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Adjustable beds offer many health benefits for the elderly living either in their own home, particularly those with mobility and comfort issues who need support, security and an environment that promotes better sleeping, recovery and respite. Due to their multi-position functions, adjustable beds can provide therapeutic support to suit an individual’s physical needs, meaning it can be suitable for people with a variety of different health conditions and stages of mobility.  Investing in an adjustable bed for an elderly person has many great benefits for their wellbeing and care. Comfort and Wellbeing  Adjustable beds, as the name suggests, allow a person to lie in the most comfortable and supportive position for their specific condition. Someone with circulatory issues, such as edema or varicose veins, can lie with their legs and feet slightly elevated to promote better blood circulation.  Adjusting the bed's position can also relieve pressure points on the body, reducing the risk of pressure ulcers (bedsores) for those who are largely bed bound or spend the majority of their time in bed. Proper positioning can distribute weight more evenly, minimizing discomfort and promoting skin integrity. Changing the positioning options also allow the elderly or less mobile person to find the most comfortable sleeping position for a better night’s sleep. Improved sleep quality contributes to their overall health and well-being, enhancing mood, cognitive function, and immune function. Pain Management and Breathing Support For people with respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or sleep apnea, elevating the upper body can help ease breathing difficulties and reduce symptoms such as wheezing or snoring, and allow for a more comfortable night’s sleep.  Elderly people with arthritis, back pain and musculoskeletal conditions will find relief by adjusting the bed to their preferred angle, reducing pressure on affected joints or muscles. Independence For many older people, getting in and out of bed can be challenging and without constant support from carers they can find themselves less able to independently move around from bed to the rest of their daily activities. Adjustable beds allow for easier transfers in and out of bed, reducing the high risk of falls or injuries.  Adjustable beds can empower older people to have greater control over their comfort and positioning without relying solely on carers for assistance, and therefore give them a degree of independence and autonomy, which ultimately gives a huge boost to their daily wellbeing.  Better for Carers Too Adjustable beds not only make life better for the individual with mobility issues, but they can also allow carers or family to provide better support for them when needed. Raising a bed can give the family member or carer a better position from which to attend to the older person lying in the bed. Lowering the bed can remove the strain on the carer’s back, for example, while transferring a patient from bed to chair etc.  There are many benefits to purchasing an adjustable bed to aid with sleeping and pain management for the elderly living at home. If you need more help with how to choose and use your adjustable bed, please contact us at Mediworld. We have over 50 years of experience in supplying homecare, rehab and clinical equipment.  

There are many reasons why someone might choose to buy a rise and recliner chair for their home, the therapeutic benefits that support mobility issues or certain health conditions being the most common.  Chairs with the ability to recline and elevate can alleviate pressure on the lower back, improve circulation and reduce swelling in the feet. Those with a rise function are also designed to aid with getting in and out of the chair safely and with comfort, which can be life changing for people living independently with mobility, balance or joint issues.   Using a recliner chair for any of these reasons really can provide comfort and relaxation at home and, while it may seem like a large investment, the benefits of using a rise and recliner chair far outweigh the cost of buying one. Ready to take the plunge? Here's an ultimate guide to using your rise and recliner chair effectively: Adjusting the Recliner:  Most recliners have different positions, ranging from upright to fully reclined. Familiarise yourself with the recliner's adjustment mechanism, which may involve a lever, button, or handle located on the side of the chair. Initial Positioning:  Sit down in the recliner in an upright position with your back against the backrest and your feet flat on the floor. Make sure you're comfortable before adjusting the recliner. Adjusting the Recline Angle:  To recline the chair, engage the reclining mechanism using the designated lever or button. Lean back slowly until you reach your desired angle of recline. Stop when you feel comfortable and supported. Footrest Adjustment:  Many recliners come with an integrated footrest that extends when you recline the chair. Use the lever or button to extend the footrest fully or to your preferred position. Ensure that your feet are well-supported and not dangling off the edge. Finding the Right Angle:  Experiment with different recline angles to find the most comfortable position for your body. Some recliners offer infinite recline positions, allowing you to customize the angle to your liking. While reclining, ensure that your body is properly aligned to maintain good posture. Avoid slouching or sinking too deeply into the chair, as this can strain your back and neck. Supportive Accessories:  Consider using supportive accessories such as a neck pillow or lumbar cushion to enhance comfort and provide additional support, especially if you plan to spend extended periods in the recliner. Using the Massage and Heat Functions (if available):  Some recliners come with built-in massage and heat features, which can help to stimulate blood flow if you’re regularly using the chair for long periods of time. Familiarise yourself with the controls and use these functions sparingly to relax muscles and improve circulation. Follow the manufacturers’ instructions regarding how long you should use these functions for. Taking Breaks:  If you plan to use the recliner for extended periods, remember to take breaks to stretch and move around. Prolonged sitting, even in a reclined position, can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Exiting the chair using the Rise and Recliner feature:  When you're ready to get up from the recliner, slowly return the chair to an upright position using the recline adjustment mechanism and continue through the positions until the chair is in the lift position. Sit forward and position yourself towards the front of the seat which will support you in a forward leaning tilt. Use the armrests to stabilize you as you step onto your feet.  Take it slowly and be sure to take a moment to make sure you feel balanced and stable before walking away from the chair once you’re standing. Maintenance:  Regularly clean and maintain your recliner according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure its longevity and performance. This may involve vacuuming upholstery, wiping down surfaces, and lubricating moving parts. By following these guidelines, you can maximize the comfort and benefits of using a rise and recliner chair for relaxation and rest. Need more help? Contact us at Mediworld UK.