It can take any of us some time to get adjusted to a new living space.
It can take any of us some time to get adjusted to a new living space. That’s especially true for memory care patients. When they move into a new space, things can seem unfamiliar at first. That’s why it’s a good idea to spice up your loved one’s memory care studio with personal decor and sentimental objects that will make them feel at ease.
To create the optimal design for your loved one’s memory care studio, you should try to see things from their point of view. You have to really try to understand how your loved one perceives objects and the surrounding space. If you have any difficulty getting started,
the Mission at Agua Fria can help. Here are a few tips to make sure your loved one gets the most out of their living space.
1. Personalize the Space
Most of us prefer to live in a space that reflects who we are as people and what we value the most. This is especially true for memory care patients. Objects often trigger memories and associations. Hanging favorite photos or paintings and displaying sentimental objects can create a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Since memory care patients respond well to objects, you may want to hang a picture on the front door of the studio so your loved one can find it more easily. It may also be a good idea to hang a memory box outside the apartment. This will help your loved one understand that the space belongs to them, which can help guide your loved one back to the memory care studio more easily.
2. Keep It Simple
While you certainly want to personalize your loved one’s memory care studio, you should also try to keep the design of the space clean and simple. Complex patterns or busy designs can confuse or overwhelm memory care patients. Opt for a simplistic design instead, and keep the space free of clutter.
Also, try to avoid decorating with dark colors or objects, which can make memory care patients feel uneasy or disoriented. A dark circular rug on the floor, for instance, can create the illusion of a black hole. Instead, decorate with calming colors like blues and greens that will put your memory care patient’s mind at ease.
3. Design with Purpose
When decorating your loved one’s memory care studio apartment, you should design with physical safety in mind. Avoid any tripping hazards or design elements that could cause confusion.
Instead, place intentional objects throughout the space. For instance, you can hang a simple tapestry on the wall to absorb sound and create a calming environment. Or place bookshelves near a desk so your loved one will associate that area with reading and writing.
Even, consistent lighting is another important design aspect of your loved one’s memory care studio. Make sure lights are strategically placed throughout the space and are positioned evenly apart to reduce glare and minimize shadows. Windows in the apartment should also be clear of furniture so your loved one can enjoy natural lighting and unobstructed views.
We want your loved one to feel at home in a private memory care studio designed with a personal touch. So if you need any help, please let us know. We’ll do everything we can to make your loved one feel safe, secure, and comfortable in one of our private memory care studios.
