A Home Hospice Spring Cleaning
As the coastal Oregon air begins to soften with the promise of spring, the season invites us to open our windows, breathe deeply, and embrace renewal. For those caring for a loved one in home hospice, this time of year can offer a gentle opportunity to refresh their space—enhancing comfort, lifting spirits, and creating a peaceful environment. At Coastal, we understand the profound role you play as adult children and spouses in supporting your loved one’s journey. A spring cleaning or refresh, tailored to their needs, can be a meaningful act of care, but it is easy to get overwhelmed with the thought of cleaning responsibilities on top of the caretaking responsibilities you now have. Here’s how you can approach it with love and intention.
Start Small, Focus on Comfort
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to mean a top-to-bottom overhaul. For someone in hospice care, small changes can make a big difference without overwhelming them—or you. Begin with their immediate surroundings: the bedside, a favorite chair, or the view they enjoy most. Clear away clutter like old magazines or unused items that might distract from the calm you’re trying to cultivate. Dust surfaces gently, perhaps with a damp cloth to avoid stirring up particles, and let the fresh coastal breeze sweep through if they’re up for it. The goal is simple: a space that feels light, open, and soothing.
Consider their senses as you go. A soft, clean blanket in a color they love or a pillow fluffed just right can bring warmth and familiarity. If they enjoy the scent of spring, a subtle touch—like a sprig of lavender from a local Oregon garden or a mild, natural air freshener—might brighten their day. Keep it understated; their comfort is the heart of every choice.
Let Nature Inspire
Living along the Oregon coast, we’re surrounded by nature’s renewal each spring—the blooming of wildflowers, the greening of dunes, the sound of waves finding their rhythm again. Bringing a piece of that indoors can be a quiet gift for your loved one. A small vase of fresh flowers, like daffodils or tulips from a nearby market, can add a splash of color without much upkeep. If flowers aren’t practical, a smooth stone from the beach or a tiny potted plant can echo the outdoors they may miss.
Light matters, too. As days grow longer, adjust curtains or blinds to let in soft, natural light—especially during those golden morning hours when the coast glows. If glare is a concern, a sheer curtain can filter it gently. These touches don’t just refresh the room; they connect your loved one to the world outside in a way that feels manageable and kind.
Simplify with Purpose
Spring often nudges us to declutter, but for hospice caregivers, this isn’t about perfection—it’s about purpose. Look around their space and ask: What serves their peace? What eases your care routine? Maybe it’s time to organize medications in a clear, accessible spot or move a water glass closer to their reach. A tidy nightstand or a basket for essentials can reduce stress for both of you.
If they have cherished items—a photo, a quilt, a book—highlight them. Clear away what’s less important to make room for what matters most. This isn’t just cleaning; it’s curating a space that reflects their life and your care. And don’t hesitate to ask for help—whether from family, friends, or our team at [Your Nonprofit Name]. You don’t have to carry it all alone.
Refresh Your Own Spirit
Caring for someone in hospice is a labor of love, and spring can be a chance to tend to yourself, too. As you refresh their space, take a moment to step outside—feel the misty Oregon air, listen to the gulls, let the season remind you of your own resilience. Even a short walk along the shore or a quiet cup of tea can recharge you for the days ahead. Your well-being matters, and it ripples into the care you provide.
Get Help!
If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed, ask for help! Some people make the mistake of believing that they have to take on household responsibilities by themselves, in addition to their new caretaking responsibilities. This isn’t true at all! It is not a sign of weakness if you can’t manage to do it all.
Friends, family members, and neighbors are usually much more willing to help then you might guess, so don’t hesitate to ask! And when you do ask, be specific, because it helps people say yes.
If you have trouble finding other help, we have a network of volunteers that can help! Click here to learn more.
At Coastal, we’re here to support you as you navigate this time. A spring refresh isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about creating a space where your loved one feels seen, comfortable, and loved—and where you feel equipped to keep going. As the Oregon coast blossoms around us, let this season be a gentle reminder: you’re doing something extraordinary, one caring touch at a time.