Making a senior living apartment feel like home for you or your loved one can seem daunting. Although you may have to downsize and leave some belongings and furniture behind, you can still create a comfortable, homey space to experience your new chapter.

This blog, curated by the Emory Mills Senior Living team, offers five tips to help you get started.

5 decorating tips to help make your senior living apartment feel like home

Throughout the downsizing and move-in process, try to focus on the benefits ahead of you. Your senior living journey can offer you less stress and more time, energy, freedom, and conveniences to live each day to the fullest. Soon, you’ll enjoy a supportive and caring community of residents and team members who can guide you to a fun and engaging lifestyle.

Once you get a copy of your apartment floor plan from the senior living community, you can better plan what will fit in your residence. Check with the community to see if any items or furniture are provided so you know exactly what to bring.

Keep these tips in mind when designing and planning for your new space:

#1: Decide on a color scheme

What colors feel like home to you or your loved one? Neutral or light colors often create a feeling of openness and space, which can be ideal for apartments with less square footage.

#2: Use smaller pieces

Choose a smaller couch or loveseat instead of a full-size couch for your living area. Make sure it’s comfortable and easy to get in and out of. Additionally, consider tables with seating for four or fewer people – or use nesting tables that can be stored until needed.

#3: Bring items that are meaningful to you

To help make your apartment feel like home, make sure you bring your favorite things with you. Here are some examples:

  • Chairs
  • Lamps
  • Decorative items
  • Small collections
  • Books
  • Memorabilia
  • Family photos and albums

#4: Use dual-purpose items

Since you’ll likely be in a smaller space than your current home, think about using dual-purpose items or furniture to maximize your square footage. For example, shop for an ottoman with storage inside or a bed with built-in drawers underneath.

#5: Add mirrors

Mirrors can reflect daylight and give the illusion that your living space is larger than it appears. You can strategically place a mirror across from a window so it reflects the view.

Bonus tips on what to bring with you

Make sure you pack the following when preparing for the move to senior living:

  • Comfort items – favorite blankets, pillows, sheets, clocks, and more
  • Personal care – toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush and comb, shaving kit, cosmetics, towels, and any other personal grooming necessities
  • Clothing – comfortable clothes that are easy to wear, wash, and get on and off, including undergarments, pajamas, socks, robes, slippers, light jackets, and rubber-soled shoes
  • Favorite things – snacks, books, music, puzzles, and other things that interest you

Find compassionate care and specialized support at Emory Mills

Offering a scenic view of the valley with the convenience of city living, family-owned Emory Mills provides assisted living and memory care to older adults. The comforting, secure, and homelike environment supports each individual with personalized care and the specialized and research-based I’m Still Here ® approach to meaningful and purposeful living.

Download our brochure to explore our customized services, a wide variety of amenities, and beautiful floor plans.