1. Improved Comfort for Extended Use

One of the main benefits of a hospital bed is the comfort it provides for long periods of use. People who are bedridden or require extended rest can experience discomfort and fatigue from lying flat on a regular mattress. Hospital beds allow for customizable adjustments that can improve comfort levels, such as adjusting the head or foot of the bed to a more natural position.

This customization helps alleviate pressure points, reduce discomfort, and improve sleep quality. For individuals with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, or those recovering from surgery, the ability to adjust the bed can make a significant difference in overall comfort, reducing the risk of sores and fatigue.

2. Enhanced Safety and Fall Prevention

Falls are a leading cause of injury for people who have limited mobility or are bedridden. Traditional beds may not offer the necessary support to keep someone safe. Hospital beds are designed with built-in safety features, such as adjustable heights and side rails, which help prevent falls and provide better security for those in need of assistance.

Hospital beds can be raised or lowered to a suitable height, reducing the risk of injury when transferring in and out of the bed. Some models also have side rails that can be raised to keep the patient secure. These features help caregivers provide better support and give individuals more independence while reducing the risk of accidents.

3. Better Positioning for Medical Needs

Hospital beds are designed to offer precise positioning that may be necessary for medical treatment. Many health conditions, such as respiratory issues, heart problems, and digestive disorders, benefit from specific positions that ease symptoms or improve circulation.

For example, elevating the head of the bed can help patients with breathing difficulties, such as those suffering from sleep apnea or COPD. Likewise, elevating the legs can improve blood circulation, which is helpful for individuals with mobility issues or those recovering from surgery. These adjustable settings allow for optimal positioning that a traditional bed simply cannot offer.

4. Easier Caregiving for Family and Professionals

Caring for a loved one who requires assistance can be physically demanding. A hospital bed can make caregiving easier and more efficient, reducing the strain on family members or caregivers. The ability to adjust the height of the bed means caregivers can work at a more comfortable level, whether that’s bending over or standing next to the bed.

For caregivers, this means less bending and lifting, which can prevent strain and injury. Additionally, hospital beds offer easy access for administering medical treatments, changing dressings, or helping with personal care tasks. This accessibility reduces the need for patients to be moved from room to room or repositioned constantly, making caregiving more manageable and less stressful.

5. Support for Post-Surgery and Injury Recovery

Recovering from surgery or a significant injury often requires a special environment that supports healing. A hospital bed offers features that promote optimal recovery by providing a comfortable, adjustable sleeping surface that can be adapted to a person’s needs as they heal.

For example, after hip or knee replacement surgery, patients may need to keep their legs elevated to reduce swelling and improve blood circulation. Similarly, individuals recovering from back surgery might benefit from a position that keeps their spine properly aligned. Hospital beds allow for these adjustments, promoting faster healing and better overall recovery.

6. Improved Hygiene and Maintenance

Maintaining proper hygiene is critical for individuals who are immobile or bedridden, as it can prevent infections and promote better health. Hospital beds are designed to make it easier to manage hygiene, as they can be adjusted to allow for easier access during cleaning and personal care tasks.

For example, patients can be positioned in a way that makes it easier for caregivers to perform activities like bathing, changing sheets, or repositioning to prevent bedsores. Many hospital beds are also designed with materials that are easy to clean, further enhancing the ability to maintain a hygienic environment. These beds can make it simpler for both the patient and the caregiver to maintain cleanliness, helping to prevent infections and improve comfort.

7. Long-Term Investment in Health and Comfort

Although the initial cost of a hospital bed may seem higher than that of a standard bed, it is important to consider the long-term benefits it provides. A hospital bed is an investment in the health and comfort of a patient and can reduce the likelihood of complications related to poor positioning, improper care, and discomfort.

By improving the patient’s quality of life, preventing falls, and making caregiving easier, a hospital bed can actually help reduce healthcare costs over time. Fewer trips to the hospital, fewer injuries, and better overall health management can save money in the long run, making a hospital bed a worthwhile investment for many households.

Conclusion: A Wise Investment for Quality Home Care

A hospital bed is more than just a piece of furniture—it’s a crucial tool for enhancing the comfort, safety, and well-being of individuals in need of long-term care. Whether it’s helping to manage medical needs, providing comfort during recovery, or making caregiving easier, a hospital bed can significantly improve the home care environment.

