Color brings a room to life. It can take a space from drab to fab. Color can even set or change a mood. How color impacts mood carries great importance. People in some ancient cultures considered color as a healing tool. Yellow to increase nerve function; shades of blue to treat pain; red to increase circulation. Today, senior living communities are utilizing colors to create feelings of wellbeing for residents and staff.
Colors in Senior Living Design
Colors matter but so do the shades and tones. As we age, our vision starts to change. Colors appear to have a grayish tone. It is important to help seniors distinguish between the rooms of their community and color is a great way to do that. A specific and coordinating color pattern can be helpful in wayfinding, especially in hallways without windows. If a bedroom wall is earth toned, the adjoining bath should be a complimentary and comforting shade of blue.
Color is Not Just for Walls: Color & Interior Design
When we think of color, we tend to think of paint and wall coverings but color extends beyond the walls. A room can be warm and inviting with the coordinating colors on the furniture and the floors as well as the walls. Select fabrics easily cleaned to maintain their good colorful looks. Create spaces that engage the residents, their visitors and the community staff.
What Colors are Best in Senior Living Communities
The use of color in senior living environments can have a positive effect on residents and guests alike. Red is an energetic color best used in therapy or exercise spaces. Purple and turquoise tap into the creative. Lavender and teal hues will work best in areas where seniors are painting, drawing, or writing. Soft shades of blue deliver calm to the environment and those in it. Studies show people rest better in blue rooms. Take into consideration those living in memory care communities. Colors here should be beautiful and pay special attention to create specific contrasts to the aging eyes see better, but also to help connect with happier past memories. Do not forget the outdoors. Color is inside and out, so make sure the landscape is colorful too.
