If you’re getting ready to help a parent or elderly relative move into a senior apartment, it’s important to make sure that their new layout is well suited to their specific needs. Certain design elements can improve safety, accessibility, and visibility around the space. Here are some of the top features that can make an impact on the usability of senior apartments.

What to Consider When Decorating a Senior Apartment

1. Keep Plenty of Open Floor Space

Your loved one or some of their friends may need a wheelchair to get around. This requires a fair amount of space in between furniture, walls, and fixtures. You should also try to avoid having area rugs hanging over into those walking spaces, since they can create a tripping hazard.

2. Utilize Bright Lighting

To prevent trips and potential safety issues around the apartment, proper visibility is key. Include enough lighting in the apartment to make sure there aren’t any dark spots throughout the space. It’s a good idea to have lighting at different levels in order to eliminate shadows, including overhead lights, floor lamps, and table lamps.

3. Include Soft Furnishing

Just in case your loved one falls in their apartment, you don’t want a bunch of sharp edges and hard furnishings around to make the situation worse. Avoid glass tables and try to pick furniture with rounded edges and soft materials where possible.

4. Place Storage Near Eye Level

It’s a good idea to declutter as much as possible before moving into a senior apartment so your loved one doesn’t have to wade through tons of items when looking for something specific. Try to keep only the necessities, and invest in shelves or storage units that allow them to keep those items around eye level, so they don’t have to reach high or bend down too far to sift through things.

If you’re looking for senior apartments for a parent or loved one, check out The Northfield a Family Service Community in Fairport, NY. The enriched housing complex offers spacious senior living apartments that come with a wide array of amenities, including three daily meals, weekly housekeeping, and recreational facilities. There’s also a doctor, nurse, and security personnel on-site to provide quality care and ensure safety for residents. To schedule a tour, visit the company’s website or call (585) 377-1810.