Multi-sensory interior design

Working with the elderly and how to make your day together successful:

Multi-sensory interior design

We want to openly share with the family members of the elderly some ideas about the ways you can make your day successful. This time, in our section: Working with the elderly, we talk about how to apply multi-sensory interior design practises.

Multi-sensory interior design can benefit elderly individuals by engaging their senses and creating a stimulating and enjoyable environment. Here are some ways to use multi-sensory interior design in a way that helps elderly individuals:

1. Use colour and contrast: Use contrasting colours to help elderly individuals with vision problems distinguish between different elements in a room. For example, use contrasting colours for Furniture and walls, or use high-contrast wall art or decorations.
2. Incorporate natural light: Natural light can help regulate sleep patterns and mood and provide vitamin D, which is essential for bone health. Try to incorporate natural light into the design of a room by using large windows or skylights.
3. Include textures: Use different textures in fabrics, Furniture, and flooring to provide sensory stimulation for elderly individuals. Soft textures, such as plush cushions, can be soothing and comforting, while rougher textures, such as woven fabrics, can be stimulating.
4. Use scents: Certain scents can help stimulate the brain and create a relaxing or energizing environment. For example, lavender can be calming, while citrus scents can be energizing. Use candles or essential oil diffusers to introduce these scents into a room.
5. Play music: Music can have a calming and mood-enhancing effect on elderly individuals. Play music in the background or encourage elderly individuals to play their favourite music on a stereo or other device.
6. Provide tactile stimulation: Incorporate tactile elements, such as textured surfaces or tactile objects, into the design of a room. These elements can help engage elderly individuals’ sense of touch and provide sensory stimulation.

In summary, multi-sensory interior design can benefit elderly individuals by engaging their senses and creating a stimulating and enjoyable environment. Use colour and contrast, incorporate natural light, include textures, use scents, play music, and provide tactile stimulation to create a multi-sensory experience that benefits elderly individuals.