There comes a point in life when you realize something very important:
You do not need a 400-pound entertainment center to hold a television that is now the thickness of a framed photo.
And yet… here we are.
As we get older, our homes should evolve with us—not stay frozen in time like a museum exhibit titled “What We Thought Was Fancy in 1994.”
A recent House Beautiful article highlighted several household items that tend to feel outdated after 60—and honestly? It’s not about being trendy. It’s about creating a home that feels lighter, safer, and more enjoyable for this season of life.
So let’s do a fun countdown of 10 things you might consider saying goodbye to… and what you can replace them with instead.
10. Bulky Entertainment Centers
Remember when the TV was the size of a refrigerator?
Entertainment centers were built like fortresses to hold VHS tapes, DVDs, stereo equipment, and about 97 remote controls.
Now? They mostly just take up space.
Try this instead:
A sleek console, wall-mounted TV, or minimalist storage can instantly open up your living room.
9. Formal Dining Rooms You Never Use
If your dining room only gets used twice a year—once for Thanksgiving and once when your sister comes to town and judges your centerpiece—it may be time to rethink it.
Try this instead:
Turn that space into something you actually enjoy:
8. Bathroom Features That Feel Risky
This one isn’t just outdated—it’s important.
Bathrooms are one of the most common places for falls, and old layouts aren’t always designed for comfort or safety.
Try this instead:
Walk-in showers, better lighting, non-slip flooring, and simple upgrades that make daily life easier.
7. Leftover Childhood Bedrooms
Keeping a few meaningful items from your children’s younger years is sweet.
Keeping the entire room exactly the same since 1987… less sweet.
Adult children don’t need their middle school trophies staring at them when they visit.
Try this instead:
Refresh the room into a comfortable guest space while saving a memory box of the most special items.
6. Faux Floral Arrangements from Another Era
You know the ones.
The dusty plastic flowers that have been “arranged” since Clinton was president.
They’re not adding charm—they’re adding allergies.
Try this instead:
Fresh greenery, simple dried stems, or even one beautiful seasonal bouquet.
5. Mismatched Linens and Worn-Out Bedding
If your sheets are older than your grandchildren… it may be time.
A bedroom should feel restful, not like a patchwork quilt of leftover laundry decisions.
Try this instead:
A fresh, coordinated bedding set can make your whole room feel like a retreat.
4. Stairs Without Proper Handrails
Handrails are not optional decor.
They’re confidence. They’re stability. They’re safety.
And many older homes simply weren’t designed with aging in mind.
Try this instead:
Secure, updated railings that blend beautifully with your home and support everyday movement.
3. Heavy, Fussy Window Treatments
Valances. Layers. Tassels.
At some point, window treatments became less about light and more about drama.
But heavy curtains can make rooms feel dark and dated.
Try this instead:
Simple panels, woven shades, or clean, modern treatments that brighten the space.
2. Low Sofas That Are Hard to Get Out Of
That stylish, low-slung sofa might look modern…
Until you try standing up and realize you need a running start and a small crane.
Try this instead:
Comfortable, supportive seating that feels good for real life—not just for catalogs.
1. Anything Low-Quality That You’ve “Just Lived With”
And here’s the big one.
After 60, you’ve earned the right to stop living with things that are uncomfortable, flimsy, or annoying.
That wobbly chair. That cheap lamp. That dresser drawer that only opens if you whisper nicely to it.
Try this instead:
Choose quality pieces that serve you well and make your home feel like the reward it should be.
A Home That Fits This Chapter
Decluttering and updating isn’t about being trendy.
It’s about creating space for the life you want now.
A home that feels lighter. Safer. Easier. More peaceful.
At Caring Transitions of Winston Salem, we help families navigate these changes every day—whether you’re downsizing, updating, moving, or simply ready to let go of what no longer serves you.
Because this chapter of life deserves comfort… not clutter.
Your Turn
Which one of these outdated items made you laugh (or wince) the most?
And what are you ready to finally let go of?
Drop a comment—or reach out if you need help making space for your next chapter.