1. Enhanced Safety: One of the key advantages of using bed rails for disabled adults and children is the increased safety they provide. Bed rails act as a physical barrier, preventing accidental falls during sleep, especially for those who may have difficulty with movement or balance. This feature significantly reduces the risk of injuries, particularly for elderly individuals who may have fragile bones or individuals with disabilities who have limited mobility.
2. Increased Independence: Bed rails not only offer safety but also promote independence for disabled adults and children. By having a sturdy handrail to hold onto, individuals can confidently maneuver themselves in and out of bed without needing assistance from others. This freedom allows them to maintain their sense of autonomy and dignity, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Cons:
1. Entrapment Risk: While bed rails are designed to prevent falls, there is a potential risk of entrapment between the rail and the mattress or between the rail's openings. This risk is particularly heightened for individuals with cognitive impairments, such as dementia or confusion, who may unknowingly place themselves in hazardous positions. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to choose bed rails with proper spacing between the bars and ensure regular monitoring for any signs of entrapment.
2. Limitations for Bed Transfers: Bed rails can sometimes restrict certain movements and make bed transfers more challenging. This limitation can create difficulties for caregivers who need to assist disabled adults and children in repositioning or transferring them from the bed to other surfaces, such as wheelchairs or commodes. Care should be taken to select bed rails that allow easy access and maneuverability, such as those with removable or foldable sections, to alleviate these challenges.
Overall, the use of bed rails for disabled adults and children presents advantages in terms of enhanced safety and increased independence. However, it is essential to be cautious about the potential risks of entrapment and limitations for bed transfers. By carefully considering these pros and cons, caregivers can make informed decisions about whether bed rails are suitable for their loved ones, ensuring their well-being and comfort.
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However, good sleep hygiene practices and behavioral changes are known to target underlying symptoms of insomnia and improve your sleep quality. Some people also swear by prescription drugs that provide relief.
This article explores how sleep hygiene practices and prescribed allopathic medications help cure insomnia.
But what out of the two ways is better? What will permanently keep those symptoms at bay instead of simply providing a quick fix? Let’s find out.
Insomnia is a sleep-related disorder that causes a person to experience difficulty going to bed or staying asleep. People may suffer from acute or short-term insomnia and chronic insomnia.
Insomnia results in fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and an overall sense of confusion and brain fog. Over the years, it can also significantly reduce the quality of your life as it slowly chips away at the immune system’s ability to fight.
More serious ramifications of insomnia include increased susceptibility to heart disease, obesity, and high blood pressure.
Many factors, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, chronic stress, and major lifestyle changes, can cause insomnia. Mental health disorders are the most common cause of insomnia.
Let’s take a look at two main ways we can combat insomnia symptoms and improve the quality of our sleep.
Allopathic medications work wonders for treating sleep-related disorders. While there’s no doubt that they promote relief, they come with many disclaimers and side effects.
The FDA has approved a class of medications known as sedative-hypnotic drugs for insomnia treatment. Zolpidem, triazolam, trazodone, and quazepam are a few common ones. Benzodiazepines are a class of sleeping pills prescribed for short-term relief from sleep deprivation.
Benzodiazepines and zolpidem have a sedative effect on us. They work by increasing the effects of GABA in our bodies, causing our muscles to relax by reducing anxiety and adrenaline. GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, helps regulate emotions, memory, and breathing.
In short, most medications used to treat insomnia work by targeting and slowing down receptors in the nervous system.
While these solutions are very effective, they also cause serious side effects and interact negatively with other drugs or substances. Some of these drugs are chemically habit-forming, which means you can develop addictions to them.
Overdosing and taking sleeping pills longer than prescribed can result in dizziness, dry mouth, brain fog, increased tolerance to the drug, difficulty with motor coordination, and an unsteady gait.
It can lead to addiction and cause mental health disorders. In severe cases, abuse of these drugs can be life-threatening.
This is not to say that medication is not important. When insomnia takes over your life and turns into a vicious cycle, sometimes, the only way to break it is by visiting a sleep clinic and getting a prescription from a medical professional.
Medications provide relief, giving us the tools to work holistically to cure insomnia. Regular counseling and psychiatric medication work well together if you have mental health disorders that can cause insomnia.
It’s always important to supplement medication with lifestyle changes. Drugs only go as far as treating the symptoms, but behavioral changes and good sleep hygiene can address the root cause of your insomnia.
Sleep hygiene is the practice of implementing behaviors that promote a good night’s sleep. It entails altering environmental conditions, incorporating alternative therapies, and changing habits to manage insomnia.
Here are some ways to ensure good sleep hygiene.
Guided meditations and mindfulness help us focus on breathing to alleviate stress and tense muscles. Incorporating a five-minute guided meditation into your daily bedtime routine can lower your heart rate and reduce shallow breathing.
Before you protest, hear us out. If you’re a regular smoker and consume alcohol frequently, you might want to start thinking about reducing these habits to maybe once a week.
While alcohol is a sedative, prolonged use can cause disruptions in your sleep cycle. It can suppress your REM sleep, the deep sleep most important for our bodies. Alcohol consumption can set you up to develop insomnia, even if you don’t have it already!
If you drink coffee, finish your last cup of the day before 5 pm. The stimulant effects of caffeine can last for hours after consumption.
Avoid eating a large meal right before bedtime; it can interfere with a full sleep cycle. Give your body two or three hours to digest your dinner before hitting the hay.
Lower your lights at least an hour before bed. Watching TV, working on your laptop, or scrolling on your phone is not a good idea if you’re winding down. The screen brightness tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, so you don’t feel sleepy.
Keeping your room cool, quiet, and dark will communicate to your body to kick-start drowsiness.
Sometimes, respiratory disorders can interfere with deep sleep. Intuitive products are available for sleep and respiration therapy to help with ventilation and promote deep sleep.
Believe it or not, research states that music therapy is very effective in treating insomnia. The repetitive notes, slow rhythms, and soft beats can induce a sedative effect. It’s like someone singing a lullaby to get a child to sleep—adults can benefit from it too!
