. By taking intentional steps to organize and celebrate your experiences, youll create a rich tapestry of memories that can provide comfort, joy, and connection throughout your life.As you embark on this journey of preserving your timeless treasures, remember that its not just about the items themselves; its about the stories, emotions, and relationships that shaped those moments. Embrace the art of memory-keeping and allow your cherished past to enrich your present and influence your future. If you ever feel overwhelmed with how to organize your keepsakes or create a meaningful memory-keeping system, A Call to Order is here to help you every step of the waybecause your memories are worth celebrating and keeping close to heart.

In many ways, stress is a part of life for all of us. But for seniors, stress can have a larger affect on physical and mental wellness.Having worries and concerns is natural, but it is more important as we get older to practice stress-reduction techniques to manage these thoughts.The great news is that stress, and the techniques to manage it, are usually easy for most people to practice. Meditation, breathing exercises, physical movement and other tactics can help seniors continue to live the best quality of life and can even improve overall wellness.Stress destroys cells in the hippocampus, a brain site responsible for memory storage and retrieval.Why is it critical to manage stress?As we continue to keep our homes and families safe during COVID-19, its even more important to focus on the mental health needs of our seniors when it comes to stress.Several studies have shown that stress is linked to mental and physical problems, from anxiety and depression to hypertension and immune system complications. In fact, its estimated that stress increases the risk of heart disease by 40%, heart attack by 25%, and stroke by 50%. Not to mention the fact that stress can also exacerbate existing conditions which can be very impactful for those with less efficient immune systems.What can seniors do to manage their stress in a positive way?Finding moments of joy and focusing on activities and hobbies that bring meaning and purpose can help seniors manage their stress. Fortunately, there are many more stress relief techniques that seniors can follow to help improve their own personal wellbeing. What senior clients use to manage their stress today can help better prepare them for any future stress.Stress Relief TechniquesConnection can help relieve stress. Seniors can call a friend or family member, have a video chat or spend time with loved ones when possible.Meditate at the same time every day or whenever feelings of stress or anxiety arisePractice deep breathing and mindfulness exercisesReach out to friends and family to connect and spend time togetherFollow a consistent exercise regimen and healthy diet, upon physician approvalJournal or jot down thoughts and feelings at the end of each day and be sure to take a moment to reflect on all the positive things that happened throughout the dayFind a virtual volunteer opportunity to give back to the communityPut together and execute a to-do list to increase productivity, decrease feelings of restlessness, and combat procrastinationJoin a yoga class or practice it at home (with physician approval)Listen to soothing or relaxing music, especially before bedFind a way to laugh, whether its by watching a funny TV show/movie or listening to a comedy albumComfort Keepers Can HelpAt Comfort Keepers, we have spent the last twenty years perfecting the art of helping seniors and other adults maintain their peace, happiness, and joy. To us, every moment in a seniors life is a unique opportunity to foster positivity, going beyond daily tasks. Our approach to care is called Interactive Caregiving, a philosophy centered around four central aspects of life: mind, body, nutrition, and safety.Whats more, our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind: empathy. Care that is empathetic is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our clients exact needs.Learn more about our unique service offering by contacting a local Comfort Keepers office.