Preferably a full sized bed but a single may be possible! I would love a small bistro table and chairs. TV will be wall mounted.

Size of dresser and nightstands?

Dresser: 60 x 19 x 35
Nightstands: 31 x 19 x 30

With the size of the nightstands you will only be able to fit a twin (or loose one nightstand entirely). This quick sketch was done before I had your furniture sizes - but a 60” dresser would fit where I’m showing it. Go to your local consignment shops for the lounge chair and Amazon has this small table that might work well:

https://www.amazon.com/HOOBRO-Height-Adjustable-Cocktail-Suitable-BF58BT01G1/dp/B0BRK63CMP

I’ll say a full size bed should fit - just be prepared to downsize or loose one nightstand to make the space by the closet work.

And make sure she has at least 3 table lamps - maybe a floor lamp by the window lounge area. Also, Amazon for your bed should work - if you post photos of the nightstands you should get specific recommendations.

Link to dresser and nightstands:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/5698226094?sid=5cb243ec-bf42-44c4-ac2b-6bd54c3d6ee9

https://www.walmart.com/ip/5504239338?sid=6a6b33fe-e0e2-487e-b4f2-ef6c79c0837f

Depending on the location of the door and the width of the entrance area, perhaps the 2nd nightstand could be positioned next to the door as a "drop" zone for items she needs going in or out of her room.

When we first moved my aunt to an assisted living/nursing facility, she had a full-size bed. After a time, we switched it out for a twin bed as it made it easier for the staff to take care of her. You may want to get input from the staff before making a final decision.

Here is an inspiration board to help get you on a path. Think wipeable surfaces (vinyl seats), sturdy arms...This kind of look can be personalized with bedding, art, lamps, etc. Good Luck!

ref=sr_1_8

ref=twister_B084C54T3B

Here is the image board

These lamps come in a bunch of different colors so tie in with her likes/bedding, etc: ref=sr_1_4

We had to move my aunt from independent living to assisted living in a weekend, before she was discharged from a rehab hospital after her heart attack. We shoved her excess stuff in a storage facility out of expedience, but it turned out to be very useful. More furniture fit in the apartment than we'd expected and my aunt, who was sharp as a tack, asked for various things over time. It's useful to keep things (label those boxes with details, or take pictures, and tape them on the side, when they go into storage) for some time to see what's missed. This is particularly important if your aunt, as mine did, doesn't live near you, so you don't know things like which of her many winter coats she actually wears. Or that she likes that cheap, cheesy wreath, but not this one.

All the chairs should have arms. Many elderly people need them to stand up. She needs a table with a chair. Whenever there's a lockdown, they'll serve food in the rooms, it's a complete mess to expect an elderly person to eat dinner on their living room chair, particularly if they don't have the mobility to lean down and pick up the stuff that fell on the upholstery.

You'll probably need room for a walker. Many elderly people use walkers to get around their apartments if she doesn't need one now, she might later, all furniture placement should accommodate the walker.

Many elderly people don't find it easy to get on or off a bed. I would put the TV across from a chair with arms, not across from the bed. Get a bed that can have a rail on it.

She'll probably have to get up at night and visit the bathroom. That path should be as short and clear as possible, lighting arranged to light the path (nightlights are helpful), but dim, because bright light in the middle of the night can be jarring.

You want to keep as much of her furniture and art as possible. It's nice for it to feel familiar and like home. It's quite likely your taste might differ significantly from your aunt's.

If your dimensions are from the facility, do your own measuring as well. Thankfully I did at my mother's AL, because actual measurements were smaller than those provided.

I then used graph paper to ensure fit and to make every inch count.

Everyone has different situations/issues.

My mother was not in memory care but she had many physical limitations, so she was mostly in bed. Her full-size bed allowed space for a tray on her bed. That gave her easy access to many things, such as remote controls, phone, water bottle, etc. She would not have been able to reach a night stand.

