Motivating the Elderly to Maintain a Clean Home: Tips and Strategies

Geriatric care often includes the challenge of encouraging elderly individuals to maintain a clean and organized home environment. Whether you're an elderly parent, a tenant or a caregiver, the struggle to keep the home tidy can be daunting. This article explores effective ways to motivate aging individuals to clean, supplemented by real-life examples and expert insights.

Understanding the Challenge

Like many tasks, household cleaning becomes more challenging as we age. Motivating the elderly to take care of their homes requires a thoughtful and sensitive approach. For instance, consider the case where a tenant you had was quite messy yet paid their rent consistently. Despite attempts to motivate them to clean, the tenant consistently pushed back. This illustrates the difficulties that can arise when trying to clean an elderly person's home. It all starts with setting a clear expectation for a spotless living environment, making sure their priorities align with your goals.

Leading by Example

The first step in motivating the elderly to clean is leading by example. Demonstrate the importance of cleanliness in your own life. If you maintain an organized and clutter-free space, the elderly person will be more likely to follow suit. As a seasoned caregiver who is 72, I realize that the best approach is to make cleaning a priority without being overly critical. My mantra is to 'never look for anything and everything I own has a home.' This simple rule not only helps keep my house tidy but also shows the elderly individual what a well-organized space looks like.

Encouraging Help

Occasionally helping the elderly with cleaning tasks can be beneficial, but it's important to approach the task with sensitivity and respect. Offering assistance with heavy duties or spotting tasks can make the workload more manageable. However, be cautious about taking on too much or suggesting too frequently, as this can be perceived as criticism. Instead, provide gentle encouragement and ask for feedback on how you can assist. For example, 'What would you like us to do with the old couch before it's taken away?' This dialogical approach can make the process less intrusive.

Hiring Professional Help

Another option is to suggest that the elderly person hire professional help. Many government programs offer home maintenance or housekeeping services for the elderly, which can be a practical solution. However, beware that some elderly individuals may resist this idea, viewing strangers entering their home as an invasion of privacy. Be tactful and persistent, explaining the benefits of having a regular cleaning routine and how it can improve their living conditions. It’s crucial to respect their wishes while also highlighting the importance of maintaining a safe and comfortable environment.

Finding Motivation in Personal Importance

As I grow older, my motivation to clean has changed. With my priority now on relaxation and leisure, I can see how cleaning is no longer a top priority for many elderly individuals. Recognize that there are more important things in life than cleaning. For instance, my mother always preferred to hire a maid and never personally cleaned the house. Her situation changed when she could no longer afford a full-time maid, and a weekly cleaning service became necessary. However, her routine of letting spills dry and neglecting trash and dishes made it difficult for the cleaning service to maintain a clean home. Her habits were so ingrained that there was no significant motivating factor to change them.

For the elderly, valuing time and focusing on activities they enjoy is more important than maintaining a squeaky-clean home. Encourage them to find enjoyment in activities that bring them joy, knowing that these experiences are more fulfilling than spending time on mundane household chores.

Conclusion

Encouraging the elderly to maintain a clean home requires a delicate balance of leading by example, offering support, and respecting their personal choices. By understanding the motivations and challenges faced by elderly individuals, you can create an environment where cleanliness is a shared goal without feeling like an imposition. Remember that everyone’s priorities change with age, and sometimes a well-organized and enjoyable life is more important than a spotless home.