Top 5 tip from your professional organizer:

 

1. Declutter with Purpose: Look beyond the surface. Use that objective eye to see your space anew. What’s gathering dust? What’s been ignored? What doesn’t belong in this space? You’ll be amazed at the details you notice when you eliminate the context of the entire house, focus on 1 just one area.
2. Sort and Conquer: Create designated spaces for items you plan to read, donate, or fix. No more “later” piles—just organized spaces.
3. Zone It Out: Divide your home into zones. Tackle one area at a time. Whether it’s the bookshelf, countertops, or that neglected corner, focus on each zone with precision.
4. The 15-Minute Rule: Feeling overwhelmed? Set a timer for 15 minutes. Dedicate that time to decluttering a specific area. You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve in those focused minutes.
5. Celebrate Small Wins: Don’t underestimate the power of completing small tasks. Each drawer organized, each surface cleared—it all adds up to a more organized, happier home.

 

“Used Tina for help with combining two households, including cleanup & reorganization. She took control immediately and gave us direction with resources for carpentry, cleaning some of which was extreme. She was in constant contact, prompt, efficient. The job took several months & she brought it together for us. We are impressed & pleased and recommend definitely recommend her.” Ed Harmon

 

Schedule your 1-hour complimentary Consult by calling: 847-421-8651 or online at: Contact – Curtis E Organizing

 

Curtis E Organizing is your primary problem solver for business, personal, and transitional life challenges. From your complimentary one-hour consultation through your project’s completion, Tina and Curtis E Organizing focus on the whole picture of your unique challenge, helping you to prioritize, prepare, execute, and finalize all of the details. We have the experience you need to make your project stress-free and streamlined.

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Why an Emergency Fund Matters

1. Unexpected Expenses: Life is unpredictable, and unforeseen expenses such as medical emergencies, home repairs, or job loss can put a strain on your finances. An emergency fund acts as a safety net, providing you with the necessary funds to navigate these unexpected challenges without going into debt.
2. Peace of Mind: Having an emergency fund brings peace of mind. Knowing that you have a financial cushion to fall back on in times of crisis allows you to face challenges with confidence, reducing stress and anxiety.
3. Financial Independence: An emergency fund empowers you to be self-reliant during difficult times. Instead of relying on credit cards or loans, you can tap into your savings, avoiding high-interest rates and debt accumulation.
4. Opportunity Seizing: Aside from emergencies, having an emergency fund can also enable you to seize unexpected opportunities. It could be pursuing further education, starting a business, or investing in a promising opportunity. Your emergency fund can serve as a springboard to propel you toward your goals.

Organize Your Finances with Tina Curtis

1. Expert Financial Guidance: Tina Curtis, the certified professional organizer behind CEO Organizing, specializes in helping individuals and families organize their finances. With her expertise, she can guide you through the process of creating and managing an emergency fund tailored to your unique circumstances.
2. Comprehensive Financial Assessment: Tina will conduct a thorough evaluation of your current financial situation, including income, expenses, debts, and savings. This assessment will provide a clear picture of your financial health and identify areas where adjustments can be made to optimize your savings potential.
3. Budgeting and Expense Management: Tina will work closely with you to create a personalized budget that aligns with your financial goals and allows for regular contributions to your emergency fund. She will help you identify areas where expenses can be reduced or optimized, maximizing your savings potential.
4. Savings Strategies and Automation: Tina will introduce you to effective savings strategies that fit your lifestyle and income. Whether it’s setting up automated transfers to your emergency fund or exploring high-yield savings accounts, she will help you establish a system that encourages consistent saving and growth in a way that’s best for you and your family.
5. Accountability and Support: Tina’s expertise extends beyond the initial consultation. She can provide ongoing support and accountability to ensure you stay on track with your financial goals. Together, you can determine whether check-ins and adjustments to your financial plan will help you maintain momentum and stay motivated.

Ready for Financial Peace of Mind?

Building an emergency fund is an essential step toward achieving financial security and peace of mind for your family. With the guidance and expertise of Tina Curtis from CEO Organizing, you can organize your finances effectively, establish an emergency fund, and navigate unexpected challenges with confidence. Start your journey toward financial stability today and embrace a future filled with financial independence and opportunity by contacting Tina for a complimentary consultation.

