What to Consider When Buying a Bed for a Senior Loved One
If you are relatively young, you don’t have to think too hard about the bed you get. It only has to support your mattress, look great, and ensure a good night’s sleep. However, a bed is the difference between getting the sleep they need and a senior waking up with aches and pains. Picking the right bed can be difficult due to the numerous options available, but here are a few things that will guide you.
Size of the Bed
The size of the bed is crucial for a few reasons. A bed that is either too small or too large can be uncomfortable, especially for those who roll around a lot while they sleep. The size can also determine how easy or difficult it is to get out of — a key consideration for seniors with mobility concerns.
When shopping for a bed for a senior, find one that is long and wide enough but whose dimensions do not present a problem. The height is also crucial for seniors with medical concerns such as osteoporosis or arthritis that can make it challenging to get in and out of bed.
Health Considerations
As we get older, some of the things we used to do easily start becoming challenging. For example, you may notice a loved one finding it harder to get out of bed due to a medical issue. When shopping for a bed for them, this is just one of the health considerations you should consider.
You should also consider whether they have medical conditions requiring their head or legs to be elevated. Some loved ones may also be prone to slips and falls at night or as they get out of bed, which is another thing to consider.
The good news is that you can get them a nursing bed instead of a normal bed to cater to their unique needs. These beds come with many features, such as rails that prevent falls, supports for getting in and out of bed, headrests and even the ability to raise the head or legs. Some of the nursing beds you can get are also built for home settings so they never look out of place or make the home look like a hospital.
Your Budget
It is not surprising that there are numerous bed options for seniors, each with a different price. The price is typically determined by the features the bed has. For example, a bed with railings and other accessibility features is more expensive than a typical bed. However, there are many budget-friendly beds with all the features your loved one will appreciate, such as those from medical-supermarket.com.
Mattress Fit
While beds and mattresses mostly come in standard sizes, there are some instances where they are either a few centimetres bigger or smaller. This mismatch leads to an uncomfortable bed or one with gaps on the sides where dirt and dust can build up. Measure both the bed and mattress before purchase to ensure a snug fit.
Shopping for a bed for a senior loved one differs from shopping for a typical bed. It has to be comfortable and have features that assist your loved one in getting in and out of it. It should also be the exact size for the mattress you get.