Several people also use white noise to help them calm down. Sometimes, a stark quietness can be disturbing. Hearing a fan rotate or the gentle pitter-patter of rain can help you relax.
Using Youtube to find white noise sounds is a cost-effective way to manage insomnia.
Anxiety, fatigue, and heavy stressors worsen our sleep quality. Aromatherapy is a great alternative way to help reduce these negative feelings. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, jasmine, and peppermint are inexpensive ways to promote sleep.
The active ingredients in lavender, like linalyl acetate, are known to reduce nervous system activity, lower heart rate, and trigger emotional responses to aid better sleep!
To sum up, there are significant benefits to using medication and sleep hygiene practices to cure insomnia. Medication should be used to treat serious, chronic conditions and only to supplement good sleep hygiene practices.
Implementing lifestyle and behavioral changes is ultimately the most effective way to successfully manage and prevent insomnia.
]]>Telemedicine is the practice of connecting to a doctor via technology even when the patient is not physically present. Patients can see doctors via phone and obtain healthcare and prescriptions.
In this article, we will discuss what telemedicine is, how it differs from telehealth, and its benefits.
Telemedicine is a service that relies on communication technology to connect patients to healthcare providers. You can get consultations, diagnoses, treatment plans, and prescriptions from the best doctors and specialists online.
It comprises all the different ways you can connect to your doctor online—emails, instant messaging, phone calls, or video calls.
Its roots stem from the 19th century when people used telegrams and radio broadcasts and made phone calls to doctors during wars and challenging times.
The widespread prevalence of the internet and technological advancements have allowed us to share high-quality images and videos, making remote practices like telemedicine very convenient.
Telemedicine has proven to be very useful for patients who need follow-up visits and routine checkups. Patients who suffer from chronic ailments and need specialist checkups prefer to use this method.
Some doctors may use portals or apps for their patients. You can check with your healthcare provider if your general practitioner or specialist is available on such platforms.
Create a username for telemedicine apps, set up a profile, and add your medical history. By doing this, you can find different doctors and specialists to address your concerns.
Some doctors even allow telephonic consultations or video calls to have virtual appointments. This can happen without a portal or app as well—simply set an appointment to call your doctor.
Telehealth encompasses a broader range of technologies targeted toward improving the healthcare system as a whole, besides providing care for patients. It includes services like doctor and medical staff training, administrative meetings, and medical awareness and education programs.
Telehealth refers to non-clinical services, whereas telemedicine is geared towards clinical consultations and diagnosis.
Now that we know what telemedicine is, we can discuss why it’s so beneficial in society today. In the wake of the pandemic, the need for virtual spaces for clinical consultations has increased.
Here are some advantages of telemedicine.
You can conveniently set up an appointment with a doctor from the comfort of your home. When we’re ill, the thought of sitting in a germ-filled waiting room is very unpleasant.
You save energy, time, and resources and probably feel better resting as you get help from a medical professional remotely.
If you work a day job, you’d know that it's almost impossible to go to a clinic during visiting hours. With telemedicine, you can get a consultation as you take your 10-minute break between work.
If you’re mentally or physically disabled, or without a carer, this is a fantastic way to seek help.
If you need someone to accompany you to the doctor, it can be tough to align your schedules. With an online consultation — you can phone in your family members, friends or partner to be present.
This can help them learn about your condition and understand treatment plans better, as they hear it right from the professional. You can also connect with family members in other countries who can listen in and provide support.
Many rural communities don’t have the privilege of being close to hospitals or healthcare centers. People living in the outskirts or rural areas and villages can access top-quality healthcare, so long as they have a device.
This improves the standard of living for everyone.
If you suffer from a chronic disease, ailment, or injury — you don’t need to go through the trouble of making monthly or weekly visits to your doctor. Telemedicine greatly reduces the harrowing waiting time, packed waiting rooms, and general discomfort of healthcare.
Simply set up virtual appointments with your usual doctor to update them about your reports, health status, and routine blood work.
Thanks to telemedicine, therapy and counseling for mental health patients are now incredibly accessible. Some people prefer virtual counseling sessions to meeting their psychologists in person.
Many individuals with anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, phobias, or bipolar disorder find it difficult to leave their homes or safe spaces. Being able to have a session online liberates them from this fear and gets them help at the right time.
In some cases, a diagnosis can be more accurate when a healthcare practitioner can see your home environment. This helps them understand you better.
ENT specialists can identify allergens in your environment, and physical therapists can guide you to do exercises on video calls instead of making weekly visits.
It’s important to distinguish between a health condition, injury or ailment that a virtual appointment can resolve and an emergency situation. If you or someone you know are gravely injured, have collapsed, or become unresponsive, call 911.
Telemedicine is only to be used as a substitute for visiting a clinic, general practitioner, or specialist. It is not a replacement for going to the emergency room.
Though there may still be occasions when you need to see your doctor in person, thanks to telemedicine, you don't have to do it all the time.
Telemedicine has established itself in today's fast-paced world. The importance of easily accessible healthcare has never been more apparent. Telemedicine allows patients to discover the best doctors and receive high-quality diagnoses and treatments without compromising their time or personal safety.
Thanks to modern technology, however, we have CPAP and BIPAP machines that can help facilitate rhythmic breathing to promote a good night’s rest. These machines send a constant supply of air into your lungs as you sleep. The pressured air keeps your respiratory tracts open and allows you to have deep, uninterrupted sleep.
CPAP and BIPAP machines are the highest ranked when it comes to managing sleep disorders.
In this article, we’ll learn about how these machines work, their benefits, and how they’re different from each other.
A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine, or CPAP machine, is a device prescribed by doctors to help manage sleep apnea and other related sleep disorders.
As the name suggests, this device sends a continuous flow of pressurized air into your airways through your nose or mouth. This gentle force allows any blockages or collapses in your airways to open up.
Through its motor, it maintains a steady breathing rhythm with purified and filtered air. This ensures that your lungs get a good supply of oxygen as you sleep. Say goodbye to constantly waking up in the middle of the night.
