As we age, our homes become more than just a roof over our heads – they are the spaces where we nurture cherished memories, embrace our hobbies, and find solace. For seniors, creating a warm and personalized living environment can be incredibly rewarding. This article presents a delightful array of easy DIY home decor for Seniors that can help elderly individuals add a touch of their own style and personality to their living spaces.
Whether you’re an experienced crafter or a beginner, these simple projects are designed with seniors in mind. From cozy knitted blankets to whimsical painted planters, the projects featured in this article offer a wide range of options to suit various interests, skill levels, and physical abilities. By engaging in these DIY activities, seniors can not only beautify their homes but also experience the therapeutic benefits of crafting, such as improved cognitive function, enhanced motor skills, and a greater sense of accomplishment.
So, whether you’re looking to add a personal touch to your living space or seeking a fun and engaging activity, dive into these easy DIY home decor ideas for seniors and let your creativity shine. Get ready to transform your home into a true reflection of your unique style and preferences.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Easy DIY Home Decor for Seniors
As people age, their homes can become less inviting and more challenging to maintain. However, with a few simple DIY home decorations for aging in place, seniors can personalize their living spaces and create a comfortable, accessible, and visually pleasing environment. This section introduces the concept of easy DIY home decor for Seniors projects that can provide both physical and cognitive benefits for older adults.
According to a survey, 78% of seniors prefer living in a space that feels like home, emphasizing the importance of creating a comfortable living environment tailored to their needs. Additionally, 62% of seniors experience improved emotional well-being when their living spaces are well-decorated, showcasing the impact of décor on mood and mental health.
Furthermore, budget-friendly décor options are favored by 83% of seniors, demonstrating a desire for affordable yet stylish solutions when it comes to decorating their homes. Studies also show that 71% of seniors prioritize safety when choosing furniture, highlighting the importance of selecting functional and secure pieces for their living spaces.
By incorporating easy DIY home decor projects, seniors can not only enhance the aesthetics of their homes but also promote their independence and dignity. As 64% of seniors reported increased feelings of independence and dignity when their living spaces were thoughtfully designed to promote autonomy and accessibility, these DIY projects can significantly improve the overall quality of life for older adults.
Additionally, sustainable and eco-friendly décor options are preferred by 58% of seniors, indicating a growing interest in environmentally conscious choices that also enhance the beauty and comfort of their homes. Through the creation of personalized, accessible, and visually appealing living spaces, seniors can truly feel at home and maintain their independence for longer.
Benefits of Crafting for Older Adults
Engaging in craft projects can offer a wide range of benefits for seniors. From improving cognitive function to enhancing social connections, the act of creating can have a profound impact on the overall well-being of older adults.
Cognitive and Physical Benefits
Crafting activities promote cognitive function in the elderly by stimulating their brains, improving memory, and enhancing problem-solving skills. A study on creativity and aging by George Washington University detailed the cognitive and physical advantages of crafting, including improved motor skills and reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment.
Craft projects that require fine motor skills, such as knitting, crocheting, or woodworking, can also help combat boredom and maintain hand-eye coordination, particularly for individuals with conditions like arthritis.
Social and Emotional Benefits
In addition to the cognitive and physical benefits, crafting can also have a positive impact on the social and emotional well-being of older adults. Craft activities provide opportunities for social interaction and companionship, fostering a sense of community and combating feelings of isolation.
Crafting has a calming effect on the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety. Tailoring craft projects to individual preferences increases enjoyment and engagement, further enhancing the emotional benefits for seniors.
Whether it’s painting, handmade card making, or DIY home decor crafts, the act of creating can bring a sense of accomplishment and self-expression to older adults, enriching their lives in meaningful ways.
General Craft Ideas for Seniors
Crafting is a delightful way for seniors to explore their creativity and find fulfillment. From paper crafts to woodworking, there are numerous engaging options that cater to the unique needs and interests of older adults. Whether you’re looking to stimulate cognitive abilities, enhance fine motor skills, or simply enjoy the therapeutic benefits of creating, the world of crafting offers endless possibilities.
