Episode 84 - ADHD & Downsizing

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro switches things up and sits in the guest seat as she’s interviewed by her longtime friend Lynn.With National Organizing Month as the backdrop, this conversation explores the powerful intersection between ADHD and organizing, especially when it comes to downsizing, decluttering, and navigating a lifetime of belongings.Jami shares her personal experiences, professional insights, and practical strategies for making organizing more manageable, not by forcing perfection, but by working with the ADHD brain instead of against it.What You’ll LearnThe difference between organizing, decluttering, downsizing, and “right-sizing”Why traditional organizing methods often don’t work for ADHD brainsHow “out of sight, out of mind” impacts clutter and decision-makingWhy decluttering must come before organizingThe concept of “DOOM piles” (Didn’t Organize, Only Moved)How to use constraints and systems to reduce overwhelmWhy labeling and visibility can make a big differenceHow to make organizing more engaging through gamification and creativityThe emotional side of clutter, including shame, avoidance, and overwhelmHow ADHD shows up differently than hoarding disorderWhy This MattersFor many adults, especially those diagnosed later in life, clutter isn’t about laziness or lack of effort. It’s about how the ADHD brain processes decisions, attention, and follow-through.Understanding this can shift the narrative from frustration to clarity and help create systems that actually work.About the HostJami Shapiro is an ADHD coach, speaker, and founder of Silver Linings Transitions. Through her podcast Grandma Has ADHD, she brings awareness to ADHD in older adults, especially women, helping listeners better understand their brains and navigate life with more clarity and compassion.ResourcesSilver Linings TransitionsNational Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM): https://www.nasmm.orgInstitute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD)This Explains So Much by Jami ShapiroWatch Jami tour her mom’s home and talk about clutter, ADHD, and how it differs from hoarding disorder: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Hrfn_szhqo Links & SupportWebsite: https://www.jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions: Support for downsizing, organizing, and life transitionsBook: This Explains So Much by Jami ShapiroEnjoying the Podcast?If this episode resonated with you:Leave a reviewShare it with someone who might need to hear itFollow Grandma Has ADHD for more conversations on ADHD, aging, and understanding your brainThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life.Follow us:Instagram:@grandma_has_adhd@silverliningstransitionsFacebook:Silver Linings TransitionsGrandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group)Youtube:Grandma Has ADHD