The idea of independence is straightforward. Having complete control over one’s life is the most fundamental interpretation of the term. Therefore, when we become adults, one of the most important lessons we have to learn is HOW to be independent; those who are able to acquire this lesson are frequently more successful.
However, as we become older, we encounter a growing number of challenges that make it increasingly difficult for us to be independent. The vast majority of us strive hard to maintain our independence, particularly when it comes to completing activities associated with day-to-day life, such as getting dressed and making meals.
The act of getting into and out of bed is one of the responsibilities that come with living daily life. It becomes a much greater challenge when disorders like dementia are present.
When you wake up, one of the very first things you do is get out of bed, and if you find it challenging to do so, it may put a negative spin on the rest of the day for you. They do make equipment that allows individuals to age in place and allows for making getting in and out of the bed an easier process.
This article will introduce you to some options to make getting in and out of the bed easier. Always discuss with a healthcare professional who can recommend one that would suit your individual needs. This guide is jam-packed with all of the information related to bed rails for homecare beds.
What Are Bed Rails? Who Needs One?
A bed rail is a sturdy metal rail that is installed along the side of a bed to provide additional safety. It is also possible to insert it underneath the mattress or to connect it to the side of the bed. When getting in and out of bed, you may use the handle that’s provided by the railing as a point of support to grab onto. Once positioned on the mattress, you are less likely to slide off of it.
When choosing a bed rail, it is important that the person gets medical advice by their healthcare practitioner to see if a bed rail is right for them. Everyone’s needs are so individualized, so a thorough assessment of their physical mobility and cognitive capabilities from a healthcare provider are crucial before considering a bedrail.
It is essential to be aware of the possible risks that come with extended bed rails since certain bed rail types are longer than others in an effort to reduce the risk of falls. But unfortunately, they can sometimes create even greater safety problems than the actual falls themselves.
Bonus Read: Stages of Dementia: The 7 Progressive Stages Of Dementia
Risks And Hazards Of Using A Bed Rail
Anyone with dementia, perplexity, or restlessness who attempts to climb over bed rails can fall just easily as someone who rolls out of bed. Therefore the healthcare providers recommendation and extra attention is needed while placing bed rails.
While bed rail-related deaths are rare (the FDA documented 155 deaths between 2003 and 2012), trapping by the rails poses a death and injury risk.
Individuals can become entangled between the bed and the railing or rail bars.
In addition to going over the safety advice before installing bed rails, check the rails regularly to verify that they have not moved or become loose.
A person with dementia should not be prevented from getting out of bed by using bed rails. If they try to crawl over the rail, they risk suffering more severe injuries.
Bed Rails: The Varieties Available And How to Select One?
Bed rails can be broken down into the following four broad categories:
1. Hospital Bed Rails
These are the types of bed rails that are found on hospital beds; they are an integral component of the bed and cannot be removed. The homes of the vast majority of people will be lacking in the presence of hospital bed rails.
2. Portable Bed Rails
These are lightweight, easy to install, and can be removed at any moment, making them the ideal choice for seniors with greater mobility. Adjustability is a feature that may be found on some of the portable bed rails designed for adults.
3. Adjustable Bed Rails
It’s possible to put any style of railing on a standard bed in a house using these. They are normally placed by attaching the connection between the mattress and box spring or by bed frame straps. They have adjustable height choices that allow you to pick a height most convenient for the individual senior.
4. Bars
These are placed along the side of the bed to make it easier for seniors to get in and out of bed; however, they do not prevent you from falling out of bed while you are sleeping. They are most useful for individuals who just want minimal help.
Bars or portable bed rails may be a preferable option for seniors with only minor or temporary mobility challenges, while others with more substantial mobility issues may choose more permanent options, like adjustable bed rails or hospital bed rails.
It’s advisable to talk with your doctor before making any health-related decisions.
Also Read: What is Alzheimer’s Disease? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Best Bed Rails For People With Dementia And Elderly Seniors
The needs and concerns of each individual are unique. Make sure you get in touch with your loved one’s healthcare professional before purchasing any of the following products so that you can find out which one could be the most appropriate for the requirements of your family member or friend. A physical therapist may be of assistance to you during this process.
1. Vive Bed Rail
You can use Vive bed rails for seniors when you need a little additional help getting up or down from your bed.In addition, the non-slip handrail grip and built-in standing bar provide additional stability.
Adding a 21-inch stabilizing bar makes this rail solution ideal for persons of all sizes, regardless of their weight. The Vive bed rail’s compact dimensions and portability make it simple to store when not in use.
Features
- Compact design
- Standing bar built-in
- Adaptable to any bed
- Non-slip grip
- Easy to put together
2. Vive Bed Assist Rail – Adult Bedside Standing Bar
Vive’s team is highly knowledgeable and experienced in the areas of residential care, movement, and physical therapy solutions. They have designed a wonderful bed rail for elderly people that is simple to put together and adaptable to a wide variety of bed types.
The bed rail features robust gripping feet that are suitable for use on any surface, and its height can be adjusted from 13 inches to 21 inches.
The Vive bed rail for seniors is an excellent option compared to other items now dominating the market in terms of its basic design and inexpensive price point. In addition, the bed rail is held in a stable position largely by installing steel support bars under the mattress, which keeps the mattress from shifting and keeps the bed rail in its intended place.
These bars can stretch anywhere from 34.5 to 76.5 centimeters, determined by the size of your bed.
It is important to be aware that the rails have a weight restriction of 250 pounds, which is considered an amble strength for most aged and senior individuals.
Features
- Stable
- Easy to put together (tool-free)
- Adjustable height
- Soft foam rail grip
3. Medical King Bed Assist Rail with Adjustable Heights
Bed assist is simple to use and helps avoid falls; all you have to do is slip it under the mattress. It is suitable for all beds, including king, queen, and twin beds, as well as mattresses of any size or thickness, and it can be fitted on either side of the bed.
These are ideal for the elderly as well as for, women who are pregnant, or people who are disabled. It comes with a comfortable hand bar that is non-slip for hand support. The safety bed rails for seniors come with adjustable heights and have a modern design that goes with any decor.
The bed rails also come with a handy detachable bag that can be used to store goods such as spectacles, remote controls, books, and other such items.
Features
- Stable
- Meets all USA safety requirements
- Tool-free assembly
- Adjustable height
- Non-slip grip
- Supports up to 350 pounds
Wrapping Up
There are a lot of different options for bed rails out there. Like we mentioned previously, discuss with a healthcare provider which one can best help address your needs. Bed rails can be a good alternative to help assist with getting in and out of bed, and make this process easier and less frustrating.
It is possible for users of these bedside gadgets to maintain their independence at home so that they do not need to rely on the support of others when it is time to roll over in bed or get out of bed. However, accidental falls can result in serious injuries. o and need a degree of care that cannot be adequately delivered in a home setting.
References
- https://saferseniorcare.com/best-bed-rails-for-seniors/
- https://www.rehabmart.com/post/how-to-choose-a-bedrail-or-handle-for-safe-bed-mobility
- https://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/bed-rails-for-adults-and-seniors.html
- https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/best-bed-rails/
- https://www.greatseniorliving.com/articles/bed-rails-for-seniors
- https://safesleepsystems.com/best-bed-rails-for-seniors/
