If you’re facing the challenge of helping your parents move or wondering how to open those tough conversations about the future, this episode is full of guidance, support, and smart strategies to help you—and your family—thrive at every stage.

Welcome to another episode of Aging in Full Bloom! In this episode, I sit down with Marty Stevens-Heebner, a bestselling author, nationally recognized later life expert, and CEO of Clear Home Solutions, to tackle one of life’s trickiest transitions: moving your parents.

Drawing from her own experience as the “designated adult” in her family, Marty opens up about helping her aging father, the emotional hurdles so many of us face, and why even the most organized families can find this process incredibly challenging. She brings heartfelt wisdom and practical tips—covering everything from “right-sizing” your life and handling sentimental clutter, to navigating family disagreements and recognizing when clutter might actually be hoarding.

Together, we break down actionable ways to organize, declutter, and have those essential conversations with loved ones about planning for the next chapter. You’ll hear expert advice on making these big transitions more manageable, while preserving relationships and your own peace of mind.

Moments

00:00 Designated Adult: Managing Later Life

05:13 "Right-Sizing Your Life"

06:51 Unlocking Emotional Support for Clients

10:35 Rethinking Decluttering Methods

15:48 "Accountability Partner for Productivity"

19:31 Hoarding Scale Explained

22:03 Building Trust with a Hoarder

24:56 "Clutter Hazards Uncovered"

27:51 Discussing Future Care Preferences

30:21 Discussing Vulnerability and Future Care

35:22 "Managing Sandwich Generation Responsibilities"

37:21 Moving and Downsizing Services Guide

Age Wise Alliance

National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers

Here are my top three takeaways:

• Start conversations early & often: Don’t save “the talk” for a crisis moment. Building trust means having a series of honest, respectful conversations with your parents about their wishes—acknowledging their autonomy and learning what’s truly important to them.
• Downsize in do-able steps: Don’t let clutter (or “your stuff”) take charge. Break down the process—tackle one drawer or closet at a time, schedule short decluttering sessions, and keep it manageable. Celebrate the small wins and remember that progress, not perfection, is the goal.
• Ask for (and accept) help: Whether it’s from siblings, professionals, or specialized moving managers, you don’t have to go through this alone. Enlist support so you have the emotional bandwidth to care and be present for your loved ones.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

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Copyright 2025 Lisa Stockdale

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