By offering adjustable positioning, improved safety features, better hygiene, and enhanced comfort, hospital beds support both patients and caregivers in a way that traditional beds cannot. If you or a loved one requires home care, investing in a hospital bed can help ensure that the care provided is as efficient, safe, and comfortable as possible. At MED+ Medical Equipment Distribution Inc., we offer a variety of hospital beds and home care solutions designed to meet your specific needs, ensuring better care and a higher quality of life for all.

The post 7 Reasons Why a Hospital Bed Could Be a Good Investment for Improved Home Care of a Loved One appeared first on MedPlus.

Grab Bars

Grab bars are a fundamental safety feature in bathrooms. They provide stability and support when entering or exiting the shower or bathtub, as well as when maneuvering around the bathroom. Install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub to assist with sitting down, standing up, and maintaining balance.

Choose grab bars that are specifically designed for bathroom use and can support the weight of the user. Ensure they are securely mounted to the wall with strong anchors or by attaching them to studs. Non-slip grips or textured surfaces on the grab bars can further enhance safety.

Shower Chairs or Benches

Shower chairs or benches are invaluable for individuals who have difficulty standing for extended periods or are at risk of falling in the shower. These chairs provide a stable and secure seat while bathing, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Look for shower chairs or benches with non-slip rubber feet and a sturdy construction. Adjustable height options are beneficial for accommodating different individuals and ensuring a comfortable sitting position. Some models also have built-in armrests and backrests for added support and comfort.

Non-Slip Bath Mats and Strips

Bath mats and adhesive non-slip strips are essential for preventing slips and falls in the bathroom, particularly in the shower or bathtub. These products create a non-slip surface, reducing the risk of accidents caused by wet and slippery floors.

Choose bath mats or strips with a strong grip and anti-slip properties. Look for mats with suction cups on the bottom for secure attachment to the surface. Ensure they are resistant to mold and mildew and are easy to clean.

Raised Toilet Seats

A raised toilet seat can significantly improve bathroom safety, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or difficulties getting up from a seated position. These seats increase the height of the toilet, making it easier to sit down and stand up without straining.

Select a raised toilet seat that is compatible with your existing toilet and securely attaches to the bowl. Some models come with padded or contoured seats for added comfort. Ensure the seat has a locking mechanism to prevent it from shifting during use.

Handheld Showerheads

Handheld showerheads offer flexibility and convenience, allowing users to direct the water flow and easily reach different areas of their bodies. This is especially beneficial for individuals who have difficulty moving or standing for long periods in the shower.

Install a handheld showerhead with an adjustable height and a long hose to provide ample reach. Opt for models with an easy-to-use on/off switch and various spray settings for individual preferences. Make sure the showerhead is securely mounted and easily accessible.

Toilet Safety Frames

Toilet safety frames are supportive structures that can be attached to the toilet, providing stability and assistance when sitting down or standing up. These frames typically have armrests that offer support and leverage, reducing the strain on the legs and back.

Choose a toilet safety frame that fits securely around the toilet and is height adjustable to accommodate different individuals. Look for models with padded armrests for comfort and a sturdy construction to ensure stability.

At MED+, we can help you find the right bathroom safety product to help you improve safety. You can rent or buy directly from us. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions.

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The post 6 Bathroom Safety Products to Prevent Falls appeared first on MedPlus.

Here are nine tips to help you choose the right hospital bed for your home care needs:

What Are the Patient’s Needs?

The first step in choosing a hospital bed is to determine the patient’s needs. Consider the patient’s height, weight, mobility, and any medical conditions that may require special features such as adjustable head or footrests, side rails, or pressure relief systems.

How Much Space is Available?

Consider the space available in the patient’s room when choosing a hospital bed. Measure the room and ensure that there is enough space to accommodate the bed, as well as any necessary equipment and accessories.

Choose the Right Size Bed

Choose a bed that is the appropriate size for the patient. Standard hospital beds typically come in twin, full, and queen sizes. Selecting the right size bed will ensure the patient’s comfort and safety while they sleep or rest.

Select the Right Type of Mattress

The mattress is a critical component of the hospital bed. It should provide proper support and comfort to the patient. Choose a mattress that is appropriate for the patient’s medical condition and needs, such as pressure relief or alternating pressure mattresses.

What Adjustability Features do you Need?

Many hospital beds are adjustable, allowing the patient to change the position of the bed to achieve maximum comfort and safety. Look for beds that offer adjustments for the head and footrest, as well as the bed height.

Check the Weight Capacity – Does it Meet your Needs?

Check the weight capacity of the hospital bed to ensure that it can safely support the patient’s weight. This is particularly important for patients who are overweight or obese.

Does The Bed have the Safety Features you Require?

