Housing for Seniors: Make Your Senior Living Accommodations Feel Like Home
01/09/2013
[/caption]When a loved one has reached the point of needing housing for seniors, it can be an overwhelming and difficult change for them. Not only because their environment will be completely different, but because adjusting to a new home can mean leaving a place where precious memories were made and priceless family time took place. In addition, reducing the amount of belongings down to only the bare essentials that will fit in the new, smaller space can be an emotional and sometimes traumatizing change. Fortunately, a few key adjustments can make moving into new housing for seniors a more comfortable and pleasant experience.A Few Meaningful PiecesWhile you may have to get rid of big furniture pieces and, in some cases even the bed, it is still possible to keep a few meaningful pieces, such as a favorite chair or a favorite nightstand to place in the new room or apartment. This can easily be something that makes your loved one's new place feel like home, and it can be something that will make him or her feel as though they still have a familiar quality of life. It may be a great idea to have them choose which pieces stay and which go, and to have them dictate what to do with the pieces that will not be going to the new place. For instance, your loved one can decide whether to donate a piece, keep it, or give it to a family member.Decorate With Personal TouchesA few colorful details, like a quilted afghan, a family tablecloth, or some bedspreads in your senior's favorite colors can help bring some life and excitement to a space filled with sentimental pieces. Keepsakes, photos, trinkets and other decorations are also extremely important in making housing for seniors seem less like a nursing home and more like home. Frame family photos and place them throughout the room. Have hobby materials nearby – crocheting or knitting equipment in a pretty carrying case, for instance, or a shelf with favorite books, movies and music – all of these things can help bring out great feelings about a new space.Safety InspectionPart of making housing for seniors seem more like home is ensuring that the place is comfortable and easily manageable. If possible, change doorknobs and kitchen fixtures to more easily used, arthritis-friendly fixtures, such as lever handles and “C” or “D” shaped cabinet fixtures. Be sure there are grab rails in the kitchen and bathroom –and wherever seniors run a higher risk of falling. Consider installing a medical alert system, just for your peace of mind and that of your family. Install brighter bulbs and nightlights where necessary, and make sure cords are neatly tucked away, far from where seniors can trip or hurt themselves in their new apartment.Find assisted living or retirement communities with abundant activities at Alternatives for Seniors, which offers a directory (in print and online) that specifically caters to the senior housing and care concerns of senior citizens and their families. Gain access to information from thousands of nationwide health and care facilities, including independent living, assisted living, nursing care, and more, without ever leaving your computer. Be social, too! Join our Facebook and Twitter community for the latest news and information on housing for seniors.