Helping Elderly Parents Decide What To Keep And What To Toss

Organizing Your Mom And Dad's Keepsakes Into Plastic Storage Boxes ...It's A Start

Plastics...plastics are on my mind again. This time I am thinking about plastic storage boxes and wondering how many older adults keep their keepsakes in plastic boxes?  If your mom or dad is in their eighties or nineties, chances are they are not storing their photos, documents, memorabilia etc. in plastic boxes. I picture shoe boxes, yellowed envelopes, wooden boxes, shopping bags, cardboard cartons etc.


Saving Fifty Years Of Bakery Receipts  

Recently, I relocated my dad from Florida to the Northeast. I am still airing out his damp and smelly file folders which seem to be casualties of poor climate control  (dad never used his air conditioner....in FLORIDA!

A friend of mine confided in me that her mom had saved  50-60 years of old bakery, drugstore and deli store receipts stored in old shoe boxes that were tied with saved bakery twine. These receipts which now could be considered ephemera are from shops long gone from neighborhoods which are now filled with young professionals who never heard of Rugelach or Mandelbrodt.

Rescuing Old Wedding Albums 

When dad's boxes were shipped up North, I unpacked loose wedding pictures that were missing their album cover and I wondered where the rest of the photos were ? It was fun to see my mother and dad so young at the same age in the photos as my children are now, but these photo album pages were fragile and I'm glad I rescued them in the nick of time.

Downsizing Mom And Dad

For those of you who are just beginning to help your parents downsize or relocate,  I have some tips to offer you to help you with this BIG job. My main advice is not to wait too long to start
organizing old stuff. If your parents are in their 80s, it time to think about the next chapter in their lives.

Start NOW: Buy Clear Plastic Storage Boxes In Different Sizes 

 Courtesy of  http://www.tpartyantiques.com/

Now is the time to buy some plastic storage boxes and to sort out family keepsakes deciding what needs to stay and what needs to go..... and where. Sooner or later,  your parents  photographs, souvenirs,  keepsakes etc. will find their way into your home or  to one of your siblings , children or relatives, so why not take control of the situation  on your terms? And it is great to be able to discuss this process with your parents while they can still communicate their wishes and concerns.

Besides buying clear storage boxes, I would suggest also buying an assortment of different sized     clear plastic storage bags with good slider seals.  They even make a giant freezer  bag which is great for storing very large photos. I would also buy a permanent marker (Sharpie)  that can write on plastic so you can label your boxes and bags with  categories, i.e. "Florida photos" as well as where  these organized containers or bags are going  "Steve's basement" or "Mom's new apartment".

Be Gentle With Mom And Dad's Memories: Use A Little Psychology

You may want to encourage your elderly parents  to let you hold onto most of the sentimental and  important papers and memorabilia and to ask them  to keep just a few items they are attached to. This part of the process works a lot easier when you reassure parents that you will indeed preserve the family keepsakes.

Most families hold onto photographs, but what about collections of  seemingly silly papers such as old bakery or grocery receipts? While it may seem  to you a simple matter to toss out old bakery receipts it is still difficult for parents to let go of memories. Try saving one receipt instead of boxes of clutter. The task of downsizing goes smoother when you use some psychology in the process.

And when you decide that indeed there are boxes of papers that need to be dumped.... it is best not to carry on about this task in front of your hoarding parents. Be gentle when "organizing" mementos...they may be junk to you, but they are keepsakes to your parents.

Getting Help From Grandchildren And Family Members
 
In theory it sounds like a good idea to  recruit grandchildren, siblings  and others when you are dividing mom and dad's collections of papers and momentos  into keepers and tossers. The thought of team work is a good one but it is also a fairy tale. Buy some rubber gloves, roll up your sleeves and start your Mitzvah (good deed) on your own. At least you know YOU will get the job done in an organized fashion.