Hospital beds come with a variety of safety features, including side rails, locking mechanisms, and emergency alarms. Evaluate the safety features of each bed you are considering ensuring that it meets the patient’s safety needs.

What Are Your Mobility Needs?

Consider the patient’s mobility needs when choosing a hospital bed. Look for beds that are easy to move, such as those with wheels, and that can be adjusted to a height that makes it easy for the patient to get in and out of bed.

Think About Maintenance and Repair

Finally, consider the maintenance and repair needs of the hospital bed. Look for beds that are easy to clean and maintain and that have a reliable warranty or service plan in case repairs are needed.

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Manual or electric?

In general, there are two main types of hospital beds, manual and electric. A manual bed is a basic model that will have some additional features. An electric bed includes a variety of additional automatic features that allow you to move the head and foot of the bed, raise and lower, and perform other functions electronically.

Bed rails

Bed rails are an important feature to consider if there is a risk of patients falling out of bed. There are several red rail styles to consider. Think about the type that would be ideal for the person using the bed.

The mattress

The type of mattress you choose will have a substantial impact on comfort. Just like with traditional beds, you have a lot of options to consider. The type of mattress you require can depend on your current health conditions and mobility limitations. How much time you spend in bed is another key feature. If you are completely bedridden, you would need a mattress that is better equipped for this situation.

Remote controls

The ability to adjust your bed at the click of a button is an attractive feature for those who have mobility limitations. There are bed controls that allow you to adjust the headrest, footrest, side rails, and even contact people for assistance if you have an emergency. The types of controls available will depend on the bed manufacturer.

Wheels

Do you need a hospital bed that will need to be moved around, or will a stationary bed suffice? Many bed styles come with wheels. If you need a bed with wheels, you need to think about the type of wheels you should choose. This will be based on how often you plan to move or shift the bed.

Check Out Our Full Selection of Hospital Beds

At MED+, we offer a full selection of hospital beds for our patrons to choose from to rent or purchase. Our professional team can help you choose the right bed to meet your unique needs. Check out our selection of hospital beds.

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The post 5 Important Features to Consider When Choosing a Hospital Bed appeared first on MedPlus.

Naturally, one of the most common questions we receive from customers and their caregivers has to do with how they will get the equipment. Do they have to come and pick it up? Will we deliver it? Some of the equipment is big, bulky, and extremely heavy. It would be impossible for you to pick it up unless you had a large truck.

MED+ delivers right to your door. This ensures you get the equipment you need, hassle-free. We’ll bring it right into your home and ensure it’s set up properly. We do this to ensure nothing gets damaged in transit and so you can have peace of mind in ensuring you get the assistance you need.

Here’s a sample of some of the products we’ll deliver right to your door:

Hospital Beds

Hospital beds are extremely large and heavy. Let our experienced team handle the transport and set up of a hospital bed in your home. Shop our selection of hospital beds for rent.

Transport Chairs

Allow us to transport your transport chair to you. Even though they are light and compact, we don’t mind bringing them to you. Shop our selection of transport chairs.

Ramps

If you need a ramp, there is a good chance you’ll need us to deliver it. Ramps can be long and require some expert knowledge to install properly. Allow us to handle it. Shop our selection of ramps.

Walkers & Canes

If you need a walker or cane, there is a good chance you won’t have the ability to come and pick it up from us. So, we’ll bring it to you. Shop our selection of walkers and canes.

Bathroom Safety Equipment

Our customers commonly rent a variety of bathroom safety equipment from us, not just one item. So, we’ll deliver it to you and ensure it’s installed securely. Shop our selection of bathroom safety products.

Check Out Our Selection of Rental Products

MED+ offers a wide selection of rental products. Whether you are looking for a single item or need a combination of rental items we can help. To get started, fill out the form on our rentals page. Once you complete and submit the form, one of our representatives will call you shortly to discuss your needs. We’re happy to answer your questions and ensure you choose the right assistive device to meet your needs.

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The post 5 Rental Products MED+ Delivers To Your Door to Provide Safety & Comfort for Your Loved Ones appeared first on MedPlus.

Your need for a hospital bed will depend on many factors. It comes down to your specific situation. Perhaps the biggest consideration is if you should buy a hospital bed or rent it. Below, our team has put together a list of 5 important factors to consider before you decide to buy or rent:

What is your health/ mobility situation?

Your health will always play a role in your need for health equipment for your home. When assessing your need for a hospital bed so should also be thinking about your health. Will your current condition improve? Will it get better or change over time? Will this affect your need for a hospital bed at home.

