ᐅ How can IKEA Hemnes furniture be adapted for age-friendly use?

Hello everyone, I have a question for those familiar with furniture customization or with experience modifying IKEA furniture:

I own several pieces from IKEA’s Hemnes series that I would like to adapt for aging users, tailoring them to the needs of older adults. This might include raising seat heights, reinforcing handles for better grip, adding non-slip elements, or making other adjustments to increase comfort and safety.

I am especially interested in practical and sustainable ways to modify the relatively simple and modular design of the Hemnes series to make it age-appropriate without losing the character of the furniture or compromising its stability.

How do you approach this? Do you have specific tips or experiences on how to retrofit and possibly enhance these pieces to keep them functional and user-friendly for older people?

Looking forward to your suggestions and advice!

irene63 schrieb:
This could include raising seat heights, reinforcing handles for a better grip, adding anti-slip elements, or other modifications that provide increased comfort and safety.

The idea of raising seat height is central to age-appropriate adjustments. Hemnes furniture is mostly made of solid pine wood, which makes modifications easier because screws and fasteners hold well. To raise seat surfaces, it is recommended to install sturdy supports such as custom-cut MDF boards beneath the seat. Attention should be paid to secure connections to avoid any wobbling.

Handles can be replaced with ergonomically shaped, grippy models. Alternatively, slip-resistant handle covers that are easy to apply are an option. For additional safety, anti-slip pads under furniture legs help prevent slipping under load.

It is important that all modifications remain reversible in case the furniture is to be used in its original condition later. Hemnes’ construction is very modification-friendly, which allows for such adjustments.

Tarmau schrieb:
Handles can be replaced with ergonomically shaped, easy-to-grip models.

I would like to add to this point: It is really important that the handles are easy to hold. Especially older people who may suffer from arthritis or joint pain benefit from softer materials or handles with a larger diameter.

The topic of lighting should not be underestimated either. Well-lit furniture makes it easier to navigate the space. For my mother, I simply added LED light strips under the edges of some dressers. This not only creates a friendly atmosphere but also improves safety.

Regarding your concern, irene63, I personally equipped my grandmother’s Hemnes furniture with felt pads and some non-slip material on the seating areas to make sitting down and standing up easier.

I wish you great success with your project and hope my experience is somewhat helpful!

irene63 schrieb:
How do you approach something like this? Do you have specific tips or experience on how to modify and possibly add to these pieces of furniture so they remain practical for older people?

One effective approach is to integrate modular attachments or add-ons specifically designed to fit Hemnes furniture. For example, there are raised seat cushions that can be secured with Velcro to temporarily increase seat height while also improving padding. This keeps the setup flexible.

Stability can be enhanced by using metal brackets or corner braces at the joints, as the impact of the user's weight when sitting is often greater with older individuals. These modifications are usually discreet and have little effect on the overall appearance.

I also recommend handles with non-slip materials, such as silicone covers, which are affordable and easy to install.

It is important to ensure that no sharp edges are created and that the modifications provide secure support points.