Remote control lamps are a must, I think. There are devices available that will make almost any lamp operate as RC.

You are an angel to your aunt, Trisha.

Furniture suggestions below:

Upholstered headboard in faux leather (Wayfair), 36 inch dining table & 2 chairs (Amazon), high back armchair (Ikea).

I am very surprised that the facility isn't recommending what furniture is needed for your aunt. I also am more surprised that her room isn't furnished with what is basic and necessary. At that point, you could add things, photos, maybe a favorite throw, etc. Music is a wonderful addition. You could make a play list of her favorites to enjoy when you come to visit. Betting she won't be interested in Frank Sinatra or Bing Crosby. Maybe the Rolling Stones or the Beach Boys are more to her taste.

You are a very caring relative (been there ,when everyone else is gone). Memory care, as Kendrah said, is not assisted living. It is the next floor up.

My mom had a very similar layout (size may have been different) and she/us decided to place her bed on the wall on the left as it felt cozier, but what was REALLY important to her was the privacy it provided vs being seen in bed/often not well. Deciding on a table with chairs should be the next consideration as that will limit the options.

She had a double bed, but tended to stay on the one side closer to the bathroom/had a second nightstand that was never used. Her dresser/mirror was on the right wall and we played around with its location to best accommodate the rest. Easy access to a solid, comfortable chair/small table to put things down on was used all the time/watch TV from during the day. Bring the basics to set her up and you’ll have a better idea where/what to add. Good luck with everything.

You are getting some good advice. A twin is a smarter choice for someone who may need caregiver help, so they can easily reach her or two people can help one both sides at the same time, if needed. One person in a bed does not need two end tables, so I would save that space. A small bistro table with a couple of chairs will provide a place for visitors when she is sitting in her armchair. She may be encouraged, as the disease progresses to do activities that may need a table -and for meals served in her room, if she's sick and contagious, for example and won't be allowed to go to the dining room.

I helped an elderly aunt in a similar way, so I know the stress and struggle to get things right. She's lucky to have you!

edited to add... someone mentioned placing the bed so it's private from when the door is opened, but I would want the bed placed on the long wall so I could see out the window. I also think if it's visible from the door, staff can peek in and check on her without having to come into the room.

You might want to look into a hospital bed or a twin. It's nice to have bed rails to help standing up.

Great suggestions above; safety is most important. Don’t get a pedestal table in case she leans on it and it tips. Hope she settles in well!

Could I suggest a digital picture frame loaded with family photos if that would be a comfort to her? They make some in which family can send new photos from their phones and they will display on her frame.

Please be careful if you choose a bistro table and chair. The example someone posted is not a good choice. ShadyWillowFarm was correct about the danger of a pedestal table. The chairs shown are not a great choice either as they do not have arms. While your aunt might be able to get up and go right now, most elders need good sturdy arms on chairs to help them get up so planning for that now would be helpful.

Your heart is in the right place and she is lucky to have you there to help her through this transition.

I know the layout of those rooms as various relatives of mine have been in them. I suggest a trip to IKEA as they have a great selection of furniture. I would opt for chairs that are big enough to accommodate her and and an average sized man or woman but not something overstuffed or big and bulky. I would get some nice plants in their and a plant stand or two to elevate them. A nice comforter or bedspread with some color in it and a nice throw or blanket for her.

A table that is wall mounted would be safe as well as space saving. You could place it at desk/dining level or drop it down a bit.

A chair with arms that has medium color vinyl (such as a French blue) is much easier to clean than a soft fabric. There can be lots of cleaning, not just once-a-year.

A twin bed is realistic. Skip the footboard.

Other option with a 30" square table and washable chairs (Ikea).

I’m very inclined to go with a twin bed but she’s always been in a double. Should I be concerned about her falling out?

yes be very concerned about her falling out. Different states have different laws about restraining someone in a bed. In N.C. my mother-in-law could not be restrained so skilled nursing put pads on the floor if and when she fell out of bed. And then whined how she couldn't be switched to assisted living due to wounds sustained from falling out of bed.