Read more about Caring For Aging Parents  http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/search/label/Caring For Aging Parents

Photo Credits

http://www.rubylane.com/item/370999-5351/1940s-Wedding-Cake-Topper-Bride

 http://leslieland.com/2009/02/rugelach-to-the-rescue/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/SunnyDayVintage?ref=seller_info

http://www.etsy.com/listing/65275405/antique-leather-photo-album-civil-war



C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Helping Aging Parents Move :Setting Up A New Residence

Tips For Setting Up A New Home For Aging Parents

If you are the "chosen" adult child who gets to supervise or manage the move of your older parent(s), I want to share some wisdom on the subject while it's still early in the game. You may find yourself moving your mom or dad into a smaller apartment, Assisted Living facility or Congregate Housing etc. .

Set The Apartment Up BEFORE Parent(s) Move In

There is a plus to being able to set the apartment  BEFORE mom or dad arrives. You get to sort through years of accumulation and weed out what is essential and what is not. Not everything needs to come to the new residence. This is the time to set priorities and  take into consideration  critical factors such as safety, practicality and organization.

Suggestions To Help You Move in Mom And Dad 

1. Set the apartment up completely before mom or dad arrives. Many frugal older adults will balk at seeing you bring in NEW things once they have moved in. Buy stuff before.

2. Donate excess dishes, pots, housewares.

3. If pictures, linens, clothing, household items are musty, moldy, soiled, torn, broken ...don't bring them with you unless they are cleaned first. If they do not clean up....toss or thrift them.

4. Make a list of what drugstore and household items are frequently used and buy them ahead of time and store in closet. Example....paper towels, napkins, baby wipes (yes they come in handy), bathroom essentials etc.Buy a few of each so you are not running to the store all the time.

5. Consider bringing some of the clothing to a dry cleaners or laundry before you hang up in new apartment. Many aging adults have not been able to keep cloths fresh.

6. Keep a list in your home of what your parents genera;;y buy for household, groceries, drugstore. Believe me, when their memory gets fuzzy they won't be able to tell you the brands they use.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

When You Clean Out Your Parent's House And No One Wants The Stuff

Tips About Cleaning Out Your Parent's House

I never thought I would get to the point during a "clean out" when I would call in The Salvation Army to retrieve the rest of my dad's furniture and STUFF....and even they wouldn't take it. Let me set the record  straight.....it's harder to donate goods than you think.  I mistakenly thought that I was being a good citizen and offering household items and furniture to a wonderful organization. Nope...they too like to "cherry pick"  the good stuff  from the  not such good stuff.


When You Are Not Allowed To Have  A Tag Sale

In case you are thinking why not just have a tag sale? That option was not available to me because dad's condo complex is in a gated community. Also, Craigslist was too cumbersome to try for the amount of items which remained.

After The Family Picks What They Want (Not Much)
Keeping you informed, I had  already gone through the regular steps most of us are familiar with when downsizing a loved one's home....offering things to family and friends; calling in Estate liquidators, consulting with antique dealers etc.  Now we were down to the STUFF which remained (soiled sofas, over sized silk trees, a rusty patio set, chipped chairs, wobbly kitchen table etc.) and all the loose  bric a brac. The Salvation Army (like other charities) wants all smalls packed. They also require beds, shelves etc. dismantled. The bottom line is that when they arrive they want to be  in and out and want the job to be seamless.

Did You Know The Salvation Army Is Picky?

The clincher is that The Salvation Army is picky. They do not want furnishings that are chipped, soiled, stained,  rusty etc. Nor do they want to spend too much time in your house shlepping out little things. Like any other business that deals in the re-sale of merchandise, The Salvation Army wants to buy what they can sell easily. They are not the Shabby Chic gals who see promise in everything they pick. The Salvation Army has a formula and they are first and foremost business oriented.


Calling In A Junk Dealer To Cart Away Your Parent's Stuff

What do you do when the salvation Army rejects your stuff? You call a JUNK dealer who you will have to pay to take your stuff.  Or you rent a truck and invite some friends to help you haul the stuff away.  To find a reputable junk dealer, ask the condo  association or management where your parents are vacating or look up junk dealers on-line. Many of these companies have names similar to 1-800 Got Junk. You need to do some homework before hiring anyone of course.

