5 Senior-Friendly Apartment Design Features to Look For

A recent study by Sage Journals confirmed that seniors equate safety with the ability to do daily activities independently. Although they weren't opposed to having help, they stressed the need to feel comfortable in their home environment.

Senior-friendly apartment design can help achieve this by ensuring safety, independence, and quality of life. This often involves simple modifications, such as installing grab bars, improving lighting, and reducing trip hazards.

Many senior living communities, like Morada Temple, provide these key features, along with amenities that promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It's a beautiful environment for seniors and a perfectly situated home base that facilitates exploration of the rich cultural heritage of the diverse railroad town of Temple.

As America's aging population increases, demand for accessible and comfortable living spaces rises. This trend has prompted greater focus on properties that cater to seniors' needs, including single-level homes, communities with amenities for older adults, and smart home technologies. Learn how Texas seniors are ensuring these elements are incorporated into their independent living lifestyle.

1. Accessibility and Universal Design

Senior living apartments should incorporate accessibility and universal design principles to create usable, comfortable spaces for individuals of all abilities, including those with mobility limitations. It starts with open floor plans and layouts that incorporate features that promote independence, safety, and ease of use, such as:

• An open and accessible apartment design
• Wide doorways and hallways to accommodate mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers
• Level entries and single-level floor plans to eliminate stairs and reduce fall risk
• Lever-style door handles and easy-to-use fixtures for limited hand dexterity

The design should also be adaptable, allowing for customization to meet the changing needs of residents over time.

2. Safety Features

Aging in place features are modifications and designs in a home that allow individuals to comfortably and safely remain in their residence as they age. Unfortunately, for some seniors, this may not be enough as other factors such as multiple levels, neighborhood safety, and distance from relatives could make staying in their homes unfeasible.

Thankfully, senior living in Temple, TX caters to seniors' needs by:

• Outfitting apartments with handrails in hallways and stairwells, and grab bars for seniors in bathrooms to prevent falls
• Providing an emergency call system for quick assistance and peace of mind
• Ensuring stairways are well-lit, with handrails on both sides if multiple levels exist
• Using non-slip flooring materials in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce slipping hazards

Senior living residents at Morada Temple, TX, can also minimize fall risks while making their space feel like home by securing or eliminating throw rugs, clutter, and cords.

3. Well-Designed Bathrooms

Any senior apartment layout should prioritize safety, accessibility, and ease of use. These elements are particularly important in bathrooms, as seniors need to maneuver safely within this space daily. Key features in a well-designed bathroom for seniors should include:

• Walk-in showers or tubs to eliminate the need to step over a high threshold, making access easier
• Shower seats for comfort and safer bathing
• Grab bars near showers, tubs, and toilets for support
• Raised toilet seats and handheld showerheads for ease of use
• Adjustable height sinks to facilitate individuals of all heights and those using wheelchairs
• Adequate space for maneuvering mobility devices within the bathroom

Other important considerations can include proper ventilation and outward swinging or sliding doors.

4. Ample and Thoughtful Lighting

Ample, well-distributed lighting throughout senior apartment design directly impacts residents' safety, well-being, and independence. Proper lighting can help reduce fall risks and improve visibility for daily tasks. It also plays a role in emotional well-being, as appropriate lighting creates an ambience that can positively affect mood and cognitive function.

Ideally, lighting in senior communities should include:

• A combination of natural and artificial lighting to enhance visibility and reduce accidents
• Motion-sensor or well-distributed lighting in key areas like hallways and entrances
• Task-specific lighting to improve visibility for intricate activities and reduce eye strain

Seniors tend to be more sensitive to glare, so apartment designs should include finishes that minimize reflective surfaces, light shields, and window shades or treatments. Lighting controls should also be accessible and operable for all residents, including those with limited mobility.

5. Comfort and Convenience Features

A comfortable home can directly impact seniors' physical and mental well-being, enhancing their overall quality of life. Integrating smart technology into a home can also improve comfort levels, making it safer while facilitating greater independence. Comfort and convenience features are great additions to senior living communities and can include:

• The integration of smart technology, such as voice-controlled lights, thermostats, and security systems, for convenience
• Comfortable and supportive furniture designed for ease of sitting and standing
• Temperature control systems to maintain consistent indoor comfort
• Kitchen modifications such as lower countertops and pull-out shelves that enhance usability for seniors with mobility challenges

These features create a positive living experience by promoting security, reducing stress, and improving mood.

Additional Considerations

When transitioning to independent senior living in Temple, TX, it's important to make your space feel like home. This can include displaying favorite mementos, transferring well-loved and used furniture items, and choosing stylish decor. Whether you opt for your treasure pieces or start afresh with new items, furniture should be arranged to allow free movement with rounded edges and cushions for safety.

Safety and accessibility are also important in common areas. Using contrasting colors can help improve visibility, aiding seniors with visual impairments, while outdoor spaces like patios or gardens can help residents relax and are great for light activities.

Apartment Design That Enhances Senior Safety, Accessibility, and Independence

Apartment design directly impacts the safety and comfort of senior residents and can also affect their ability to maintain independence. The five key design features outlined above enhance safety, accessibility, and independence for seniors.

When considering senior living in Temple, TX, you should prioritize these features as they can enhance quality of life and well-being. Morada Temple does, and it's one of the many reasons this resort-style community has a history of excellence in independent senior living. We also provide residents with various amenities and services to enrich their retirement lifestyle.

Schedule a tour to experience the benchmark for exceptional senior living!