Senior Apartment Design Tips for Comfort in Tampa, FL

Comfort and functionality are important when designing apartments for seniors, especially in warm, coastal cities like Tampa. According to Syracuse University, there will be nearly 73 million people over the age of 65 by 2030. This statistic shows that there will be an even higher demand for thoughtfully designed senior spaces.

Senior apartment design goes beyond creating an attractive and well-flowing unit. Several elements are essential for these types of apartments to promote wellness and safety.

This blog will talk about some of the features you should prioritize when looking for safe housing for older adults. We'll also dive into some of the easy things you and your loved ones can do to make your new home more comfortable and cozy.

Apartment Design That Encourages Aging in Place

One of the things senior apartment design strives to accomplish is making aging in place possible. This means including features that increase usability and remove barriers as residents get older.

A few things an aging-in-place apartment layout should include are:

• Grab bars
• Roll-in or walk-in showers
• Comfort-height toilets
• Single-level units
• Open layout
• Pull-out shelving
• Easy-access drawers
• Front-mounted controls on appliances

All of these items work together to create a secure environment that doesn't feel like a hospital room. Some visual cues can be incorporated to make the space feel safer.

For example, contrasting wall and floor colors can help residents distinguish boundaries. This helps reduce the chance of missteps or trips.

Rocker light switches and lever-style door handles are perfect for those with arthritis or declining grip strength. These small touches ensure that older adults feel independent and safe in their space for as long as possible.

Comfort and Safety Features That Don't Sacrifice Style

Independent living interiors don't need to feel clinical or institutional. There are easy ways to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. Some ways a space can feel more inviting include:

• Layered lighting
• Light, neutral color palettes
• Soft textures

Not only do these design elements make a space feel more homey, but they also minimize glare. Thoughtfully placed windows and natural light can also improve a senior's mood and their circadian rhythms.

Other safety features that should be in assisted living design include:

• Non-slip flooring throughout the unit
• Nonexistent or low thresholds between rooms
• Emergency call systems are easily accessible in the bedroom and bathroom
• Carefully arranged furniture to allow space for walkers and wheelchairs

Climate Conscious Design for Florida Living

It's no surprise that Tampa's humid climate brings its own set of challenges for senior apartment design. A few ways units can stay cool in the summer heat include:

• Ceiling fans
• Energy-efficient windows
• Good insulation

Each apartment should have a zoned HVAC system that allows residents to control the temperature in their unit. This is particularly important for seniors who are sensitive to the cold or heat.

Outdoor living spaces should also be designed with the climate in mind. Patios should offer protection from the sun and rain. All balconies should feature slip-resistant surfaces while having railings at the proper height.

Light Up Your Space

Lighting can go a long way when it comes to a senior apartment's safety. Too much unnatural light can disrupt a person's natural circadian rhythm. Not enough lighting can make it difficult and dangerous for a senior to navigate their space.

Well-designed and adequate lighting is needed for the following reasons:

• Improves visibility
• Supports their vision
• Regulates their sleep patterns
• Reduces shadows

Install motion-activated lighting fixtures in your apartment if it doesn't come equipped with them already. We recommend putting these in areas that can get dark, like kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms. This ensures that the space you're entering is already lit and you don't have to worry about finding the light switch in the dark.

Furniture Focused on Your Comfort

You may have the option to bring furniture to your new apartment. Your furniture needs to be functional, providing you with comfort and support.

Look for pieces that have the following features:

• High backs
• Firm cushions
• Sturdy armrests

You may want to look into tables and beds that are height-adjustable. These pieces can be adjusted to meet your needs as they evolve. Look for furniture items that don't have sharp corners, as they can be painful and could cause injury if you run into them.

Another option is looking for multi-purpose furniture. For example, you may want to purchase an ottoman that not only props up your feet but also has built-in storage. This allows you to reduce clutter while maximizing your space.

Ways to Personalize Your Senior Apartment

Once you've found a senior apartment that meets all your design criteria, it's time to move in and decorate. Moving into an apartment may be challenging for various reasons, but one of them could be that you're downsizing from a house to a smaller space. You likely won't be able to bring many of your items to your new home.

One way to ensure you get to see your treasured possessions is by showcasing them on a schedule. Keep some of your items in storage and rotate them throughout the year. You can switch out your decorations every season or whenever you feel like it.

Other ways you can add a personal touch to your apartment include:

• Using the bedding you purchased
• Bringing in throw cushions and blankets to place on chairs
• Spraying your favorite household fragrance
• Creating a small area to do hobbies or art projects

Keep in mind that you'll want most of your belongings off your floor. Having too many things around can cause a tripping hazard.

Explore Accessible Floor Plans For Seniors in Tampa

Thoughtfully curated senior apartment design in Tampa is about creating living environments that promote independence while supporting safety. From accessible features like roll-in showers and wide hallways to personal touches, each design decision plays a major role in helping seniors feel more at home.

Discovery Village at Tampa Palms offers seniors an inviting community that encompasses all of these features. Our apartments are designed with your comfort and security in mind, all in a resort-style setting. Schedule a tour today and see how our community combines smart design with personalized senior living.