By Shannin Prather
April 2021 | 2021 Spring Newsletter
According to Psychology Today (2018), clutter can increase stress by distracting us and overwhelming our senses.
Spring cleaning not only makes your living environment look and feel more organized, but it can also improve your health by ridding your home of allergens and dangerous hazards that may have built up over the cold winter months.
A cluttered home could pose health and safety risks. A cluttered living room with closely placed pieces of furniture could pose a trip and fall hazard. Blocked pathways and doorways in one’s home can reduce mobility for those using canes, walkers, or wheelchairs. When doorways are blocked, medical responders may be unable to enter the home during an emergency.
Take your time with your spring cleaning and do not lift or move heavy items on your own. Stay safe by asking for help when you need it.
Some simple tips for decluttering that will not only make your personal space feel more organized, but also create a safer environment:
- Focus on one room at a time
- Clear out clutter; go through each room and determine what can be discarded, donated, or stored away
- In bedrooms and common areas, dust furniture and sweep or vacuum floors
- Wash bedding and any decorative cloths that may be on dressers or tables. Put away extra blankets that may have been out for the cold months
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to test they are working
- Change air filters in furnaces, space heaters, and air conditioners as these could be clogged with dust and allergens
- Check kitchen cabinets and the refrigerator for expired foods and clean up any crumbs or spills
- Check medicine cabinets for expired prescription and over-the-counter medicines. These should be disposed of carefully. Call your doctor or local pharmacy for disposal options
All households should have an emergency plan and a prepared disaster kit in case of a natural disaster. If you have your plan and kit in place, check it for expired foods and dead batteries. If not, take this opportunity to begin your emergency preparedness plan.
To learn more about creating an emergency plan and building a kit, visit ready.gov.