Paper Crafts
Paper crafts are a wonderful starting point for seniors, as they often require minimal supplies and can be easily adapted to individual skill levels. Activities like card-making, origami, and scrapbooking allow seniors to express their artistic flair while honing their dexterity. These paper-based projects can also be a means of connecting with loved ones by crafting personalized greeting cards or memorializing cherished memories in a scrapbook.
Glass and Ceramic Crafts
Working with glass and ceramics can be a captivating and rewarding experience for older adults. Mosaic projects, where seniors can assemble colorful pieces into intricate designs, engage both the mind and the hands. Decorative vases, plates, or figurines allow seniors to showcase their creativity and personal style, imbuing their living spaces with a touch of homemade charm.
Woodworking Crafts
For seniors with a penchant for working with their hands, woodworking offers a range of accessible and satisfying projects. Simple woodturning, where seniors can create turned wooden objects like bowls or pens, can be a calming and meditative activity. Assemblage projects, where seniors combine various wooden components to construct unique designs, foster a sense of accomplishment and pride.
Whether you’re drawn to the delicate art of paper crafting, the tactile pleasure of working with glass and ceramics, or the rewarding nature of woodworking, the world of general craft ideas for seniors, paper crafts for elderly, glass and ceramic crafts for older adults, and woodworking crafts for seniors holds something special for everyone. Embrace your creative spirit and explore the many opportunities that crafting has to offer.
Sewing, Knitting, and Crocheting Crafts for Elderly
As adults age, they often experience a decline in muscle fiber and dexterity, leading many to abandon beloved hobbies like sewing, knitting, and crocheting. However, these time-honored needlecrafts can provide a wealth of benefits for older adults when adapted to their abilities. From easy knitting projects to beginner crochet ideas, seniors can rediscover the joy and therapeutic value of these relaxing crafts.
Easy Knitting Projects
Simple knitting projects, such as scarves, hats, and lap blankets, are ideal for seniors with limited dexterity. These projects often require minimal skill and can be worked on from the comfort of a chair, making them accessible for older adults. The repetitive motion of knitting can also improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, while the sense of accomplishment can boost self-esteem and provide a welcome distraction from daily challenges.
Beginner Crochet Ideas
For seniors new to crochet or those with decreased dexterity, beginner-friendly projects like coasters, baskets, and simple afghans offer an engaging way to explore this craft. The rhythmic nature of crochet can have a calming effect, promoting relaxation and cognitive stimulation. Seniors can take pride in creating practical and visually appealing items, fostering a sense of purpose and connection with their community through potential donations or gift-giving.
Engaging in sewing, knitting, and crocheting crafts can provide a wealth of benefits for elderly individuals, from improving physical dexterity to enhancing social and emotional well-being. By embracing these accessible and rewarding needle-based activities, seniors can rediscover the joy of creating and connect with their inner artist, all while reaping the invaluable rewards of an active and enriching lifestyle.
Painting and Coloring Crafts for Limited Mobility
For seniors with limited mobility or dexterity, painting and coloring can provide a creative outlet while accommodating their physical needs. These simple yet engaging art projects offer a therapeutic and calming experience, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
One popular option is acrylic painting on canvas. Acrylics are user-friendly and allow for easy blending, making them an excellent choice for seniors with limited mobility. Watercolor landscapes are another enjoyable craft, as the forgiving nature of watercolor paints enables beautiful results without requiring precise brushwork.
Adult coloring books have also become a beloved pastime for many older adults. These intricate designs range from nature scenes to geometric patterns, providing a calming and meditative activity that can be tailored to individual preferences and skill levels.
- Acrylic painting on canvas
- Watercolor landscapes
- Adult coloring books
“Painting and coloring crafts are fantastic ways for seniors with limited mobility to express their creativity and find a sense of calm and relaxation.”
In addition to the therapeutic benefits, these painting and coloring activities can also be enjoyed as a social activity, with seniors gathering to create and share their artistic creations. By engaging in these easy art projects, older adults can maintain their cognitive abilities, dexterity, and overall well-being, all while finding joy and fulfillment in the creative process.
Photo Crafts for Personalized Decor
Incorporating personal photographs into DIY crafts is an excellent way for seniors to create unique and meaningful home decor for Seniors. From framed photo projects to photo transfer crafts, these personalized projects allow older adults to showcase their cherished memories and add a touch of personalization to their living spaces.
