Decorate to create a senior-friendly home

Few things matter more to an aging parent than maintaining lifestyle, safety and independence -- and when it comes to home decor, the right interior design decisions will go a long way towards supporting all three.

Whether you're inviting an elderly parent to live with you, or are helping an older relative adjust living space to accommodate changing needs and abilities, Davis Remignanti, lead design consultant at, offers these practical home decorating ideas to help make any living space more "senior-friendly":

- Clear the Path: Clear away items -- small home accessories, plants, magazine racks -- that clutter pathways or require individuals to walk around to avoid. Accommodate wheelchairs or walkers by allowing at least 36 inches between objects. Try the free, interactive Room Planner at

- Create a Sanctuary: For seniors who share a home with family members, their only personal space is often the bedroom. In it, create a "sanctuary" that calms, centers and energizes by allowing space for favorite pastimes, enjoying personal media, or otherwise catching some quiet time. Choose a bed that offers easy access (onto and off) along with appropriate support and comfort.

- Color Their World: Turn to color to open-up and enliven small spaces. Whites and light neutral colors, along with blues, greens and violets (in light shades) help rooms appear larger. To assist with visibility, consider home furnishings in hues that contrast against their backgrounds.

- Light It Up: Ease the strain on older eyes with plenty of lighting options. Give special attention to areas used for detailed work, like reading and hobbies. Use wall switches at room entry points to control lighting.

- Easy Storage: Provide adequate, easily accessible storage that doesn't require reaching, bending or straining. Choose dressers and wardrobes with large or D-loop handles that don't require fine finger dexterity. Many children's dressers feature easy-rolling guides and built-in safety stops.

- Work the Kitchen: Create a seated work area for food preparation tasks. A small table and chair in a comfortable location, with nearby access to utensils, is a good solution.

- Support at Dinner: Consider investing in dining chairs that provide good back support and have strong, sturdy arms. Seat cushioning adds comfort, but should be securely fitted to the chair.

- Blend and Compromise: Respect is the watchword when integrating any relative's home furniture into your own home design. Compromise when faced with the question of placing a well-loved but less-than-decor-complementary piece in the living room. If it's a definite "no," get creative. Instead, reserve a corner for it in the senior's bedroom.

"Remember that the goal in redesigning a living space for senior use is to enable that senior to maintain her freedom within a safe, comfortable and friendly living environment," advises Remignanti. "Communication is crucial. Share opinions and ideas -- and create the solution together."


