Tips for Personalising Your Space in a Care Home

Moving into a care home is a big change, and creating a familiar, comfortable environment can make all the difference in how quickly you or your loved one settle in. Personalising your care home space isn’t just about decoration – it’s about surrounding yourself with items, colours, and memories that bring joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

At Old Alresford Cottage, we encourage residents to make their rooms feel truly their own. Here are some practical ideas and advice for making a care home space feel like home.

Why Personalising Your Space Matters

A care home room is more than just a place to sleep – it’s a personal retreat. Bringing in familiar objects and creating a homely feel can:

Provide emotional comfort and reduce feelings of homesickness
Help maintain a sense of identity and individuality
Support positive mental wellbeing and a smoother transition into care

By surrounding yourself with personal touches, you can turn a new room into a warm and inviting space.

Tips for Making Your Room Feel Like Home

1. Bring Familiar Items

Bringing treasured belongings from home can make your new room instantly recognisable and comforting. This might include:

Family photographs in favourite frames
A much-loved armchair or bedside lamp
Ornaments and keepsakes with special memories

2. Add Comfort and Warmth

Soft furnishings can transform a room’s atmosphere. Consider:

Cosy blankets and throws in your favourite colours
Cushions with soft textures
Curtains or bedspreads that remind you of home

3. Show Your Personality

Make your care home room reflect your hobbies and interests:

Hang framed artwork or paintings you love
Display books or craft materials
Include mementos from travels or achievements

4. Include Favourite Scents

Smell can be a powerful trigger for happy memories. Depending on what’s allowed, you could:

Use scented cushions or drawer sachets
Have fresh flowers or plants
Choose gentle diffusers with lavender, rose, or citrus fragrances

5. Keep Things Organised

A well-organised space is more functional and relaxing:

Use small storage baskets for keepsakes and essentials
Keep important items within easy reach
Ensure your layout feels practical and uncluttered

6. Incorporate Seasonal Touches

Celebrating the seasons and special occasions can keep your room feeling fresh and lively:

Small festive decorations at Christmas
Spring flowers in bright colours
Autumnal accents such as warm-toned throws or cushions

How Old Alresford Cottage Helps You Personalise Your Space

We understand that feeling at home is about more than just having a comfortable bed. At Old Alresford Cottage, we:

Encourage residents to bring their own furniture, pictures, and ornaments
Offer flexibility in room arrangement so you can create a layout that feels right
Provide support from our friendly team to help unpack and arrange your space
Welcome family involvement in decorating and settling you in

Our aim is to ensure every resident has a personal space where they can relax, feel secure, and enjoy their time.

Visit Old Alresford Cottage

If you’d like to see our rooms and facilities in person, we’d be delighted to welcome you. Contact Old Alresford Cottage today to arrange a visit and find out how we can help you or your loved one settle into a warm, personalised environment.