I have been thinking, many of the older baby boomers are now considered seniors (but don’t tell them that).

The definition of senior has changed over the years. The old paradigm is retirement, grandchildren, traveling, and finally the old folks’ home in that order. Nevermind that many never retire. Several happily continue to live out their life enjoying their work, don’t have grandchildren, and do not want to spend their days in a rocking chair reminiscing on the good old days. They still have good new days to come.
 
I have been redesigning a senior residence community, and I vowed no rocking chairs here. I do recognize that for some there are a few physical challenges that need to be addressed, so accessibility, accommodation, and comfort are very important. I don’t really buy into the idea that the mind is slowly deteriorating just because one is getting older. I do believe that anyone at any age could be experiencing some sort of decline if the right amount of mental and physical stimulation is lacking. So, my priority was to design spaces that provided comfort, accommodation, and mental stimulation.

The use of color, one of the most visually stimulating design elements, is known to elicit different moods from happy to sad or even angry. Art plays another important role in mental awakening. Art stimulates the mind which begins to interpret the stories behind the art itself. No matter what the subject matter, art has a different interpretation and meaning for everyone.

Aging at home has become very popular with today’s generation of active seniors especially with the recent events of COVID-19 ravishing so many nursing homes. It is so important to hire a professional to plan out that transition. Though you are still living at home, your needs to fulfill your next chapter will change. Having an objective point of view, thus the professional, to help you in deciding what is required is essential for success. One of the hardest missions in a series of tasks is to de-clutter and get rid of what no longer serves you. I will address this in another upcoming newsletter. It’s a full story all in itself. What I do know is that in making your home ready, color, art, greenery, and lots of fun should be heavily involved.

Keep following along to see the final result of the center as well as other aging in place design tips.

Stay safe and healthy,

Sheryl