Yes, I can see how it could be a real hardship for some adult children to clear out houses stuffed to the gills with useless stuff. However, where is the line between a parent's autonomy and a child's need to not be inconvenienced? It's not black and white, I agree. And there are other times when things have to be cleared out, true. The real problem we have in this country is a lack of affordable options for old people when they can no longer take care of themselves. And what about people who have no children to clean out their houses? Nothing is easy surrounding this issue. But I think it's not accurate to think that it's always a burden to clear out a parent's house. I found it an act of love to do that for my mother. It was hard work, true, but I didn't resent it at all. My daughter helped me, and I know she will feel the same when it's her turn to do mine.

Thanks for your perspective, Mari. I always appreciate your input.