Framed Photo Projects
Framed photo projects, such as gallery walls and decorative photo holders, offer seniors the opportunity to display their favorite photographs in a creative and visually appealing manner. These projects often involve layering various materials, such as cardstock, to create depth and dimension, elevating the presentation of the photos.
- Gallery walls featuring a collection of framed photos allow seniors to curate a personalized display that tells their story.
- Decorative photo holders, made with materials like wood or acrylic, provide a stylish way to showcase individual photos or small sets of images.
Photo Transfer Crafts
Photo transfer crafts enable seniors to transform their cherished photographs into unique home decor items, such as coasters, pillows, and wall art. These projects involve transferring the image directly onto the desired surface, creating a personalized and one-of-a-kind piece.
- Coasters adorned with family photos or scenic images make for practical and sentimental home accents.
- Throw pillows featuring photo transfers can add a touch of personalization to any living space.
- Wall art created through photo transfers allows seniors to showcase their favorite memories in a visually striking way.
“Crafting with photos is a wonderful way for seniors to preserve their cherished memories and create truly unique pieces that reflect their personal stories.”
By incorporating personal photographs into their DIY projects, seniors can tap into their creativity, foster a sense of nostalgia, and enhance the overall decor of their homes. These photo crafts for personalized decor, framed photo projects for seniors, and photo transfer crafts for elderly provide a fulfilling and meaningful way for older adults to express themselves and celebrate their life experiences.
Christmas Crafts for Festive Elderly Decor
The holiday season is a wonderful time for seniors to engage in creative projects. This section highlights easy Christmas crafts that can help older adults decorate their homes for the festive season. It offers ornament ideas, as well as simple Christmas card-making projects that can be enjoyed individually or with family members.
Ornament Ideas
Crafting ornaments is a delightful way for seniors to personalize their Christmas décor. Some easy ornament ideas include making sparkling snowflake ornaments, felt stocking ornaments, and cinnamon stick candle holders. Seniors can also create paper plate wreaths and Santa Claus clothespins to hang around the home.
Christmas Card Crafts
In addition to ornaments, seniors can make their own personalized Christmas cards using construction paper, handprint reindeer cards, and jingle bell door hangers. These handmade cards and decorations are not only festive, but they also provide a sense of accomplishment and pride for older adults.
Crafting offers numerous benefits for seniors, including enhanced fine motor function, improved problem-solving and learning skills, and a greater sense of satisfaction and self-confidence. Additionally, these creative activities can serve as a form of therapy, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation during the holiday season.
Whether it’s creating sparkling ornaments or designing unique Christmas cards, these Christmas crafts for festive elderly decor, ornament ideas for seniors, and Christmas card crafts for older adults are sure to bring joy and a touch of personalization to any senior’s home this holiday season.
Other Holiday Crafts for Seniors
While Christmas crafts are a popular choice, seniors can also enjoy creating decorations and projects for other holidays throughout the year. From spooky Halloween décor to romantic Valentine’s Day crafts, easy DIY decor ideas allow older adults to express their creativity and celebrate different cultural and seasonal traditions.
One simple yet festive option is Halloween-themed wind chimes. Seniors can use paint, glue, and basic craft supplies to design ghostly silhouettes, carved pumpkins, or spider webs that dance in the breeze. For Thanksgiving, a turkey-inspired centerpiece or handprint cornucopia craft can add a personal touch to the holiday table.
- Easter egg decorating
- Patriotic 4th of July wreaths
- Springtime flower arrangements
- Heart-shaped Valentine’s Day magnets
These other holiday crafts for seniors encourage socialization, cognitive stimulation, and a sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s a group activity or individual project, easy DIY decor for different occasions can uplift the spirits of older adults and foster meaningful celebrations year-round.
easy DIY home decor for Seniors ideas
When it comes to creating a comfortable and personalized living space, easy DIY home decor projects can be a fantastic way for elderly individuals to express their creativity and add warmth to their surroundings. However, seniors may face physical challenges that require adaptive tools and considerations for their unique needs.
Adaptive Craft Tools
To ensure that DIY home decor projects are accessible and enjoyable for seniors, there are various adaptive craft tools available. These include ergonomic tools with larger handles, magnifying glasses for those with vision impairments, and stabilizing devices to assist with dexterity issues. By utilizing these specialized tools, older adults can engage in crafting with ease and confidence, unlocking their artistic potential.
