Senior citizens have become the fastest growing population in countries around the world and predictions are that their number is going to double by 2050. Older adults today have a choice to stay in their homes or join a retirement facility, and in either case, the main concern is not only health care, but also maintaining their desired lifestyle.
By incorporating even the smallest retrofits, you can transform any space into an environment that is safe, pleasant and comfortable and in doing so, you’ll improve the quality of senior living and even extend it. The following aspects of design are the ones that will make senior citizen feel more at home wherever they choose to spend their golden years.
Safety and security
What all seniors and their adult children point out as their main concern is the element of safety and security in their homes. This doesn’t mean they don’t care about aesthetics any longer. The colour palette and style is still important, but what takes precedence over colour and patterns of corridors and handrails is the quality of their craftsmanship and if there’s additional seating in the hall.
Therefore, the focus is more on providing additional support and space for physically impaired, more contrast for vision impairment and non-slip flooring options for all conditions.
Natural daylight and view of the outdoors
Recent studies show that one of the first things that people look for when they enter the space is the number of windows and the view of the outdoors. This is not surprising as nature and natural light is an essential ingredient of a healthy life and a key element in making a space feel like home.
Therefore, it’s important for a senior’s home to have large windows with soft window treatments that can block the relentless sun, if necessary, but can also allow abundant natural light to permeate the whole space. Mark Moran Vaucluse retirement homes are a fine example of properly designed spaces for older adults – all their homes are designed to capture natural light and catch the gorgeous views of the ocean. Their position allows their residents to enjoy the beautiful panoramic ocean views on the east side or the remarkable garden vistas, and city skyline views on the west.
Natural elements
Another natural element that makes a big difference in giving a space a homier note is plants and greenery. Being in touch with nature and having plenty of plants and greenery in a home has beneficial effects on a person’s mental and emotional health. It can also improve sleep and lift up the mood, and if you can incorporate an outdoor space for gardening, seniors will be able to spend more time outside, get plenty of exercise, engage in a gardening activity, relieve stress and feel less isolated.
Furnishings and accessories
Whether it’s a senior care community or one’s own home, it’s important to have a certain level of flexibility in furnishings that allow the older residents to feel more comfortable and in control. First of all, it’s imperative there is no clutter and crowded areas so there’s no danger of tripping and injury, but certain decorative elements and accessories that have sentimental value to seniors can be tastefully incorporated with the rest of the design. They will also add to the overall cosy feel of the space.
Flexibility can be achieved with adaptable furniture such as adjustable beds and chairs, as well as movable furniture pieces which allow an easy layout change if the need arises.
With these tips and tricks, customizing any living space for older adults is easy and giving the a space where they can feel at home, safe and comfortable is what will help them enjoy their ripe years.
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