Curtis E Organizing is a professional organizing company founded by Tina Curtis, a certified professional organizer. With over a decade of experience in the organizing industry, Tina has a passion for helping individuals and families declutter and reorganize their homes to create more functional and stress-free living spaces. Tina Curtis holds a certification from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD). With her expertise and certifications, Tina is well-equipped to handle any organizing challenge, big or small.

The post Unlock Financial Peace of Mind: Create an Emergency Fund appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

1. Zone it Out: To start, create distinct zones within your garage to separate different categories of items. Designate an area for bikes, scooters, and skateboards, another for sports equipment, and one for arts and crafts supplies. By giving each item a dedicated place, you’ll reduce clutter and make it easier to locate specific items when needed.
2. Clear the Clutter: Take the opportunity to declutter your garage and let go of items your kids have outgrown or no longer use. Donate or sell those toys, games, and gear that are taking up valuable space. Not only will this free up room, but it will also create a more organized and visually appealing environment.
3. Smart Storage Solutions: Invest in practical storage solutions or repurpose existing ones that maximize space and keep items within reach. Sturdy shelves, cabinets, and wall hooks are excellent options. Utilize wall-mounted bike racks or ceiling hooks to store bikes and other large equipment, freeing up precious floor space. Clear bins and labeled baskets work wonders for organizing smaller toys, balls, and art supplies. Don’t forget to involve your children in the process, allowing them to contribute ideas for storage solutions and making it easier for them to access and put away their belongings.
4. Teach Tidy Habits: Take the opportunity to teach your kids the importance of keeping things tidy. Encourage them to put away their toys and gear after each use. Make it fun by using colorful labels, creating a reward system for organization, or turning cleanup into a game. By instilling these habits early on, you’ll not only maintain an organized garage but also teach valuable life skills to your children.
5. Seasonal Switch: As seasons change, adapt your garage organization accordingly. Store winter equipment, such as sleds or skis, in the back during summer, and bring forward items like beach toys or outdoor games. This rotational approach maximizes available space and ensures that the most relevant items are easily accessible.
6. Regular Maintenance: Lastly, incorporate regular maintenance into your routine. Think about setting aside a few minutes each month to tidy up the garage. Put away any stray toys, sweep the floor, and reassess the organization system if needed. By consistently maintaining the garage’s order, you’ll prevent clutter from piling up and ensure a clean, functional space.

With these practical tips, you can transform your garage into an organized oasis that accommodates both your storage needs and your children’s summer gear. By creating designated zones, clearing clutter, utilizing smart storage solutions, teaching tidy habits, adapting to seasonal changes, and maintaining regular upkeep, you’ll reclaim your garage space and enjoy a stress-free summer. So, roll up your sleeves, involve the kids, and conquer the garage chaos one step at a time. Your organized garage awaits!

CALL IN A PRO

We understand this can seem like a big, seemingly overwhelming task, and that’s why people put it off. Luckily, you can call in a pro for help! Curtis E Organizing tackles garages of different states of disorganization and works with the homeowner to not only bring them into order but also create manageable plans to keep them that way. Give us a call today at 847-421-8651 for your no-obligation, complimentary consultation.

Remember to share this blog post with fellow parents who could use some organization inspiration. Let’s support each other in creating functional and clutter-free spaces for our families.

Curtis E Organizing is a professional organizing company founded by Tina Curtis, a certified professional organizer. With over a decade of experience in the organizing industry, Tina has a passion for helping individuals and families declutter and reorganize their homes to create more functional and stress-free living spaces. Tina Curtis holds a certification from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD). With her expertise and certifications, Tina is well-equipped to handle any organizing challenge, big or small.

The post Conquer Summertime Chaos: Keeping Your Garage Organized with Kids and Summer Gear appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

How Clutter Affects Your Brain

Studies have shown that clutter can have a negative impact on your physical and mental health, linking clutter to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. A cluttered environment can create a sense of chaos and make it difficult to relax and unwind, leading to a constant state of stress. 

According to Libby Sander, Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour, Bond Business School, Bond University,

“Our brains like order, and constant visual reminders of disorganisation drain our cognitive resources, reducing our ability to focus.
 
“The visual distraction of clutter increases cognitive overload and can reduce our working memory.
 
