Better Wethersfield – Downsizing

Downsizing can be a challenge for anyone, but it’s often even more difficult for seniors. Recently, Amston Home Transition Solutions had the privilege of speaking with Leslie Goyen from Wethersfield Community Television about the importance of downsizing. Our team members, Andrew Jambor and Steve Anderson, shared insight into how decluttering and organizing can create a cleaner, more stress-free living environment. They also discussed the downsizing process, emphasizing the value of repurposing and donating items, as well as the services we offer and how you can get in touch with us.  

To watch the interview, please click below:

What is Downsizing?

Downsizing is a powerful way to create a more organized, stress-free living space by eliminating clutter and unnecessary items. Many of our clients reach out to us when they’re planning a move or undergoing a life transition, such as relocating to assisted living, and need help with the decluttering process. Not only does decluttering make the home environment more manageable, but it can also have a profound impact on mental well-being by reducing stress and creating a sense of calm. 

The amount of time needed for downsizing varies depending on the client’s situation and the number of items, so it’s recommended to take breaks and spread out the process to avoid being overwhelmed. 

Adult children can play a helpful role in their parents’ transition to assisted living. Their involvement can ease the process by offering both emotional support and practical assistance, helping parents navigate this significant life change.

Assessment and Downsizing Services

During the assessment phase, it’s crucial to understand each client’s unique needs and goals, so we can help them make thoughtful decisions about what to keep and what to get rid of. This process involves sorting items into categories:

-Things to keep (that can fit into the new space)

-Things to send/give away to family members

-Things to donate

-Things to discard 

Our goal is to create a positive, stress-free experience, especially for clients who may feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. 

Clients who are going through the downsizing process often can become overwhelmed and stressed out. However, they feel relieved by the time everything is finished, as Andrew references in the interview:

“We find as we get the items out of the house and into storage or into donating, and things like that, the stress level comes way down over time… and as they see the process unfold, you can kind of see throughout the whole life cycle of working with someone, you see them, the stress just comes off. And it’s amazing how they feel afterwards. Most clients are so impressed, like ‘I can’t believe it went that fast.’”

Repurposing and Environmental Considerations

Additionally, downsizing offers a great opportunity to repurpose or donate items, giving them new life while helping others in need. Whether it’s simplifying your space or preparing for a new chapter, downsizing can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful living experience.

When downsizing, finding new homes for your items can be a rewarding part of the process. Donating to places like libraries, churches, or animal shelters can help give your belongings a second life. Platforms like Free Cycle and Facebook Marketplace are also great resources for repurposing items and connecting with people who can use them.

It’s important to have reliable resources for donations, as well as environmentally friendly disposal options for items that can’t be reused. Repurposing and donating not only helps others, but also ensures a more sustainable approach to decluttering.

How We Can Help

Amston Home Transition Solutions has been serving seniors and local communities since 2016.  We provide comprehensive support for your downsizing journey, including presentations on downsizing strategies and principles to help you get started. We can not only help with downsizing, but also with the following services:

-Downsizing/decluttering

-Organization

-Packing/unpacking

-Moving

-Cleaning

-Cleanouts

-Storage

-Home Improvement and Modifications

-Property Management

-Home Safety Inspections

-Selling your home

We go the extra mile for our clients and our goal is to be the best resource for seniors who need help. 

If we can be of any help or if you have any questions, please contact our office, either by email or phone:

Call us: (860)385-8728

Email us: info@guidingthemove.com

Our Website: https://guidingthemove.com

REFERENCES:

Free Cycle:   https://www.freecycle.org/

Facebook Marketplace: https://www.facebook.com/marketplace