Did you know that Ohio has over 2.8 million residents who are aged 65 and older? Many people choose to retire in Ohio due to access to high-quality healthcare and the low cost of living. That's why thoughtfully designed senior apartments with safety-focused layouts are more important than ever.
Many senior living communities prioritize the comfort and security of their residents when it comes to apartment design. Not only do they want to create a space that offers the comfort of home, but they also want the unit to be functional and make life easier for whoever is living there.
This blog will discuss some key features to look for when exploring comfortable senior apartments in Carroll. We'll also cover some of the design elements you can bring into your space to make it your own while ensuring your safety.
As we mentioned earlier, safety should be one of the key pillars when it comes to senior apartment design. There are a few key safety features to look for when touring Carroll housing options, including:
It's a bonus if the apartment has grab bars in other areas besides the bathroom. Handrails and grab bars provide extra support for those dealing with balance issues or mobility concerns.
One thing to keep in mind as you move into your new space is avoiding having items scattered around, especially on the floor. These items can become tripping hazards. Keep all unused items stored and remove any obstructions from your pathways.
Other features should be included in senior-friendly layouts to help keep residents safe, including:
Seniors should be able to easily move throughout their space, whether they can walk unassisted or need a walker or wheelchair. There are a few accessible design elements you can look for when touring apartments:
The appliances that come in your senior apartment should also be easy to use, including intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces. These features make daily tasks easier.
Your senior apartment should have plenty of lighting fixtures installed throughout the unit. Make sure these fixtures are equipped with energy-efficient and bright LED lights. Let maintenance staff know right away if a bulb goes out so it gets replaced.
Consider installing motion-sensor lighting in your bathroom and hallways if your apartment doesn't already have it. This type of lighting ensures adequate visibility if you need to move around your apartment in the dark.
Now that we've discussed what the bones of a senior apartment should look like, let's dive into what you can do to maximize the space. A thoughtfully designed apartment won't do you any good if you don't put as much care and consideration into how you arrange your belongings.
Your apartment layout should be centered around what makes life easier for you. Some of the furniture from your previous home may not work in your new apartment due to it being a smaller space. Some things to keep in mind when planning your layout include:
It's important not to overload your apartment with more furniture than you need. You want to ensure that you have plenty of space to easily move around.
When shopping for new furniture, look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a sofa bed can provide you with somewhere to sit during the day and a spot for guests to sleep at night. Another option would be purchasing an ottoman that also has storage on the inside.
A few features to keep in mind when choosing furniture include:
The last thing you want is to feel like you're living in a hospital room. There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to decorating your senior apartment. The goal is to create an environment that feels the best for you.
A few of the items you can display to make your space feel more like home include:
You may feel like you have too many prized possessions to display in your apartment. We recommend keeping some items in storage and switching them out every so often. You can do this as the seasons or holidays change.
While you may have access to an outdoor space at your senior living community, you may miss having plants to tend to yourself. We recommend adding some indoor houseplants and succulents around your space. Not only do they give you something to take care of, but the plants may also improve your health.
Senior apartment design is so much more than having an attractive living space when aging in place. There is more of a focus on safety and comfort when designing and decorating a senior apartment. A senior living community that prioritizes those elements in their apartments shows that they care deeply about their residents.
At Carroll Place Assisted Living, we designed our senior living community with our residents in mind. We offer various thoughtfully designed floor plans, including studio and one-bedroom units. Reach out to our office to schedule a tour.