“In 2011, neuroscience researchers using fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) and other physiological measurements found clearing clutter from the home and work environment resulted in a better ability to focus and process information, as well as increased productivity.” Source 

Furthermore, WebMD states, “Researchers have found that being around disorganization makes it harder for your brain to focus. It can be especially tough for people with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). If you have ADHD, a professional organizer or coach may be the best way to restore some order to your space.” Source 

Clutter Can Create Chaos for Your Health, too 

A cluttered home can create a breeding ground for dust, mold, and other allergens that can lead to respiratory problems. In addition, clutter can make it difficult to clean and maintain a healthy living environment, leading to further health risks. 

Clutter has also been linked to weight gain. “People who fill their homes with so much stuff that they may have a hoarding disorder also appear to be more likely to overeat and become obese. One study found that as hoarding got worse, so did body mass index (BMI) and binge-eating symptoms (eating large amounts of food in a short time).” Source 

Sander echoes this belief, stating, “It can also make us less productive, triggering coping and avoidance strategies that make us more likely to snack on junk and watch TV shows (including ones about other people decluttering their lives).” 

Working with a Professional Organizer Can Be a Lifeline 

Fortunately, there is a solution. By working with certified professional organizer Tina Curtis, you can take control of your clutter and create a peaceful, stress-free environment. We will work with you to declutter and reorganize your space, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment that brings peace and comfort to your home. 

With our help, you can work on reducing stress, improving your physical health, and creating a home that you can be proud of. Don’t let clutter make you sick – contact Curtis E Organizing today and start your journey to a clutter-free life! 

Curtis E Organizing is a professional organizing company founded by Tina Curtis, a certified professional organizer. With over a decade of experience in the organizing industry, Tina has a passion for helping individuals and families declutter and reorganize their homes to create more functional and stress-free living spaces. Tina Curtis holds a certification from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD). With her expertise and certifications, Tina is well-equipped to handle any organizing challenge, big or small.

The post How Clutter Can Affect Your Health appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

1. Clothes: Donate your gently used clothing to organizations such as LillyPads in Peru and LillyPads Two in Ottawa, Goodwill, The Salvation Army in Ottawa, or St. Vincent de Paul Society in Morris. Don’t forget about local thrift stores, such as Ottawa Community Thrift. These organizations accept clothing for men, women, and children and often have drop-off locations throughout the county.
2. Electronics: If you’re looking to get rid of old electronics, Goodwill accepts electronics in good condition.
3. Books, DVDs, and CDs: Local libraries in LaSalle County are always happy to accept book donations. You can also donate these items to Goodwill in Peru. Check with the organization before dropping them off, though.
4. Baby and Children’s Items: If you have baby clothes or children’s toys that your kids have outgrown, consider donating them to Under His Wings Ministry in Ottawa.
5. Sports Equipment: The YMCA and local sports teams are often in need of sports equipment. Goodwill in Peru also accepts sports equipment in good condition.
6. Musical Instruments: If you have a musical instrument that you no longer play, consider donating it to a local school or the Salvation Army or Goodwill. The instruments should be in good condition.
7. Cars: If you have an old car that you no longer need, consider Wheels for Wishes, which benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Habitat for Humanity and Kars 4 Kids are highly-rated organizations accepting car donations.
8. Eyeglasses: The Lions Club in Streator and Walmart Vision Centers both accept donations of eyeglasses.
9. General Goods: The Salvation Army in Ottawa, St. Vincent de Paul Society in Streator, and Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Streator accept various items, including furniture, household goods, and appliances.

Gather up your unwanted items and donate them to one of these great organizations! We recommend contacting the organization first to ensure your donation can be accepted before packing up the car and heading on over, though. Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be a great opportunity to give back to your local community and help those in need in LaSalle County!

____________

About Curtis E Organizing

Curtis E Organizing is a professional organizing company founded by Tina Curtis, a certified professional organizer. With over a decade of experience in the organizing industry, Tina has a passion for helping individuals and families declutter and reorganize their homes to create more functional and stress-free living spaces.

Tina Curtis holds a certification from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD). With her expertise and certifications, Tina is well-equipped to handle any organizing challenge, big or small.