Be sure to visit my FREE site http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/  and join the group Estate Mavens (FREE).

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Moving Mom Or Dad: Furnishing Their Smaller Apartment

What Elderly Parents Need When They Move 

What types of  accessories and housewares should you get when moving elderly parents into a smaller apartment or an Assisted Living facility? Many baby boomers are finding themselves re-locating parents  from cities quite a distance from where mom and or dad will be living. ( i.e. Floridians returning to live closer to adult  children up North).  It may not be practical to bring kitchen-wares,housewares and accessories from mom or dad's original apartment or house to  their new  residence.  Instead of moving up old stuff, BUY nice old stuff (nearby). 


Buy Vintage For Mom Or Dad

Elderly parents on a fixed income are usually on very small budgets. If you need to re-locate your parents to a smaller home or Assisted Living apartment you may not want to spend too much money for what may turn out to be a temporary or short term move. A prudent way to go is to to shop second hand.

What To Put On Your Shopping List For Elderly Parents

Let me suggest a few very good ideas about some great vintage items you should buy. When out shopping for mom and or dad think functional, safe and easy to handle.   Here are some items you can buy in a consignment store or Antique Mall or at a Flea Market

1.A nice older juice set from the 1940s or 1950s  (small pitcher and small glasses).
2. Formica table with chrome legs (nice and sturdy and easy to clean).
3. Vintage Tupperware....real easy to find in vintage thrift stores.
4. Older kitchen and bathroom appliances (visit Goodwill).
5. Small tin tip trays (great for putting a cup of tea on or near the bedside for eye glasses, watch etc).
6. Vintage tin serving trays great for serving meals on.
7. Smaller vanity lamps (reasonable and charming to light up dresser).
8. Floor lamps attached to a table.
9. Side tables with rounded corners.
10. Kitchen chairs with arms for support.


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Think Small, Comfy, Safe When Downsizing Parents:

Helping Older Parents Move 

What do you need to keep in mind when you are helping your parent's downsize into a smaller place. The key words here are SMALL and  temporary.  

I know it is a hard concept to swallow, but when you move a loved one into a small apartment whether it is in an Assisted Living facility or a private apartment complex...think  small, comfy and safe. It's important to take along sentimental items, but NOT everything. It's a tough time for
everyone. Sometimes an older person is comforted  
if they know that family members will hold onto some of their keepsakes.


Comfy But Not Cluttered

Those are the three words I would  emphasize...small, comfy and safe.  When you buy or bring furniture do not over do it. Older people

 Always bring a few of mom's favorite things.

who are unsteady on their feet are fall risks. So keep the setting open and airy but cozy. Do not clutter with lots of small tables, plant stands, floor decor, area rugs  etc. that an older frail person could TRIP OVER.

Buying Smaller Scale Furniture


Vintage  furniture is often of smaller scale than what you will find today inmost furniture stores.  If you start shopping around for furniture you  will see that everything tends to be oversized. This style is great if you have a big home, but most  apartments for downsizing seniors are SMALL. This is where it makes sense to visit a Second hand store, Antique shop or Consignment shop to look for  furnishings. Many people do very well buying items on Craigslist.com Some towns have weekly newspapers with classifieds as well. Look for comfortable and safe furnishings i.e. rounded corners on tables, solid wood pieces that do not wobble, kitchen chairs with arms.

Read all my articles about "Vintage Mom and Dad"

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Getting Ready To Downsize A House

Tips From The Editor of I Antique Online.com About How To Clean Out Your Basement

Getting ready to downsize a house is a BIG step couples take. I know first hand what it is like to venture into your basement and stare at 30 years plus of stuff! The good news is that I have already made a dent in the clean up process. Years ago I unloaded the cribs, high chairs, and kid junk.

Saving Binkies: Are You Kidding?

