Senior Independent Living Apartment: Can You Make It Your Own?
When you move into your independent living apartment in Visalia, CA, you should have fun customizing your personal space. Go green with touches of nature, create accent walls, show off images from your life, and work with your natural light.
According to the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care (NIC), senior housing occupancy rates in the United States have reached a record-breaking 87.4% in the first quarter of 2025. While many have downsized from larger homes to make this adjustment, less space can also provide more opportunity to approach home decor in a new way.
The Walnut Park community has recently undergone its own vibrant and modern renovation and encourages residents to adjust their private apartments as they wish. Use this guide for some easy tips on bringing your own style to senior apartment living.
How Much Space Do I Have to Work With?
One of the many benefits of becoming part of the Walnut Park community is the abundant selection of apartment styles. Some selections include the 418 sq. Ft suite "Poppy," the 550 - 755 sq. Ft. "Goldenrod" which has a separate bedroom, and the 2-bedroom "Sunflower. Another option has two bathrooms you can work with.
Once you've picked your private senior home, consider the following:
- Wall space
- Number/type of rooms
- Room shape
All apartments also have an outdoor patio to consider when planning decor.
What Can I Do With The Walls?
Don't fret if painting the walls isn't allowed, as peel-and-stick wallpaper may save you. This self-adhesive option is ideal as it doesn't require glue, so it won't damage walls. Just make sure you pick a reputable brand.
Further liven up the area with framed mementos, from colorfully framed family photos to art from grandchildren to displays representing your hobbies. If you like art, instead of spending loads on originals, buy beautiful prints that are easier on the budget.
If you're short on space, treat one wall as an accent that holds everything. Additionally, adding temporary color with a hung tapestry or rug can create an accent effect.
Why Should Seniors Decorate with Plants?
What better way to freshen the air and add splashes of color than a variety of plants? Indoor plants can filter out formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide. Since you'll have a patio at your Walnut Park home, you can also work with outdoor ones as well.
Good Housekeeping recommends the following low-maintenance options:
- Snake plants
- Dieffenbachia
- The Maranta Leuconeura, also called the "prayer plant"
- Money tree
Other good options include rosemary (which you can cook with) and lavender that produces relaxing scents.
Using plants to enhance your apartment also benefits your health. Several studies have noted how gardening reduces the onset of dementia and stress.
Don't have a green thumb? Luckily, there are some fake plants and flowers that can be just as effective at bringing life to a room. Plus, you don't have to worry about watering them.
How Can I Utilize Texture?
Varied and layered textiles from bedding to couch pillows to wall treatments are great for customizing your IL home with depth and warmth. Place colorful throw blankets on the bed, couch, and chairs. If you enjoy knitting, use your apartment to show off your functional projects.
Pillows come in different fabrics, from fur to silk to wool. Mix some plain-colored pillows with patterned ones. Don't forget to use it for rugs.
If you add plants, consider how their holders add to or clash with the space. Use metal, wood, ceramic, and wicker baskets.
How Can I Work with Light?
Between the natural light from windows, strategically placed mirrors, and extra lamps, you can make your space super cozy. Use ambient, task, nightlights, and motion-censored lights in designated areas.
If you have a small space, place mirrors in areas that reflect the natural light. Doing so can make your apartment appear larger. Try to place them in a dim area or behind a lamp.
Another trick is to place a mirror opposite a feature you wish to highlight, like family photos, a flower vase, or an art print.
Recreate An Old Room In Your Independent Living Apartment
Did you have a favorite room in your old home? Try to recreate it in your new senior apartment. Set up photos in the same configuration or use some of the same accessories. Even in a small space, you may be able to fit a piece of sentimental furniture like an old rocking chair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Decorating in Retirement
What Is the Best Lighting for Elderly People?
To protect your eyes, focus on adding diffused, glare-free lights. Make them adjustable so you can brighten and dim according to tasks like reading. Desk lamps and adjustable floor lamps are perfect for hobbies. Increase your safety with motion-sensored light in bathrooms and hallways.
What Are the Trends for Senior Living Design in 2025?
According to design experts, senior living design has a strong focus on wellness, lifestyle experiences, and personalization. Color trends include a rich, saturated green called "Pesto," which goes well with earth tones.
Other colors of choice include soft beige for a warm neutral effect. Olive, dusky Sienna, and sapphire round out the list.
What Is the 3 4 5 Rule in Interior Design?
New York City designer Nancy Cavaliere came up with this method that involves using three patterns, four period styles, and five colors or textures in each room.
One example of this theory, as described by creative director Stephanie Hunt, is to balance out an American quilt with a vintage Turkish motif. She'd also rely on industrial and modern minimalist furniture.
Another design firm founder, Rachel Brown, would mix some Art Deco elements with traditional Southern and Scandinavian design.
Add Personal Style to Your Senior Apartment
Moving into your new independent living apartment is the opportunity for a fresh start, to embrace a new style, or to celebrate nostalgia with a modern flair. At Walnut Park in Visalia, CA, our supportive team wants residents to be at peace in their new home. Therefore, we encourage you to have fun and reach out with any decorating concerns.
See what our range of apartments can offer you and contact us today to schedule a tour!