In the Bedroom (Not What You Think)

I was looking around on Pinterest today when I came upon this blog on Basic Bedside Care. It's a great starting point for anyone who is caring for someone who is bedridden - I just want to add a few more pointers.

1) Most medical devices can be rented. This includes things like adjustable beds, commodes, walkers, hoyer lifts, lifting recliners and air mattresses to prevent pressure sores. Renting is a great alternative if you are only going to be needing the device for a short period such as just getting out of hospital after a brief stay from a fall.

2) Have a comfortable chair in the room with arms and a good backrest. This is for guests, you and your loved one for when they feel able to sit up.

3) Find that old TV dinner table. They are useful for keeping supplies handy, for eating meals at that chair you have, playing games, and as a place for those get well cards and flowers. 

4) Some supplies you might not think of to have in the bedroom:  baby wipes- great for quick washes of face and hands as well as bottoms, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes for commode seats, paper towel for spills, box of tissue, examination gloves, disposable masks for those guests who insist on coming over with a cold, a couple of bath towels for moving your loved one, under knees, backs and positioning to prevent pressure sores, and a plastic mug with a handle for water- it's lighter and won't break if it drops.

5) Keep the bedroom beautiful. This keeps it feeling like a home and more comfortable.

6) Talk to your health care workers about the positioning of medical devices such as commodes - where you'd like it and where it needs to be can be two different things.

7) A night light- This makes it easier to check on your loved one without having to turn on a light and disturbing their sleep also they can see where they are and where things are, like the commode or their water, thereby reducing the chance of falls and spills. 

8) A bed tray for eating and other activities like reading. They can be simple or as fancy as one that can hold a laptop or book while you are lying on your back.