As we get older, our bodies go through significant changes like decreased bone density, reduced muscle strength, and lower oxygen levels. These changes can make daily activities challenging for seniors and affect their quality of life.
Although we can’t stop the aging process, there are ways to ease its symptoms. One effective solution is using an adjustable hospital bed, which offers numerous health benefits for seniors.
Many seniors suffer from severe back pain due to conditions like osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or lumbar spine issues. While some stack pillows for support, this can lead to moving around during the night, causing more discomfort. An adjustable bed allows for proper head and foot elevation, relieving pressure from the lower back and improving posture, which reduces strain on the hips and shoulders.
For those dealing with acid reflux, lying flat can cause stomach acid to move up into the esophagus. Using pillows to elevate the head can be ineffective if the sleeper moves around. An adjustable bed can be positioned to prevent acid reflux, ensuring the stomach acid stays in place and reducing related breathing problems during the night.
Poor blood circulation is another issue seniors face due to being more sedentary, thickened aortas, and less sensitive baroreceptors. Conditions like atherosclerosis can worsen this problem. An adjustable bed helps by elevating the feet and back, improving blood flow and aiding in recovery from mobility issues. Positioning the bed so that the lower half is higher than the heart can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Snoring is common in older adults because excess neck weight can close the windpipe, making it hard to breathe and causing snoring. An adjustable bed can minimize snoring by preventing the neck from putting pressure on the trachea, ensuring better sleep for both seniors and their partners.
Arguably the biggest advantage of an adjustable bed is the increased comfort it provides. With the ability to customize the sleeping position, seniors can find the most comfortable and pain-relieving setup. The bed’s incline can be adjusted, typically between 30 and 45 degrees, which is often more comfortable than lying flat.
Additionally, adjustable beds offer independence, an important factor for many seniors. They allow for easy movement and position adjustment without needing assistance from family members.
Seniors should consider getting an adjustable bed for its numerous benefits, which contribute to a better, pain-free night’s sleep. If you want to learn more, check out our detailed post on the importance of choosing an adjustable bed to enhance seniors’ quality of life.