For many seniors, the thought of downsizing can be overwhelming. This was certainly true for Paul and Diane Baxter, a retired couple who faced the daunting task of sorting through 40 years of accumulated belongings as they prepared to move into a smaller home. With over 1,200 books and countless pieces of furniture and clothing, the Baxters needed help navigating this transition. Enter Sarah Gomm, a senior move manager whose expertise in decluttering and organizing transformed their experience from stressful to smooth.

At age 59, Sarah Gomm discovered her passion for senior move management after reading about it in a book aimed at careers for people over 50. After decades of unfulfilling corporate jobs, she embraced the opportunity to assist older adults in finding joy in organization while running her own business. Gomm's company, New Chapter Transitions, focuses on helping clients part with possessions without losing cherished memories. Through methods such as creating photo albums or collages of significant items, she ensures that emotional connections are preserved during the moving process.

Gomm compares her work to tidying experts like Marie Kondo but acknowledges that her approach must suit the unique needs of her clients, many of whom face health challenges or struggle to maintain highly organized spaces. Her services range from designing living spaces to packing and unpacking, all tailored to individual circumstances. For the Baxters, Gomm arranged the sale of more than 1,000 books and facilitated other arrangements, easing what could have been an insurmountable burden.

The demand for professionals like Gomm is growing as baby boomers reach their 80s and find themselves surrounded by lifetimes' worth of belongings that younger generations no longer desire. Jennifer Pickett, head of the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers, notes that these specialists not only organize homes but also provide psychological support during life transitions. They often assist clients dealing with grief or trauma, ensuring they move forward in a positive manner.

In addition to traditional moves, some seniors choose to "age in place," modifying their current homes rather than relocating. Move managers adapt their services accordingly, enhancing safety and functionality within existing residences. Whether redesigning layouts or removing hazards like slippery rugs, these professionals ensure homes remain suitable for long-term living.

Ultimately, the Baxters' journey highlights the importance of planning ahead when considering a move later in life. Diane emphasizes the value of acting sooner rather than later, noting that even with expert assistance, moving becomes increasingly difficult with time. By partnering with skilled individuals like Sarah Gomm, seniors can embrace new chapters with confidence and ease.