5 Tips for Spring Cleaning With Those Living With Alzheimer’s   

Spring is here. It’s the time of the year that cleaning house becomes a priority.

The process of spring cleaning when you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia can be more challenging. 

You want your loved one to feel they are contributing to the process and you are not coming in and taking over their home. Let them be involved and heard, so they do not get upset, confused or overwhelmed. 

Nicole Ramer of Organized Haven in Lakeland shares some valuable tips to help those caregivers and family members tackle the spring cleaning task. 

1. Have a plan of action. 

Walk around the home with them to see what needs to be done. Then sit around the table, have a cup of coffee and make a list of what areas need cleaning. 

Ask them what they want in their house cleaned up. Are there things in their way that create a safety concern? Asking them for their input on their needs helps give them a sense of independence. 

You don’t want your loved one to feel left out of the task. It’s important for them to be part of the process.  

2. Target specific areas or rooms.

You can pick three places to clean. It could be the coffee table or the dining room table, the bathroom or the bedroom depending on the need. 

If there is a table they use often and have daily items they need, make sure you don’t put those in another place or hidden where they cant find them. Keep important items visible. 

3. Include their participation.

Let your loved one participate in any way they can. 

Let them sweep, dust or organize items on flat surfaces. They can clean out a cabinet, pantry or some drawers. Perhaps put away winter clothes or do some light gardening if they like to be outside.

Whatever they can physically handle, it is important for them to be part of the process. 

4. Save sentimental items for last.

Going through sentimental items is very emotional and takes a lot of time. You should leave that task for last. 

Be patient and let them take their time. There may be many things they haven’t seen or used in a long time. 

At this point the house is clean and everything has a home. For items you have uncovered, make an effort to keep them visible for easy accessibility. 

5. Know this process takes time.

It will do more harm than good to come in like a tornado and make significant changes in one day. 

You do not want to put your loved one in a situation where they can get angry, sad or feel that someone is taking over. 

The clutter did not accrue overnight. Simply focus on two or three things to clean. You should not expect it to be done in one day and that is where the planning comes into play. 

Ramer reminds caregivers and family members that this is your loved one’s home and they need to know their feelings and wishes are being considered. It is a two-way street. 

Visit alz.org for more helpful information. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline is available day or night at 800.272.3900.