I too had my mom in a nursing facility and after visiting her everyday, these are the observations that might help you. Most of these comments were also posted because they are great ideas!

- A single bed is most convenient for her and the staff. The cozier the better for the feeling of security.

- One simple nightstand is sufficient with not too many drawers - 1 or 2.

- My mom loved looking out the window. The plan below has a table and two chairs in the corner by the window.

- One upright lounge chair no ottoman or recliner.

Consider the following:

_ Add a long grab bar on the angled wall so that it will help getting to the bathroom, also allowing for a direct way to the bathroom.

- I added a bench and chest on the right of the entrance. Good for guests and putting on her shoes. The chest allows for better access to higher drawers and serves as a "drop off" convenient for coming and going.

- Paint the room a cheery color like light blue or pale yellow. Add curtains with a subtle print and hang them as you would in your home: ceiling to floor and not skimpy so that the room is cozy and lush.

At Christmas time, I got a small tree, like the ones in the grocery store, and put lights, ribbons, and visitors brought bird ornaments. It was so happy and not only did my mom love it, but she also enjoyed the attention she got from the staff!

With my mom’s double there was room for attendants on both sides and keeping it made her happy; she’d say she remembered the day her and my dad bought their set. The change, as well as giving up familiar things is hard enough so maybe just move the double (if room) and it can always be changed as circumstances may require.

Some great suggestions!

So wonderful that she has you and your sister to help! Good hearts. We have some suggestions for your consideration. We will post a 3D rendition with our suggestions soon. thank you for your patience. MAE

I agree with the suggestion to check the room measurements. Also note the location of anything that impacts furniture placement such as an individual heat/AC unit and a locked wall-mounted RX cabinet.

Do keep a clear path to the bathroom and door with soft LED nightlights placed in a couple electrical outlets and one in the bathroom.

See if the facility will allow a sign, wreath or other decoration on the exterior of the door. All the room doors and hallways can be confusing and personalization helps. Sometimes the facility will offer or require that they hang anything going on the walls.

Consider adding velcro to the remotes so they can attach to the nightstand or chairside table.

The digital frame with photos or a TVphoto slide show are good. Some digital frames allow family & friends to upload new photos via the internet.

Sorry, I haven't read through the responses, but did want to mention that my cousin bought her brother a fancy mattress which the home he was in wouldn't let him use as they have specific requirements due to fire laws and such. So just wanted to make sure that you check for any requirements they might have about furnishings.

MIL had a similar set up. We put the bed on the left, a small table with 2 chairs by the window and a love seat on the wall opposite the bed which made a nice sitting area for visiting, and the bed had more privacy as it wasn't the first thing you saw when you went in.

This is not coming out how I had hoped and she is moving in tomorrow! How can I make this space brighter and maximize the space??!

It has no decor yet! Place the bedding, a few lamps, and already it will make a difference. I'm sure you don't have time to do much more by tomorrow but your can finish everything later on, take it a day at a time. You'll be placing a small dining set, hanging some pictures, etc. and perhaps drapery panels on the window, all that will make a huge difference.

My sister is unhappy with my choice of nightstands. Are they too large?!! Ugh I already paid to have them assembled and moved.

Do you think your aunt will be safe in the rocking chair?

Updated with furniture similar to yours. It helped to have a picture of the room. The very small couch or otherwise an oversized chair provides a "homey" feeling. Please give this a try. We realize that she is moving in today but as mentioned you can still move things around and add the finishing touches in the days to come. The two of you have touched our hearts and are sincerely impressed by you and your sisters loving efforts. We wish you, your sister and your Aunt the very best. She is so blessed to have the two of you.

