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  • Tom

Why adult children don't want their parents' stuff

When a parent passes away, it can be an incredibly difficult and emotional time for their children. One of the tasks that often needs to be addressed in the wake of a loved one's death is what to do with their possessions. While some people may have sentimental attachments to certain items and want to keep them as a way to remember their parent, others may not have the space or practical use for them, and may not want to keep anything. In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why people may choose not to keep their parents' possessions after they pass away.


First and foremost, sorting through a loved one's possessions can be a difficult and emotional process. It can be hard to let go of items that were once important to your parent, and it can be even harder to part with items that hold sentimental value. This process can be especially challenging if the person who passed away had a lot of possessions, as it can be overwhelming to sort through them all. Additionally, some people may not want to keep anything because they view it as a way to move on and start fresh.


Another reason why people may not want to keep their parents' possessions is that they simply don't have the space for them. Many people today live in smaller homes or apartments, and may not have the room to store a lot of additional items. Additionally, some people may not have the resources t o move or store large items, such as furniture or artwork. In these cases, it may be more practical to let go of the items and find them a new home.

Ornate antique buffet with mirror

Another possible reason why people may not want to keep their parents' possessions is that they want to create their own home environment. For some, the idea of keeping their parents' possessions may feel like they are holding on to the past and not moving forward. They may want to create a space that reflects their own personal style and tastes, rather than keeping items from their parents' home.


Some people may have complex feelings about their parents and their possessions, which can make it difficult for them to decide what to do with the items. For example, if a person had a difficult relationship with their parent, they may not want to keep anything that reminds them of that person. Additionally, some people may feel guilty about not wanting to keep their parents' possessions, which can add an additional layer of complexity to the decision-making process.


Additionally, people may choose not to keep their parents' possessions if they believe that they would be better off with someone else. For example, if a person's parent had a large collection of books, they may choose to donate the collection to a library or school rather than keep them for themselves. Similarly, if a person's parent had a lot of clothing or furniture, they may choose to give them to a charity or sell them to someone who can use them.


Lastly, some people may choose not to keep their parents' possessions if they believe that it would be too expensive to keep them. For example, if a person's parent had a lot of antiques or collectibles, they may choose to sell them rather than keep them because of the cost of insuring and storing them. Additionally, some people may choose not to keep their parents' possessions if they believe that the items would have more value if they were sold or donated.


There are a variety of reasons why people may choose not to keep their parents' possessions after they pass away. Some may find sentimental value in certain items, but not have the space or practical use for them. Others may want to start fresh and create their own home environment, rather than keep items from their parents' home. Additionally, sorting through and disposing of a loved one's possessions can be a difficult and emotional, especially if there is an emotional attachment.


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