Consider These Factors When Furnishing Your Care Home

When furnishing a care home, it is important to think about the needs of the residents. There are many factors to consider when making this decision, such as safety, comfort, and functionality. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most important factors to keep in mind when furnishing your care home.

Furnishing a care home – What to think about?

Care homes are not like other homes, and that’s why we have to think about other factors when furnishing them. A care home’s main purpose is to provide care for its residents, and this means that the furniture has to be chosen with this purpose in mind. Most of these residents are unable to take care of themselves and need help with everyday activities such as eating, dressing, and bathing. Because of this, there is a high chance of needing care home furniture specially designed for specific cases, or at least, a higher level of durability. Because care homes are not like regular homes, the furniture has to be chosen with this purpose in mind.

Think about mobility

When choosing furniture for a care home, it is important to think about the mobility of the residents. Many care home residents are not able to walk, and some may even be bedridden. This means that the furniture has to be chosen with their needs in mind. For example, chairs and tables should be lightweight and easy to move around. Beds should be comfortable and easy to get in and out of. Moreover, as you are furnishing a certain room, take into consideration that the residents need to pass through it without any obstacles. More importantly, they should be able to spend time in their room without requiring any assistance. Mobility should be your top priority.

Choose furniture that is easy to clean

Another important factor to consider when furnishing a care home is the ease of cleaning. Because residents are not able to take care of themselves, the furniture has to be easy to clean. This means that materials such as leather and fabric are not ideal choices. Instead, opt for materials that can be easily wiped down, such as plastic or metal. Cleanliness is a top priority in a care home, so make sure to choose furniture that will make this task easier. Furthermore, avoid choosing furniture with nooks and crannies where dirt and dust can accumulate.

Do not forget to think about safety

Safety is another important factor to consider when furnishing a care home. Remember that many of the residents are not able to take care of themselves, which means that they are at a higher risk of accidents. To prevent this, choose furniture that is safe and sturdy. For example, avoid using sharp corners on tables and chairs. Moreover, make sure that the furniture is not too high or too low. It should be at a comfortable height for the residents to use. Lastly, choose furniture that is easy to see and avoid using dark colors.

Comfort is key

Remember that the residents will be spending a lot of time in the care home, so it is important to make sure that they are comfortable. Choose furniture that is soft and comfortable to sit on. Moreover, make sure that the furniture is the right size for the residents. It should not be too big or too small. Lastly, choose furniture that is easy to use. For example, chairs should have armrests to make it easier for the residents to get in and out of them. Additionally, make sure that the furniture is adjustable so that the residents can find a comfortable position.

Think functionality

When furnishing a care home, it is important to think about the functionality of the furniture. Remember that many of the residents will need help with everyday activities such as eating and dressing. Therefore, the furniture has to be chosen with this in mind. For example, choose tables and chairs that are easy to move around. Beds should be comfortable and easy to get in and out of. Moreover, as you are furnishing a certain room, take into consideration that the residents need to pass through it without any obstacles.

Make the rooms naturally lit

Another important factor to consider when furnishing a care home is the lighting. Because many of the residents are not able to take care of themselves, it is important to make sure that the rooms are naturally lit. This means that you should avoid using dark colors on the walls and furniture. Instead, opt for light colors that will reflect the light. Moreover, make sure to use light fixtures that are easy to see. Lastly, avoid using fluorescent lighting, as it can be harmful to the residents. But light can also damage furniture, so make sure to choose furniture that is resistant to fading.

Think carpets and flooring

Carpets and flooring are other important factors to consider when furnishing a care home. Because many of the residents are not able to take care of themselves, it is important to make sure that the carpets and flooring are easy to clean. This means that you should avoid using dark colors or patterned carpets. Instead, opt for light colors and simple designs. Carpets should also be made of materials that can be easily cleaned, such as nylon or polyester. Furthermore, make sure to choose a flooring that is slip-resistant.

Create a homely environment

Last but not least, it is important to remember that the care home is the residents’ home. This means that you should create a homely environment. To do this, you can use personal items such as photos and paintings. You can also use color to create a homely atmosphere. For example, you can use warm colors such as yellow and orange. Alternatively, you can use cool colors such as blue and green. Residents that spend their days there actually consider this their home. So, it would be more than reasonable to make the place look like one.

In conclusion, when furnishing a care home, it is important to consider the safety, comfort, and functionality of the furniture. Moreover, you should make sure that the rooms are naturally lit and that the carpets and flooring are easy to clean. Lastly, you should create a homely environment for the residents. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can make sure that a care home is a comfortable place for the residents.