As our parents age, we often realize that they require more attention, care, and comfort than before. They may start facing difficulties in performing day-to-day activities, and the surroundings can play a crucial role in making their lives easier and stress-free. It is essential to understand that a few simple changes in their bedroom interior design can have a profound impact on their overall health and well-being. These modifications not only make their lives safer but also bring a sense of cosiness and warmth to the atmosphere.
When it comes to designing a comfortable bedroom interior design for your ageing parents, the key is to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. With the right design elements, you can create a beautiful, safe, and practical space that your parents will enjoy spending time in. In this article, we present to you seven proven ideas that can transform an ordinary home interior design into a warm and inviting space, tailored to the needs of your ageing parents.
Design Idea #1: Choose an Attractive Colour Scheme
The colours of a home interior design can have a significant impact on our mood, and this holds true for the elderly as well. They tend to spend a considerable amount of time in their bedrooms, and hence it’s essential to choose a colour scheme that will lift their spirits and keep them in a positive state of mind. The ideal colours to use in this space are warm shades of brown, gold, orange, and yellow ochre. It’s crucial to avoid both dull and overly stimulating colours and instead opt for colours that are visually appealing and easy on the eyes. If your parents have a favourite colour, try to incorporate it into the design scheme.
Design Idea #2: Opt for a Bed of Optimal Height
The bed is undoubtedly the most important element of the bedroom, and choosing the right one is crucial. As our parents age, it becomes increasingly challenging to sit low, and hence a bed of optimal height is recommended. The ideal height for the bed should be 20 to 23 inches from the floor to the top of the mattress. Installing a handlebar to help them get in and out of bed is an excellent addition to consider. It’s also essential to make sure the bed height is appropriate for your parents’ height, so their feet rest flat on the ground when they sit on the bed. If necessary, you can adjust the mattress height to accommodate your parents’ needs.
Design Idea #3: Use Slip-Resistant Flooring
The risk of falls is one of the biggest challenges faced by the elderly, and it’s essential to minimize this risk in their bedroom interior design. To prevent slips and falls, get rid of smooth tile flooring and opt for anti-skid flooring options such as laminates and wood. Carpeting throughout the room is another excellent option to consider, as long as you avoid small carpets and foot rugs that can be trip hazards.
Design Idea #4: Provide Enough Room to Walk
The bedroom furniture design is crucial. However, furniture clutter can make it challenging for the elderly to move around the room freely, increasing the risk of falls. Therefore, you will have to focus on the space occupancy of the furniture, besides the bedroom furniture design. To ensure there’s enough room to walk, keep the wardrobes in one corner and avoid overloading the room with furniture. Keep the pathways to the bed and washroom clear, and consider only essential pieces of furniture such as side tables, a chest of drawers, and a table or reading chair. Grip mats in the bathroom can also be very helpful in reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Design Idea #5: Let the Sun Come In
Sunlight is essential for our health, and this holds true for the elderly as well. By installing large windows, you can allow natural light to enter the room and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the sun’s rays provide vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones. If your parents have trouble getting out of bed, positioning the bed near the window can help them enjoy the benefits of natural light. However, if your parents are sensitive to light, consider installing curtains or blinds to help them regulate the amount of light entering the room.
Design Idea #6: Make Use of Ergonomic Furniture
As we age, our bodies change, and our furniture needs to adapt to accommodate these changes. To make sure your parents are comfortable and supported, consider using ergonomic furniture that adjusts to their body’s changing needs. An adjustable bed, armchair, or bedside table, for instance, can make their lives easier and more comfortable. By having furniture that adjusts to their needs, your parents can maintain good posture, reduce the risk of back pain, and enjoy greater comfort in their room.
