Sleep Safety for Seniors with Mobility Issues – Tips to Keep in Mind

ByMed guard

Saying this would not be wrong that sleep is a superpower. It increases energy, elevates mood, strengthens the immune system and improves one’s overall well-being. However, not everyone has this superpower. People especially with physical disabilities experience sleep disturbances and problems which can further lead to other health ailments. 

If you have someone at home who experiences problems in sleep just because they do not feel comfortable enough, then there’s nowhere else to look. You can solve this issue in several ways and to know how, read until the end. 

What are the Common Reasons for Sleep Deprivation in Seniors with Mobility Issues? 

There are several reasons which can cause sleep deprivation in seniors with mobility issues. Some of these reasons may include 

  • Physical pain
  • Sleep apnoea 
  • Lack of exercise 
  • Reaction of medications 
  • Lack of sleep 
  • Light exposure 
  • Urine incontinence 
  • Psychological variables like anxiety or depression and many more.

How Can You Improve Sleep Deprivation in Seniors with Mobility Issues? 

Individuals who have physical impairments may find that their sleep environment, behaviour and routine improve with modification. 

List of Sleeping Aids

For people with physical disabilities, sleeping aids and accessories can greatly enhance the quality of sleep. Some of these sleeping aids and accessories include the following:

 

  • Bed Rails 

 

One of the first sleeping aids that you must introduce to your senior’s life facing mobility issues is a bed guard rail for adults. This sleeping aid is a sturdy plastic or metal support system that is fastened firmly to the floor or the bed frame. It is also known as bed safety rail, bed help rail and bed rail. 

Like bed bumpers, these rails create a barrier for the seniors stopping them from falling or rolling over while they are asleep. This offers stability when getting in and out of the bed besides peace of mind to the seniors which allows them to sleep without any interruption.

 

  • Hospital Beds 

 

Besides the hospital bed rails, another item that you can introduce is the hospital beds themselves. When you use these beds, it comes with movable head and foot sections ( with side rails). 

Moreover, you may come across beds that have complete motorization. Certain hospital beds also have height adjustments which many nurses and carers find useful when taking care of the patient.

 

  • Bed Pads 

 

Bed Pads also known as incontinence pads offer waterproof barriers that shield beds and furniture while enabling users to sleep dry. This protected bedding enhances cleanliness and facilitates the easy cleanup of any mishaps caused by incontinence. 

 

  • Bed Cradle 

 

Several issues can be resolved with a few basic sleeping aids and among them, a bed cradle is another. It is essentially a lightweight frame that acts as a blanket filter keeping a sheet or quilt up off a person’s legs. This allows air to freely move and keeps the inflamed skin dry. Moreover, it aids with overheating and circulation causing the senior to sleep well.

 

  • Bed Wedge 

 

Bed wedges are also known as placement wedges and these can be positioned at the head or foot of a bed or behind the pillow. By using these bed wedges, seniors can benefit in several ways including users can smooth the transition from lying down to sitting up, relieving respiratory issues, reducing pain, improving circulation and more. As a result of all these, it can help in improving sleep. 

What are the Other Ways You Can Encourage Sleep in Seniors with Mobility Issues?

Some ways how you can encourage sleep in seniors dealing with mobility issues include 

  • Following a proper sleep schedule
  • Boosting melatonin by using low-wattage lights
  • Make sure to create a dark, cool and quiet atmosphere
  • Do not let the seniors intake too much caffeine 
  • Encourage them to engage in physical activities and 
  • Offer them peace of mind.

By following these above-mentioned tips, you can promote a healthy lifestyle among the elderly. Not only this will help them to feel better but have a good night’s sleep at the same time.

Create A Comfortable Sleeping Space for the Elderly Today 

As someone who takes complete care of the elderly, you may be following diet plans and every other thing that promotes their well-being. However, sleep disorders in the elderly, such as insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns, can be a significant challenge. If you are missing out on sleeping aids like bed rails for the elderly, then you can get one from us at MedGuard.

We are the leading platform for medical supplies that have been approved and tested to meet medical standards. Being popular in the UK, we have met the demands of thousands of individuals and the medical industry. Not only do we have products from our in-house brand but other popular brands as well. As you go through the website, you may find a wide array of medical supplies to pick from at a reasonable price.