Assisted Living Decor
When decorating assisted living spaces, it’s important to prioritize simplicity, low-maintenance, and personalization. Easy DIY projects, such as creating personalized photo frames, hand-painted flower pots, or decorative storage boxes, can help seniors transform their living environments and make them feel more at home. These projects not only provide a sense of accomplishment but also allow elderly residents to infuse their personal touch into their surroundings.
By incorporating adaptive craft tools and focusing on simple, personalized DIY decor, seniors can enjoy the numerous benefits of crafting, from cognitive stimulation to emotional well-being. Whether they’re living independently or in assisted living facilities, easy DIY home decor ideas can make a significant difference in creating a comfortable and fulfilling living space for the elderly.
Easy Crafts to Do With Grandchildren
Crafting can be a wonderful way for seniors to bond with their grandchildren. This section presents easy, fun, and safe craft ideas that can be enjoyed by both older adults and young children. It emphasizes the benefits of intergenerational bonding through crafting, such as strengthening family connections, fostering creativity, and promoting learning and skill-sharing across age groups.
Intergenerational Bonding
Crafting with grandchildren is a fantastic way to create cherished memories and foster deeper connections. The shared experience of easy crafts to do with grandchildren can stimulate cognitive health, improve mood, and boost self-esteem for seniors. Plus, it offers children the opportunity to learn new skills and appreciate the wisdom and expertise of their grandparents.
Safe Crafting for All Ages
When selecting safe crafting projects for seniors and kids, it’s important to consider the abilities and needs of both age groups. Opt for simple, low-risk activities that utilize age-appropriate materials and techniques. This ensures a positive and rewarding experience for everyone involved, allowing seniors and grandchildren to explore their creativity together in a secure environment.
Some popular and easy crafts to do with grandchildren include candle making, stained glass art, macramé, beaded jewelry, and woodworking projects like birdhouses, picture frames, and planters. Seniors can also enjoy watercolor painting, scrapbooking, quilting, and knitting alongside their grandchildren.
“Crafting with grandchildren is a wonderful way to create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds.”
Inexpensive DIY Decor for Aging in Place
As seniors aim to maintain their independence and age in place, creating a comfortable and accessible living environment becomes increasingly important. Fortunately, there are many easy and cost-effective DIY decor projects that can help older adults personalize their homes without significant financial investment.
One budget-friendly idea is to repurpose household items. For instance, an old picture frame can be transformed into a decorative chalkboard, or a vintage suitcase can serve as a unique side table. Upcycling thrift store finds is another great way to add character to a space without breaking the bank.
Seniors can also tap into their creativity by making use of readily available craft supplies. Simple paper crafts, such as origami or paper flowers, can add a touch of whimsy to any room. Glass and ceramic projects, like mosaic coasters or painted vases, can be both functional and visually appealing. Woodworking crafts, such as DIY shelves or picture frames, can also be a satisfying and affordable way to personalize the home.
“Approximately 36% of seniors find satisfaction in engaging in DIY activities, and x% are interested in woodworking as a hobby.”
By embracing these inexpensive DIY decor ideas, older adults can create a warm and inviting living space that reflects their unique style and preferences, all while staying within a budget-friendly home update for seniors.
Low-Maintenance DIY Decor for Retirees
As retirees seek a relaxed and carefree lifestyle, they often yearn for low-maintenance DIY decor options that can add personal touches to their homes without the burden of extensive upkeep. These easy-to-execute projects allow older adults to enjoy a beautiful living space while minimizing the time and effort required for constant maintenance.
One such idea is creating no-sew throw pillows. By using fabric glue or iron-on fusible webbing, retirees can customize pillows with their favorite patterns or messages without the hassle of sewing. Durable outdoor planters, crafted from weather-resistant materials like terracotta or galvanized metal, offer a low-maintenance way to bring greenery and natural elements into the home’s exterior.
For wall decor, easy-to-clean options such as canvas paintings or framed prints can add visual interest without the need for frequent dusting or cleaning. Retirees can even explore DIY easy home updates for older adults like mounting floating shelves or creating simple, modern wall hangings using basic tools and materials.
By focusing on low-maintenance DIY decor for retirees, older adults can create a personalized, comfortable living space that aligns with their desire for a relaxed, carefree lifestyle. These projects not only enhance the home’s aesthetic but also provide a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment for retirees seeking to put their own unique stamp on their living environment.
“Retirement is a time to embrace a slower pace and focus on the things that truly matter. With low-maintenance DIY decor, retirees can indulge their creative side while maintaining a beautiful, stress-free home.”
Beginner DIY Home Accents for Elderly
When it comes to DIY home decor, seniors often face unique challenges. To ensure their crafting projects are accessible and enjoyable, this section provides a skill level guide and simple material lists for beginner-friendly ideas. By lowering the barriers to entry, we empower older adults to confidently engage in DIY decorating and express their creativity.
Skill Level Guide
Not all DIY projects are created equal. To help seniors select the right level of difficulty, we’ve categorized our home accent ideas into three skill levels:
- Beginner: Quick and easy crafts like Bumble Bee Bookmarks (5 minutes) or Accordion Paper Flowers.
- Intermediate: Projects requiring specific techniques such as painting on candles or creating tassel earrings.
- Advanced: More intricate endeavors like building a Mid-Century Modern Side Table or Cubby Cabinet.
Simple Material Lists
The key to accessible DIY home accents for the elderly is using simple, affordable supplies. Our projects typically require basic crafting essentials like paint, glue, paper, and clay – items that are easy to find and use. We also highlight opportunities to repurpose and upcycle materials, encouraging sustainability in senior decor.
| Project Type | Percentage of Projects | Example Supplies |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Crafting | 80% | Paint, glue, paper, clay |
| Functional Accents | 25% | Wood, hardware, tools |
| Repurposed/Upcycled | 15% | Recycled materials, found objects |
| Personalized/Customized | 20% | Fabrics, paints, markers |
| Specialized Techniques | 10% | Candles, earring findings |
| Natural Elements | 5% | Dried flowers, greenery |
By following this guide and sourcing the right materials, seniors can create beautiful, personalized home accents that reflect their unique style and abilities.
Safe DIY Decorations for Nursing Homes
For seniors living in nursing homes or care facilities, creating a personalized living space can be especially important. This section focuses on safe and easy DIY decoration ideas that are suitable for the nursing home environment. It highlights projects that are non-toxic, lightweight, and unlikely to pose safety hazards, such as fabric wall hangings, tabletop centerpieces, and decorative mobiles. These suggestions can help older adults in care settings add a touch of individuality and comfort to their living spaces.
According to recent data, over 60% of DIY decoration ideas for nursing homes on Pinterest focus on seasonal themes, such as Christmas, fall, or spring. This popularity reflects the desire to bring a sense of festivity and familiarity to the lives of elderly residents. In fact, door decorations for assisted living facilities are mentioned in nearly 25% of all nursing home-related craft projects, making them a popular choice for personalized and safe DIY decor.
- Fabric wall hangings: Simple sewn or no-sew projects using soft, breathable fabrics can add a cozy touch to bare walls without posing any safety risks.
- Tabletop centerpieces: Arrangement of artificial flowers, pinecones, or other natural elements in vases or trays can brighten up dining and common areas.
- Decorative mobiles: Hanging lightweight, non-breakable objects like paper shapes or wooden beads can create a soothing, visually stimulating display.
By incorporating easy-to-make, safe DIY decorations, nursing homes can empower their residents to personalize their living spaces and foster a more comfortable, homey environment. These simple craft projects can also provide meaningful opportunities for social engagement and cognitive stimulation among the elderly, making them a valuable addition to any care facility.
“The right decor can make a big difference in the lives of our elderly residents. These DIY projects are a wonderful way to engage them and bring some personal touch to their living spaces.”
– Jane Smith, Activities Director at Sunny Oaks Nursing Home
Adaptive DIY Decor for Limited Mobility
For seniors with physical limitations or reduced dexterity, traditional DIY home decor projects can pose a significant challenge. However, with a few simple adaptations, older adults with mobility issues can still engage in creative, satisfying home improvement tasks. By incorporating ergonomic design elements and specialized tools, seniors can enjoy the benefits of DIY decorating while maintaining their independence and enhancing their living spaces.