Well perhaps I am not being totally honest here about holding onto kid junk.. I mean I do still have plastic boxes filled with every report card, book report and handmade card that my kids brought home. Why on earth do we all keep all this old paper? The answer is nostalgia. Yesterday I was cleaning out an old desk drawer and I found three rubber baby binkies from the last kid. He is twenty now. Do you think he really wants to inherit his old pacifiers?

Staying Sane When Downsizing Your House

O.K back to the subject of downsizing. How do you accomplish this task and stay sane. First you need a strategy and then you need supplies. To accomplish your goal you will need to set a realistic schedule. Now don't panic. Just because it took thirty years to get all stuffed up with junk, does not mean it will take thirty years to liquidate the load. But it will take time, so be prepared.

Step One: Get the supplies you need to be able to unload the stuff.

Supplies
1. giant industrial strength black plastic bags
2. plastic storage boxes
3. cardboard boxes from liquor store
4. giant zip lock plastic bags
5. brown paper shopping bags from grocery store

Step Two: Enlist help: Do Not Do This Yourself

If you are a baby boomer with a bad back or a couch potato with aches and pains....do not attempt to clean out thirty years of stuff by yourself. Hire a high school kid or handyman or bribe your kids, but get help with the clean out! You will need help getting things off high shelves, carrying bags of garbage to trash bins, bundling bags of like items etc. Basically you need a stuffer/sshlepper.

Step Three: Begin Creating a List of Categories

You will need to know ahead of time what is going where. Here are some common categories to consider.

Categories For Junk Liquidation

1. clothes to give away to charity
2. garbage
3. toys to give away to charity
4. books to donate to library
5. collectibles to sell
6. bric a brac to bring to Salvation Army or Goodwill etc.
7. Linens, blankets, toiletries etc. to bring to a shelter.
8. keepsakes to offer to family members.
9. junk to bring to dump yard .
10. Antiques and valuables to sell.
11. family photos and memorabilia to hold onto .
12. Broken or outdated furniture and appliances to junk.
13. old files to shred.

Step Four: Begin Sorting Out Junk

With help, I hope, you can set up your boxes and bags in the basement and start sorting out what you have into like categories. Be sure to label the boxes and bags so you know what is going where.
Once you start categorizing items, put the similar boxes and bags together in ceratin areas of your basement. Be careful not to mix up good stuff from garbage. Did I just say that? It's all JUNK isn't it?

Be sure to visit my site:

Estate Mavens: Help With Estate Liquidation

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Are My Parent's Old Things Valuable? Selling Antiques And Collecitbles On-Line

Cleaning Out My Parent's House: Is It Junk Or Valuable?

When the time comes to gather up your parent's collections, how do you know what is "JUNK" and
what belongs in the category of "antique" or "collectible"? To answer that question, I would like to get you to wonder about two key terms, "junk" and "valuable".

Junk Shop Versus Antique Shop: It's Just A Name

Why is it that some shops call themselves "Junk shops" and sell really neat stuff and other stores call themselves "Antique shops" and sell JUNK?

What makes a place a true JUNK shop? Can you be both....part JUNK and part ANTIQUE? Think about some of the shops you like to visit......would you buy a really expensive lamp or table in a place called "JUNK Shop"? Or do you expect only bargains and throwaways in a "JUNK Shop"? The answer is you can find all sorts of things everywhere!

Do You Know What Is Valuable In The Basement?
When you look at your parent's stuff, are you really sure that you know what the "junk" really is? Perhaps you think the "junk" is in the garage or in the basement? And you assume the "good stuff" is in the living room? Hold on...you may be assuming too much.

Reality T.V. Show On Antiques Love Finding Treasures

For starters, an entire industry of Reality T.V. shows are
based on the idea of finding hidden treasures in all the "wrong places". These made for T.V. pickers prefer junkyards, storage bins, garbage piles for the "good stuff". The premise of these popular shows is the thrill of discovering something "valuable" buried in a pile of "junk".

Is Mom Or Dad's Old Things Valuable?