The CPAP machine consists of a flexible tube, a motor unit, a cushioned mask and headgear, and adjustable straps that you can fit comfortably over your face.
A full mask is prescribed if you tend to breathe through your mouth or have a block in your nose. It is triangular and covers your nose and mouth.
This mask is engineered to fit even if you wear glasses or have a lot of facial hair. The cushion rests over your nose, and there may be prongs to insert into your nostrils for better airflow.
This mask is suitable for people who tend to toss and turn in their sleep. Similar to a nasal pillow mask, this mask has a cushioned part that goes covers your nose fully.
A Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure machine, also called BiPAP or BPAP machine, is another device used to facilitate better breathing during sleep. It ventilates your airways by sending pressurized air to your lungs.
The BIPAP machine has different settings that help promote better oxygen supply and reduce levels of carbon dioxide. What also sets this machine apart is that it has two air pressure modes — one for inhalation and another for exhalation.
When you breathe in, the device will amp up the air pressure. This is referred to as inspiratory positive airway pressure.
When you breathe out, it diffuses or reduces the air pressure. This is known as expiratory positive airway pressure. These specific settings promote a comfortable night’s sleep.
BIPAPs are tabletop units that include a face mask, nasal mask, nasal plugs, a tube, and a motor to deliver air. You can get portable ones that are suited for home use. Most commonly, they’re used in hospitals to help patients with compromised breathing.
Now that we know what CPAP and BIPAP machines are, let’s get into what makes them different.
Often, the CPAP machine is the first line of treatment for obstructive sleep disorders. The patient is encouraged to get used to the CPAP mask first to treat or manage their symptoms.
When the CPAP fails or proves to be uncomfortable, then BIPAP machines are utilized to help facilitate breathing.
The CPAP machine has only one setting for airway pressure and maintains it at a continuous pace throughout the night. The single pressure setting works better for milder cases of sleep apnea.
The BIPAP machine has two airway pressure settings — a higher one for inhalation and a lower one for exhalation. It is a better option for those who suffer from low blood oxygen levels as it lets you take in a bigger breath and helps you slowly release the carbon dioxide from your lungs.
CPAP devices are very easy to use and can even be used while traveling. It’s a simple mask that fits over your nose and mouth area. And since it only has one setting, you don’t have to do too much to set it up.
BIPAP machines are slightly larger and made for home use. It will need to be calibrated and adjusted to the specific settings as per your doctor’s prescription. Having your respiratory therapist set up your BIPAP with the correct settings and time limit is very important.
CPAPs are most commonly used for obstructive sleep apnea and mild sleep-related disorders.
BIPAPs, on the other hand, help manage various other disorders like chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), central sleep apnea (CSA), obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
They’re also used in hospitals as non-invasive ventilators for emergency situations.
The CPAP is a simpler device that consists of fewer parts and settings than a BIPAP machine. A CPAP can cost anywhere between $250 and $1000.
The average cost of a BIPAP machine is $1000–$6000. The higher price is justified because these machines have two air pressure settings, the ability to set time limits, and more components.
You must adhere to the minimum use guidelines of CPAP therapy. If these machines are prescribed, they need to be used for at least 4 hours during sleep, or as guided by your physician.
It takes 4-6 weeks for your symptoms to get better and for the treatment to kick in.
Your doctor will generally prescribe a sleep apnea-compliant CPAP machine to start with and then gauge whether you need a BIPAP in case the CPAP doesn’t help.
Both of these devices are extremely effective and are considered to be the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment. Your course of treatment will depend on the kind of disorder you have. We hope this article helped you better understand these machines and their distinct purposes!
]]>Thankfully, we have medical insurance plans to mitigate this problem. Most plans cover a huge chunk of costs related to treatment, bills, prescription drugs, etc. But, if your claim has a mistake in it or has not been filed correctly, health insurance companies can reject it.
Here are a few reasons why your medical insurance company can disqualify your claim and not cover your healthcare costs. Read on to learn how to avoid these common mistakes!
If your medical claim contains incomplete, inaccurate, or misleading or misrepresented information, your claim can be rejected. Most companies require critical information about your medical history and personal details such as pre-existing conditions, employment status, nature of the injury/ health complication, age, income, current insurance plan, etc.
If any of this information is wrong or incomplete, medical insurance companies can reject your claim and clarify what was wrong with it. The good news is you can correct your claim and supplement it with the correct, factual information and evidence.
If medical insurance companies deem that your condition did not require hospitalization or a specific treatment plan that you were on, then your claim can be denied.
When this happens, you can disclose more details like doctor’s notes and recommendations about your injury or condition to make your case stronger.
After your health issue or injury, you have a stipulated amount of time to apply for your medical insurance depending on the company.
This waiting period is generally 60-90 days from the date of discharge.
While it may be the last thing you want to deal with after you’ve suffered ill health, filing the claim within this period is important. If you exceed this timeframe and file your claim after it’s over or near its end, your claim will be disqualified. There isn’t much else you can do in this case.
Every medical insurance plan comes with its set of terms, conditions, and exclusions. Exclusions consist of special circumstances such as certain diseases or cosmetic surgery, for example, for which insurance cannot be claimed.
If your condition falls under an exclusion, then the company will reject your claim. In order to avoid this, read your policy documents carefully and take time to understand each exclusion outlined.
Each company and plan will state a clear amount or sum of money insured. Depending on the plan you have chosen for yourself or your family, you will have a yearly limit on the amount of insurance you can get.
If your accident or illness treatments require an amount beyond the sum insured, then your claim will be disqualified. This also applies if you’ve used up your yearly limit already and need to file another claim.
If your medical insurance plan has expired, then you cannot file for a new claim to cover your costs. It’s thus important to constantly be updated with your insurance plan.
Make sure you renew your insurance when you know it’s about to expire. Most plans are usually valid for a year. You should keep an eye on your policy expiration date to avoid a claim rejection when you need it the most.
