Moving Best Practices for Those 55 and Older

Anyone who has been there or is quickly approaching will know that once middle-age (or thereabouts) is achieved, one’s lifestyle alters considerably. One typically has a different mindset and then there’s the matter of how one’s body moves through this period of life. 

You may presume that, if not routinely addressed with proper workouts, muscle power is on the decline. This means that one’s body is more vulnerable to stress, aches and issues when it comes to moving heavy objects. If you’re 55 or older, here are some best practices to consider for your next move, whether it be to your dream home, a down-sized home or a retirement community.

Know Your Limits

If you’re lucky in your middle ages then you have more ‘stuff’ and this means more ‘stuff’ to move. Also, it could mean that this is accumulated furniture and that this ‘stuff’ is larger and heavier and more difficult to move about. When it comes to moving years of accumulated “stuff” including large furniture, it’s important to know your limits. 

After all, furniture is one of your more important investments. This proves even more true if many of your furniture items are vintage or antique family heirlooms. Older items are more sensitive to handling and movement and this means it’s probably time to consult a professional moving company. 

However, if you choose to move furniture yourself, be firmly aware of how to cover and protect these items while also protecting your body, muscles and back. Injuries and medical care will be more expensive than paying movers. If you haven’t experienced sharp or traumatizing back pain then be sure that it will stop your move entirely and could require medical attention. The point here is to work smarter, not harder. 

Of course, the old axiom comes into play here: lift with your knees, not your back. Generally speaking, your legs are stronger and more able to absorb and sustain real weight while your back simply suffers all the more for it. The back muscles are designed to support your back and not your great grandmother’s armoire. 

Know the Move

At any age, it’s best to know ‘the move’ from start to finish. This means measure and weigh everything. Consider how larger pieces are to be moved and where they are going once they arrive in the new location. You may wish to consult our moving guide for more.

Measuring is a big part of making your move a happy one. If you’re looking to put that tall bookshelf into a smaller study, make sure it fits before the move is made. Also, keep an eye out for doorways and how they might suddenly be a little more tricky than originally thought. 

Sometimes a turn in a hall can create an unexpected angle in regard to the placement of a door. This could become problematic when it comes to the introduction of a larger piece of furniture that can’t quite make that turn. 

The point is that if you don’t know the measurements for this specific move, it could result in damage to the furniture or the hallway itself. It could also cause frustrations and needless stress on your body as you clamor to make that fit. Sometimes, the cut or angle is too severe for larger items and it would behoove you to know this well before the move itself. Something professional local and international movers will account for, if you should choose.

Know How to Move

Many middle-agers take for granted the true complexities of moving ‘stuff.’ There can be a lot more to it than meets the eye because there’s more than furniture and muscles involved. There’s also the condition of what you’re moving as well as door trim, walls, truck beds etc. to be considered.

Therefore, it’s always wise to know just ‘how’ something should be moved. This means assessing and understanding that there are other elements and props that should be considered when it comes to the big move. For example, padded blankets and moving pads are ideal when it comes to protecting one’s ‘stuff’ as well as one’s well-being. 

Moving pads make it so much easier on your body when it comes to pulling furniture across a room. They are also designed to protect floors and carpets from damage during those moves. Otherwise, your body, your furniture and your floor stand to suffer for the effort. 

Padded blankets offer furniture good protection during the move. When a piece of furniture is properly secured on or in the moving truck, these coverings can protect from scratching during transport or while off-loading. These are just a few quick and easy suggestions that will make moving day easier on both your mind and body. 

Protect Yourself During Moving Day

Let’s face it. Moving at 55 is very different than moving at 25 or even 35. You have more stuff and less muscle than you did in those days. Therefore, the idea here is to flex the muscle of the mind and make sure your moving day doesn’t cause undue stress or harm. 

Taking on the move yourself or with a few good friends is often the default for many. It can save money in theory but it can also cost more than you might expect. Drops, dings and dents can and will happen and that’s ignoring the true risk of a DIY move at 55 and older – potential bodily harm.

At 55, you have spent time with your ‘stuff.’ It’s become a part of your world, your life and history. If you’re ready to protect your move and your property then call us today and get your free quote. IMS Relocation is ready to make your middle age move the best move of your life.