But what exactly do we mean by "valuable"? As The American Pickers have shown us, there is a good deal of "value" in rusty old bicycle frames. But how many of you want an old bicycle frame? Would the lovely "Antique Shop" in the center of your town want pop's old bicycle frame? Perhaps not, but that doesn't mean there isn't an eager buyer somewhere else. So value really comes down to what is important to an individual buyer and you will discover that there are unique markets everywhere for everything.

Good Bye Antique Price Guide, Hello Internet

Before the internet, many folks relied on books such as Antique Price Guides to help them determine "value". Now, going on-line has replaced looking in books and is a very easy way to learn about the "value" of objects in the market place. And what the internet has done is create a global buying field.

Internet Is A Global Marketplace For Antiques And Collectibles

Many antique dealers have learned that they can get much more for a collectible on-line than in their shops, because they have the entire world competing to buy a particular "collectible". And size doesn't matter. Anything can be shipped and the right buyer will pay for shipping if you have what they really want.

Selling Your Parent's Antiques And Collectibles On-Line

So if you are getting ready to sell off antiques and collectibles that you have acquired , you might want to consider using some of the many on-line selling venues. To learn more about selling on-line, visit http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/ and go to the many group forums which focus on the growing number of online selling sites . Here is a partial list below (featured on I Antique Online.com.)

If you want someone to come into the house and take over the sale of the contents of the entire house visit my information website: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/estatemavenshelpwithestateliquidation for more resources.

Selling Your Antiques And Collectibles On-Line : Visit These Information Groups

These are group forums where you will hear about the experiences of others who are selling antiques and collectibles on these popular selling venues. You can joion these discussion for FREE
eBay Connection
Etsy Connection
Bonanza Collection
Ruby Lane
Ruby Plaza Connection
eCRATER Connection
Go Antiques.com
Tias.com Connection

The photos featured in this article are from The Junk Shop Of Canton, Canton CT. Eric, the owner is always buying, so if you are looking to sell the contents of a house, contact Eric.860-693-6039.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Finding A Low Income Or Subsidized Assisted Living Apartment For Mom Or Dad

When Your Parents Need A Low Income Assisted Living Apartment

It is hard enough making the decision to transition mom or dad into a new apartment or into an Assisted Living facility when they want to stay where they are. But it is even more difficult to have to downsize parents when mom or dad has run out of funds and needs subsidized housing. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers seniors designated housing arrangements which are considered low income. How much rent the senior pays is determined by their current income and financial history.

What Is Senior Congregate Housing ?

In this category of subsidized housing (low income), are apartments in which seniors live independently in what is termed "Congregate housing" where mom or dad (or couple) has their own apartment but may share activities or meals and other services such as weekly house-keeping and transportation to doctor appointments. etc. In most subsidized housing complexes, seniors are offered studio(one room with an efficiency kitchen) or small one bedroom apartments. And in fact one bedrooms are often saved for couples. It's hard to think of a parent in "one" room but remember, most senior complexes have plenty of "living" space outside the room and want to encourage seniors to mingle and not stay isolated.

Adding Assisted Living Services To Senior Housing

Some Congregate Housing complexes also provide another level of care called Assisted Living. where clinical staff is generally contracted from an outside agency to provide nursing, social services and physical therapy services. Each complex varies on their staffing schedules and amount of services available. These nursing services are generally covered under entitlement programs.

Many Low Income Assisted Living Facilities Will Surprise You With Excellent Options

I have visited many low income senior housing complexes. Some are called "Low Income Assisted Living" and some are termed "Subsidized Congregate Housing " (with Assisted living options). To my surprise some of these facilities have as many bells and whistles as the "expensive" private Assisted Living facilities. For example, some senior subsidized residences I have toured had in- house cafes, grocery marts, beauty salon/barber shops, computer rooms, exercise rooms etc. in addition to recreation rooms, dining rooms and other standard programs which you will find for this age group.