Renewing your policy also has its upsides, like paying lesser premiums.
This is a tricky one. While it is certainly possible for you to get coverage for a health issue while having a pre-existing condition, companies are known to reject claims on this basis.
The good news is that, according to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies can no longer deny claims because of pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes or asthma. They cannot limit benefits or refuse to cover treatment.
However, the exception to this law are the “grandfathered” policies, or policies that were bought before 2010. These may be an individual policy you bought for yourself or for your family from an agent.
Such plans can lose their “grandfathered” status if they make major changes that either increase consumer costs or reduce benefits. These plans must also be disclosed.
Make sure you check whether your policy falls under this criteria so you can switch to a more beneficial plan.
Always go through your medical insurance plan thoroughly before agreeing to sign any documents or paying the premiums. Understand each clause, term, and exclusion in the policy before choosing a plan.
Being smart with your choice of insurance plan will help you in the long run. Some plans work better for families while some are better for individuals.
If you have pre-existing health conditions, you might want to consider a plan that doesn’t have a long waiting period, even if that means paying a higher premium.
Compare different health insurance plans online to see what you are getting and whether you can find better options elsewhere.
Keeping all of your hospital records, files, reports, scans, and prescriptions in one safe place is extremely vital. Insurance companies sometimes need histories of previous illnesses and treatments for clarifications.
Understanding the common mistakes while filing a claim can help you prevent disqualification from your insurance company in times of need. Insurance is there to help us, and not add to our stress.
Do your research thoroughly and choose a policy that best meets your requirements. Read through your policy to gauge its terms and conditions correctly so there is no room for a rejection later.
In case you have any questions regarding a rejected insurance claim or need help during the process of filing a claim, feel free to contact us at Celesticare.
]]>Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people across the globe. Apart from a lack of sleep, people suffering from insomnia can also experience a reduced quality of life and major health ailments like diabetes.
The good news? Insomnia is curable and can be managed with targeted treatments. Lifestyle changes and therapy, for example, are known to help manage symptoms of insomnia effectively.
In this article, we will discuss what insomnia is, the signs to look out for, as well as explore ways to manage it.
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects adults and adolescents. It causes you to be unable to fall asleep even after repeatedly trying or to keep waking up in the middle of the night often, resulting in daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
“Various studies worldwide have shown the prevalence of insomnia in 10%–30% of the population, some even as high as 50%–60%. It is common in older adults, females, and people with medical and mental ill health.” — NIH (National Institute of Health).
There are two main types of insomnia — short-term and chronic. With short-term insomnia, this condition can last for just a few weeks, typically less than 3 months, and goes away without treatment (acute).
With chronic insomnia, however, the condition is persistent and may last for years. With chronic insomnia, it’s important to treat the underlying symptoms and use different types of therapies to see what works best.
Apart from these two forms of insomnia, people also experience this disorder in other ways. There are other types of insomnia that affect falling asleep or staying asleep.
The specific cause of insomnia remains unknown, but various factors are known to trigger or cause insomnia. These causes can differ from person to person. Here are some of the major culprits that cause insomnia.
While there is no established cause of insomnia, there are certain factors that make you more susceptible to insomnia or exacerbate the condition. These include:
Insomnia also affects women more than men and is more common in older adults. Although behavioral insomnia can affect children as well.
There are many ways in which insomnia can manifest. The intensity of these symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, can be life-threatening.
Now that we’ve covered some of the major symptoms, let’s look at the different complications that may result from this sleep disorder.
Insomnia is very manageable and can even be fully cured. Often, a holistic approach to treating this sleep disorder that addresses its root cause is known to be more effective.
Changing small things in your daily routine can vastly improve your symptoms. For example, if you love your caffeine, avoid having coffee anytime after 5 pm. Coffee is an active stimulant and can keep you up for hours after consumption.
Another good practice in sleep hygiene is to turn off all light sources at least half an hour before going to bed. This means no TV, phones, or laptops. Choose to read a book instead of scrolling through your phone.
A sedentary lifestyle also makes it impossible for you to exert any energy. Include some form of exercise in your daily routine to move your body and get your muscles working.
Waking up at the same time every day, regardless of when you have slept, is a good first step to establishing a new routine for your body.
If you’re an afternoon napper, try to skip those siestas until your symptoms improve.
Change your patterns of thinking from negative to positive. If you anticipate a sleepless night, change your thoughts from “I am going to ruin my day tomorrow because I won’t sleep” to “if I can try to relax my mind, my body will feel calmer and take care of the rest.”
If your insomnia is persistent and is beginning to disrupt your daily life, it’s recommended that you visit a sleep clinic and speak to a professional about getting medication that can help. These are not long-term solutions but they can alleviate the symptoms and offer some relief.
Insomnia is a vicious cycle. Prescription drugs can help break this cycle of no sleep and help you get the energy to work on long-term effective therapy.
However, these medications can be habit-forming and have dangerous side effects. Make sure you follow your doctor’s prescriptions to a T, do not overuse the drugs, and stop the medication when you have to.
Therapy and counseling care effective treatments for insomnia. Insomnia often gets triggered because of anxious thought patterns, depressive episodes, or trauma related to upsetting life events.
Being able to process these events, unlearn your trauma responses and try healthy coping mechanisms can reduce many symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), for example, uses three specific steps to target insomnia. They are stimulus control to avoid feeling restless and relax your body, sleep restriction to restrict your time in the bed, and bright light therapy to expose yourself to bright light in the daytime.
Aromatherapy and massages are proven to promote relaxation, help calm the senses, and bring mindfulness into our daily lives. Using scents like lavender, ylang ylang, chamomile, and peppermint can help you get a better night’s sleep.
Massage therapy improves blood circulation, relaxes tight muscles, and reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) in the body. It helps you relax and drift into sleep more easily.
Insomnia is a difficult condition to live with but making small lifestyle changes and getting appropriate help can help you manage your symptoms effectively. The best cure for insomnia is implementing behaviors that improve your overall lifestyle and promote good sleep hygiene.