How long do you need the hospital bed?

The length of time you anticipate you or a family member will need the bed is a top consideration. If you only need it for a short period, then buying a hospital bed probably doesn’t make sense. But if you need it for a long period or potentially permanently, then buying the bed may be a better financial decision for you.

What features do you want or need?

The types of features you want to include as part of your bed may or may not be available if you choose to rent your bed. You may have fewer options to choose from if you rent. If you plan to buy a bed, you can customize it to your specific needs. You can personalize it to your preferences.

Quality and condition

There is always a quality difference when considering new versus used anything. When you buy a new hospital bed, you’ll be the first person to use it. Everything will be in pristine condition. When you rent, the bed you want could come in a variety of conditions.

Payments

When you buy a bed, you’ll have to pay for it upfront. It is a new financial responsibility you will need to take on until it’s paid off. When you rent, you will be able to make a monthly payment for the duration of the time you use the bed.

Check out our hospital beds and rentals

Whether you are thinking about buying or renting, we offer a great selection of hospital beds. We also offer a selection of hospital beds and accessories for rent. Check out our rentals section.

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The post Renting a Hospital Bed Vs. Buying a Hospital Bed – 5 Factors to Consider Before Making a Decision appeared first on MedPlus.

Here are 3 reasons why stair lifts are the right choice for seniors who live in a multi-story home:

Safety

Safety is always a prime concern as you get older. Having mobility issues is common among seniors. Going up and down the stairs become increasingly challenging as we age. And the stairs are certainly a fall hazard for people of any age, not just seniors.

Installing a stair lift in your home will immediately make it safer for you. There is significantly less of a chance that you will have a fall if you use a stair lift. The lifts are designed and installed specially for your stairs and your mobility needs. They are easy to use and have a variety of safety features that will make it easier for you to go up and down the various levels in your home.

Accessibility

Accessibility is another issue that can creep into our lives as we age. If you have trouble with stairs, then you could be limited to how often you use them. In some cases, you may not be able to access certain levels of your home because the stairs prevent you from doing so. By installing a stair lift, you will instantly be able to access all levels of your home with ease. You can enjoy all areas of your home and not feel like you are restricted to certain areas.

Peace of mind

Having peace of mind in knowing you have additional safety measures in place can help reduce your fear of falling. You will have confidence in your ability to access all areas of your home. But it’s not just peace of mind for you. Your partner, children, and other family members will also feel better about you are living at home and going up and down the stairs if you have access to a stairlift.

Check out Our Selection of Stairlifts

At MED+, we offer a selection of stairlift solutions. We have options for all types of staircases. Please look at our stairlifts. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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The post 3 Reasons Why Stair Lifts are the Right Choice for Seniors Living in a Multi-Story Home appeared first on MedPlus.

“100% of ER doctors in the U.S. and Canada say it’s very important for adult children to take one day each year to perform a safety check of their ageing parents’ homes. But in the last year, only 44% (41% in Canada) have done this,” says CaregiverStress.com.

The good news is there are opportunities to make a home safer for senior living:

Eliminate Tripping Hazards

Thousands of seniors visit the hospital each year because of slip and fall accidents. Many potential tripping hazards can be removed from homes. Simple things like removing throw rugs, and reducing clutter are effective preventative measures.
Pets are also another tripping hazard. It’s important to make sure pets have a safe place to be when seniors are moving through the home, especially a person who has mobility issues.

Make Transitions Easier

Making it easy for seniors to come in and out of the house, get in and out of the bathroom, and move more freely through the home will improve safety. You can install a raised toilet seat and grab bars in the bathroom or consider adding a ramp instead of stairs on the exterior of the house.

Improve Reachability

It is important for seniors to have access to the things they need and use frequently. For example, you can make it easier for them to turn on the lights by lowering the switches and putting them in more convenient locations. You can move cookware to lower cupboards, and you can ensure all things seniors use frequently are easy to get to.

Consider Smart Home Devices

Technology can make things easier for seniors to stay in their homes longer. There are many smart devices today that can make living at home easier. Getting a voice-activated assistant, doorbell camera and being able to access lights and locks using a smartphone will allow seniors to perform tasks without having to move around.

See Our Bathroom Safety Products

At MED+, we offer an extensive selection of safety products for seniors and anyone with mobility issues. We offer everything from bath lifts, mats, grab bars, raised toilets and seats, shower chairs, benches, and much more. Contact us anytime to inquire about our product offerings.

