“The edge of the bed sagged,  so she literally slid off the bed and broke her wrist.” Marge Howard, Doolittle Home’s Physical Therapist shares.

Most are unaware of the fact that beds need to be at a proper height. If someone is sitting on the edge of the bed, their feet should be firmly planted on the floor with their knees at or close to 90 degrees. Also the mattress edge should be firm enough so when they are sitting on the edge, the mattress is not sagging and acting as a slide, ensuring they don’t slide off the edge of the bed onto the floor.

An additional caregiver tip is to mindful of bed clothes, for example, satin and silk pajamas or sheets because of their slippery nature. “This is a frequent issue, especially with the women who have silky bathrobes and nightgowns.”

A family member is encouraged to install a bed transfer handle to help a person come to a sitting position or steady themselves on the edge of the bed. A bed transfer also can prevent falls without being too obtrusive. A bed transfer is described as a U shaped handle stuck between the bed board.

A full bed rail can prove to be hazardous than the transfer handle because a mildly confused or sleepy person is more apt to climb over the bed rail, while the transfer handle they are more apt to use it for an assist.

Please visit our blog, Doolittle Home for Seniors to learn more about issues facing seniors and their caregivers.