Transform Your Care Home Room | Simple Ways to Make It Feel Like Home

Is your loved one worried about moving into a care home and leaving behind the comforts of home?

There’s no need to panic. Most care homes allow residents to decorate their rooms as they wish and with a few simple touches, you can transform them into a space that truly reflects who they are.

Today, we’re sharing practical, easy tips for making your loved one’s care home room feel inviting, familiar and – most importantly – theirs.

Other things to include:

• Display family photos
• Incorporate sentimental items
• Cosy bedding
• Favourite artwork or wall decor
• Bring flowers or plants
• Familiar scents
• Books for a reading nook
• Set up a table for hobbies
• Add a warm throw, rug or curtains
• Favourite dishes or glasses
• Consider a pet (if allowed)
• Keep a calendar with family events

Bringing a Piece of Home

Add personal treasures with special meaning to your relative’s room to create a home-like feel. Familiar items like their favourite mug, a well-loved book or family photos bring much-needed comfort and instantly warm the space.

As well as regular visits, just imagine how settled and happy they will feel every day when they see the faces of their loved ones in framed pictures of family gatherings or grandchildren’s birthdays on their nightstand.

Also, think about those small, cherished pieces they love to have around, like a little trinket from a trip, a favourite throw or even a decorative item from their previous home. Personal touches like these can turn an ordinary room into a familiar and personal space.

The Importance of Personalising a Room in a Care Home

Here’s why a customised space is so valuable:

Creates a Sense of Familiarity

Moving to a care home is a huge life change, so having familiar items around (especially at the start) reduces feelings of disorientation. Familiar surroundings provide comfort and make adjusting to a new place less emotionally overwhelming.

Reduces Anxiety and Stress

Care homes can provide furniture and other basics, but personal items can ease feelings of anxiety. When surrounded by possessions that carry happy memories, residents tend to feel calmer and more at peace in their new environment.

Boosts Mood and Mental Health

A care home room that feels just like home can be uplifting. Decor and items that showcase their personality can make the room a more joyful place to spend time, positively impacting mood and overall mental well-being.

Encourages Social Interaction

Rooms often become conversation starters. Photos, souvenirs or hobbies on display can encourage caregivers and other residents to engage with the person, meaning more opportunities for social connection.

Supports Cognitive Health

For residents with memory challenges, like dementia, bringing familiar items is extremely important as they can help trigger memories and encourage mental engagement. Being surrounded by things they recognise maintains a sense of identity and connection to their past.

Promotes Independence and Control

Allowing your loved one to make choices about their room, such as how it’s set up and what to include, really does empowers them. This small but meaningful independence and control over their space does wonders for their self-esteem and satisfaction.

Provides Emotional Comfort

Personalising the room turns it into a safe space where they feel settled and cared for. When a room reflects who they are, it provides an emotional grounding and anchors them into their new life at a care home.

Making Their New Space Feel Like Home

Thoughtful touches reinforcing their identity and preferences can make all the difference in supporting their comfort, well-being and independence. With a few special items and a bit of imagination, their room becomes a warm, welcoming space where they can settle in comfortably for the long term.