Creating a space for seniors is all about building comfort, emotional ease, and accessibility into everyday life. You might look to chase certain home trends and keep up with modern aesthetics, but that’s not everything. A well-designed home will dramatically improve safety levels and the way in which an older adult is supported. As people age, their needs change in significant ways. Their sensory sensitivity changes, as well as their mobility and routine.
Their home may have worked perfectly once upon a time, but now it likely presents unexpected challenges. That’s why it’s crucial to think about the environment carefully and intentionally. Of course, it’s about eliminating hazards, but it’s also about designing with foresight and creating impactful improvements. These changes don’t need to be expensive and overwhelming, fortunately. With a little bit of planning, you can make any living space perfect for your elder relatives. Here are four targeted, practical tips that can help to create the supportive environment they need:
Improve Lighting Throughout
Declining eyesight is a normal part of aging. Inadequate lighting will only increase the risk of accidents. It’s a good idea to layer different types of light to improve clarity. You can use task, ambient, and accent lighting to make this happen. Think about improving the lighting of hallways, bathrooms, and staircases. Motion-sensor nightlights will help them with navigation. With a well-lit space, it is easier on the eyes and offers peace of mind. The space suddenly becomes more helpful to seniors as they look to move with more confidence each day.
Make Mobility As Smooth As Possible
Navigation should never be exhausting. Keep your walkways clear and remove rugs that slide. In homes that have stairs, think about supportive modifications such as stairlifts for seniors, which can reduce a lot of physical strain. Even the smallest shifts in the layout can also make a big difference. Reposition furniture and widen parts if you are able to.
Choose Furniture With Intention
When you think about comfortable furniture, you may rush towards soft, deep options. Of course, they are very inviting, but they can actually be difficult for seniors to use. It’s a good idea to choose pieces with sturdy armrests and firm cushions, as they will suit them more. Choose seating that will promote their posture and balance. Nightstands and tables need to be the right height and stable enough to lean on. Comfort is obviously about relaxation levels, but it’s also about ease and utility. You have to think about how each choice interacts with the individual.
Enhance Calm With Reduced Noise
With a soothing environment, you will support their well-being a lot more. Noises from traffic or appliances can agitate older individuals with heightened sensitivity. You can bring in soft furnishings and rugs in order to absorb sound and reduce echoes. By creating acoustic comfort, you will improve levels of focus and relaxation. They will spend a lot of time at home, so this kind of decision needs to be considered carefully.
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