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While hospital beds and long-term care beds both aim to maximize healing, comfort, ergonomics, and mobility while minimizing risks of falls, they cater to different medical needs and patients, depending on whether they require inpatient or ambulatory care or palliative or convalescence care.
Here we explain the differences between both types of beds and how you can select the right one for your specific needs.
Hospital beds are specialized beds that are designed to meet the needs of patients admitted to hospitals. Their special features serve a dual purpose; the comfort of the patients and the convenience of the health care workers.
Their unique feature is that they can be raised or lowered from the head as well as the feet of the bed. Raising the bed at the head, commonly known as the Fowler’s position, allows the patient to be seated upright. Raising the bed at the feet allows the lower extremities of the patient to be elevated which may be a requirement for certain medical conditions.
Hospital beds also have adjustable side rails that prevent patients from falling out of bed and also allow them to get in and out of bed easily by adjusting the rails. Some hospital beds also come with an in-built control panel on the side rails or headboard that allows patients or medical staff to adjust the bed without manually having to do so. The control panel may also be used to control other elements in the hospital room, such as a television, air conditioner, fan, or lighting.
Most hospital beds also have lockable wheels which allow for the easy movement of the bed within the room or the facility for treatment purposes.
Long-term care beds are just what the name implies: beds that are designed for long-term care. Long-term care beds are typically used in nursing homes, palliative care facilities, assisted living centers, rehab centers, and residential homes. They are used for patients who have recovered sufficiently to be discharged from the hospital or those who do not need emergency medical care but are still unable to move around or perform daily functions such as eating, bathing, etc. on their own. Such patients require a different type of bed that caters to their specific needs and condition, and this is where a long-term care bed comes in.
Long-term care beds or nursing home beds are available in different sizes depending on the height, weight, and size of the patient. These beds also have a special high/low feature that allows them to be raised much higher off the ground or lowered to just a few inches above the ground. This is particularly helpful for patients with dementia or other mental health illnesses.
Nursing home beds can also be customized with accessories such as customized mattresses, soft-touch rails, lighting, overbed tables, and so on that provide ease to the patient and the caregiver.
There are many differences between hospital beds and nursing home beds or long-term care beds that make them suited for different purposes and needs. While the main difference, as their names suggest, is that hospital beds are used for inpatient treatment or ambulatory care in hospitals and the latter is used in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes, there are also major differences in their structure, design, features, and customization.
Hospital beds are fully adjustable, while nursing home beds are usually not. Hospital beds have adjustable rails, while nursing home beds may not have rails at all. However, they can be customized and fitted with side rails. Hospital beds may also have a control panel fitted on the headboard or side rails, which nursing home beds do not have.
However, hospital beds come in a standardized size which may make it difficult for bariatric patients or those with physical disabilities to shift or reposition themselves easily. Due to this, hospital beds may not be suitable for such patients as they require a bed size that is larger than a standardized hospital bed. Long-term care beds, on the other hand, come in different sizes that help patients of any age, height, size, or medical condition find a bed that is right for them.
Nursing home beds can also be customized with a wide range of bed accessories as mentioned above, while hospital beds are not so easily customizable. This makes nursing home beds more apt for long-term medical care as they can provide a greater level of safety, comfort, and ergonomics to the patient and caregiver. The high/low feature or height adjustability of long-term care beds also sets them apart from hospital beds that generally do not have the feature.
By now, you would have understood the major differences between hospital beds and nursing home beds or long-term care beds, and whom they benefit. Hospital beds are more suited for patients who require medical procedures or emergency medical care, while nursing home beds cater to patients who require long-term palliative care and assisted living or even short-term convalescent care.
Nursing home beds are also more apt for patients suffering from obesity and chronic physical or cognitive disabilities or impairments such as spinal cord injuries, dementia, etc., as they require height adjustability for easily getting in and out of bed as well as a large-size bed to comfortably move around in. Nursing home beds also easily accommodate kids as they come in small sizes as well, making these beds suitable for all age groups.
Deciding on whether you need a hospital bed or a long-term care bed may be daunting. But we hope our handy guide helps you select the right healthcare bed for your purpose, and you get the best care and comfort you need.
If you still need help, we at Celesticare are always here to support you with our extensive experience with respect to healthcare beds and mobility aids. Contact us for a free consult service and get the support you need from our team of experts.
Here’s our safety beds and long term Beds manufacturers:
1- Beds By George
2- Sleep Safe Beds
3- Flexabed
4- Assured Comfort
In fact, in many parts of the world talking about depression or any other mental health issues is still considered taboo. What’s more shocking is that while people with special needs are more susceptible to depression, many of them are not given due treatment in time or even diagnosed early on.
Let’s take a deeper look at depression in people with special needs and how staying active and engaged with their community may help alleviate symptoms of depression.
A medical illness that may arise due to various factors, depression can have far-reaching effects including the risk of social and cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and suicidal tendencies.
Symptoms include irritability, aggression, anxiety, insomnia, excessive sleeping, loss of appetite, weight gain/loss, lack of concentration, and decision-making skills, lack of confidence, disinterest in activities, social withdrawal, suicidal ideation, self-harm, among others.
It is therefore becoming increasingly important to not only deliver medical care to specially-abled people on time, but also increase their engagement within their families and communities. This will give them a feeling of connectedness to others and help them overcome depression and suicidal tendencies.
While depression is prevalent among those with special needs, it is even more common among the specially-abled female population. Depression also affects children with special needs. Hence, it is more important than ever to normalize depression and its treatment, especially among people with special needs.
It is important to understand why people with disabilities have depression in order to create a better healthcare system for them. While the causes of depression are common among those with and without special needs, such as loss of a loved one, loss of a job and so on, certain factors particularly affect people with special needs. Listed below are some of the factors that lead to depression in people with special needs:
People with disabilities have always been looked down upon by “normal” people. As a society, we tend to marginalize people with special needs and they are often considered a liability or burden by families, friends, the education system, and even by potential employers.
