Retirement homes are often thought of as dark and depressing homes that senior live in. However, this is far from true – in fact, modern retirement homes should be functional, cozy, and designed with consideration for their residents. Paying close attention to the interiors is necessary to ensure that residents spend their time in peace and serenity.
Additionally, when families look for retirement homes for their loved ones, besides assessing the 'livability' of the interior they should also consider the home’s surroundings. In fact, with so many families now bringing their senior family members into their own home the living space should get a thorough review.
Here are som basic steps to designing interiors for seniors:
1. For Starters, Make A Plan
This may seem quite obvious, you need to create a solid plan with some key concepts to start your venture. For instance, , make sure the floor space isn't crowded. Leave plenty of room around furnishings so that your seniors can create their own layout like optional locations for side tables and other areas to display pictures of loved ones and family members.
2. Make Sure Not To Leave Loose Ends
Accommodating mobility issues is a big item when laying out living spaces for seniors. Take into account the extra spacing for wheelchairs and walkers even if they are not being used now, they may be later on. Wiring, flooring, and plumbing should be installed in a way that ensures no harm will be caused, no trip hazards and hot water should use scald-protection devices on the faucets in sinks, tub and shower.
Furniture is also an important consideration. In addition to comfort and convenience you should replace tables that have sharp corners as well as glass top tables, unless tempered glass. Sharp corners can be a particular hazard to a senior especially if they are on a blood thinner as even a slight bump on a sharp corner can cause a hemorrhage and result in painful lesions.
3. Function Over Beauty
Beauty and aesthetics are always important but if there is a need to choose between these two, always choose function. This is because your seniors need to be organized and have things around them that are truly functional – not just pretty to look at. There are many ways to beautify the space once you have it planned out.
4. Feature House Plants
Any home feels more homey with green plants and flowers. Not only do they give off a feeling of freshness and greenery, but they would also make the building seem roomy and sophisticated. Even more important is the fact of having "living things" in the home especially.
5. Have Good Lighting
Adequate lighting is important, both natural and artificial lighting. Both should be available in strategic spots, such as natural light would be welcomed on the reading table or on the writing desk. Consider the use of motion sensing light switch in the rooms, especially the bedroom and bath.
6. Make Use Of Colors
Colors should be used strategically throughout the home to make it seem open and brighten up its interiors. Not only do bright colors help uplift one’s mood, but they also produce happy hormones in one’s body. Your seniors are likely to feel positive and happy if your interiors are bright.
