Falling out of bed is relatively common for seniors, especially those living with dementia. You may wonder why there is a correlation between these two things, but there is a simple explanation. Dementia has a negative effect on a patient’s cognitive state, most notably resulting in memory loss. When they wake up from sleeping, they can actually forget where they are and what they were just doing. In an attempt to figure out their surroundings, they may not realize that they are in bed or that they no longer have full mobility. Because seniors may be frail or have brittle bones, any fall a senior experiences can have serious consequences. But falling from an elevated surface like a bed can be tragic. This article will provide tips on helping your loved ones avoid rolling off the bed and harming themselves.
Invest in Bed Rails: The first proactive measure to take is to install bed rails on both sides of the bed. Your elderly loved one can support themselves using the rails while in bed, but the apparatus also acts as a prevention against your loved one rolling out of bed. Railings are also easily visible, so even if a senior wakes up confused, the railings are easily within reach and readily available as a support mechanism.
Place A Mat Alongside The Bed
While mats won’t prevent your senior loved one from falling out of bed, they may prevent severe physical harm if a fall occurs. Fall mats provide a cushion and mitigate the shock when they hit the ground. Floor mats can significantly help to minimize any severe injury for those who fall from their beds. If your loved one always gets up on one side of the bed (such as if the bed is against a wall), then one non-stick fall mat should be sufficient. Two mats may be necessary if the bed is open on both sides. One final tip – make sure the mat is not too thick to prevent tripping over it, or put the mat down after your loved one is in bed if you live with them.
Lower The Height of the Bed
It stands to reason that the intensity of a fall is significantly determined by how far the individual has fallen. Therefore, one way to keep your senior loved ones safe and lessen the risk of serious injuries is to lower their bed to minimize the impact of the fall. A lower bed can also help them avoid falling out of bed due to losing their balance. An appropriate bed height is typically at your senior’s knee level. However, it is also important to ensure that the bed is not too low. You don’t want to cause fatigue if your loved one has to exert themselves too much to get up out of bed in the morning.
If your loved one lives alone but is experiencing falls, it may be time to consider moving them in with you or to an assisted living or memory care facility. Keeping them safe and secure should be your number one priority. At A Banyan Residence in The Villages, we are committed to providing a safe environment for your senior loved one. Call today for more information or for a private tour.
