Deciding to move to senior living can be a stressful process. You have a lot of factors to consider like cost, location, amenities, and housing options. However, once you make your choice, set aside some time to determine how you’d like to decorate your new space.
Some communities may even allow you to select paint colors, flooring, and finishes. Try to have fun with this part of the journey and think about what would make you feel comfortable and settled in your new home or apartment.
Here are five decorating tips to help you get started.
How to Decorate Your Senior Living Apartment
1. Surround yourself with your favorite things
As you go through things in your home, note what furniture you use the most. Ask for a floor plan of your senior living apartment so you can visualize what will fit in the new space. You may need to purchase a smaller couch or bed but try to keep things that are meaningful to you like framed art, pictures, favorite blankets, and handmade gifts. You’ll want to surround yourself with familiar things that show your personality and remind you of your loved ones and the memories you’ve created over the years.
If you’re moving from a larger home to an apartment, you’ll likely need to downsize. Consider asking for help from family and friends because downsizing can be a daunting task. Senior move managers are also a great resource and likely worth the cost. Visit the National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers (NASMM) website to find a senior move manager near you.
2. Use multifunctional furniture to maximize your space
To maximize your new space, think about using furniture that can serve more than one purpose. For example, find an ottoman with storage inside. Explore sleeper sofas for your living space to accommodate overnight guests.
In recent years, as more people are living in tiny homes, RVs, or motorhomes, designers have created new options for furniture with several functions. You might also search for a desk that folds down from a wall or a closet organization system that provides the best use of your storage space.
3. Keep safety in mind with ample lighting
Add enough lighting throughout your apartment to improve safety during late night or early morning hours. Lighting can also make your space feel bigger and more inviting.
Use smart technology for voice-activated lighting features. You won’t have to fumble around in the dark, feeling for light switches or lamps. Instead, you can use your voice to tell your device what lights to turn on or off. This can be a valuable safety feature in your new apartment.
4. Add plants and flowers to your décor
Live plants can not only add life to your apartment, but they can also boost your mood and create a sense of calm in your living environment. Research has shown that exposure to nature can increase cognitive flexibility, improve memory, and reduce stress.
If you don’t have a green thumb, start with plants like orchids, succulents, and snake plants that are easier to care for. You can also incorporate artificial plants — many look real and still have several of the same benefits.
5. Create space for your hobbies and interests
Think about how you’ll spend your time in your senior living apartment. Chances are you’ll enjoy meals and community activities frequently so you may not be in your apartment as much as you were when living on your own. Yet, there will still be time for you to pursue your interests, relax, or visit with family and friends.
Create a designated space to do these activities in your new apartment. For example, if you love visiting with friends over dessert and a card game, make sure you have an area that comfortably seats everyone. If you enjoy reading the morning paper while having a cup of coffee, set up a cozy spot where you can sit each day.
However you decide to decorate your senior living apartment, don’t be afraid to make it your own. Surround yourself with things that mean the most to you. Your new space should feel like a retreat that you look forward to coming home to throughout each day.
Life at Golden Bell Senior Living
Senior living communities like Golden Bell provide the comforts of home with the added benefits of supportive care, engaging activities, and a maintenance-free lifestyle. With your daily needs met, your loved one will live more independently and have opportunities to meet friends, discover new interests, and live each day to the fullest.
Golden Bell Senior Living, family-owned for over five decades, offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, and respite care. Residents have personalized care plans, are treated like family, and are greeted by name in a warm, welcoming environment.
Amenities and activities include:
- Beautiful accommodations
- Landscaped grounds and gardens
- Community outings
- Recreation and social activities
- Chef-prepared meals
- Scheduled transportation
- Beauty and barber shop
- Housekeeping and maintenance services
Please contact us to learn more about our communities or set up a tour. We’d love to hear from you and are happy to help answer any questions you have about senior living.
