Posts Tagged ‘decorating tips for assisted living’

Just like you take time to decorate any space you move into, you should be sure to help your loved one to decorate their new space when they move into an assisted living facility. It’s their new home and it should feel like home, but it also needs to be safe. Here are 10 things to consider when helping your loved one decorate.

1) Consider your space.

The first thing you need to do before undertaking any decorating project is to consider the space you’ll be decorating. Take measurements so you know exactly what you’re working with as far as floor space, wall space, etc.

2) Almost anything can be storage.

Moving to an assisted living facility usually means downsizing. If someone has been accustomed to filling a big house with their possessions, moving into a one- or two-bedroom unit will be a big change for them, but you can make it easier by finding clever ways to store things that don’t need to be on hand or on display at all times. Ottomans and trunks can provide storage space while also being decorative and serving another purpose in the space. Storage space doesn’t have to be limited to closets and under the bed.

3) Remember to prevent falls whenever possible.

This means no rugs or anything cluttering the floor, clear visibility and plenty of lighting throughout the unit, and plenty of sturdy things to hold onto as they make their way through the apartment.

4) Colors matter.

The colors we are surrounded by can have a significant, if subconscious, effect on our health and wellbeing. Blues, greens, and yellows are most often associated with healing, so be sure to include those as much as possible in your space.

5) Use round, non-glass furniture.

Falls should be prevented whenever possible, but even the best layout can’t prevent all falls. If they do happen, falling onto sharp corners and/or glass furniture can make the damage so much worse – even fatal. So use round, non-glass furniture throughout the unit.

6) Avoid busy patterns or designs with dark spots.

Busy patterns can cause confusion and agitation in those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, while dark spots can look like holes or splotches of dirt to those with impaired vision.

7) Don’t forget tactile.

Decorating is about more than what we see. Texture plays a big role, so aside from making the resident comfortable, you should also consider using different fabrics, such as felt, denim, and lace. They can excite the senses and help boost memory.

8) Encourage social interaction.

If the resident loves certain games, keep those games readily available so they can be pulled out and played any time a visitor comes. Place interesting artwork and memorabilia in various places to encourage conversation.

9) Bring the outside in.

This is especially important if the resident can’t make it outside much. By including artwork that’s evocative of nature, as well as actual plants (if permissible) you’ll create a more healing environment that has been proven to boost overall mood, as well as health.

10) Have Fun

Decorating is a creative way of expressing yourself and the personality of the person/people inhabiting that space. Above all, never forget to have fun with it and include the input of the person/people who will be living there.

Here at Stillwater Senior Living, we treat our residents like family. Our apartments include studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom suites. They are designed with security features, maximum accessibility, and include walk-out patois with a full range of amenities for the entire family.

CONTACT US today for more information and a tour of our beautiful state-of-the-art community.