As you get older, you have to pay more attention to your surroundings. If your living space isn’t designed well, it can not only ruin your relaxation but also pose a threat to your health and wellbeing. So, in order to create perfect sleeping quarters for yourself or your elderly parent, here are some of the essentials that can’t be left out.
First things first, you need the right bed! Those low-platform beds might be modern, but it’s much easier to get in and out of a bed that has some considerable height. The best height is around 25 inches, so your feet can touch the floor when in a sitting position. Depending on your or your elderly parent’s height, the height of the bed can be anywhere between 25 and 36 inches, but not lower.
Everyone appreciates practical seating in the bedroom, not just seniors. A sturdy chair, bench or ottoman will make changing, putting on socks and doing all kinds of chores and tasks much safer and more comfortable. And these furniture pieces always look super attractive in bedrooms, especially when they stand out with their design and serve as focal points!
Vision issues are a struggle for so many elderly people, so it’s very important to illuminate your space properly. For example, this modern dementia care facility can boast plenty of natural light in every indoor space which provides not only plenty of illumination but also the sun’s warmth and Vitamin D. They also provide every room with practical wall sconces that will provide great task lighting yet eliminate trips and bumps. So, don’t hesitate to emulate that luxe aged care facility vibe in your home—professionals know what they are doing, especially when it comes to lighting.
Every bedroom needs plenty of space for storing clothing, linens, electronics, cosmetics and medication. All of these should be neatly tucked away to avoid injury and damage. Any object left loose on the floor, table or chair can pose a tripping or bumping hazard. Aside from having enough storage, you also have to know how to use it effectively. For instance, don’t place objects you use every day on high shelves that require you to stand on your toes to reach. Leave these hard to reach places for decoration or some seasonal items that you don’t need that often.
One of the most common injury causes among the elderly is falling. So, make sure to reduce your risk by covering your tiles or hardwood floors with anti-skid flooring. Added texture will provide better grip and allow you to move more freely. Plus rugs and skid-free floor coverings can make your bedroom feel warmer and look well-designed and anchored.
Not many people think about hardware while they are young, but as we get older and older, we notice just how important these details are. For instance, doorknobs can be hard to handle with arthritis, so replace them with lever handles. Open shutters can also be easier to handle than other window treatments. Just ensure your hardware functions with minimal effort.
Once you get older, you have more time to spend relaxing with movies and TV shows, so don’t hesitate to invest in a good TV for your bedroom. However, if you opt for a big screen, it can easily become a tripping hazard or it can easily be knocked down if you bump into it. So, your safest option is to mount your TV on your wall. This will improve the viewing experience and boost the safety of your bedroom.
With a bedroom like this, your senior years will be the most comfortable and relaxing time of your life. So, give your old bedroom a little remodel and enjoy your retirement in style and comfort!
