Senior Living Furniture Design Tips

To create an optimal environment for senior living, facilities need to consider a variety of factors when designing and furnishing their common and private spaces. One of the most important considerations is that a senior living facility is not just a temporary stay; it is a permanent residence. Unlike a day center, this is people’s home, and it must reflect that.

While common areas are typically larger and serve multiple functions beyond a regular living room, they must still evoke a sense of warmth and comfort. These spaces should also be designed with the needs of older residents in mind, balancing comfort with functionality.

Studies have shown that designs which create a pleasant and stimulating environment can significantly improve residents’ well-being. This may seem obvious, yet many facilities still adhere to institutional designs.

In the late 1990s, there was a shift in the design of senior living, nursing homes, and healthcare facilities. The focus moved away from the needs of the employees and toward those of the residents. This movement prioritized creating spaces that felt more like home, with a greater emphasis on both the architecture and the décor.

When selecting furniture for senior living facilities, it is important to consider both design and functionality. More than anything, senior living seating must cater to individuals with slightly different needs than typical residential furniture can provide.

Seat Specifications

Seat Depth

Seat depth plays a key role in comfort for older adults, helping them sit without slouching or leaning. A properly designed seat should also allow for good circulation in the legs and thighs and offer adequate lumbar and seat support. While seat dimensions vary by design, seat width should be at least 19.5 inches, with a seat depth of 19 to 20 inches.

Seat Construction

A sturdy seat is typically constructed in one of three ways. Some chairs use a 3/4” thick hardwood plywood base, while others use a webbed seat board made of plywood with elastic bands for added strength and flexibility (as shown in the image). Another method involves using a spring system made from wire springs supported by steel tie wires. The seat is generally padded with polyurethane foam (density of 2.3, 45 lb compression) and upholstered with commercial-grade fabric.

Chair Construction

Regardless of the frame material, chairs in senior living environments must be of commercial-grade quality. These chairs need to be stronger and more durable than regular residential furniture, providing stability and safety for residents as they sit down and stand up. To achieve strength, hardwoods such as maple or beech are ideal choices due to their durability and ease of maintenance. Alternatively, metal frames, particularly aluminum, are also commonly used for their lightweight nature and strength.

Arm Rests

Many seniors report that armrests are essential for ease of sitting and standing, and they contribute to a sense of autonomy and confidence. Ideally, armrests should be slightly lower at the back than the front, though this is not a strict requirement. The width of the armrest is another important consideration. Classic recommendations suggest an armrest width of 4.7 inches, but feedback from residents suggests that narrower armrests are easier to grip when getting in and out of chairs.

Chair Frames

Aluminum frames are a popular choice for senior living chairs due to their corrosion resistance, strength, and lightweight properties. Aluminum is also easy to mold, allowing it to mimic the appearance of wood. With a wood-look finish, an aluminum frame provides ample support while maintaining the warm, residential look that is desired in senior living environments. Additionally, aluminum is non-porous, making it resistant to bacteria and mold, which helps maintain a more sanitary and easily cleaned environment.

Commercial-grade, stain-resistant upholstery is essential when furnishing senior living spaces or any other commercial environment. Seating in these areas will undergo frequent use, so it's crucial to choose fabrics that maintain their appearance over time. Commercial-grade fabrics, such as vinyl or high-quality textiles, are designed to withstand wear and tear. These materials come in a variety of colors and textures, but brighter colors are particularly recommended. Light and vibrant colors create a more relaxed, positive atmosphere, which is beneficial for elderly individuals who may experience some level of visual impairment. Additionally, using distinct colors in specific areas can serve as memory aids for those who may need them.

Fabric Strength, Material & Color

Commercial-grade upholstery should meet or exceed the industry standard of 30,000 double rubs (as defined by the Wyzenbeek rating). Some fabrics can even withstand up to 150,000 double rubs, providing exceptional durability. These fabrics are typically made from blends of synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, ensuring both strength and longevity. In addition to being durable, these materials are often treated to be liquid and stain-resistant, as well as fire-retardant. This allows you to maintain the residential aesthetic without sacrificing quality or functionality.

Multi-functional Spaces

While dedicated rooms for specific functions offer greater freedom of choice for residents, smaller facilities may face challenges in achieving this. In these cases, flexible spaces that can easily transition from a lounge area to a dining room or exercise hall can provide residents with the same level of care as a larger facility while still maintaining a close-knit, homey atmosphere. This approach optimizes space usage and helps to meet various needs throughout the day.

Other Considerations

• Floorplans should encourage movement: Walking is known to increase the lifespan of older adults, improve mobility, and provide a sense of independence—all of which are important for residents’ mental health. A well-designed layout that encourages walking can significantly improve the overall well-being of residents.

• Create staff-only spaces: While the design focus should prioritize the residents’ needs, it's equally important to consider the staff's well-being. Caregiver burnout is a common issue in senior living facilities, which can directly impact the quality of care. To reduce stress and frustration, it's recommended to have large, well-lit staff-only spaces that include lounge areas, kitchen facilities, nap areas, and storage options for personal belongings and medical supplies.

• Turn the kitchen into a community area: For many, the kitchen is more than just a place for cooking. With open-plan kitchens becoming more popular, this space can also serve as a communal area where residents can socialize, enjoy a cup of coffee, or even cook together. Making the kitchen a central part of the community fosters a sense of belonging and encourages interaction among residents.