Keep your senior safe with the following assistive devices.
Older adults are at a much higher risk of sustaining an at-home injury than younger adults, and unfortunately, up to 11 percent of these accidents occur in the bedroom or an adjacent area. For most people, a bedroom is a place of relaxation, but for seniors, especially those with mobility issues, they can be a place rife with hazard. If you are a caregiver or a senior citizen concerned with bedroom safety, the following assistive devices may be of interest.
Bed Rail
Bed rails are some of the most commonly used bedroom safety devices in hospitals, nursing homes, and private residences. As their name suggests, they can prevent seniors and disabled individuals from falling out of bed and sustaining serious injury. They can also provide the following benefits:
- Helps seniors get in and out of bed
- Provides seniors with a sense of security and comfort
- Allows seniors to be repositioned with greater ease
- Reduces chances of a fall during transport
Before selecting a bed rail, it is important to talk to your senior about properly using the rail without supervision.
Hip Chair
If your loved one has difficulty sitting and standing, a hip chair may be the solution to their problem. A common rehabilitative tool, hip chairs are designed with a higher seat, which allows seniors or those suffering from arthritis to sit down and get up without having to flex the hip. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, and your loved one can choose a chair that complements the décor of their bedroom.
Stool
Stools are some of the oldest assistive devices in existence, and they are used for a variety of reasons. Stepping stools can be used to make getting in and out of bed easier for seniors with mobility problems, and many come with an attached handrail for additional safety and stability.
Your senior can also extend their reach with a footstool. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), falls are the leading cause of injury and death for older individuals, and sadly, many of these falls occur when seniors attempt to reach for an item on a high shelf.
Bed Wedge
Bed wedges are perfect for seniors struggling with arthritis or other joint and muscle issues. Similar to pillows, their unique wedge shape provides support while alleviating muscle tension, improving circulation, and helping individuals with back problems sleep easier. There are wedges for the knees, back, and legs, and they have been known to help with issues such as acid reflux and snoring as well.
Overbed Table
Overbed tables allow seniors to eat, play games, and engage in other activities from the comfort of their own beds. Overbed tables are extremely versatile, and if your loved one suffers from mobility issues or needs help walking, an overbed table will allow them to maintain some degree of independence and freedom.
Conclusion
Seniors can lower the possibility of an accident in the bedroom by utilizing the assistive devices listed above or other home mobility solutions. Before choosing a device for your loved one, it can be helpful to speak with their health care provider, who can help you better understand their physical condition and needs.
Joseph Jones has been writing senior care and aging related articles for years. He got his start while writing for a personal blog before he was offered to work at California Mobility in 2018 as the Content Marketing Manager, creating highly informative guides and health awareness articles for aging adults.
He’s currently contributing to a variety of blogs in the industry in hopes to spread information about taking care of seniors and what to expect in the aging process.
