Preventing falling out of bed
Question from Alzheimer’s Care Partner Community: How to prevent loved one from falling out of bed
One of the most important things to both the primary care partner and person living with dementia is to remain independent and living at home. The most common reason people enter assisted living facilities is due to falls and injuries related to falls. So preventing a loved one with dementia from falling out of bed is crucial to their safety. In addition, as a primary family care partner, getting your OWN sleep is critical to your ability to help. When reviewing the suggestions below, make sure you choose an option that works for you and does not compromise your own sleep. Here are some strategies to help reduce the risk of falls:
Low Bed: Lower the bed to reduce the distance of the potential fall. This can be done by adjusting the bed's height settings or by using a low-profile bed frame.
Bed Alarms: Consider using bed alarms or pressure-sensitive pads that can alert you when the person attempts to get out of bed. This way, you can respond promptly and assist them.
Bed Positioning: Position the bed against a wall or place it in a way that makes it more challenging for the person to roll out. Avoid placing the bed near objects or obstacles that might encourage climbing or falling.
Proper Bedding: Use appropriate bedding materials, such as non-slip or anti-slip mattress pads and fitted sheets, to help prevent slipping. These materials can make it more difficult for the person to slide off the bed.
Floor Padding: Place soft padding, like foam mats or rugs, beside the bed to cushion potential falls. Ensure the padding is non-slip to prevent tripping hazards.
Night Lights: Install night lights in the room and the path to the bathroom to help the person see clearly at night, reducing the risk of disorientation and falls. Having sufficient lights already on can also help prevent turning on bright lights or making noise while searching for lights in the middle of the night which can disrupt the sleep of others in the house.
Supervision: If possible, have someone supervise the person while they are in bed, especially during the night. This can help prevent unexpected movements or attempts to get out of bed. Note however that as a primary care partner, getting your OWN sleep is critical, so please don’t compromise your own sleep in order to supervise.
Adjust Medications: Consult with the person's healthcare provider to review their medications. Some medications can affect balance and increase the risk of falls, so adjustments may be necessary. This is a critical one to investigate and with a simple change of medication or dose can offer a solution.
Mobility Aids: If the person has a history of falling, consider using mobility aids like bed trapezes or poles to assist with getting in and out of bed safely.
Encourage Physical Activity: Regular exercise and physical therapy can help improve strength, balance, and mobility, which may reduce the risk of falls.
Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Discuss your concerns with the person's healthcare team, including a physician, occupational therapist, or physical therapist. They can provide tailored recommendations and strategies for fall prevention.
Use a Hospital Bed: In some cases, using a hospital bed with adjustable features may be helpful
NOTE: bed rails / safety rails are NOT recommended for people living with dementia as it can increase confusion, agitation, and even attempts to climb over the rails, which can result in more severe injuries, such as falls from a greater height
Remember that each person's needs and abilities are unique, so it's important to tailor the preventive measures to their specific situation. Regularly reassess the safety measures in place and make adjustments as needed to ensure the person's well-being.
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