As an interior designer, who specialises mainly in residential design and decorating, I am receiving more and more enquiries about building and renovating for the elderly and for those with impaired mobility.
With an ageing population, many homeowners are now looking at converting existing rooms - or future-proofing a new build – to accommodate family that are not as nimble as they used to be. This enables elderly people to remain living within their communities for far longer. Lots of young couples want to have their parents to live with them when they are no longer able to comfortably care for themselves. For a young family, accommodating a member of a different generation within the home should not prove to be too disruptive, with a little care and good planning.
Home builders often ask me how they can make provision, in the early stages of the build, for this eventuality.
With these enquiries becoming a regular occurrence, I have begun to take a serious look at how to keep the comfortable elegance that so many homes lose when converted. They, so often, look institutional and off-putting. I decided that it had to be possible to obtain glamorous fittings and keep a home looking warm and welcoming.
Safety and security are very important in enabling anyone to feel confidently independent in and around the home, particularly in the bathroom. For example, a well designed “wet room” is an excellent idea, and the options for re-designing kitchens are pretty well limitless. With careful attention to retaining the aspects of design and decorating which gives a home a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, it is entirely possible to have your home both cosy and safe for all your needs.
When designing a room for an older person, I find it is best done by trying to plan for the future, when that person’s capacities may be considerably reduced. There are many options to consider.
Top tips:
Comfort: A comfortable armchair that is easy to get out of and a bed that is not too high or soft. Good quality fitted carpet – an 80% wool mix is the most practical and easy to keep.
Lighting: Good lighting design with the emphasis on brightness and easy access to the switches. For example, a bedside switch is a great help.
Warmth: Essential. Older people require warmer temperatures than the young. Fires and radiators must be easily controlled and well guarded.
Storage: Cupboards that are easily accessible at a low level with simple opening mechanisms.
Safety: Sharp corners and loose electrical cables must be dealt with.
Curtains: On a corded track for ease of use.
Bathroom: grab rails and an easily lockable medicine cabinet. Mixer taps and a controlled temperature shower system will help avoid extremes of water temperature. Non-slip flooring is essential.
Location: preferably on the ground floor for easy access to the garden.
Decoration: It is always best to try to incorporate as many treasured possessions as possible, to recreate a homely feel. Involve everyone in the decoration choices and use cheerful fabrics and colours.
Orna O’Reilly is a full designer member of the British Interior Design Assocation (BIDA) and operates from the west of Ireland.
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