Moving into a new home can raise feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, even if you are looking forward to the move! For seniors who are downsizing and moving into assisted living communities, setting up in a new space can feel overwhelming. Read on to learn some assisted living decorating ideas that can help make your new space feel like a home.
As the Baby Boomer population ages, the need for assisted living care has increased with more than 1.2 million assisted living beds in America. This population is growing at such a fast rate that the United States is experiencing an increased need for:
- Assisted living communities
- Direct care workers
- Support technology
- In-home care options
The growing demand for assisted living communities is driven by many
Decorating for Seniors
The moving and decorating process is a psychological event for seniors moving into a new space. During this time the goal is to foster familiarity and comfort through favorite colors, keepsakes and surroundings.
Cognitive and sensory stimulation are also incredibly important in a new space. Assisted living furnishings such as textured walls and cozy bedding can engage all senses, which is particularly important for those with cognitive impairments.
Allowing seniors to have control over their space – including lighting, choice of furniture and décor – will help them acclimate to their senior apartment easily. Allowing room and furniture with easily navigable pathways and spaces for socializing can add to the homey feel of a new place.
When planning an assisted living design, it is essential to consider items made specifically for seniors. It’s crucial to address the unique needs of older adults, such as reduced vision and hearing, increased risk of falls, and other age-related challenges.
Convenient Items for Senior Apartments
- Adjustable furniture: For assisted living room ideas, opt for furniture with adjustable heights or customizable features to ensure comfort and ease of use. Among the best furniture for senior living are items like adjustable beds, chairs with reclining options and adjustable desks to help seniors maintain a comfortable and ergonomic position, reducing strain and making daily activities more manageable.
- Non-slip rugs and mats: When you are decorating a senior apartment, invest in high-quality non-slip rugs and mats for areas prone to wetness or high foot traffic. These can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls, especially in places like the bathroom and kitchen. Ensure that rugs have a non-slip backing or use rug pads to keep them securely in place.
- Organized traffic flow to reduce tripping hazards: Design the layout of apartments for seniors with clear, unobstructed pathways to minimize the risk of tripping. Arrange furniture in a way that provides ample walking space and avoids clutter. Remove any low-lying objects or cords that could create obstacles. Consider using color-contrasting tape to highlight edges or potential hazards.
- Handrails in key areas in the home: Install handrails in critical areas such as hallways, bathrooms, and near steps or ramps. Handrails provide extra support and stability, making it easier for seniors to navigate these spaces safely. Ensure that handrails are securely mounted and are of appropriate height and grip.
- Under-bed lights or night lights for easy navigation in the dark: Place under-bed lights or motion-sensor night lights throughout the apartment to illuminate paths and prevent accidents during the night. These lights help seniors navigate their home safely without the need to fumble for light switches in the dark. Night lights can be especially useful in hallways, bathrooms and bedrooms.
By incorporating these features into your assisted living design, you can create a safer and more comfortable living environment for seniors, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Tutera Senior Living & Health Care
At Tutera Senior Living & Health Care, we’re committed to providing seniors with quality care that supports their emotional, intellectual and physical well-being. Using individualized care plans, empowering wellness programming and clinical excellence, we’re able to restore the quality of life for many seniors. Interested in learning more about Tutera Senior Living? You can use our community finder tool to locate a community near you or call us today with any questions.
