Like a breath of fresh air, spring has finally arrived. The days are slowly becoming longer and warmer. You may even notice that people’s moods have started to improve. Whether it’s saying goodbye to winter or the additional sunlight exposure, we actually begin to feel happier.

It’s also the time of year for the annual spring cleaning.

Spring cleaning tips for your home

If you live in an independent living community or are considering a move to one, it’s actually more about refreshing your home since a maintenance-free lifestyle and light housekeeping services are two of the more popular benefits of senior living communities.

Consider these tips to spruce up for the new season:

• Take a walk around

Review all the rooms in your home and note areas that could use tidying up. Look for piles that may have grown in corners, on counters or in closets. Decluttering will not only make your apartment neater, but studies have shown that it can also relieve stress and anxiety.

• Clean out closets

Whether you pack away your winter coat and sweaters or relegate them to the back of a closet, spring is the time to make the switch. It’s also the perfect opportunity to take inventory on what you really wear. Consider donating anything that hasn’t left the hanger for over a year.

• Don’t forget the linen closet

Do you have too many towels or other bedding taking up space? You may want to donate these extras to charity. It’s also the perfect time to tuck in a closet sachet with a spring scent to keep everything smelling clean and fresh.

• Check your kitchen cabinets

Did you bring too many dishes or pots and pans when you moved in? If you find yourself having to rearrange the contents whenever you’re searching for the right pan, this is a great time to identify what you really use and what is simply taking up space.

• Go through your medicine cabinets

Spring cleaning is also perfect for checking the contents of your medicine cabinet or bathroom drawers. Are there expired prescriptions or those you no longer use? Discard your prescriptions safely. Take them to a drug-take-back location if possible, or follow the instructions provided by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for other options.

• Look in the refrigerator

Take everything out and discard anything expired or ingredients you won’t be using. Give your refrigerator a deep clean. Remove the drawers and wash them by hand. Wash the walls and shelving with warm, soapy water and then rinse and dry with a clean towel.

What to avoid when spring cleaning

Remember these precautions so that your cleaning day is also a safe one:

• Don’t clean anywhere that requires you to climb a ladder. Ask for help instead.
• Don’t stand on a chair to reach something.
• Don’t try to lift heavy furniture on your own.
• Don’t go it alone. If you need help, invite a family member or friend to assist you.

Tips to brighten up your home

Spring is not only about cleaning. It’s also the perfect time to say goodbye to the heavier textures and darker colors of winter and say hello to the brighter shades and lighter materials to welcome the new season. Here are a few ideas you may wish to try:

1. Decide on a few new spring colors and introduce them throughout your home, including wall hangings, lamp shades or knickknacks. Navy blue, aqua, green and white are classic color choices for spring.
2. Create a new style for your couch or favorite reading chair with slipcovers, pillows or throws. Drape a light cotton blanket in bright new colors across the arm of a chair or the back of the couch.
3. Install a mirror to make your space look brighter. It will not only reflect the light, but will make the room appear larger.
4. Bring nature inside by purchasing flowers and vases that complement your color scheme, or bring in potted plants that will remind you of spring as soon as you walk in the door.
5. Freshen up the outside by decorating your patio or balcony with bright containers for flowers and plants. Consider growing your favorite herbs to use for cooking your best recipes.
6. Decorate your front door with a spring wreath or mat that not only announces the change of season, but welcomes you and your guests home. Check with your community first for guidelines.

Why spring is a wonderful time to consider independent living

Spring is not only a great time for renewal but also to consider your current home and whether it is still supporting your desired lifestyle.

If you’ve been considering a place that can provide all the comforts of home while eliminating the headaches, independent living may be just what you’re looking for.

Life at Eskaton Communities

The word Eskaton means “dawn of a new day.” In our communities, we see each day as an opportunity to enhance the lives of our residents. We’ve been serving the Sacramento region and Northern California for over 50 years.

The Eskaton Difference starts with our life-enriching programs and collaborative partnerships. With a national reputation for innovation, we focus on creating communities that provide our residents everything they need for purposeful living. We invite you to visit one of our award-winning communities to discover some of the benefits we offer, such as:

• Private residences
• Delicious and nutritious meals
• Social opportunities to meet and make new friends
• Creative activities and therapies
• Fitness centers and exercise classes
• Housekeeping services
• Transportation services
• 24-hour staffing
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi
• And much, much more!

If you’re considering whether an independent living community is right for you, we’re here to answer any questions you might have. We also invite you to download our complimentary information,  A Family Guide to Funding Senior Living & Services.

Please call 866-ESKATON or (866-375-2866) if you would like to discuss the many benefits of senior living or to schedule a personalized tour.