A bed is not just a bed. It can be the difference between an enjoyable night of sleep and sleepless nights where seniors wake up with aches and pains in their joints. Picking out the right bed for senior citizens can be difficult, so here are some things to consider when buying a bed.
Consider the size of the bed
The size of the bed is extremely important. A bed that is too small or too large will not be comfortable for a senior to sleep in, and it may also cause them to have difficulty getting out of bed. Some seniors are fine with purchasing a twin bed but many prefer double beds since they offer more room both horizontally and vertically.
Consider whether your loved one has any existing medical conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis which could affect their comfort level when lying down at night. If so, then you should ensure that they can easily get onto the bed without struggling with its size/height. If this proves difficult for them then perhaps consider buying an adjustable bed frame instead (which we’ll discuss shortly).
All of these factors affect how seniors will feel while laying in bed. The bed size and height should both meet their needs in order to provide them with a comfortable sleeping experience.
Consider your budget
There are many bed options available. It’s important to consider your budget when looking for a hospital bed, as some can be quite pricey. You don’t want to go over your head and stay in debt, but luckily there are some options that will still be very suitable for your elders and you won’t have to pay too much for them.
If you’re on a strict budget, it might be best to look at the more economical bed types that are not normally found in senior-specific stores such as bunk beds or futons. Futons may seem like they would work well because of their foldable nature and easy storage but they are typically only comfortable for one person sleeping in them at a time. If two people sleep together (which is common among seniors) then there won’t be enough room on the bed. This could also cause issues with bodyweight distribution which isn’t ideal since many seniors have weakened bones and don’t need added pressure points while trying to sleep.
Another bed option that may be a better fit for budget-conscious shoppers is bunk beds as they can accommodate more than one person and don’t have to take up much space, but these also need to be carefully considered before purchase.
Think about whether or not you want an adjustable bed
An adjustable bed is a bed that is able to be elevated or lowered, and/or tilted in different positions. This bed has many benefits for seniors who are suffering from health problems such as arthritis or chronic back pain. In addition to these hospital beds being beneficial for patients with medical conditions, it also allows those same people an opportunity to elevate their bed higher than typical bed heights which reduces strain on the body when getting up out of bed. An adjustable bed provides comfort without sacrificing safety features like locking side rails and handles on both sides of the frame all while allowing you flexibility in your position so you can read, watch TV or relax comfortably in any position! An adjustable base makes daily tasks easier since reaching overhead height becomes much less strenuous by simply raising bed height or bed angle.
This type of bed also helps seniors avoid the risk of falling out of bed by allowing them to sleep closer to their mattress edges so they don’t have far to fall if they roll over in bed during the night.
An adjustable bed is especially beneficial for those with mobility issues who may not be able to get up and down from a standard sleeping position without assistance, as well as patients suffering from arthritis that finds it difficult to move around while trying to sit upright. The base allows people in these situations more flexibility when resting. In addition, having one’s own bed modified with electric motors can reduce physical strain on caregivers since there are no longer multiple moves required (such as lifting/lowering) which reduces the risk of injury.
Furthermore, bed comfort is one of the most important aspects when it comes to overall sleep quality. The adjustable bed base allows you to adjust your sleeping position without having to move from your bed or wake up a partner who may be resting nearby.
Here’s a list of advantages in choosing an adjustable bed:
- bed height
- bed angle
- electric motor-based control system
- bed comfort
- bed safety features such as locking side rails and handles on both sides of the frame.
- bedside table to place your alarm clock or a drink
Make sure the mattress fits snugly inside its cover
The mattress must be the right size for the bed frame. If it is too small, then there will be gaps between the bed and mattress that can lead to discomfort as well as dirt or dust sneaking into bedding during sleep.
If a senior finds they are uncomfortable in bed at night, they may have purchased an ill-fitting mattress. They should make sure their mattress fits snugly inside of its cover by removing all sheets and measuring the border of the bed frame with a tape measure.
Look for beds with rails on both sides to prevent falls
When caring for your seniors you must include bed rails into the bed buying process. A bed with rails on both sides will prevent falls and make it easier for your loved one to get in and out of their bed.
The bed should be easy to put together, however, you shouldn’t sacrifice quality over ease of assembly. It’s important that the bed is a good fit and won’t cause any pain or discomfort when being used. If possible ask if they have user manuals available so you can print them off before purchasing the item online. This way there aren’t any nasty surprises when trying to set up the product yourself at home!
After reading this blog post, you should have a good idea of the different factors to consider when buying a bed for seniors. Consider the size, budget, and whether or not an adjustable bed is right for your needs. Look out for beds with rails on both sides that can help prevent falls. This should ensure that your loved ones will feel comfortable in the hospital bed you choose for them.