A main reason why older adults resist downsizing or moving into senior living communities is a fear of leaving part of themselves behind. They don’t want to let go of treasured belongings, a comfortable bed, and so forth. This transition can also evoke feelings of anxiety, with additional worries about losing one’s independence.
If you’re struggling with this idea for yourself or a loved one, we have good news: There are ways to make the new home even more appealing than the current one. And when the transition is handled thoughtfully, the old home will fade into distant memory.
The keys to a smooth adjustment include:
- Choosing a comfortable, accessible apartment in a good location.
- Employing strategic decor for senior living.
- Asking for help or helping your loved one.
The Edition of Saginaw caregiving team members know how to decorate a senior apartment for independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The space should feel comfortable, be accessible, and showcase the resident’s unique personality. And with the right mindset, the process can turn into an enjoyable experience.
First Considerations for Senior Living Decor
Furnishing a senior apartment involves careful consideration of accessibility and safety as top priorities before diving into decorative elements. For the most part, new senior living community residents can bring existing furniture into their new apartments. But if the mattress is old or the seat cushions aren’t soft, it makes sense to buy new, practical replacements.
Choose pieces that offer stability, such as chairs and tables with sturdy bases. Consider adjustable items that accommodate varying needs, like nap-worthy recliners or height-adjustable tables. Furniture placement should also allow for easy movement, keeping pathways clear to prevent falls.
Once safety measures are in place, the fun part begins — decorating a senior living apartment.
Senior Living Decorating Ideas
Senior apartments typically have soft, calming colors, window treatments, and carpeting. We advise against adding rugs, which can be slipping hazards; candles can also be dangerous. A non-slip bath mat is fine, though. Residents also appreciate warm blankets, especially handmade ones. Soft pillows, lightweight, durable plates and cups, and low-maintenance or silk plants also create a sense of home.
You can hang artwork on the walls as well and place family photos on night tables. The less clutter, the better; before the move, set aside time to go through the current belongings. Divide into three categories: keep, donate, and toss away. And stick with those decisions.
We also find that Edition of Saginaw residents love seasonal decor. They certainly look forward to it, and so do we. It spruces up their living spaces and ties into our community’s changing year-round themes.
Decorating a Senior Apartment for Every Season
Seasonal decorations create a sense of joy and belonging, no matter what age you are. Spring and summer in Saginaw, TX, are beautiful times of year, so we’ll start there.
Spring & Summer Vibes
As the days grow warmer and flowers bloom, introduce bright colors, lighter textiles, and freshness. Wall art featuring nature scenes perks things up, and you can switch out flannel sheets for cotton. Darker kitchen and bathroom towels can be exchanged for sunny yellows, pale blues, or even emerald green. And you can never go wrong with fresh flowers. As summer approaches, consider pairing white and dark blue and beachy/nautical textiles with beautiful seashell and boat artwork.
Autumn Aesthetics
As the leaves change color, invite the essence of autumn indoors. Earthy tones like deep oranges, rich browns, and warm yellows create a cozy atmosphere. Use ornamental items like pumpkins, gourds, turkeys, and seasonal wreaths to adorn doorways or tables.
Soft, woolen throws and comfy blankets can offer warmth during the chillier months, encouraging relaxation. Integrating artwork that reflects fall themes can also help celebrate the season.
Winter Warmth
Use holiday-themed decorations to celebrate different winter festivities for a festive atmosphere. Before using decorations that light up, though, ask the community if it is safe to do so. They will have holiday decor in the common areas, so the apartments needn’t be overdecorated. Family photos can be repurposed in seasonal frames; warmer lighting from decorative lamps will add a soft glow, making the space feel more welcoming.
Tips for Memory Care Residents
When decorating for seniors with memory care needs, simplicity and safety become even more critical. Keep furniture arrangements clear to prevent confusion and make navigation easier. Use familiar colors and patterns that resonate with the individual’s past, which helps tap into positive memories.
To assist with memory cues, consider using labels or signage on important items, like drawers, to create a sense of familiarity. A few bright, contrasting colors can define different areas within the apartment, reducing confusion and aiding in memory retention.
Incorporating sensory elements can also help evoke cherished memories. Use textured materials, scents that may trigger positive associations and tactile objects that feel nice against the skin. The idea is to create a comforting environment that nurtures mental and emotional well-being.
Decorating a senior apartment is an opportunity to create a personal sanctuary that honors the resident’s individuality. Once settled in, the fears of not fitting in won’t be of consequence. By embracing elements that enhance warmth, familiarity, and seasonal flair, your loved one will thrive in the new space.
Edition of Saginaw: Luxury Private Apartments and Community Space
At Edition of Saginaw, our team knows that transitioning into a senior living environment is a significant change for residents and their families. Let us help you create a space where cherished memories will flourish in a supportive environment. Contact us for a tour and see how we can guide you on this important journey.