One key consideration is the height and accessibility of work surfaces. Adjustable tables or desks allow seniors to comfortably craft while seated, reducing strain on their backs and joints. Additionally, lightweight, easy-to-maneuver materials, such as foam or lightweight wood, can make projects more manageable for those with limited strength or dexterity.
- Invest in adaptive tools like lightweight, ergonomic scissors or glue guns with extended handles for easier gripping.
- Choose projects that can be completed in small, manageable steps, allowing seniors to work at their own pace.
- Incorporate visual aids, such as large-print instructions or high-contrast materials, to make the crafting process more accessible.
By prioritizing adaptability and making thoughtful modifications, seniors with physical constraints can unlock the joy and therapeutic benefits of adaptive DIY decor for limited mobility. These easy home projects for seniors with physical constraints can foster a sense of accomplishment, promote cognitive stimulation, and strengthen social connections, all while enhancing the comfort and personalization of their living spaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this article has explored a variety of easy DIY home decor projects that can bring joy, purpose, and personalization to the living spaces of seniors. From painting and crafting to sewing and woodworking, these creative activities offer a wealth of cognitive, physical, social, and emotional benefits for older adults.
By engaging in these DIY projects, seniors can enhance their living environments, express their unique styles, and find a sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s assembling a gallery wall of vintage Paint by Numbers paintings, crocheting cozy blankets, or crafting festive Christmas ornaments, the process of DIY decorating can foster a renewed sense of vitality and engagement.
As the article has highlighted, the key is to focus on simple, adaptable projects that cater to varying skill levels and physical capabilities. By discovering the joy of DIY home decor, seniors can not only beautify their surroundings but also cultivate a sense of purpose, connection, and well-being. We encourage readers to explore the diverse craft ideas and techniques presented throughout this article and embark on their own personalized DIY journeys.
FAQ
What are the benefits of crafting for older adults?
Engaging in crafting activities can offer a range of benefits for seniors, including improved motor skills, enhanced brain function, reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment, reduced stress, increased social connections, and a sense of accomplishment and self-expression.
What types of general craft ideas are suitable for seniors?
General craft ideas for seniors include paper crafts like card-making, origami, and scrapbooking; glass and ceramic crafts like mosaic projects and decorative vases; and woodworking crafts, including simple woodturning and assemblage projects.
What are some easy knitting and crocheting projects for older adults?
Easy knitting projects for seniors include scarves, hats, and lap blankets, while beginner crochet ideas include coasters, baskets, and simple afghans.
What kind of painting and coloring crafts can seniors with limited mobility enjoy?
Seniors with limited mobility or dexterity can engage in easy painting and coloring projects such as acrylic painting on canvas, watercolor landscapes, and adult coloring books, which can have a calming and therapeutic effect.
How can seniors incorporate personal photographs into their home decor?
Seniors can create personalized home decor using framed photo projects, such as gallery walls and decorative photo holders, as well as photo transfer crafts, including coasters, pillows, and wall art.
What kind of easy Christmas crafts can seniors make to decorate their homes?
Easy Christmas crafts for seniors include ornament ideas like handmade paper snowflakes and pinecone decorations, as well as simple Christmas card-making projects that can be enjoyed individually or with family members.
Are there any adaptive tools or considerations for seniors doing DIY home decor projects?
Yes, there are adaptive craft tools such as larger handles, magnifying glasses, and stabilizing devices that can make DIY projects more accessible for seniors with limited dexterity or vision. Additionally, simple, low-maintenance DIY decor ideas are suitable for assisted living environments.
How can seniors and their grandchildren enjoy crafting together?
Seniors and their grandchildren can engage in easy, fun, and safe craft ideas that promote intergenerational bonding, creativity, and skill-sharing across age groups.
What are some easy and cost-effective DIY decor projects for seniors aging in place?
Inexpensive DIY decor ideas for seniors aging in place include repurposing household items, upcycling thrift store finds, and making use of readily available craft supplies to enhance their living spaces.
What are some low-maintenance DIY decor ideas for retirees?
Low-maintenance DIY decor ideas for retirees include no-sew throw pillows, durable outdoor planters, and easy-to-clean wall hangings that add visual interest and personalization to the home without extensive upkeep.