Low Income Senior Housing Does Not Mean Substandard

The bottom line is that "low income" DOES NOT necessarily mean sub standard. In many communities housing authorities and local agencies together have managed to offer seniors some very comfortable and well managed options. And I might add, that a pretty lobby or carpeted halls does not mean "better". It is important to visit many places and evaluate your options. By the way, you might want to tour some of the private Assisted Living facilities to see how similar some of the low income places really are to the "fancy" ones.

For more help: Visit: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/estatemavenshelpwithestateliquidation

Photos courtesy of Tickled Pink Antiques in Seymour, CT

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Safety Tips When Grandma Moves Into Your House

Is Your House Safe For Grandma Or Grandpa ?

Recently, I was asked by a reporter (Cammie Jones) of Augusta Magazine about safety tips when grandma or grandpa moves into your home. Here are some excerpts from my interview. Be sure to look for the article which will appear September 2011 . Please add your ideas as well in the comment section.

I think Cammie had some very important questions for me which I answered below.

1. What are some general things a family can do to prepare for the grandparent moving in, both physically and mentally?

The number one thing is safety. The house needs to be prepared to prevent Fall risks. Grip rails in bathroom, clutter cleaned up, toys out of the way, scatter rugs removed, appliances and dishes in easy reach, night lights, good lighting, dogs and cats out of the way (so you cant trip over them), etc.

2. What are some tips for a smooth transition when dealing with a health issue - be it dementia, or a physical ailment such as a broken hip, cancer, etc. How should parents explain what is going on to their children?

Aging is a normal process and when folks age there are many changes that occur such as brittle bones, slowed down motion, impaired hearing and vision, difficulty with memory and understanding. So it is bests to speak slowly and clearly looking at the person. Anticipate that grandma or grandpa may need assistance with walking or getting out of a chair. etc.

3. What are some ways to keep a feeling of normalcy for the family as well as the grandparent who is moving in? (both lives are drastically changing from the "norm.")

Offer a separate room for grandparent with a comfortable sitting chair, television, radio. Maintain boundaries and privacy. Allow grandma or grandpa to eat smaller meals and more frequently. Offer lots of fluids (dehydration) and a close access to bathroom. Invite grandparent to take part in activities i.e. watch a movie, but also allow for privacy.

4. What are some ways to handle issues that come up once the grandparent has moved in? For example, how to explain the situation to friends of the children, what if there is a habit that is bothering either the grandparent or the family that needs to be addressed?

Its wonderful to be able to take care of a grandparent. This is great for children to see first hand. But it is not easy. Respectful behavior begins with the adult child to model for the children.

Photos are from my book, "Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes", Collectorbooks.com. Thanks to
Pink Pig Westport and Natasha Burns for their photos contributions.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Is What I Inherited Worth Anything?

Introducing A Group Forum To Help You Price What You Have Inherited

As editor of the largest social network on antiques and collectibles, I Antique Online.com, you can imagine how often someone writes to me and asks: "I wonder if what I inherited (from my mom or dad or grandma etc). is worth anything" ? I happily tell them about a featured group forum on I Antique Online.com called "Whadja Find" ?

Learn More About Your Inherited Item From Members Of I Antique Online.com

This group is made up of over 1000 members of I Antique Online.com who enjoy discussing items they have found or can offer some friendly advice to others who are searching for some answers. It's a perfect group forum for the average person who knows that they may have something special but just isn't as familiar with the antiques and collectibles business as some of the dealer or collector members of the group.

Curious About What You Have Inherited ?

A long time ago, I joked that we should call this group "One Night Stand" because so often I have seen people find their way onto the site and post a picture of an ordinary "bedroom night stand" that they may have acquired from grandma or mom. These new visitors to I Antique Online eagerly ask the group to help them decide what to do with their "night stand". Before long, the "one night stand" folks stay longer and enjoy being part of our
fun community.

Get Help With Identifying And Evaluating What You Have

To be clear, "Whadja Find" is not a professional appraisal service or a group of snooty of "know it alls". It's more like a group of neighbors who enjoy figuring out what you have and helping you take the next step in the process of identifying and evaluating what you have inherited or acquired.