The post Donate and Make a Difference appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

The post Pantry Organization 101 appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

The Causes of Home Clutter

Accumulation of Items

We often accumulate more items than we have room for, leading to cluttered homes. Busy lifestyles and not understanding how or when to declutter can make it easy for items to pile up and create a feeling of chaos. 

Systems and Strategies

Not having clear storage solutions and structure can make it difficult to keep our homes organized. When we don’t know where to put things, they tend to pile up and create clutter.

Emotional Attachments

Emotional attachments to items can make it difficult to let go of things we no longer need or use. This can lead to clutter and a feeling of being weighed down by our possessions.

Disorganization

Disorganization can be a major contributor to home clutter. When we don’t have a clear plan for how to store and organize our belongings, it can be difficult to keep our homes clutter-free.

How to Tackle Home Clutter

The good news is, there are simple and effective options to tackle home clutter. Here are some examples to experiment with:

• Always start small – Choose a small area to declutter, such as a single drawer or a small section of a room.
• Experiment with the “One Touch” rule – When you pick up an item, make a decision about it then and there. Keep it, donate it, or throw it away.
• Reconsider sentimental items – Keep a few sentimental items that bring you joy, but let go of the rest.
• Make a plan for donated items – Have a plan in place for what you will do with items you no longer need.
• Get the whole family involved – Decluttering can be a great opportunity to get the whole family involved. Assign tasks to each member of the family and make it a fun and enjoyable experience. Support of other family members will make the job seem less overwhelming and easier to maintain.

Understanding the reasons behind home clutter is the first step to finding a solution. By using the suggested tips above, you can tackle home clutter and create a more organized and peaceful environment.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need a little extra help with decluttering your home, consider working with a professional organizer like Curtis E Organizing. Tina Curtis, Certified Professional Organizer, will work with you to create a personalized plan to declutter and organize your home, so you can enjoy a more organized and stress-free life. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation!

About Curtis E Organizing

Curtis E Organizing is a professional organizing company founded by Tina Curtis, a certified professional organizer. With over a decade of experience in the organizing industry, Tina has a passion for helping individuals and families declutter and reorganize their homes to create more functional and stress-free living spaces. 

Tina Curtis holds a certification from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD). With her expertise and certifications, Tina is well-equipped to handle any organizing challenge, big or small.

The post The Real Reasons Behind Home Clutter appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

1. What are your goals?

Before starting any organizing project, it’s crucial to understand what you want to accomplish. Are you looking to declutter your home, create a more functional living space, or improve your financial situation? Specific goals will help you stay focused and on track throughout the process.

2. What are your time constraints?

Organization projects can take a lot of time and effort, and it’s important to have a realistic understanding of how much time you can reasonably dedicate to the project. Are you working with a tight deadline? Alternately, are you only able to work on the project during certain times of the day or week? Knowing your time constraints will help you create a schedule that works for you.

3. What are your budget constraints?

If not planned out properly, organizing your home or finances can quickly become a pricey undertaking. Therefore, it’s important to have a true understanding of how much money you can spend on the project. Are you working with a tight budget? Are there certain areas of the project where you’re willing to invest more money? Knowing your budget constraints will help you make smart financial decisions throughout the process.

4. What are your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves”?

When it comes to organizing your home or finances, you should understand the difference between what you truly need and what you simply want. Are there certain items or areas of your home or finances that you simply can’t live without? Furthermore, are there other areas where you’re willing to compromise? Knowing the difference between your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” will help you make smart decisions throughout the process.

5. Who will be using the organized space/system?

Before you start the project, ask yourself who will be using the organized space or system. Are you organizing your home for yourself or your family? Are you organizing your finances for yourself or a business? Knowing who will be using the space or system will help you create a plan that works for everyone.

By asking yourself these questions and working with a professional organizer, you can ensure that your organization project is successful, efficient, and tailored to your specific needs. Tina Curtis, Certified Professional Organizer, can assist you to achieve your goals, saving you time and money, and ensuring the best outcome for your project.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of organizing your home or finances, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help. With our years of expertise and experience, we can guide you through the process and help you achieve your goals.

The post 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Starting an Organization Project appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

We’ve handled more than a few decluttering jobs where the homeowner didn’t know how to get rid of stuff. The stuff you know doesn’t belong in the regular trash. But where does it go? How do you manage the safe disposal of items you’re not sure how to dispose of? More often than not, it gets tucked back wherever you found it, to be dealt with at a later date. Like when you hire a professional organizer to help you get organized. 