Most often people with special needs are pitied, sidelined, and avoided, if not outrightly ridiculed and shunned. Lack of information, faulty perceptions, feelings of superiority, etc. have propagated negative stereotypes towards specially abled people by individuals and the society at large.
People with special needs are often victims of physical, verbal, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Abuse of children with special needs is more common and happens over a longer period, as they are more vulnerable than the adult population. Those with an inability to speak or communicate are at greater risk of depression and suicide, as they may not even be able to understand what’s happening to them, much less express their situation to caregivers or seek help from the legal system.
People with special needs often find it harder to secure employment or gain access to other sources of financial aid due to social stigma and stereotypes. This can lead them down the rung of financial independence and into impoverishment and depression.
Due to social stigma, stereotypes, abuse, poverty and lack of or limited social connection, people with special needs often suffer from a loss of identity and self-esteem. This results in depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses.
People with disabilities have a greater need for healthcare access, especially those suffering from depression. But lack of healthcare either due to neglect or inaccessibility can lead them further down the rabbit hole of mental illnesses, putting them at greater risk of suicide.
The following approaches are recommended to help people with special needs overcome depression and live a happier, more fulfilling life:
Families and friends of those with special needs will have to pay more attention to their wards and look for signs or symptoms of depression. They will have to be cognizant of even the slightest changes in the behavior of the differently-abled person, especially those unable to communicate clearly. People with special needs, too, must be encouraged to communicate to their loved ones when they can about their stressors and condition. Talking to others with special needs can also help in battling depression.
Frequent medical check-ups can help diagnose mental illnesses at the earliest and enable people with special needs to receive the medical attention and treatment they need.
Doctors treating persons with special needs need to be more proactive in scheduling regular check-ups for their patients. They should also be willing to visit the residence of their patients, if possible, and try to understand their medical needs. This will go a long way in ensuring that depression in people with special needs is addressed early on.
The society and community must take more efforts to study depression and understand the plight of those with special needs suffering from depression and other mental disorders. They must create the right infrastructure and support system that can support the condition and well-being of people with special needs. People, especially children, must be encouraged to spend time with such individuals and interact with them with compassion, understanding, patience, and grace instead of shunning and sidelining them. The specially-abled population, too, must come forward and increase their engagement with their community so as to foster a deeper sense of connection, purpose, and camaraderie.
People suffering from disabilities usually do not go out and interact with others in their community due to lack of mobility. Mobility aids such as mobility scooters, manual and power wheelchairs are a wonderful way to enhance personal mobility and move around the neighborhood or even far-off areas. By using such mobility aids, people with special needs can go out and socialize more with others and quell the feelings of insecurity or inferiority that may accompany disability.
Here’s the mobility aids list
1- Manual Wheelchairs
2- Power Wheelchairs
3- Mobility scooter
An extensive overhaul of social attitudes and infrastructure is needed on the part of all stakeholders of the society to help people with special needs lead a better, happier, and emotionally fulfilled life. Collective efforts on a regular and sustained basis is the key to social transformation.
]]>Sleep problems can be more pronounced in the disabled population with at least 40% of them suffering from chronic sleep issues. Safety beds are a handy solution for disabled people and children who are unable to sleep soundly or stay in bed at night.
While safety beds are not recommended to everyone who suffers from sleep issues, the following factors can help you decide if you need one and what to consider when selecting the right safety bed for your needs.
Special needs (Safety) beds are enclosed beds with side rails that keep its occupant from climbing or falling out of the bed at night. These rail guards keep the user in and act as grips for climbing in and out of bed.
They may feature edges without gaps to prevent entanglement between the mattress and rails, and bars to provide visibility between the user and caregiver. Certain safety beds may also have easy access ports for tubes and cords that may be required for medical apparatus.
Children, the elderly, and those with mental health issues such as dementia and autism may be prone to night wandering, thereby exposing themselves to danger. Also, those with physical disabilities like RLS (restless legs syndrome), PLMD (periodic limb movement disorder) or REM (rapid eye movement) sleep behavior disorder may fall out of bed during the night due to sudden bodily movements. Such people also need a safety bed to prevent them from falling out of the bed.
Choosing the right safety bed can be difficult as there are a lot of elements that need to be considered. Moreover, safety beds are expensive and come in a variety of models. If you choose the wrong one, you may end up with a useless product that is a waste of time, energy, and money.
This is where consulting services come in. Consulting services can help you understand how to choose the right product and how to choose accessories to ensure maximum safety and functionality for your loved one.
The selection and consideration process is important and can save you a lot of grief in the long run. However, a lot of people overlook this aspect only to find that the product they have chosen does not meet their specific needs. Some of the important factors that need to be considered before buying a safety bed are listed below:
If the user has been diagnosed with any illness, disorder, or disability, be it mental or physical, the safety bed should prevent falls, night wandering, as well as entrapment. The right accessories also go a long way in enhancing bed safety.
In case medical equipment is required near the bed to monitor the patient’s health, the safety bed must have access ports so that cords and tubes can be easily connected to the patient.
Perfect choice for children with Autism
You need to consider whether the product is for an adult or a child in order to choose a bed that is the right size in terms of height and length. The bed’s occupant should not only be able to fit in the bed, but should also be able to turn and reposition him or herself with ease. The occupant should also be able to climb in and out of the bed easily.
Another factor that you need to consider is if the user is active or bedbound. If the patient is bedbound or prone to night wanderings, due perhaps to conditions like RLS and PLMD where they may fall out of bed, they need a more secure bed with high rails.
On the other hand, overweight patients who have trouble moving around can benefit from a resilient mattress that’s designed to redistribute pressure and reduce friction.
People suffering from urinary or fecal incontinence (loss of bladder or bowel control) tend to fall out of bed and need appropriate safety measures. They also need to get out of bed easily so that they can go to the bathroom.
While the rails and sides should be high enough to prevent falls, it should be easy enough for them to release the side rails so they can get out of bed when needed. When choosing accessories, you may also opt to add an easy to clean mattress overlay and a contoured and comfortable bedpan with adequate capacity for holding liquids.