And with over 187 Collector groups on the site, there are plenty of other resources built into this
social network.

Not Getting Snookered

But the "Whadja Find Group" is unique, because although it is made up of plenty of newbies, you will also find plenty of seasoned antique dealers, authors, experts, professional appraisers, estate liquidators, plenty of down to earth helping types and even a few "know it all" types. With the power of this popular social network you will not only get some answers about your antiques and collectibles but also plenty of members who are ready to buy what you may want to sell. And with thousands of members looking in on your discussions, it's hard to get snookered.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

What Is The First Step In Cleaning Out Your Elderly Parents House?

How Do You Begin Cleaning Out An Older Adult's House?

How do you know when going through 25, 40, 50 plus years of mom and dad's stuff, what are the keepers? what needs to be tossed? and what gets passed on? For many adult children, before they even call in a consultant they often are asked by mom and pop to check out the common storage areas. This review of the project(s) ahead is what I refer to as the "looking phase". I consider this step an exploratory visit to determine what it is that is "down under" (basement) or " above" (attic).

The "Looking Phase"

Clean outs are always a major family dilemma for adult children or grandchildren faced with the overwhelming task of sorting through and dispersing of the "treasures" in mom and dad's house. You may of course decide that you need to bring in a professional, but perhaps you are just beginning to take a look at things. How should you approach the "looking phase".

Wear Proper Gear When Doing Clean Outs: Hello Rubber Gloves

First I would encourage all of you to dress in the proper gear when you go snooping around basements, attics and garages that have not seen "the light of day" in quite some time. Pack along plenty of flashlights and bring light bulbs with you. Don't forget the rubber gloves or surgical gloves and wear clothing that you will not worry about ever again.

Do You have Rubber Boots?

Don't laugh, but I tell people to wear rubber boots when they are going down to basements that have not been kept up in years . Oh, I almost forgot.....bring along a disposable surgical mask....it can get pretty damp, musty, dusty etc in basements (and attics or garages). This is not a job for wimps or for folks with health conditions.

Keep Mom And Dad Safe: Fall Risks

And by all means.....keep your parents safe, especially parents who may be at risk for falling. Fragile older adults belong relaxed on the couch in the living room. If mom and or dad are eager to see what they have ignored for 25 years or more, take some pictures, but keep them out of danger's way.

By the way, if you and your family are not up for this type of adventure...and you have the funds to do so....hire some help.

Read more in Estate Mavens

Photo are courtesy of The Junk Shop Of Canton, Canton Ct. Eric is a great resource for clean outs.


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Moving Mom And Dad Into An Assisted Living Apartment: What To Take

Transitioning To An Assisted Living Apartment: Tips About Setting Up A New Home

If someone gave me the option to downsize and move into a lovely Assisted Living Residence with three delicious meals prepared for me and afternoon tea, bingo and field trips...I would sign up in a flash. In fact my kids know that my wish would be to find such a place near the ocean. In 25 years from now, that would be a dream come true for me. But for many elderly people who are at that juncture right now, moving to an Assisted Living development is not an easy sell.

When An Assisted Living Arrangement Makes Sense

Most older adults want to stay right where they are, in their family home with all the comforts that they are accustomed to. The idea of packing up a three or four bedroom home and downsizing to a small one or two bedroom apartment in an Assisted Living residence is an idea which is usually rejected at first by most older adults.

For some healthier seniors, a good solution might really be to remain in their own home with private home health aides or to move in with adult children. But these arrangements may not work for all. Let's be honest, for many ailing older adults or elderly folks with dementia, a smaller and safer environment along with 24-7 supervision and nursing care options is really a much better plan. This is when Assisted Living arrangements make the most sense.

Try Out The Assisted Living Arrangement First

If you are an adult child helping to care for your adult parent, you may find yourself in the position of transitioning your loved one to smaller quarters such as an apartment in an Assisted Living complex. Most highly respected places allow you to try out their facility with a short term stay such as 1-3 months or longer. Most places generally have furnished apartments to try out before you actually commit to a move. This is a good idea for both your parents and for you. You will get a chance to test out the arrangement.