We’ve put together a list of some of the most common items that are notoriously difficult to dispose of, and where you can safely get rid of them.

Batteries

Nobody knows, right? Wrong! Big Green Box offers a simple and affordable recycling program. Dump all your drained household batteries into the box and ship them back to them for a reasonable rate. Some office supply and home goods stores like Staples and Home Depot accept rechargeable batteries for recycling.

If all else fails, it’s probably OK to toss your old 9-volt, AA, AAA, C, and D batteries. According to the EPA, “in most communities, alkaline and zinc carbon batteries can be safely put in your household trash.”

Cleaning Supplies

The EPA has a lot to say about cleaning supplies (they refer to them as “household hazardous waste,” or HHW) because of their potential to cause injury and/or contamination. Improper disposal of HHW can include pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or in some cases putting them out with the regular trash. Search “household hazardous waste” in the Earth911 database to find a collection program near you.

Expired Medicine

The FDA recently hosted a National Prescription Take Back Day, but if you missed that, you can still safely dispose of your unwanted or expired prescriptions. Click here to search for a disposal location near you.

If an authorized collector isn’t available in your community, check with the FDA for safe ways to dispose of your meds.

Leftover Paint

Your first stop should be with Earth911 to discover if there’s a paint recycling program near you. Oil-based paint will need to be taken to an approved disposal site. More commonly, though, are water-based acrylic paints, which can safely be mixed with kitty litter or newspaper in the paint can. Wait until it’s dried before putting it in the trash, though. If you have a lot of paint that is still good but you don’t need anymore, check with local drama departments or an organization like Habitat for Humanity’s Re-Store about donating it.

Computer Equipment and Other Electronics

Most computers contain hazardous materials that don’t belong in a landfill. Electronic products are made from valuable resources and materials, including metals, plastics, and glass, all of which require energy to mine and manufacture. Donating or recycling consumer electronics conserves our natural resources and avoids air and water pollution, as well as greenhouse gas emissions that are caused by manufacturing virgin materials.

Before donating your electronics:

• For your computer or laptop, consider upgrading the hardware or software instead of buying a brand-new product.
• Delete all personal information from your electronics.
• Remove any batteries from your electronics; they may need to be recycled separately.
• Lithium-ion batteries and devices containing these batteries should not go in household garbage or recycling bins. 
• Check for recycling facilities in your state or community.

Manufacturers and retailers offer several options to donate or recycle electronics. You can search for options on the following organizations’ websites: 

• Call2Recycle
• Earth911
• GreenerGadgets

Artificial Christmas Trees

(Bookmark this for after the holidays!)

Artificial trees can typically be reused, so consider donating your artificial Christmas tree if you don’t need it anymore. If your artificial tree is broken, you can usually throw it out by using curb pickup or placing it in a dumpster. Call your local waste management department to make sure this is the case for your community. Do not recycle your artificial Christmas trees, as usually they will not be accepted.

If you’ve purchased a real tree this year, make sure to remove all decorations first, then check Earth911.com to find a tree recycling facility near you. If none is available, contact your trash collection provider to make sure it’s ok to bag up and leave out with your regular trash. 

Cardboard Boxes

Believe it or not, you could be sitting on a gold mine (figuratively) if you have a lot of cardboard boxes piling up. Consider listing them on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Nextdoor so they can get a second, third, or fourth use before being recycled. Otherwise, break them down and add them to your weekly recycling. 

What about everything else?

If you’re unsure of how to dispose of anything in your home, Google it or check with Earth911 first. There is a wealth of information on how, where, and why you can dispose of just about anything. Also, Curtis E Organizing can help you identify what can be recycled, donated, or thrown away, and then make a plan to properly dispose of your stuff. Give Tina a call today at 847-421-8651.

Get Ready for Stress-Free Holidays!

Holiday Organizing Special

Now through Dec. 31, when you purchase our 5-hour professional organizing bundle, receive a one-hour consultation for free!

Save $50!

Offer valid through Dec. 31, 2022. Services must be redeemed within 30 miles of LaSalle/Peru

Contact us to get started

The post How do I get rid of this? Safe Disposal Tips appeared first on Curtis E Organizing.

