Article by Liisa Ogburn.
The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning
In the Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, Swedish author Magnusson writes,”A loved one wishes to inherit nice things from you. Not all things.”
Not long ago, my dear Aunt Jessie sent me an article about the new book, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, by Margareta Magnusson, a Swede who lists her age as “80 to 100.” (I feel the need to credit this web of wise elder women—my mom, Aunt Jessie, Aunt Sarah, Cousin Kate, and former clients—who continue to provide useful fodder for this blog.)
In the Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, the author asks the reader to bear in mind that the stuff they leave behind after death will weigh down and burden their busy adult children. She states,“A loved one wishes to inherit nice things from you,” Magnusson writes. “Not all things from you.”
The article caught my eye because just yesterday I was talking with a client whose declining mother, who really needs to move to Assisted Living for safety reasons, continues to resist by saying, “But first I need to clean out the house…”
To read the entire article, visit: https://www.wral.com/the-gentle-art-of-swedish-death-cleaning/17551083/
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
About the Author:
Liisa Ogburn is at the heart of Aging Advisors NC, bringing a rich blend of personal experience and global perspective to elder care. Raised in North Carolina with deep roots in Finland, Liisa has a unique appreciation for diverse approaches to aging, shaped by her life across different cultures including Finland, Estonia, Germany, England, Japan, and Costa Rica.
Her path into elder care consulting was deeply personal. While juggling her role as a Duke University educator and caring for her father-in-law and three young children, Liisa started sharing her family’s journey through articles for The New York Times and later, over 300 posts for WRAL Raleigh on everything from handling loss to choosing the right elder care options.
A teacher at heart, Liisa thrives on empowering others with knowledge. She offers her expertise in presentations to various groups—from churches to professional firms—and writes extensively, reaching audiences far and wide. Her credentials include certifications in geriatric care and a special certification from Brown University to teach Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, reinforcing her belief that calm minds make sound decisions.
