One in 4 older adults experiences a fall each year, according to the CDC, and for many, it happens right at home. That stat alone makes it clear: apartment design matters. Not just for looks, but for real-life comfort, safety, and ease.
Knightdale, NC, a peaceful community just east of Raleigh, offers small-town charm with big-city proximity; ideal for seniors looking to downsize without giving up convenience. Whether it's wide-open floor plans or smart storage solutions, the right design can help older adults live better, longer, and with more confidence.
Read on if you're looking for practical, people-first assisted living design tips.
One of the biggest risks for older adults is falling, and that's often made worse by poor layout. Steep thresholds, narrow hallways, and awkward furniture placement can get in the way fast. That's why senior-friendly layouts are such a priority in communities like TerraBella Knightdale.
Single-level designs without interior steps are much safer. Open layouts make it easier to move freely, especially for residents using walkers or wheelchairs. Wide doorways and minimal barriers also help with visibility and prevent crowding in high-use areas.
Some key features of smart senior-friendly layouts include:
Standard bathtubs are one of the most dangerous spots in any senior apartment. Slippery surfaces, high step-ins, and no support make them risky. Walk-in showers with grab bars are a much better choice for both safety and independence.
These showers usually have low or zero entry thresholds, which makes it easier to step in without losing balance. For residents who have limited mobility or get tired easily, built-in seating might be necessary. Grab bars, hand-held shower heads, and non-slip floors add more control.
At TerraBella Knightdale, every apartment includes private bathrooms with walk-in showers. That, paired with around-the-clock team member access and help with daily routines, gives residents what they need to stay clean, safe, and confident.
Some features that improve safety and comfort for seniors in the shower include:
Lighting isn't just about style; it affects sleep, safety, and even mental health. As people age, their eyesight typically gets worse. That means bright, even lighting is a must.
Natural light helps regulate sleep cycles, which is especially important for older adults.
For nighttime or cloudy days, lighting should be layered. That usually means ceiling fixtures, task lighting, and floor lamps working together.
For instance, one design tip is to use motion-activated night lights in hallways and bathrooms. This makes nighttime trips safer and cuts down on sleep disruption.
Bending, stretching, and climbing might seem small, but they can become major problems over time. That's why accessible apartments include smart storage choices like lowered cabinets, pull-out shelves, and wide drawers. These design elements reduce physical strain and help residents stay independent.
At TerraBella Knightdale, storage is built for daily use, not just looks. You'll typically find features that make everyday living easier, like:
The flooring in a senior apartment plays a bigger role than most people think. Smooth and flat is good, but it can't be slippery.
Tile, polished wood, and some laminate flooring options can become slick, especially in socks or when wet. That's why aging-in-place features almost always include non-slip flooring.
Some flooring features that support safe, long-term living include:
In a humid state like North Carolina, this matters even more. Materials need to handle moisture without becoming a hazard.
As people age, sensitivity to temperature tends to increase. What feels comfortable to one person might feel too cold or too warm to someone else. That's why easy-to-use climate controls are an important feature in senior apartment design.
Apartments should include heating and cooling systems that are simple to adjust. Controls need to be clearly labeled, within easy reach, and responsive. This helps residents stay comfortable without needing assistance.
Some key features of user-friendly climate systems include:
Full kitchens aren't always practical or needed. Many seniors prefer simple, easy-to-use setups where they can prepare a quick breakfast, heat up a meal, or grab a cold drink.
These kitchenettes usually include:
At TerraBella Knightdale, residents enjoy chef-prepared meals daily, but they also have access to kitchenettes for added flexibility. It's a good balance; independence when they want it, support when they need it.
In a well-designed senior apartment, features should make daily life easier without limiting independence. For many residents, having access to help when needed (but not feeling crowded by it) makes a big difference.
Caregivers and team members are available on-site to support residents with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication management. That kind of access offers reassurance without interrupting a resident's routine or privacy.
This kind of care model works well when paired with practical apartment features, including:
Smart apartment design is all about building a lifestyle that works for seniors today and adapts to their needs tomorrow. From safer showers to better lighting and storage, every design choice should support ease, independence, and well-being.
At TerraBella Knightdale, we've done just that. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals, walk-in showers, personalized care plans, and beautifully maintained spaces in a supportive, welcoming community.
What sets us apart? A true focus on individual needs and a team that's always nearby when you need them. Schedule a tour today to see how life at TerraBella Knightdale could be the perfect fit.