How to get an elderly person out of bed
Older people, whether or not they require care, can often struggle with the higher likelihood of mobility issues and aid requirements. This can affect all aspects of life, but losing the ability to move around freely can be extremely challenging for everybody involved. Simple things that most of us do every day such as getting out of bed, or rising out of a chair to put the kettle on, are simply not possible for some people without the aid of others.
As we all get older, it is good to understand how to get an elderly person out of bed. We will be looking at some of the ways elderly people may delay the need for assistance getting out of bed where possible, as well as some ways to improve sleep and posture.
How to get an elderly person out of bed
It can be a lot of hard work if you are a family member of an older person who has care needs, or if you are someone who works in care. Everyday activities that most people take for granted can be impaired or even impossible for someone with extra needs, so any relief is welcome.
Because people's needs vary, we'll look at some general ways to help with mobility, as well as how to move someone who may struggle to move on their own.
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Exercise
Prevention is better than cure, so the best thing that an elderly person can do is to be as healthy, fit and active as they can. Now, this comes with a large caveat – not everybody's ability is the same, so not everybody's requirements are the same.
The types of exercises that may be required for some people may not help others, and in some cases may do more harm than good. Especially if a person already has mobility issues, trying to get them to undertake a general fitness regime may be dangerous, so it is important that each exercise is tailored for each person.
The NHS gives general exercise guidelines for older adults, which outlines these suggestions:
- Be physically active every day
- A total of 150 minutes of moderate activity per week if the person is not already active
- A total of 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week if the person is already active
- Reduce the amount of time sitting or lying down, and break up long periods of inactivity with activity
It is especially important for the elderly to consult a medical professional before undertaking any strenuous exercise, especially if they haven't exercised in a while.
Better sleep and posture
Bad posture and sleeping position caused by unsuitable beds and mattresses can really exacerbate joint pains, and make getting out of bed that much more difficult. Especially as we get older and our bodies grow accustomed to poor sleeping posture, it can be difficult to change the habits.
That is why it is important to invest in heavy-duty beds and mattresses that are specifically designed for both comfort and durability in order to ensure the best sleeping consistency and a comfortable sleeping position. Especially in care homes, it can be difficult to find mattresses which have been designed with the specific requirements needed to suit all residents without breaking the bank.
Reinforced Beds has over 10 years of supplying heavy-duty mattresses for care homes, hotels and other industries which require extremely durable beds. All of our mattresses are Crib 5 fire rated, and our range includes options such as PVC waterproof and incontinence options for those with extra needs.
As well as beds, Reinforced Beds offer a whole range of heavy-duty contract chairs and sofas, designed to perfectly compliment our bed and furniture selections.
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How do you physically get an elderly person out of bed
If you need to physically help somebody get out of bed who is unable to do so themselves, it is important to follow all advice you can find before attempting to.
The NHS has advice online on how to move, lift and handle someone else for carers. This includes important information such as the common injuries found in carers, and information on types of training available for caregivers. It is recommended that you receive training or have somebody demonstrate the correct techniques to you before you attempt to start moving someone in anything other than an emergency.
The guide ensures you first ask questions such as 'does the person need to move?' and 'are you healthy and strong enough to move them?'. If you are definitely in a position where you need to physically move somebody then the following steps are recommended:
- Never lift above shoulder height
- Keep your feet stable
- Have a firm hold
- Keep any weight close to your body
- Keep your back straight and bend your knees
- Lift as smoothly as possible
If you are at all unsure, speak to a medical professional, including calling NHS 111 for non-emergency medical help.
Shop for beds for elderly people
Hopefully, by now you have a better idea of how to get an elderly person out of bed. As with anything, general advice may not fit all people, so do make sure that each elderly person's needs are totally considered, and consult a medical professional before making any major changes.
One of the best things you can do to make sure elderly people feel the best they can when it is time to get out of bed is to make sure their time in bed is as comfy and supported as possible.
As well as our decade of experience supplying contract mattresses to care homes and various other commercial sectors, we also provide a range of care home furniture, specifically designed to be durable and long-lasting, with specific robust options where required.
If you wish to find out more information about care home furniture, or any of our other reinforced beds, contact us using the form on our website, by emailing support@reinforcedbeds.co.uk or by calling 01553 615 665.