Designing a bedroom for your aging parents comes with its own unique considerations. As your parents get older, their needs and preferences change.

Creating a space that is both comfortable and safe for them requires some thoughtful planning. The goal is to make their bedroom into a relaxing retreat where they can unwind and get the rest they need.

When tackling a parent’s bedroom design, keep functionality, safety, and their personal style in mind. Small tweaks can make all the difference in creating a bedroom they’ll love spending time in.

Read on for eight ideas to help you design the ideal bedroom for your parents.

1) Invest in the Best Mattress for Support and Comfort:

One of the most important elements of any bedroom is undoubtedly the mattress. As we get older, a good night’s sleep becomes essential yet more challenging to get. Choosing the right mattress is key to helping your parents sleep soundly and wake up rested.

Look for durable mattresses that provide spine alignment and pressure point relief to minimize tossing and turning. Take time to research different mattress types and find ones suitable for their preferences.

Upgrading to a better mattress is worthwhile for your parents’ sleep and daily energy. Though expensive, try to replace mattresses every 8-10 years. Invest in a high-quality mattress like a posturepedic mattress that features layers of memory as well as gel foam. You can find some of the best posturepedic mattresses online at the Mattress Factory, where you won’t have to pay taxes for select posturepedic mattresses!

2) Opt for Adjustable Height and Easy Access:

Once you’ve selected the perfect mattress, it’s time to think about the bed frame. Look for an adjustable frame that allows you to change the height as needed. Raising the bed makes it easier for your parents to get in and out with minimal effort.

You can also consider an electric adjustable frame that enables raising the head and feet positions. This can be helpful for various conditions, such as acid reflux, swelling, and breathing issues.

If your parent uses mobility devices such as a walker or wheelchair, ensure there is ample room to maneuver around the bed. You can also add bed rails for stability and to prevent falls from getting in and out of bed.

3) Provide Proper Lighting Throughout the Room: 

Lighting is another key consideration for aging vision. Install high-watt light bulbs to illuminate the room. Use at least 60-100-watt bulbs for your parents’ bedside lamps and overhead fixtures. This makes it easier to see while reading or getting ready for bed.

In addition to the main light source, have smaller adjustable lights on hand. A portable lamp on the nightstand and a lighted magnifying mirror near the dresser are helpful additions. Automatic night lights that detect motion can also provide a glow to safely navigate to the bathroom.

Make sure lighting is easily accessible from the bed. Install dimmers so your parents can adjust the brightness as needed. Streamlined touch lamps and voice-controlled smart bulbs are options to make lighting simple and convenient.

4) Select a Soothing Color Palette:

Don’t overlook the power of color in creating a tranquil environment. Neutral and natural tones tend to be soothing for a bedroom. Soft hues of beige, cream, taupe, and light blue or green work well. You can also draw inspiration from calming elements like sand, water, trees, and the sky.

If your parents prefer brighter shades, opt for warmer tones rather than cool ones. Coordinate accent colors throughout the room in the artwork, pillows, blankets, and other decor. This pulled-together look makes the room feel cohesive and relaxing.

Remember that bolder or darker colors can feel imposing or stressful, especially in a smaller space. Lighter, muted hues open up the room and have a peaceful quality.

5) Reduce Clutter and Simplify Storage: 

Organization is essential for both safety and sanity in your parents’ bedroom. Evaluate the current storage situation and see what changes can be made to reduce clutter. This prevents tripping hazards and makes it easier to find essential items.

Invest in furniture like nightstands, dressers, and armoires specially designed for aging adults. Features like soft-close drawers, pull-out shelves, and interior lighting make items accessible. Clear plastic organizers also help sort possessions and see contents at a glance.

If there is less built-in closet space, add a wardrobe or shelving unit. Eliminate rarely used items and donate old clothing to free up room. Using bins and baskets to neatly store blankets, shoes, and accessories can restore order. Your parents will appreciate a simplified, clutter-free environment.

6) Upgrade Flooring for Stability:

Take a careful look at the current flooring and assess if any changes should be made for your parents’ comfort and mobility. Carpeting may need to be removed to eliminate trip risks. Hard flooring with some cushioning is ideal for stability and ease of movement.

Vinyl plank flooring is a great option as it’s durable, affordable, and easy to clean. Seek out vinyl planks with added foam padding for a more comfortable walking surface. Laminate or engineered hardwood also works well. Include a few plush rugs to help prevent slips.

If keeping carpet, use low-pile with dense cushioning. Install gripper rods and double-sided carpet tape to secure rugs in place. Proper flooring promotes safety and confidence for aging adults.

7) Incorporate Meaningful Decor Touches:

Add personal touches that bring your parents joy and evoke cherished memories. Family photos, favorite art prints, collected mementos, and travel souvenirs are perfect. If there’s enough space, you could display special keepsakes on a small shelf or tabletop.

For safety, limit area rugs and decor below knee level. Use decorative command hooks to hang items securely on the walls without nails. Ensure artwork is properly mounted and not hanging precariously over the bed. The goal is a room decorated with memories, not clutter.

Conclusion:

Designing a bedroom suited for aging adults requires careful forethought. Follow these tips to create a safe, comfortable, and stylish retreat your parents will be happy to call their own. Pay attention to critical details like proper lighting and accessible furniture. Add small personal accents and decorative items to make the room feel warm, uplifting, and full of joyful memories. With the right touches, you can design a bedroom they’ll love and be comfortable in.