Every single day we were fighting with heavy furniture and tight hallways. Most daily tasks turned into exhausting marathons for all parties involved.
That being said, we shortly came across that there are many small changes that create large impacts. Not only did the specialized equipment we used assist the patient, but also it assisted in protecting the caregiver’s overall health.
Finding a Solution For A Good Night’s Sleep
Rest is the foundation of recovery and relaxation. To start with, we attempted to add additional pillows to help Dad get comfortable in his regular bed. Unfortunately, this didn’t work too well since Dad would continue to fall down throughout the night. Likewise, each time we had to readjust Dad’s position, I experienced discomfort in my back due to having to lift him.
Therefore, we determined that a solution was required immediately. Subsequently, we researched electric hospital bed rentals Toronto services that delivered immediately. From that point forward, our nightly sleep routines greatly improved.
Benefits of Using An Adjustable Bed
Regular beds do not have enough flexibility to meet the requirements of chronic patients. Instead of trying to turn Dad upright for mealtime by hand crank (and straining both of my back), we opted for an adjustable bed with complete electronic control. Now Dad has the ability to be completely upright with one simple button press. Also, this has created a significantly safer way for Dad to get in/out of bed and for his legs.
Some of the benefits of utilizing an adjustable bed are:
- Head elevation allows for better breathing.
- Less pressure on your lower back and hips.
- More independence for the user.
- Better circulation in the lower limbs.
- Easier transition to a standing position.
Benefits Of Hiring Professionals
My initial concern regarding renting equipment such as this was assembling and setting it up properly. Therefore, I specifically looked for hospital bed rental near me that came with installation to ensure safety. The installers arrived and took care of the whole assembly process. Once installed, they demonstrated how to secure the brakes and utilize the siderails properly. The technicians also inspected the motors so we knew everything was working properly prior to their departure.
Improving Comfort And Safety In The Living Room
While the bedroom wasn’t the only area requiring updates, Dad spent most of his days lounging in a worn out recliner. He lacked sufficient upper body strength to push himself up off of the chair to a standing position; therefore, he was stuck in the living room for hours at a time.
We recognized that stationary furniture can become a “hidden” trap and subsequently began exploring options for adaptive furniture.
Impact Of Lift Chairs
Eventually, we purchased lift chairs to replace the old furniture. While they appear like typical recliners on the surface, they contain a concealed lifting system. Rather than ejecting the user forward, these chairs will slowly elevate the user to a standing position. Ultimately, this restored Dad’s dignity during visits with family members.
Additional features of these chairs include:
- Smooth transitions from sitting to standing via motorization.
- Reclining positions for mid day naps.
- Battery backup systems for power outage situations.
- Remote control operation for users suffering from arthritis.
Selecting Appropriate Material & Size Options
Not all chairs suit every body shape or living space. Measure your floor space precisely before ordering any new chair. Consider breathability of fabrics for extended periods of sitting. We selected a breathable fabric that remained cool in warmer months and also stayed moist free. We avoided developing skin irritation and cleaned spills easily.
Overcoming Logistical Challenges With Home Care
Managing your home while caring for someone can be a logistics puzzle. Many families feel financially strained due to the expense of buying medical equipment directly. Rental models offer a flexible option based upon your specific needs.
Benefits Of Renting Medical Equipment
Renting hospital bed rentals Toronto saved us tens of thousands of dollars upfront. It also gave us an opportunity to try various types of medical equipment without making a long term commitment. If Dad’s needs changed later, we could exchange the rented equipment for another piece of equipment. This freedom eliminated our financial burden during a particularly stressful period.
- Lower monthly payments compared to high priced purchases.
- Maintenance and repairs typically included in the contract price.
- Ability to upgrade to new technology with minimal effort.
- Removal of equipment by professionals once no longer needed.
Providing A Safe Environment
Wheels are great but they need open paths to operate safely. We removed numerous area rugs to eliminate trip hazards. We expanded the pathway between the kitchen and living room. As a result, we now have a safe route for Dad to move his wheelchair and walker.
Changing Perspective Through Smaller Changes
In many cases, we forget about the “small wheels” associated with our medical equipment. However, these wheels enable beds to roll and clean under them. They enable patients to remain engaged with the remainder of their home. Even smaller mechanical supports can contribute to a greater quality of life for senior citizens.
Supporting Long Term Caregiver Health
Caring for others is a marathon not a sprint. Providing effective care requires maintaining your own physical health. Utilizing mechanical lifts and electric medical beds are forms of self care. Mechanical aids protect caregivers against developing muscle strains commonly encountered in home health settings. They also eliminate the need to manually lift a patient.
Creating A Therapeutic Home Environment
Your home should never resemble a sterile clinic. We decorated Dad’s bedroom with recognizable photographs and vibrant colors/blankets. At the same time, the electric hospital bed rental Toronto provided the medical functionality necessary behind the scene(s). This balance enabled Dad to feel like he was still at home not in an institution.
Tips On Creating A Safer Home Environment
- Always keep essential items close by.
- Utilize bright, warm light fixtures to reduce falls.
- Install grab bars along high traffic areas/hallways.
- Maintain your floors free of debris/water.
New Caregivers Practical Tips
Before a crisis occurs, find a hospital bed rental near me with installation. Prepare yourself and your home by creating an environment where everyone can safely navigate.
Determining Your Specific Needs
Each mobility experience varies depending upon the individual. Some individuals may only require a home care hospital bed rental Toronto for short durations. Other individuals may require Lift chairs for multiple years. Seek guidance from a licensed physical therapist to identify what type(s) of “wheels” will best benefit you.
Conclusion
Our experiences have shown us that mobility is crucial in achieving happiness within your home. By using tools designed for tasks previously accomplished manually, we ceased battling our furniture and started navigating our homes efficiently. Our overall atmosphere changed from frustration/tension to calmness/ease. The effects of these small wheels have positively impacted our entire family. Do not discount the effectiveness of simple solutions (i.e., motorized equipment) as they have greatly affected our lives.