Apartment Decorating Tips For Seniors

It takes time to feel at home after moving, but it also takes effort. Think of it as senior living in style — and it’s far easier and more fun than decorating an entire home.

First, throw out all of your preconceived ideas about what senior apartments should look like. As world-renowned interior designer Bunny Williams famously said, “If you love something it will work. That’s the only real rule.” Follow your heart and create a space that makes you happy. The following tips are intended as inspiration for making your senior living space your own after moving.

Decorate for Your Lifestyle

Think about how you like to spend a typical day. Do you enjoy reading in a sunny window? Having someone over for coffee? Watching movies at night? Scrapbooking at a desk filled with supplies? What does your ideal senior living apartment look like to you?

Next, accommodate whatever ends up at the top of your list, without worrying about what you think a home is supposed to look like. That could mean a big, cozy recliner in front of a large-screen TV. It could also mean a dining table placed right by the window. Do whatever makes it convenient for you to live how you like.

Choose Multi-Function Items When Decorating Your Apartment

Since senior apartments are smaller than two-story colonials, it’s helpful to choose pieces that give you options and help keep you organized. Here are a few examples to get you started:

• This wall-mounted Murphy desk from Etsy offers a convenient spot to pay bills or write letters without taking away valuable floor space.
• A rotating side table, like this one from Amazon, guarantees that you’ll always have what you need right by your side.
• Need extra storage for winter coats or seasonal decorations? This Haven storage bed by West Elm easily pops up to offer ample extra room.
• For those rare occasions when you need it, this convertible bookshelf by Lamps Plus transforms into a table that seats up to eight.

Put Your Life on Display

Whether you’re proud of your grandchildren or that golf trophy you won, don’t be afraid to show it off. But, for your own benefit, condense some of these memories so that your space doesn’t get too cluttered. A so-called gallery wall may be the first option that jumps to mind, but have you ever tried to hang a dozen picture frames with perfect spacing? Instead, consider installing a floating shelf or two, like these simple ones from Home Depot. As for those golf trophies and other mementos, pick a few favorites and display them neatly and prominently. 

Embrace Color

Why is it that we all think walls need to be white, beige, or pale gray? If that’s what you like, go for it, but also remember Bunny Williams’ urging to choose what you love. Pale blues, greens, yellows, and even pinks can effectively function as neutrals, giving your space an airy, fresh look. But experts also say that darker colors can make smaller spaces look larger, as well. The one thing you’ll want to do for sure? Buy a small 8-ounce sample of paint to see how a shade looks in different lighting conditions in your home. Even easier? Benjamin Moore is now offering peel-and-stick paint samples. 

Green It Up

Adding a plant or two to your space is a quick way to add a little zest to senior apartments. If you have south- or west-facing windows, you can do that quite literally with a Meyer lemon tree. They’re easy to grow and, when they’re mature enough, you’ll have the added perk of picking the fruit. If you’re concerned about not getting enough sun, choose even easier-to-grow houseplants such as English ivy, Boston ferns, spider plants, or wax plants.

Senior Living at The Atrium at Navesink Harbor

The Atrium at Navesink Harbor is the only full-service waterfront Life Plan Community in New Jersey. You’ll find one- and two-bedroom apartments, ranging from 485 to 1,682 square feet, that offer residents luxury, stress-free living, resort-style amenities, and the peace of mind of Lifecare contract availability. Use this quick form to schedule a visit and see firsthand what life on the water is like in Red Bank, New Jersey.