Thursday, July 19, 2007

Adjustable Beds Don't Have To Be Ugly.

by David Bellamy is a consultant with http://www.nursinghomebeds.co.uk


Adjustable Beds Don't Have To Be Ugly.
The decision to look after an elderly or disabled relative at home is one that is never taken lightly. Very few people have the training that, say, a geriatric nurse has. Nor do they have the equipment that makes the daily routine of caring for someone less burdensome and safer.
Nowadays, however, there are many suppliers that offer at affordable prices the kind of equipment previously only seen in nursing homes. There are now electrically adjustable beds that are elegantly designed and suitable for use in any home.
These types of beds go much further than a normal adjustable bed that simply raises the back and knee rests for reading. They are specifically designed for people that are obliged to spend long periods in bed and that may have mobility difficulties. As well as being able to adjust the back and upper leg rests, they usually offer variable height, lower leg rest adjustments, as well as front and rear tilt functions.
These additional features are very important. If you are responsible for the care of someone who is bed bound, or has reduced mobility, you will need to able to help them change position frequently and easily.
Bed bound individuals will typically suffer from poor circulation which can lead to swelling from fluid retention, pain and even blood clots. They can also suffer from pressure sores and ulcers. These come about when a person remains in the same position for too long, the pressure on the points of contact obstructs blood flow, and causes tissue to break down. Other complications such as contractures, constipation and urinary tract infections may arise from reduced mobility.
To avoid these problems, people with mobility problems should have their position changed at least every two hours. Choosing the right bed is therefore fundamental, and a minor investment in the individual's health and comfort.
It is also an investment in your health and safety as a carer. Without proper training in lifting and moving patients, back injuries and strains are a real danger. A fully adjustable bed will reduce the risk of injury and make heavy work somewhat lighter. If mobility is seriously restricted, you might want to consider lifting equipment that will aid transfers from bed to wheelchair or from wheelchair to bath.
With an aging population, and increasing numbers of people being cared for in the home, manufacturers have taken note of the need for good equipment that is both affordable and attractive. That makes caring for someone at home just that little bit easier.
About the Author
David Bellamy is a consultant with http://www.nursinghomebeds.co.uk

Thanks to David Bellamy is a consultant with http://www.nursinghomebeds.co.uk and GoArticles for this article.

No comments: