I work full-time. Hubs is retired and has several health issues we're working on getting to the bottom of. We are optimistic he will be active again, but in the meantime, his mobility is very limited.
While I am at work, he keeps everything he may need in a day at arm's length. This includes his medications, as well as a variety of things for entertainment when he feels up to it (as there are better days and worse days). As a result, the space (the coffee table and surrounding area), is enormously cluttered.
Neither one of us is neat as a pin, never have been. But I'd like to improve the level of clutter he lives in. Partially for my own sanity, but I think he'd feel better and more positive if it wasn't such a nest.
I've already changed out the base of the coffee table to one that has a couple of drawers and shelves. But those are overflowing. I WILL say that I can probably cycle out some things he doesn't need access to anymore from the drawers, which should give at least a little space for his toys, so that will be first. I guess I could get one of those pill organizers for his meds, but he's resisting that. Any thoughts on a compromise there?
I'll be in and out with questions. I'm just glad I found this forum and am looking forward to some thoughts.
I would , if you have not yet obtained one, a small refrigerator that will hold what he needs for the day. The top can be used as a side table if needed.
If he is taking a lot of pills a pill organizer might work, if he takes a lot maybe a small box with lots of compartments. (I got one for my grandson who has take to "collecting rocks" I got it where the tackle boxes are sold)
If he does not have a garbage can right by his chair or the couch get one, HE can toss stuff out that he is not using, task him with going through some of those drawers.
When I was caring for my Husband and I had caregivers coming in I got one of the inexpensive 3 or 4 drawer plastic units. I kept creams in 1 drawer, briefs in another. Made it real handy to have everything right there but it was out of sight and again, it is the perfect height that it can be used as a side table.
And maybe, just maybe until things get better having a caregiver come in 2 or 3 days a week to help you out, or at least a cleaning service 2 times a month is something that you can do to help YOU out. Tell hubby it is just temporary. (wink wink)
put a rubbish bin next to him. Make sure you check it before throwing out the rubbish
a three tier trolly on casters similar to one you might see in the hairdresser are cheap to buy
* Can he actually get up to out of reach?
* If his behavior more fear than actual need?
* Will be 'listen' to reason (your reasoning)
* Creating more drawers and areas to collect will likely mean he collects more to fill in the space(s)
* Is some of his behavior due to anxiety (and fear as mentioned) -
- Focus on his fears and anxiety.
- Talk to him more about his feelings
* Figure out what he ACTUALLY uses / 'needs' close by (sitting distance or arms length) when alone. If it isn't needed like medications, water, etc. move it away.
* I would suggest a combination of moving things away (when out of his sight of you doing so) and giving him the space and time to get his feelings out.
* Consider a volunteer, friend, visitor, church or hobby person to spend time with him.
Gena / Touch Matters - P.S. and welcome to our neighborhood. You will get a lot of support here although be aware that most people speak from their experience (which may not be yours or relevant), some are angry due to their issues and express that in inappropriate / unhelpful ways. Most people here mean well and will want to support people asking for support. Let us know how it goes - and what works. When you share with the rest of us what works, it will likely help someone else in the same / similar situation.
Tote bags also work hiding things but keeping within his reach.
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