Moving from one place to the next is always a big deal, isn’t it? It’s a huge undertaking as it is brimming with boxes, checklists, and a fair share of sentimentality. For seniors, however, moving comes with its own unique set of considerations, most especially when it comes to setting up their new home. It’s not just about fitting everything in. It’s also about creating a space that enhances their safety, comfort, and independence. 

Seniors need an ultimate decor layout where every path is clear while every essential item is easily accessible. In this setup, peace of mind is a priority. That’s the goal when arranging furniture for our older loved ones.

A moving company doesn’t just transport belongings. They also help facilitate new beginnings, understand that furniture placement in a senior’s home is a critical component of their well-being. This encapsulates fall prevention to the assurance that their daily routines are effortless. 

Because of this, they know that every decision matters. Let’s explore the best practices for furniture arrangement and transform a new house into a truly supportive and comfortable home for seniors.

There are Always Unseen Hurdles

When we talk about senior-friendly furniture placement, we’re really addressing a whole host of potential issues you might not, at first, immediately consider. Take the following as examples:

• A seemingly harmless throw rug can become a major tripping hazard,
• A coffee table placed just a little too far can make it impossible for someone with limited reach to grab their mug, and
• Even the way a chair faces can impact social engagement and a sense of belonging in a room. 

With that in mind, we can say that furniture placement for seniors should prioritize creating a supportive environment. It need not be the most aesthetic, and the layout should not hinder their daily activities. A well-thought-out layout can dramatically improve a senior’s quality of life. Think of it as designing a custom suit. It has to fit perfectly to be truly comfortable and functional.

It Must Be Just Right for Seniors

Moving can be tricky. One common mistake we see is having too much stuff. It’s totally natural to collect cherished items over the years. However, even beloved possessions can turn a lovely home into a tight maze. Indeed, over-furnishing makes it tough for someone using a walker or cane to get around. 

Then, how about being a minimalist? Well, it’s not likely going to immediately solve the dilemma either. This is because a room with too little furnishing can feel cold and uninviting. This might make seniors feel less at home in their new place.

Thus, the trick here is to apply the Goldilocks principle of having a “just right” balance. This would create a comfortable, functional, and safe environment for seniors. Through this, an unfamiliar space can be just like their previous safe space.

Now, let’s get down to some specifics. Every senior and every home is different, of course, but the following are some universal ideas that truly make a positive impact.

Clear and Wide Pathways for Easy Living

This is perhaps the most fundamental rule. Imagine an older adult trying to get around the house with a walker or a cane. A sudden left turn and suddenly, they are greeted with a tight corner. Maneuvering around it is no use as a piece of furniture blocks the way. It only takes one look around to realize that the house has become an obstacle course. Frustrating, right? 

That’s why the recommendation is to make sure your pathways are at least 36 inches wide. This isn’t just a random number. It’s part of the Accessibility Standards issued under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that allows most mobility aids to pass through comfortably.

Now, think about the busiest spots in the house. Maybe, the path from the bedroom to the bathroom. Or, it could be from the living room to the kitchen. These routes are used constantly. Thus, they absolutely need to be clear and free of anything blocking the way. 

With that in mind, remove any unnecessary furniture from these critical paths. Sometimes, that favorite side table might need to move to a less-used corner. And that’s totally fine. The main goal here is always safety and making it easy to move around.

Lighting the Way for Safety

Did you know that a well-placed lamp can totally make or break the feel of a room? Well, it sure is not just for the aesthetics. For seniors, good lighting is way more than just looking nice. It’s a crucially important safety feature. 

As we get older, our eyes naturally have an increased need for light to see clearly. This means that our previous perception of what is sufficient lighting might no longer be enough for safe movement inside the house when it comes to seniors. Even those seemingly insignificant shadows we once disregard can become tripping hazards. Because of that, what was once a familiar space becomes a risky one. 

When you’re setting up furniture inside a senior’s house, think about how it might interact with the lights inside and outside. You also have to consider the dark shadows it creates. Therefore, lamps shall be placed up the pathways and down to the important areas, such as a favorite reading nook or the dining table the seniors frequent. 

If lamps or light fixtures need to be purchased, go for something more practical instead of small decorative lamps. How about placing motion-sensor lights in hallways or bathrooms? That can also be a fantastic idea. They don’t cost much, but they can make a huge difference, especially when someone needs to get up at night.

The Right Height and Reach for Comfort and Convenience

If a couch is too low, it can be a real struggle. A couch that is too low can put a lot of strain on a senior’s knees and hips. Thus, taller and firmer chairs with strong armrests are often a much better choice. We’ve all seen people practically trying to launch themselves out of deep, plush sofas. Those clearly aren’t built for easy movement.

Similarly, consider how it would be convenient for the seniors to reach things. Are the items they use often, such as the remote, a glass of water, or a favorite book, within easy reach from their preferred chair or bed? Moreover, nightstands and side tables should be at a comfortable height in order for seniors to avoid constantly bending or stretching. These layout decisions might seem like minute details, but they really add a lot to an older adult’s daily comfort and independence.

Securing Rugs and Wires

How about those lovely area rugs that accentuate the room to feel so warm and inviting? Spoiler alert: not recommended. This is because they can make the place unsafe, as they are notorious for causing seniors to trip and fall. 

However, if you really want to keep them, then, it’s absolutely crucial to make sure that they are anchored on the floor. You can do this with the help of non-slip backing. Or, honestly, it might be best to just remove them entirely, especially from busy areas. Because when it comes to safety for the seniors, bare and clear floors are often the best and safest bet.

Then, there are phone cords, lamp cords, and charging cables. These wires can snake across floors while silently waiting for an unsuspecting foot to catch. Thus, tape them down securely or use cord covers to keep them neatly out of the way. It’s a simple and inexpensive fix that can prevent countless stumbles and falls.

Familiarity and Comfort

Beyond the practical safety aspects, we must not forget the profoundness of the emotional aspect of furniture placement. Moving is inherently disruptive to what has become familiar. And, seniors often find immense comfort in familiarity. 

While safety is always paramount, try and recreate elements of their previous home’s layout. But, make sure that you keep it safe and practical. Even subtle nods to past arrangements can provide a vital sense of continuity. Thus, it significantly reduces anxiety for them during a transition.

This might mean placing their favorite armchair in a similar spot to where it was before. Or, arranging cherished family photos in a familiar location. It’s about creating a space that truly feels like theirs, not just a house they’ve recently moved into. 

Best Furniture Placement for Seniors 

Your Vision, Our Expertise

The whole process to safely and comfortably move seniors is not the same for everyone. It really comes down to careful planning while having open conversations with the seniors themselves. This is crucial to have a genuine understanding of their individual needs. The goal is always to tailor the furniture arrangement for the new space to work perfectly for those that will reside there.