Moving Into An Assisted Living Apartment

Now let's say you are pleased with the facility and you would like to actually downsize and help your parent(s )move into this facility. What should you bring/ Should you start from scratch and buy all new furniture and accessories? Or should you bring mom or dad's old furniture?

What You Should Bring To An Assisted Living Apartment?

Here is what I have discovered....these apartments are generally very small. They can not handle large bedroom sets, big China closets, huge dining room sets , big old couches. What might make sense is to select certain cherished pieces and integrate them with some new smaller furnishings.

Trading In Your Couch For Two Comfy Chairs

One couple I recently met showed me their downsized apartment. They traded in a couch for two comfy matching leather chairs, each with a foot rest. This arrangement allowed them more room and flexibility to move the chairs as needed. They did however bring all their favorite paintings and photographs which hang in their living room and second bedroom.

Think Carefully About Your Bed Arrangement

Another resident I was introduced to at an area Assisted Living residence brought a few pieces from her bedroom set, along with her lamps, but decided to order a new full size bed to replace her very old tired mattress and over sized bed frame. For couples where one or both members are ill, I strongly suggest buying two twin beds. Trust me, you will find this arrangement much more practical when nursing needs increase such as Oxygen or bed baths etc.

Re-Creating That Cozy Feeling

It is important to help older adults make the best transition they can to a new residence. It is critical for them to feel as much at home in the new place as the can. Bringing special items from home will help make the adjustment that much easier!

For some great help on estate liquidation, visit Estate Mavens on I Antique Online.com. This is a group forum that I initiated to help others cope with managing estates and downsizing parents.

Photos taken at Seymour Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Cleaning Out Mom's House:

When Baby Boomers Are Faced With Cleaning Out Mom's House

What's worse than cleaning out your own basement or garage ?.....it's cleaning out mom's house. Ask any baby boomer who is faced with this job what they think about the challenge and I bet you will hear a lot of kvetching (yiddish for complaining). And if you want to be kind to your owns kids (who will be cleaning out YOUR house...now is the time for all of us baby boomers to get a handle on our own piles of junk....oh I mean family "treasures".

Cleaning Out Mom's House: The Family Drama

Often the decision to clean out a family member's home comes after a trying time such as a long illness or passing on of a loved one. This is always a very difficult time and layered with all kinds of family drama .....let's be honest here...it ain't easy! In fact to be true to my kitschy self.... let's face it, we all could fill up a lot of hours of Reality T.V. discussing what goes on in families when everyone is maxed out.

Kitchen Shrink Advice About Liquidations

When families are operating on high adrenaline, they tend to rush into too many decisions. You will often see well intended siblings move in too quickly to "organize' mamas things. Here is a bit of Kitchen Shrink free advice......go slowly.....give everyone a chance to absorb their feelings and to work out the inevitable family dynamics.

Resist The Urge To Dive Into The Cleaning Out Mode

Many people falsely conclude that the activity of "clearing out stuff" can somehow magically "get rid of the heavy emotional load" that all mourners carry. I have seen many people dive into the "clean out" mode way before they were really psychologically ready to disperse of or get rid of family mementos and years of accumulation. What's the real rush? Chill.....take your time, you'll thank me.

Advice from An Antiques Dealer

As an antique and collectibles dealer, I of course love to discover fresh estate sales or to advise families about cleaning out mom's house. But as someone who has had to pack up my own family member's belongings, I would say to others to resist the urge to "get rid of stuff too soon".

Consider Packing Belonging In Plastic Boxes And Waiting To Disperse

Perhaps an important interim step might be to buy some large plastic storage boxes and sort out what you have first labeling all your boxes for later review. When the time comes to disperse them to family members or sell some of your things or to give them away to charity, you might want to consult Estate Mavens on I Antique Online.com. This is a group forum that I initiated to help others cope with managing estates.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists