Ask any realtor or house cleaner and they will tell you that no matter the size of the home most Americans have garages, attics, basements, and/or common living spaces crammed with clutter. According to a Boston Marketing Firm study, the average American burns 6 to 8 weeks a year and wastes hundreds of dollars looking for and replacing things they have, but cannot find. Misplaced that electric bill? Pay a late fee. Can’t locate a screwdriver? Buy another one. Lawnmower buried under piles of junk? Hire a lawn service.

So exactly why do we accumulate so much stuff? Why would we rather ignore the growing clutter than throw things away? And how do we regain control over our possessions?

Though there are those for whom the need to accumulate material possessions, or “hoard” can run to the extreme, the majority of clutter cases fall into two main categories: Poor time management (“there just aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done”) and a rationale often referred to as Depression mentality (“Don’t throw it away – we might need it someday!”). And although people of all age groups are affected by clutter, seniors risk life-threatening falls or chronic health conditions caused by dust, mold, and other hidden health hazards.

Adults aged 55 and older are the fastest growing segment of the US population, and represent 40% of the consumer market in the United States. This is a segment of the population with a lot of buying power, but seldom enough energy or physical strength to manage their belongings. In the case of elderly seniors, some must face having to downsize from a home in which they’ve lived for 30, 40, even 50 years, to a smaller, more efficient apartment or condominium. If they have no family or local support system, the task can seem downright impossible.

Fortunately, there is help. In an effort to downsize and streamline their lives, many seniors are now seeking the help of Professional Organizers and Personal Move Managers. For those unfamiliar with these occupations, we are professionals whose job – nay our passion – is to help people sort, organize, pack,  unpack, donate and situate the belongings they have accumulated over the years.

Quality Professional Organizers work closely with each client to create peaceful, personalized living spaces. Through the entire process they provide judgment-free encouragement and support.  Personal Move Managers coordinate and oversee every aspect of a move; again, working closely with each client to reduce the stress and emotional impact of downsizing.

Some jobs are best placed in the hands of experts – for many people, this is one of those jobs.