Lutheran Social Services recently introduced a program that allows iing residents to choose a variety of decorating options prior to move-in. Known as Decorator Dollars, the program allocates a budget for new residents to personalize their cottage or apartment, according to their style preferences.

From a list of options residents can choose the following:

• solid surface countertops, sinks, faucets, cabinets, hardware and tile combinations and backsplash
• bathroom sinks, faucets, cabinets, hardware, shower tile and backsplash
• flooring
• lighting
• appliance packages
• paint colors

“Decorator Dollars can be used for cosmetic renovations and finish enhancements, but not structural enhancements,” said Melissa Williams, corporate director – Senior Living Sales & Marketing. “We provide the incoming resident with a pre-determined selection of standard options from which to choose and allow the resident to use them in any configuration. While we are finding that most residents are using their ‘dollars’ to update their kitchen and countertops, they are not limited to replacing kitchen and bathroom cabinetry as long as the dollars are being used for cosmetic changes.”