Making Assisted Living Feel Like Home for Seniors
According to a new housing survey, around 818,800 Americans live in assisted living communities.
These places exist to support our loved ones as they grow older. However, making the transition to an assisted living community can be a significant change for many.
With a few thoughtful touches, it's possible to create a warm, home-like environment even in a new setting. Here are some effective strategies to personalize an assisted living space and enhance comfort.
Read on to learn more about making assisted living feel like home.
Personalize with Familiar Furnishings
One of the simplest ways to make a new environment feel like home is to bring along some familiar items. If possible, incorporate small pieces of furniture or favorite decorations from the previous residence into the new space.
These items carry memories and personal history. Familiar assisted living furnishing can make the new living space feel more homely and less like an institution. Even a favorite chair, a beloved painting, or a set of decorative pillows can make a big difference.
Have a conversation with your loved one about their most cherished items. Together, you can create a collection of assisted living community decor that brings joy and comfort every day.
Choose Comfortable Textiles
Investing in soft, plush textiles like blankets and pillows can transform the look and feel of a space. These elements offer comfort and warmth, making the living area more inviting.
Choose items that appeal to the senses with soft fabrics and soothing colors to enhance the overall comfort of the room.
Create a Memory Lane
For an added touch of comfort, consider creating a memory lane for your loved one to enjoy. Decorating the walls with family photos or memorable souvenirs can transform a plain room into a personal gallery of life's highlights.
This visual celebration of personal history does more than just beautify the space. It also serves as a daily reminder of happy times and loved ones, which can be an immense source of comfort. In turn, this helps to maintain a connection to the past while adjusting to new surroundings.
Bring in Natural Elements
Introducing plants or flowers to the living area is a great way to brighten a space and make it more homely. This simple measure can be greatly beneficial for the mind and body.
Plants can improve air quality and bring a sense of calm and tranquility to a room. Opting for low-maintenance plants ensures they add beauty without requiring too much care, making them perfect for enhancing assisted living community decor.
Enhance Lighting
Improving the lighting in a living space can dramatically change how it feels. Soft, warm lighting can make a room appear cozy and inviting.
It's especially important in creating a comfortable environment that combats feelings of loneliness or isolation. Consider using a variety of light sources, such as table lamps and wall sconces, to create a soft glow throughout the room.
Incorporate Technology
When it comes to assisted living amenities, technology plays a vital role. Using modern tech keeps us close to those we care about.
In an assisted living setting, these devices can help residents stay in touch with friends and family. Consider incorporating things like:
- Digital photo frames
- Video calling
- Smart home voice assistants
- Virtual reality headsets
- Social media integration
These technological touches offer fun new experiences and ensure that residents don't feel cut off from their social circles. If your loved one is less familiar with technology, staff can help them learn new skills and gain confidence using computers.
Maintain Independence
It's important to organize and customize the living space to support independence as much as possible. Accessible storage options and personalized organizational systems can make daily routines easier.
By configuring the living environment to meet the specific needs of the resident, one can help preserve their autonomy and dignity. Compassionate care staff will work with your family member to design a layout that works.
Foster Community Connections
Encouraging participation in community activities can help foster a sense of belonging. Many facilities offer a range of events and activities that allow residents to engage with each other and form new friendships.
These social interactions can make the facility feel more like a community and less like just a residence. Look for a community that offers plenty of assisted living activities, catering to a diverse range of interests.
Include Personal Items
Allowing residents to choose which personal items to bring with them can significantly enhance their comfort. These items, whether books, artwork, or even a preferred coffee mug, can help personalize a space and offer a sense of control and normalcy.
Create a Relaxation Nook
Creating a relaxation nook in a community is an effective way to foster mental well-being by providing a dedicated space for calm and recuperation. This small, personalized retreat can be set up in a corner of a room or a secluded part of a communal area.
Select furniture that enhances comfort and relaxation. A plush armchair or a soft recliner can be central to this area. Add a small ottoman for leg support and a side table to hold a cup of tea or a book.
If the assisted living community guidelines allow, a small, comfortable couch might also be appropriate, especially for those who might prefer lying down.
Comfort and Care: Making Assisted Living Feel Like Home
Making assisted living feel like home doesn't have to be stressful. By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, an assisted living space can truly feel like a secure retreat. These touches not only enhance the physical environment but also help maintain emotional and psychological well-being.
Here at Addington Place of Prairie Village, we put a strong focus on comfort, convenience, and quality care solutions. We're here to help make the transition as smooth and comfortable as possible.
We're proud to present our range of accommodations in an idyllic, secure setting. If you or a loved one is considering assisted living, or if you need more information on how to personalize a space, don't hesitate to contact us.