Sensitivity Is Key

First thing, take a deep breath. “The older generation is experiencing the unknowns of how to age well when things come up. There is no handbook for how to age, and I often hear, ‘I never thought I would have aged like this,’” says Lindsey Nordstrom, PT, DPT and owner of Spry Physical Therapy and Geriatric Wellness. “The aging adult is already aware of the tasks they are struggling with, so sensitivity is key for keeping the lines of communication open.”

What To Do Now?

Aging is a natural process and doesn’t have to be a scary transitional time for your parents, or for you. Don’t be afraid to ask hard questions, but make sure they understand your desire to see them safe, healthy, and happy. 

Here’s a checklist of things to look for:

How mobile are they? If they’re having difficulty maneuvering around their home, are there obstacles you can remove to make navigating their home easier? Do they need a walker, wheelchair, or chair lift? Is it easy for them to get up from the rocker/recliner? 

Are they showing signs of self-care neglect? Check to see if the bathroom appears to be used (and cleaned) on a regular basis. Does it appear that they’re not bathing regularly? Getting into the shower might present challenges if they’re experiencing mobility or memory issues. 

According to agingcare.com, “Illnesses or conditions that follow a progressive pattern, such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, Parkinson’s disease, depression, or addiction, may lead to a gradual loss of ability to or interest in self-care.” 

Are they eating healthy, and regularly? Is the food in the fridge out of date? Or, is it loaded with takeout containers? Aging relatives may be eating less, but are they eating on a regular basis? These may be signs that food prep has become a challenge. Poor nutrition can lead to a host of other problems, so ensure they’re eating healthy, even if they aren’t preparing it themselves. 

Are they able to do home maintenance? Are they taking out the trash every week, or are there bags of trash and/or recycling piling up? It can add up to be an overwhelming task quickly. 

What about bills? Is there a stack of bills piled up somewhere? Have services been disconnected because of a late payment? Are they paying for services they no longer need (home phone, expensive cable channels, etc)? 

Are they still driving? Is the car in good maintenance? Are their insurance cards up to date? We’ve seen an uptick in lapsed auto insurance due to Covid, so check to make sure they’re “street legal.” Also, are their reflexes sharp enough to where they should still be driving? The loss of independence from no longer driving is very real, but everyone’s safety should be paramount in the decision-making process. 

Is their medication working for them? This can be harder to detect, but Nordstrom urges people to listen to the types of things aging relatives say about their day-to-day health. More and more, patients have to be advocates for their own health, and it can be difficult for this generation to verbalize if something isn’t quite right. “Pick up on the little things they’re saying, such as ‘I get headaches more regularly,’ or ‘I feel dizzy after I take my pills.’” Then, dive into it to help them to advocate for their doctor to conduct a medication review,” Nordstrom says. 

What’s Next?

Proceed with care. It’s not uncommon for seniors to feel threatened or uncomfortable when approached about their ability to care for themselves. “Be sensitive to what they’re going through. It can be hard for them to vocalize what they’re experiencing,” says Nordstrom.

Reiterate that you care about them and want what’s best for them. 

If your aging relative chooses to age in place, there are some things you can do to make sure their needs are met. 

• Are they managing alright but could use a hand with chores? Consider an at-home aid to help with cleaning, cooking, etc. 
• Would they have better mobility in a ranch-style home, or downsizing to a townhome/condo/apartment? Professional organizers, such as Tina Curtis, can help organize and sort belongings for a smooth transition.
• The last thing you want for a loved one is for services to get disconnected because of a missed payment. Talk to them about an auto-pay system to ensure their bills are paid on time. 
• If driving is out of reach, talk to them about ride services like Uber or Lyft. 

If activities of daily living (ADL) appear to be beyond their capabilities, gently approach the idea of a senior living facility. (Not sure what ADLs are? Check out this article from aplaceformom.com)

Make sure they have a designated power of attorney and a will in place. Nobody likes to think about end-of-life decisions, but making them when you’re not in crisis can bring peace and clarity to a time of great distress. 

By approaching the aging process with respect, love, and care, you and your relatives can work towards an approach that encourages them to thrive, whatever stage they’re at. If you would like guidance on how to move forward with life transitions, give Tina a call at 847-421-8651.

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