As seniors age, they may find themselves moving into a retirement home. While this can be a great way to have access to all the amenities you need, it can also feel a bit like you’re living in a hospital or institution. The key to making your retirement home feel like home is to personalize your space. Here are a few ways to do that:
- Bring in pictures of your family and friends. Display them prominently so you can see them every day. Doing this will help you feel connected to the people you love, even if you can’t be with them all the time.
- Get some plants. Not only will they add a bit of life to your space, but taking care of them can give you a sense of purpose. You can also use them to decorate, by hanging pictures or other small items from their leaves. This is a great way to personalize your space and make it feel more like your own.
- Make sure you have comfortable furniture. This is your space, so you should have furniture that you actually like spending time in. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be inviting. When you’re choosing furniture, think about how you’ll use it. If you like to read, make sure you have a comfortable chair or couch to curl up in.
- Bring in some of your favorite things from home. If you have a collection of items that you love, find a way to display them in your new space. This could be anything from books to knickknacks. Seeing things that make you happy will help you feel at home. You can also use this opportunity to get rid of things you don’t need or want anymore, so you can start fresh in your new space.
- Get to know your neighbors. One of the best ways to make a retirement home feel like home is to get to know the people who live there. Introduce yourself to your neighbors and strike up conversations. You may even want to join a social club or book group. Having friends in your retirement home will make it feel more like home.
Making a retirement home feel like home can be a challenge, but it’s worth it. By personalizing your space and getting to know your neighbors, you can make the transition smoother and more comfortable. Soon, you’ll feel right at home.
What should retirement homes offer to make residents feel more at home?
Retirement communities should offer a variety of activities and amenities to make residents feel at home. Here are a few examples:
- Social clubs and groups– Joining a social club or group can help you meet new friends and feel more connected to the community. Retirement communities should offer a variety of clubs and groups, so residents can find one that interests them.
- Activities– Retirement homes should offer a variety of activities to keep residents engaged and active. These activities could include exercise classes, arts and crafts, game nights, or outings to local attractions.
- Amenities– Retirement communities should offer a variety of amenities, such as a pool, a fitness center, or a clubhouse. These amenities provide residents with a place to relax and socialize. So, if a retirement community offers amenities that interest you, it may be a good fit.
- Services– Retirement homes should offer a variety of services, such as housekeeping, laundry, or transportation. These services make life easier for residents and help them feel more at home.
- Dining– Retirement communities should offer a variety of dining options, so residents can find a meal plan that suits their needs. Dining options could include a cafe, a restaurant, or in-room dining.
Making residents feel at home is important for retirement communities. Offering a variety of activities, amenities, services, and dining options can help achieve this goal.
Do you have any other tips for making a retirement home feel like home? Please share them in the comments!
