By Maurice
Elderly falling out of bed is one of the most common accidents among seniors, often resulting in serious injuries. In fact, the CDC has ranked falling as the biggest cause of both non-fatal and fatal injuries among the elderly.
You can learn more about seniors falling out of bed - and how to prevent it – in this complete guide.
How to Keep the Elderly from Falling Out of Bed: Best Practices
The two things you need to focus on to prevent bed falls are (1) health concerns and (2) physical space restrictions:
- 1Health concerns: eyesight issues such as cataracts, medication, and sleep concerns can all increase the risk of falling from the bed. To rebuild muscle memory and strength, the doctor can recommend physical therapy treatments that can help seniors maneuver getting in and out of bed without any issues.
- 2Physical space restrictions: there may also be some changes that you can make in the bedroom to decrease the risk of an elderly falling out of bed. You need to consider the bed height and placement, lighting, bedding, and other objects in the room. Read on to look at the changes that you can make for the elderly person in the bedroom.
Beds for Elderly Who are at Risk of Falling Out of Bed
There are different kinds of beds that you can get for an elderly who is at risk of falling out of bed.
While low beds may not prevent falling exactly, the risk of grave injuries is reduced that could occur from falling off the bed.
Adjustable beds reduce the risk of falling since they help the person stand up easily. The incline options help to alleviate the elder to a position where they can get in and out of bed with less effort. The bed supports them as they are trying to get out of bed.
Devices to Prevent Elderly from Falling Out of Bed
There are also various devices that you can choose to reduce, or even eliminate, the chance of elderly folks falling out the bed. Here are some helpful tools and devices that you can use to make the bedroom a safer place:
How Do Bed Alarms for the Elderly Work?
Top bed alarms work through pressure sensor systems. When the user is no longer in their bed, it sends an alert. The alert is picked on a receiver and sends the signal to any relative or loved one in another room. Carers are able to reach the senior in time to help them.
Alert Systems for Elderly People Who Fall Out of Bed: Recommended Products
The transmitter can be worn around the neck and sends an alert up to 500 feet. The wireless delivers a stability of signal that is able to penetrate through walls. It allows elderly persons to immediately call for help if they fall out of bed.
This system has 2 panic buttons: one around the neck and the other around the wrist. It calls up to 3 phone numbers and plays an emergency message for you. It works safely with pacemakers and is water-resistant as well.
How Effective is a Bed Rail for an Elderly Person?
Bed rails are the best option to keep the seniors in your life safer at night. If any elderly person in your family lives alone, it is the most effective way to prevent them from falling in the night. It can increase their independence and offer support when they want to get in and out of bed.
Conclusion
An elderly person falling out bed can be dangerous and result in grave injuries. It is a serious concern that you need to take into account. There are many different tools and devices that you can use to make the bedroom a safer place for the seniors in your life.
References:
Causes, Risks, and Solutions for Seniors Falling Out of Bed
How to Prevent Falling Out of Bed
How to Prevent Elderly Adults from Falling Out of Bed
Why Does Mom Keep Falling Out of Bed?
5 Ways to Prevent Seniors from Falling Out of Bed
Bed Rails and Fall Prevention Options for Seniors
Falls are leading cause of injury and death in older Americans
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