Designing a home that accommodates the needs of elderly family members requires special attention to detail. Whether you are designing a room for an elderly person or you’re planning to update your own space as you age, creating a comfortable and functional environment is essential. Here are some important design tips to keep in mind when designing interiors for elderly people:
1. Wider Doors for Accessibility
Most standard doors, like entry doors and bedroom doors, are typically 36 inches wide. However, when designing a room for an elderly person, it’s a good idea to increase the width of the doors to at least 42 inches (3.5 feet). This extra width ensures that there is enough space for mobility aids such as walkers, wheelchairs, or simply to make it easier to move around. A wider door provides greater accessibility, ensuring that the elderly person can enter and exit the room without difficulty.
2. Flooring Choices for Safety
Flooring is another crucial aspect to consider when designing an elderly-friendly room. While many people opt for glossy tiles for the rest of the house, this can be a mistake for elderly rooms. Glossy tiles can be slippery, increasing the risk of falls. Instead, consider opting for matte finish tiles, anti-skid tiles, or even wooden flooring that offers a more secure and stable walking surface. If you decide to go for marble flooring, ensure that it is not overly polished (diamond polish) to prevent slippery surfaces. A safer choice would be granite, which provides both aesthetic appeal and traction.
3. Color Palette for a Calm Environment
The choice of colors in a room plays a significant role in creating a peaceful and calming environment, especially in a bedroom. For elderly rooms, always opt for neutral colors like beige, light gray, or soft whites. These colors promote a sense of tranquility and calmness. Bright or pastel colors may be stimulating for some individuals, whereas neutral tones symbolize peace and are soothing to the eyes. A calm, serene environment is essential for improving sleep quality and overall well-being for elderly individuals.
4. Furniture with Comfort and Safety in Mind
Furniture should also be chosen with comfort and safety in mind. When selecting furniture for an elderly-friendly room, prioritize pieces with rounded edges to avoid injury. Ensure that chairs and beds have sturdy, high frames that make it easier to get in and out of them. Comfortable, supportive mattresses and chairs that are easy to get up from are key considerations. Additionally, consider adding grab bars near beds or in bathrooms for added support and stability.
5. Lighting for Better Visibility
Proper lighting is essential, especially for elderly people who may have reduced vision. Ensure that the room is well-lit, with task lighting near seating areas, beds, and other functional spaces. Avoid harsh overhead lighting, which can create shadows, and instead opt for softer, ambient lighting. Consider using nightlights or motion-sensor lights to provide adequate visibility during the night without the need to turn on harsh lights.
Conclusion
When designing a room for an elderly person, it’s important to create a space that is both comfortable and safe. By choosing wider doors, safer flooring options, calming neutral colors, and supportive furniture, you can ensure that the room is tailored to meet the needs of elderly individuals. A well-designed space not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the room but also significantly improves the quality of life for its occupants.