If the user suffers from seizures, he or she may be prone to falling out of bed. The bed should be wide enough so that the person can move in the bed without hurting their body against the sides in case of sudden movements. The safety bed may also be fitted with bed rail pads or side rail pads to prevent such injuries in the event of a seizure.
If the patient has difficulty swallowing food or there are other feeding-related issues, the safety bed must have access ports to allow tubes and cords to pass through for feeding the patient. The bed may also have to be adjustable so that it can be lowered or raised when needed.
Bed accessories such as bed frames and side rails can prevent falls and improve balance when the user sits up or climbs in and out of bed. Choosing the right bed mattress is equally important while buying a safety bed since the mattress needs to be the right size in relation to the bed frame and have useful features for the user..
Finding the right safety bed can be a difficult, time-consuming, and exhausting task. We at Celesticare can make it easier with our vast knowledge and experience regarding hospital beds, special needs beds, medical supplies, scooters, and lifts.
We love talking to our customers and helping them select the right products for their needs. Consult services are free so leave us a message and we’ll be right with you.
Here are samples
Fixed bed
1- Beds By George-Haven Bed
Travel-inflatable bed
2- Safe Place bedding
People with dementia often have a harder time falling and staying asleep, which can take a toll not only on their health but also on that of their loved ones. Here is what we know about sleep and dementia, and how to get dementia patients to sleep at night.
The relationship between dementia and sleep is a bidirectional and complex one, as dementia causes sleep disorders, and lack of proper sleep also leads to cognitive decline thus increasing the risk of dementia. Research is still on to fully understand how dementia affects sleep and vice versa. But what we do know is this: dementia causes damage to cells in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the part of the brain that controls the circadian rhythm and acts as the central pacemaker or timekeeper in the body, thereby regulating all physiological functions.
It is the circadian rhythm that determines our sleep-wake cycle by factoring in the presence or absence of sunlight. When our circadian rhythm is affected, we have difficulty following the cues provided by the light in our environment. Hence, patients with dementia often tend to fall asleep during the day and stay awake at night. This phenomenon is called daytime napping. Dementia may also cause sundowning, a phenomenon in which patients become restless, irritable, anxious, agitated, or aggressive in the evenings.
Besides daytime napping, insomnia, depression and sundowning, dementia patients may also suffer from the following sleep disorders:
OSA is a common form of sleep apnea in which the throat muscles relax, causing breathing to repeatedly stop and start.
RLS or Willis-Ekbom Disease (WED) is a condition in which one experiences a strong, uncontrollable urge to move one’s legs. It is accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as aching, throbbing, itching, crawling, or pins and needles sensation in the lower limbs.
PLMD is a disorder in which patients may repeatedly move their arms and/or legs during sleep. Unlike RLS which may occur even when you’re awake, PLMD only occurs during sleep.
Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder is a disorder in which a person acts out vivid dreams with sounds and/or sudden bodily movements.
While it may be difficult to understand how to keep dementia patients in bed at night, you can try the following sleep aids for dementia patients.
While sunlight exposure is known to benefit everyone, it can work wonders for people with dementia. Since the circadian rhythm of dementia patients is greatly affected due to the damage of cells in the SCN, exposure to sunlight every morning can help regulate circadian rhythm, enabling patients to sleep better at night.
Walking, cycling, light gymming and other forms of exercise done at regular times daily can help people with dementia sleep better at night. It also reduces daytime napping, anxiety, and depression, thereby promoting all-round health and well-being.
Studies suggest that physical exercises may prevent or attenuate the risk of dementia, and promote a sense of purpose, enjoyment, and social connection among dementia patients. However, always consult the doctor before starting any form of exercise. Also, avoid exercising closer to bedtime as it can negatively affect sleep.
For a person suffering from dementia and irregular circadian rhythms, stimulants such as coffee, alcohol, and nicotine can negatively impact sleep and keep them awake at night. Therefore it is wise to limit the use of these stimulants as far as possible, especially near bedtime.
Certain medications such as Cholinesterase inhibitors that are used to ease symptoms of dementia can also act as stimulants and result in insomnia. In this case, talk to your doctor and see if the medication can be taken earlier in the day to prevent interference with sleep at night.
Establishing a regular schedule for people suffering from dementia will help them get used to sleeping, waking up, eating, and performing other day-to-day functions at fixed times. This can help reset their circadian rhythm, allowing them to maintain a sense of order in their day. Also consider limiting nap times during the day so they do not stay awake at night.
Artificial light including blue light has wreaked havoc on our systems, throwing the biological clock out of whack and disrupting sleep. Numerous studies suggest reducing screen time by limiting the use of television and other electronic devices well before bedtime as blue light sends wrong signals to the brain that it is still day, thus interfering with the body’s natural circadian rhythm and impacting the quality of sleep.
Playing relaxing music around bedtime may help people with dementia sleep peacefully at night. A dark bedroom is essential to quality sleep, so invest in good quality blackout curtains and an eye mask to limit outside light coming in through the windows. Also maintain a comfortable room temperature to help the patient fall asleep faster.
The quality of the bed and bed accessories like mattresses, pillows, and rails go a long way in improving sleep hygiene. Choose a bed that is of the right height and length for the patient. It should have safety rails and guards to prevent the patient from falling out or getting out of bed at night. This is particularly important for those suffering from night wandering or other sleep-related disorders. The Slumber series Manual adjustable head and foot by Beds by George, SleepSafeII Medium Bed by SleepSafe, Signature Series Hi-Low Adjustable Beds by Assured Comfort® and FLEXABED Hi-Low SL Adjustable Bed are easily customizable and are great options for dementia patients.
The mattress should also be of the right height and length in relation to the bed or else it increases the chance of the patient getting trapped in the bed and suffering from injuries. The mattress and pillows must be firm and comfortable, too.
Melatonin, also known as the sleep hormone, increases in the body at around sunset and reduces in the morning. This is what helps us fall and stay asleep at night. In case of those suffering from dementia, the Melatonin secretion reduces, leading to irregular circadian rhythm and sleep schedule.
