How to Make Bed Tasks Easier for Those With Mobility Issues

For some people, bed is a place of comfort. However, for others, it is where everything happens, such as eating, sleeping and more. Yes, people with disabilities want their bed to be both functional and comfortable.

You must have seen people in hospitals using overbed tables. Wondering if they improve independence in your bedroom? Are there any other ways to help with bed tasks? Well, yes and here is everything you need to know.

Different Ways to Make Bed Tasks Easier for Disabled People

A good night's sleep is essential for overall well-being. However, people with disabilities often struggle with doing a simple task like getting out of bed. Therefore, to make bed tasks easier, here are some best tips to follow:

Create Open Pathways

Safety is essential for persons with disabilities, both in and out of bed. The first step to making a bedroom accessible is to create open pathways. If not, tripping hazards can be a major problem, resulting in accidents and injuries for those with mobility disabilities. One should start by addressing any possible risks that could cause falls to maximise bedroom safety.

To increase mobility, rearrange furniture to make paths broader. Keep ornamental items and small furniture away from the flooring. Ensure that any extra debris is kept in drawers or on shelves. Carpets and floor coverings that are not fastened to the floor should be removed. Also, use only non-slip designs if rugs are required.

Right Bed Frame

An ideal bed frame ensures stability and usability. For people who want different positions for comfort, adjustable beds are great. However, for those who would rather have a more straightforward arrangement, a fixed-frame bed that is the right height can work well.

The right bed frame ensures easy transfers from a wheelchair or standing posture. A bed that is too low can make it difficult to stand up. However, one that is too high needs needless effort to climb into. Strong, reinforced frames provide extra support and lower the possibility of instability or collapse.

Right Mattress

The right mattress plays a huge role in both mobility and the quality of sleep. Firmness is important; if it's too soft, it will be hard to reposition. However, if it's too strong, it may cause pressure points. While air mattresses can be adjusted for firmness, memory foam or hybrid mattresses relieve pressure.

People with allergies should sleep in a hygienic and irritation-free environment. This is when hypoallergenic materials are the best choice. Overall, one must thoroughly assess the demands of the person when selecting mattresses that are suited to their particular requirements.

Get Organized

Everyone wants to have a tidy bedroom, but people with disabilities need it more than anyone else. Yes, a disorganised, congested area can be physically and psychologically stressful. This is especially for someone with mobility impairments. Additionally, it may make it more challenging for carers to help with everyday duties.

To make bed tasks easier, one should keep commonly used items close to hand. For more comfort, you can also choose an over-bed table. Besides, organisers can help with storing clothes and personal belongings. For people using wheelchairs, it would be great to rearrange furnishings to make more room.

Support Accessories

Bedside support accessories enhance accessibility and security. One such tool that makes bed tasks easier is an over-bed table. They make meals, reading, and electronics easily accessible. To help prevent falls and support shifting, bed rails are great.

For additional leverage, grab bars and handles offer a solid grip. Fall hazards are reduced by accessible emergency alert systems, appropriate footwear and non-slip flooring. Clutter-free paths and non-skid flooring materials improve safety at night even more.

Ensure Proper Lighting

When it comes to using a bed, lighting is the key to accessibility. It significantly affects how people with disabilities can move around. To meet each person's demands, use light bulbs with the appropriate colour temperature. Installing night lights may help with navigating in the dark for persons with mobility limitations.

Adequate lighting improves movement at night and reduces accidents. Paths are illuminated by motion-activated lights that don't require switches. Adjustable lamps are great for reading, and to enhance comfort, you can opt for an over-bed table. With smart lighting systems, you can enjoy voice-activated or remote-controlled brightness adjustments.

Top Equipment That Helps With Mobility Issues

To make tasks in bed easier for people with mobility impairments, here are some best supportive equipment:

Overbed Table

Overbed tables are a tabletop that is fixed to a stand, usually on wheels. It helps people with mobility issues to read, eat, or use a computer while in bed. Some bed tables come with extra features, such as built-in storage, made specifically to fit over recliners, and more.

Transfer Boards

In addition to overbed tables, transfer boards are also a good choice. Along with slide boards, they facilitate a person's seated transition. This can be from a bed or other surface to a chair or wheelchair and return. These boards lower the strength and strain required to move a person safely, benefiting both the user and the carer.

Bed Wedge

Bed wedges can be positioned at the head or foot of a bed, behind a pillow, or both. They alleviate discomfort, improve circulation, relieve respiratory issues, and make the transition easier.

Bed Rails

Bed rails are different from overbed tables and are a heavy-duty plastic or metal support device. They firmly fasten to the floor or a bed frame, offering stability when getting in and out of bed. They create a barrier to stop falls and rolling while you're asleep.

Become Stronger Than Your Disability With the Right Tools

At MedGuard, we are the leading choice of customers for supportive equipment. From an overbed table to crutches, we have everything for people with mobility issues. We supply to all and keep ourselves well-stocked. Each equipment is made to last and offer full support and convenience. For more, you can contact us anytime.