ORGANIZE - MAKE YOUR HOME & LIFE WORK FOR YOU

Einstein made lists.  He said he did not want to clutter up his brain with anything unimportant. I am no Einstein, but I do make lists. I know when I am getting stressed because I make lists from my lists, which is definitely not productive. I had my handwriting analyzed and it indicated that I tend to cram the sentences on the page like I do in my life; trying to find time for just one more thing. I am sure many share that trait.

One of the best things I learned lately is to have a to-do list and a “ta-da” list. When you check off something on the list give yourself a “ta-da!” Congratulate yourself on the  accomplishment rather than looking at the never ending list of undones. Also, to get the clutter out of my brain, I list ten things and if I get 3 of them done in a day I’m good.                That means breaking tasks into simple steps.  It can mean setting a timer for only 15 minutes or a half hour to focus entirely on one task.  That has worked well for me and for my granddaughter who has a hard time if the task seems never ending. Like that old adage: “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”  Also, you don’t have to do it all yourself.

For example, a perfectly clean house is not everyone's priority. It certainly isn't mine. I'd much rather be in the garden. There are some tasks you may like, other ones your spouse or family can handle and those you need help with. Making your home safer, easier to live in, and more manageable can bring great peace of mind, as well as time to focus on the things you most enjoy.  Especially when you are not at your best or are caring for someone, you do not need that additional stress.

How do you find someone to help when you can no longer handle it all or don’t have the skills?  

At the April Geezer Forum “Organize Your Life - Senior Friendly Resources and More” local experts shared info on home cleaning, organization and home repair. Also  reviewed were which important papers are needed, how to organize them and how to get help to make sure your wishes are carried out if you are incapacitated or after your death. 

I received info and goodies from Avista (who will perform a free energy audit) and the name of a house cleaner for myself. Also I explored in-home assistance and organization ideas for a friend.

Our speakers and vendors were:
-Avista  - Saving energy 
-Family Stewardship, Jonathan Peel - Planning and organizing key documents 
-Allphase,  Jessica Morales - Senior home construction projects
-Clean Sweep,  Lenore McDonald- Home organization 
-Legends Assisted Living
-Unbound OT - Occupational Therapy home modifications.
-Keller Williams Realty - Downsizing
-Senior Helpers - Home Care 
-Monroe & Eyman - Elder Law 

We hope you will come join us for the next Geezer Forum.  The topic is not yet chosen, so if there is something you want information on feel free to contact us.

Remember a Geezer is not a cranky old man, but a person with a zest for living, who may have gray hair and wrinkles. 

If you would like more information contact geezerforumcda@gmail.com.  Also check out our Facebook group page Geezer Forum CDA. Previous Geezer Forum articles and updated “Travel Tips and Tricks for Seniors”  are available for download at virginiataft.com Virginia Taft can be reached at virginiataftauthor@gmail.com 
Taft is the author of  “The Memory Box Journey - Capturing a Life Story” 
(Dream Seed Rising 2024) available on Amazon; audiobook on Audible