Check with your doctor about taking a melatonin supplement around evening or at night, to promote better sleep.
Underlying medical conditions such as anxiety, depression, RLS, sleep apnea, or pain might hinder good sleep among dementia patients and cause them to stay awake at night. Consulting a doctor who can suggest the right medication or treatment may help arrest the issue before it worsens.
Caring for a person with dementia, especially one with sleep disorders, may be a difficult task, both physically and emotionally. But with the right aids and treatment, it is possible to help a dementia patient sleep better and adapt to a healthier lifestyle.
There is a wide range of mobility aids available today, including manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. And it can get confusing to make the right choice. Purchasing a mobility device is a long-term investment, and needs to be thought through carefully before arriving at a decision.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right mobility device for your needs.
There are many types of mobility devices available in the market such as canes, walkers, walker-cane hybrids, crutches, powered wheelchairs, mobility scooters, etc. to support people with mobility issues. However, in this article, we will primarily explore wheelchairs, both manual and power wheelchairs, and mobility scooters to help you narrow down your choices and choose the right mobility aid.
Of late, mobility scooters have become a popular option among seniors with mobility problems.
Mobility scooters are typically battery-powered and have 3-5 wheels. They feature tillers, which are T-shaped steering columns, and handlebars with switches for maneuvering. They also have footplates on which the user can rest their feet. Users can mount the scooter by lifting the armrests to slide in or out.
All of these features make mobility scooters well-suited for those who lack upper body strength or suffer from posture issues or are unable to maneuver a wheelchair.
Mobility scooters are sturdy and durable and can be maneuvered over different kinds of terrain. They are best used outdoors and for long distances. They come in different sizes and designs, of which some are bulky and can’t be easily transported while others are compact enough for easy transportation. They can be faster than wheelchairs, but they may also be more expensive.
Wheelchairs are meant to be used by people who cannot walk or have been advised to not put any weight on their legs. Wheelchairs can be used over long distances and are suitable for those with severe disabilities.
There are different types of wheelchairs such as manual wheelchairs, electric or power or motorized wheelchairs, sports wheelchairs (used for sports), and standing wheelchairs (allow users to move around in a standing position). All of these are designed for specific purposes.
Let’s take an in-depth look at manual wheelchairs and power wheelchairs, which are two of the most commonly used mobility devices.
Power and manual wheelchairs are the two most common types of wheelchairs used for personal mobility. Read on to learn the major differences between them so that you can zero in on the best type of wheelchair for your needs.
Manual wheelchairs need to be controlled manually. They have 2 caster wheels at the front and 2 rear wheels. Manual wheelchairs also have different types such as foldable, non-foldable, self-propelled, and attendant-propelled.
Self-propelled manual wheelchairs have hand rims, small caster wheels at the front, and large rear wheels that help in easy maneuvering. They also have parking brakes fitted on the rear wheel tires. Attendant-propelled manual wheelchairs, also known as transport wheelchairs, have small wheels both at the front and rear along. The back of these wheelchairs also have handles that an attendant standing behind the wheelchair can use to maneuver it. These wheelchairs come with a hand-operated or foot-operated braking system.
Benefits:
Drawbacks:
Power Wheelchairs
Electric or power wheelchairs run on electric power but feature a joystick that is operated manually for maneuvering. People who are unable to use their hands to maneuver a joystick may be provided with a power wheelchair that is equipped with head switches or chin-operated joysticks.
Power wheelchairs generally have 6 wheels — 2 drive wheels and 4 smaller caster wheels that provide greater stability and balance. If you require a long-term mobility device, a power wheelchair will be the most comfortable wheelchair for you.
Benefits:
Drawbacks:
Now, power wheelchairs and mobility scooters may seem similar as they are both non-manual devices. However, there are specific differences between the two that make them uniquely suited for different needs.
Here’s a comparison between the two to help you decide which mobility aid will suit your needs:
Different mobility devices have different uses, advantages, and disadvantages. When choosing a mobility device, there are certain important factors that you must consider:
Before buying a mobility device, you need to determine whether you can operate the device on your own or if you will need assistance. If you can operate it on your own, you can opt for a self-propelled manual or power wheelchair or a mobility scooter. However, if you require assistance, an attendant-propelled manual wheelchair might be more suitable.
Your medical condition and range of mobility, i.e., which part of your body you can move, will also determine which mobility device is more appropriate for you. As previously stated, mobility scooters are more suitable for those who cannot move their upper body but are able to move their hands and possess good motor skills. For those who can move their upper body but are unable to move their legs, a wheelchair will work best.
You need to consider the duration for which you will need mobility aids. While power wheelchairs and mobility scooters are great for those who need to rely on mobility aids for longer periods, manual wheelchairs are better for those who require mobility assistance only temporarily, such as in case of emergencies, accidents, and short-term physical disorders or disabilities.
Will you be using the mobility aid indoors or outdoors? While all 3 mobility products can be used both indoors and outdoors, manual wheelchairs are easier to maneuver indoors, while power wheelchairs and mobility scooters generally work well outdoors. Among these two, mobility scooters also work better over rough and uneven terrains as they have a rugged and sturdy design that makes them more durable and versatile.
Distance is another key aspect to take into consideration. Power wheelchairs and mobility scooters are great for both long and short distances. But it is not recommended to use manual wheelchairs over long distances. If the distance is a major factor for you, look for the best type of electric wheelchair to aid your mobility.
When it comes to mobility devices, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. There are several aspects that must be considered — your medical condition, range of mobility, where you will use the mobility aid, how long you may need it, the distance you regularly travel, and even your budget.
We hope we have helped you in your search for the right mobility aid to live a better, more mobile life!
Here’s the list of
1- Manual Wheelchairs
2- Power Wheelchairs
3- Mobility scooter
Still not sure about what to choose, please Contact-Us and we will be happy to help..
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An excellent bed to accommodate people suffering from chronic back pain due to its hi-low features and massaging option.
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