Decorating Tips to Make Seniors’ Spaces Feel Like Home

After your kids leave the nest, that big four-bedroom house that used to seem so cramped may start feeling vast and empty. That’s why over 50% of retirees downsize from a large home to a smaller living space. This alleviates the burden of cleaning and maintaining a considerable house. Downsizing can also set older adults on the path toward financial freedom.

Transform Your Senior Living Space

However, with more seniors choosing to age in place at home, it’s essential to transform your new space into a comfy, cozy home you love. Use these five apartment decorating tips to create a functional and inviting haven.

1. Less is more

You’ll be surprised to see how much you’ve accumulated over the years. Larger homes have more storage space, allowing you to pack away everything from your child’s elementary school science projects to decade-old magazines.

Before your big move, make a plan to declutter. Divide your belongings into three categories: keep, donate, and trash. Throw out anything that is damaged or broken. You can donate gently-used clothing and furniture to Goodwill. Only bring the items you truly need and love with you.

2. Paint the walls with contrasting and bright colors

Some people may feel suffocated after initially moving into a smaller space. Painting the walls with contrasting colors can make your apartment feel more significant. Some of the best hues for opening up small spaces include light neutrals, off-whites, and pastels. These give off the illusion of bigger, brighter rooms. Use contrasting colors to add depth.

Alternating color combinations increases visibility, which helps seniors be more aware of their surroundings and reduces the risk of slips and falls.

3. Light it up

Not only does proper lighting promote safety, but it also makes small apartments feel bright and airy. Add lights to high-traffic areas of your new home, like corridors, staircases, and entryways. Seniors should also take advantage of natural light to enhance their living space. Use sheer curtains to let the sunlight pour in.

4. Find the right furniture fit

Downsizing to a smaller space leaves less room for big, bulky furniture. In addition to decluttering, seniors should right-size their furniture.

Be mindful of the size and scale of your new apartment. Take and write down the measurements of all the rooms you wish to furnish. Lastly, ensure the furniture will fit through your doorway.

When choosing furniture, opt for pieces that are functional and safe. Compact, rounded furniture prevents injuries and saves space.

Always have your new furnishings delivered and assembled by a team of pros.

5. Add the finishing touches

The right décor and accents can bring any room to life. Hang mirrors and large pieces of artwork to make your apartment look bigger. You can also create a gallery wall showcasing family pictures. Add some plants to bring the beauty of nature indoors.

Assistance Keeping Your New Home Neat and Tidy

Some seniors may have trouble cleaning their new apartments due to mobility and chronic health issues. Visiting Angels Santa Clarita is happy to lend a hand! Our in-home caregivers can assist with light housekeeping, including vacuuming and dishwashing. Our customized care plans also include medication management, transportation, companionship, and meal planning and preparation solutions.