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 life harder for seniors, interfering with their daily activities and affecting their overall quality of life.
While we can’t stop these changes, we can manage their symptoms. One effective way is by using adjustable hospital beds, which offer numerous health benefits to seniors.
Many seniors suffer from severe back pain due to conditions like osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or the degeneration of joints in the lower back. They often use pillows for support, but this can cause them to shift positions frequently at night, leading to more pain and discomfort. An adjustable bed can help by keeping the head and feet properly elevated, which reduces pressure on the lower back, promotes better posture, and eases the strain on hips and shoulders.
For those dealing with acid reflux, sleeping on the stomach can cause acid to pool, blocking food from moving through the esophagus. Many use pillows to elevate their heads, but restless sleepers might find that pillows slip, potentially making the problem worse. An adjustable bed can be raised to a comfortable position that prevents acid from traveling up the esophagus. Experts also recommend elevating the entire mattress to avoid additional acid-reflux-related breathing issues during the night.
Poor blood circulation is another issue that affects seniors due to factors like a sedentary lifestyle, thickening of the aorta, and decreased sensitivity in baroreceptors. Some may also suffer from atherosclerosis, a common cause of poor blood circulation. An adjustable bed can help by elevating the feet and back, improving blood flow and aiding recovery from mobility issues. For the best results, position the bed so the lower half is higher than the heart, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Snoring is another common issue, especially for the elderly, caused by the windpipe closing due to the neck’s weight. This restricts air flow to the lungs, leading to snoring and indicating breathing difficulties. An adjustable bed can reduce snoring by preventing the neck’s weight from pressing on the trachea, allowing seniors and their partners to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
The biggest benefit of an adjustable bed is increased comfort. Being able to customize the sleeping position to suit individual needs can provide much-needed relief and a better night’s sleep. Usually, setting the bed at an incline between 30 and 45 degrees is more comfortable than lying flat. Besides comfort, adjustable beds also offer independence. Seniors can move around the bed easily without needing help from a family member, making it easier for them to find a comfortable position on their own.
In summary, seniors should consider getting an adjustable bed. These beds offer numerous benefits, all aimed at ensuring quality, uninterrupted, pain-free sleep. To learn more about the benefits of adjustable beds and how they can improve the quality of life for an elderly person, refer to our detailed post.