On Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 2:30 p.m., St. Andrews Village will host a special presentation “The Upside to Downsizing,” which will highlight issues and suggestions for individuals and families when making a change in living arrangements.

Attendees will be able to ask questions and will come away with helpful information and an understanding of how a senior move manager can help lower the stresses of a transition to a new home.

Bonita Usher, owner of Smooth Transitions Maine, offers clients assistance with services like household downsizing, move coordination, packing/unpacking, shipping items to family members, contacting antique dealers, taking items to donation centers/transfer stations and even setting up a new home.

Bonita feels that the majority of people want to stay in their own homes but when they eventually do make a move to an environment where they don't have to cook, clean or worry about things like mowing the lawn or shoveling snow, they are so much happier. “I’ve seen the positive social effects for people who make a move—whether it is playing bridge, going out to lunch or day outings, or even talking with new friends over coffee.” says Bonita.

Downsizing and moving is an emotional process. The best time to do it is when you are in control of the decisions. Bonita says many clients have not researched or considered their options until they experience a health crisis and realize they might need additional help.

While many seniors are reluctant to move or downsize their belongings, they are quite often surprised at how much it helps. “You will discover items you haven’t seen in years, and you will have to decide what to do with them,” says Bonita. She helps her clients make those decisions. She also helps them decide what items will fit in new spaces and space limitations.

For more information about this special presentation call Bob Drury at 633-0920.