I've had trouble getting onto bed and also readjusting myself once there. I saw this ad for bed for Parkinson's pt. And I'm wondering if it will keep me independent longer. i also found out that Medicare will pay for it, Any thoughts anyone? hope so!! Rosie
I’m so glad y’all have talked about this. I have PD and having difficulties from being so stiff and in pain when waking up so that I can’t move. I finally can maneuver myself up. I am in so much pain but didn’t know about bars etc.
I have changed where I sleep 3 different times.
Thank you for this information.
Ginny
My husband created pull bars for me out of PVC pipes for each side of my mattress. He made a stand that slides between the mattress and extends up. He put one on each side of my mattress. Now when I want to turn or move over, I pull on the PVC posts!😀
We have an adjustable bed we have had for several years. Got for my husband's bad back and it helps. Now it helps me get up too, plus elevates my legs and head to sleep. Very comfortable. I am getting ready to buy a new mattress. Ours us a Serta or Sealy and over 10 years old. I have heard Medicare now covers these for some medical issues but not sure when or how. Id start looking into this before buying anything. I know I am going to look into it before we buy a new one. Even if they cover a small amount, it beats nothing. Plus same size bed as normal one.
I was a nurse on an orthopedic floor and the trapeze worked wonders for me as well as the patient. They were able to adjust and sift themselves into position. It made them feel like they were helping with their care.
Well worth the investment especially since Medicare will help. Go for it!😀
Rosie - since I did not want to go to any additional expenses, I have put Doug's Hoyer lift into use as a trapese and it has been a life-saver. Dangles over his head and it allows him to use his arms to pull himself back up in bed when he slides too close to foot board. Before we put it to use as such, he would attempt to bend his knees, plant feet on bed, I had to hold them there and then we would both push and HOPEFULLY he would slide up. Now, with me anchoring his feet so his legs don't just flop back out straight and use of trapeze, he is able to slide into a good position. He also uses it to help in turning to his side and as he is unable to maintain sidelying by himself, he holds on with both hands while I clean the "upside". From our experience, I would say good investment - should keep you independent longer and help protect both you and your caregiver if you become weaker. Nice thing is, now don't have a huge hoyer lift sitting in the middle of a room or hallway. The legs are tucked under the hospital bed and it placed the lift bar directly over his head. A win-win situation. Was tired of slamming my toes into the thing and now it is out of the way and being used multiple times a day!