• The couch is a very small loveseat measuring 49 inches. Soft, padded arms are helpful in order to prevent bruising to her arms and to make it easier for her to pull herself up out of the couch. This also adds seating for family & guests.
• Wall art as allowed. Some facilities prefer not.
• The two bedside tables on either side of the bed, each with a lamp on them.
• The dresser on the other side of the room with two matching lamps, matching the two on the bedside tables.
• Curtains to add and homey feeling and privacy as needed.

She will most likely eat in the dining room, but they do deliver food to the rooms upon request. Sorry we did not have a rocking chair similar to hers.

This is a small couch similar to the one you see in the rendition.

Link: https://www.wayfair.com/furniture/pdp/george-oliver-julizza-49-upholstered-sofa-loveseat-w110009608.html?piid=1748643118

We can see that you already have the furniture in place. Try the suggestions to move the bed into the upper left hand corner for more privacy and ease of getting out of the bed. As shown in the rendition posted by MAE Day. The dresser can go on the opposite side. As for the swivel chair, we have people who have tried and tested the one that was suggested. It is safe, comfortable and easy to take care of. It sits low on the floor and you have to intentionally turn it. It is not like a ride at an amusement park. It does not swing around like a top. Sadly we agree with your sister the bedside tables are large but that can be worked with. Please take a look at the rendition that was presented and give it a try. It will give her more room and feel more like a small house.

So sorry, we did not see the picture of the room with the furniture in it when we posted the rendition pictures. All of the furniture that was suggested is safe including the chairs and small couch. it seems that someone else suggested a small couch as well.

Well today is move in day. We wish you and your Aunt the very best. Hope all goes well.

You are !awesome! for helping your aunt. Consider reminding your sister that the focus should be on your aunt’s transition/health/care, and finding the perfect furniture (on a short timeframe in an oddly shaped room) is a lower priority.

Consider using only 1 nightstand. Chances are the 2nd one will not be used.

Also consider having one side of the bed up against the wall. Having spent a lot of time with parents/in-laws with dementia in memory care (MC) and skilled nursing facilities, people do roll off the bed and fall into the gap.

If your aunt has a progressive dementia, as time goes on you may find the facility may add rails and pads along the bed to minimize falls. You may also find yourself being asked to remove furniture if a hospital bed, hoyer lift, walker, wheelchair, etc. are needed in the small room.

In the MC facility, family was required to provide medical equipment as needed (hospital bed, hoyer lift, wheelchair, etc.). There are a lot of charitable organizations that loan for free or rent such equipment at a low cost. *

Certain dementias are progressive to the point where much more care can be needed. Dementia can be a qualifier for insurance-paid hospice services to be provided at the MC facility. Hospice lasted for > 1 year for both parents and the nurses and extra care were a godsend. *

* I made these two points as the need came up suddenly and the first time around we didn’t know where to turn.

Another problem is the only place we can place the tv is on the left wall near the closet due to
The cable.

Oh that is a problem. Then the TV has to be over the bed or dresser?

They are saying that the swivel chair is not on a lifted swivel arm like others are. But it doesn't matter because it is no longer in the concept.

Wonder if this will work?

I'd set up the room without a TV and see if it is missed. In all of the Memory Care units I have been in - which is a lot, nobody every watched TV in their bedroom, even if they had a TV. Most could not figure out how to operate the TV on their own, nor determine what kind of show they wanted to watch. In order to make that happen, they would have needed the assistance of an aide. The staff couldn't run around helping everyone watch TV, so instead they had TV time in the main shared area and everyone watched together.

There were a few separate family TV lounges too. My husband and I would sit in one of them with my FIL and watch Lakers games.

If time was spent alone in a room it was usually for sleeping or puttering. My best friend's mom likes to fold and refold her clothes and pack and unpack her suitcase. She just can't focus on a TV show.

I would start with the bed (it really makes sense to replace the double with a twin) and a comfortable chair with armrests, keeping the furniture to a minimum so it’s easier to move around and supervise. Later, once you get used to it, you can think about functional small items that will actually be useful. And if you’re looking for additional help, here’s where you can find agencies in Philly.