How to Set Up a Hospital Bed at Home for Elderly Individuals

Supporting an elderly loved one who has difficulty getting out of bed or transferring between sitting and lying positions can be challenging. Proper equipment and setup play a crucial role in ensuring their comfort and safety. This guide will help you set up and maintain a hospital bed at home for someone who needs assistance.

Choosing the Right Equipment

When setting up a hospital bed for an elderly person, the primary concern is comfort and safety. Here are the essential items to consider:

Mattress and Positioning

The mattress is a crucial component. Choose a durable, comfortable mattress that can promote comfort and prevent pressure sores. If possible, purchase a new mattress to ensure it meets the needs of the individual. Use pillows strategically to help the person achieve a comfortable position that supports their health.

Controls and Accessories

Many hospital beds come with built-in controls to adjust the head and foot sections. These can be extremely helpful for ensuring the person is in a comfortable position. Additionally, consider installing a grab pole or pull-down side rails to assist the person in getting in and out of bed safely.

Incontinence Care

If the person is incontinent, incontinence pads are a necessary accessory. These can be placed under the person to help absorb any incontinence and keep the bed clean and comfortable. Regularly change the pads to maintain hygiene and prevent any discomfort.

Assistance and Training

Supporting an elderly person who requires assistance with bed mobility can be a significant challenge. Here are some tips and resources that can help:

Professional Assistance

It is often beneficial to bring in professionals, such as a registered physical therapist or a patient care coordinator (PCA). These individuals can offer invaluable guidance and training. They can help install transfer poles in your home and demonstrate proper techniques for positioning and transferring the elderly person. This can greatly reduce the risk of injury to both the caregiver and the person needing assistance.

Medical Advice

Consulting the person's doctor is also important. They can offer medical advice and may be able to arrange for additional support, such as hospice services if needed. The doctor can also provide professional guidance on how to care for the individual and help prevent complications.

Case Study: The Power of Professional Support

I have a friend whose partner was in a similar situation. The petite wife faced a significant challenge caring for her big-sized husband, who had severe physical ailments and dementia. To address this, the doctor referred them to a registered physical therapist/nurse. This professional provided invaluable assistance by installing transfer poles in their home and demonstrating how to safely transfer her husband from the bed to his wheelchair and toilet. They also taught her how to perform a bed bath. When the husband's needs became too much for her to handle, the doctor authorized hospice services, which provided daily support and care.

The hospice team was a true support system. They not only helped with medical care but also provided emotional support to the wife. When her husband was near the end of his life, the hospice team stayed at the house and offered continuous care, acting almost like guardian angels. Their presence was a tremendous comfort to both the wife and the husband.

Support and Comfort through Social Services

When my mother was very ill, social services provided us with a hospital bed. In the UK, such services can be loaned to those in need to prevent bedsores and promote comfort. The bed was electric and could be adjusted to different positions, with safety railings to prevent falls. However, it's important to note that regular mobility is crucial to prevent complications. My mother was still moved to different positions frequently to avoid pressure sores.

The electric nature of the bed was both a blessing and a hazard. My mother once got her foot caught in the metal sides, so we filled the sides and bottom with pillows to ensure her safety. This incident highlights the importance of safety protocols when setting up and using hospital beds.

By following these guidelines and utilizing professional resources, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for an elderly individual who requires assistance with bed mobility. Remember, maintaining regular communication with healthcare providers and seeking professional help when needed can make a significant difference in the quality of care and support provided at home.