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The post 4 Opportunities for Making a Home Safer for Senior Living appeared first on MedPlus.

Your bathroom can be a dangerous room, especially for those who are older or have mobility issues. It is a common location for slip and falls and other injuries. So, its important to take bathroom safety seriously. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Below we outline 5 great benefits of using bathroom safety products in your home:

Prevent injuries from happening in the bathroom

Installing bathroom safety measures in your home will help reduce the odds of an injury occurring. A substantial number of the falls that seniors experience happens in the bathroom. You can fall when getting in and out of the bathroom, you could slip in the shower or on the wet floor, or you could fall when transitioning on or off the toilet. Installing things like grab bars, and anti-slip mats can reduce the odds of you having a fall.

Greater independence

Using bathroom safety products will enable you to do more without the aid of others. It helps you keep your independence to a greater degree. We all want to be independent. But this ensures you are doing in safely.

You can stay at home longer

The more you do to secure your home and make it a safer place to live, the longer you will be able to remain in your family home. This starts with the bathroom and extends throughout your home. Safety products can be used by you and in conjunction with support workers or family members to help you keep an independent lifestyle.

Peace of mind for you and your family

Installing bathroom safety produce will give you peace of mind. It will also make your family members feel better about you living at home. Everyone can rest easier knowing that you are taking proactive steps to ensure you are safe.

You have lots of bathroom safety product options

Regardless of your limitations of medical condition, there are bathroom safety products that you can install in your home to help you. For example, if you can no longer stand in the shower, you can install a shower bench. Have issues with your vision? Install better lighting. Need a little extra support when getting off the toilet? Install a well positioned grab bar. There is a solution for everyone.

See Our Bathroom Safety Products

At MED+, we offer an extensive selection of bathroom safety products for seniors and anyone with mobility issues. We offer everything from bath lifts, mats, grab bars, raised toilets and seats, shower chairs, benches, and much more. Contact us anytime to inquire about our product offerings.

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The post 5 Benefits Of Using Bathroom Safety Products For Elderly appeared first on MedPlus.

The lockdowns we have been experiencing throughout the pandemic has really highlighted the importance of public spaces. Seniors, and everyone else, cannot wait to return to a time when you can go out in public more often.

When things do eventually get back to “normal” its important to make safety a priority, not only in terms of taking precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but also to ensure public spaces are accessible. As a business, municipality, public space, and as a community we need to make sure the places we value are accessible for all now and post pandemic.

Here are 5 tips for keeping public spaces safe and accessible for seniors:

Proper Maintenance

It has been well over a year since things were in full swing in public. Some businesses have been open and then closed and then open and closed again. Then there are others who have closed their doors to the public and shut down operations or migrated online. Many organizations have put maintenance on the backburner as a means cut costs. But this can also create accessibility issues for seniors. Even something as simple as a parking lot pothole, crack in the sidewalk or Wheelchair Ramps that have gone unrepaired could seniors in danger of a fall.

Seniors Hour

Restricted and limited business hours have created issues for many seniors, especially if they rely on public transportation to get around. Larger crowds during limited hours, panic buying and closing off areas of your store or property make it more challenging for seniors to get what they need. Many businesses have implemented tactics such as seniors hour and delivery services to ensure they have access to necessary products and services.

Access To Hand Sanitizer

Proper hand washing and sanitization is very important to help curb the spread of COVID. There must be proper access to hand washing and sanitization stations for all, including seniors. So, make sure seniors in Scooters, wheelchairs, and those with mobility issues can still reach and use these stations.

Social Distancing, Floor Plans, And Directions

As the pandemic progressed, social distancing became very important indoors and outdoors. To accommodate this need, companies where required to adjust floor plans, how people line up and move throughout their facilities. In doing so, situations arose where it became more challenging for seniors to move through the stores. Limited space in a grocery aisle made it more difficult for senior to complete their shopping. Or the requirement to stand in line to get into the store because of patron limits is not feasible for many people.

Companies need to give careful thought and consideration for all people. A quick floor plan decision could make it impossible for some of your patrons to use your location. For example, if you change the floor plans and directions for how you want your patrons to move throughout your building, its important for seniors to still have access to ramp and Elevators.

Prioritize Seniors And Others Requiring Assistance

Adaptability has been the key for many organizations to stay afloat during the pandemic. There has been a lot of change to how things are done and how we serve the public. If your customers cannot reach you, do what you can to reach them.

For example, curb side pick of groceries has become a highly effective way for seniors, and all others, to shop for food with minimal contact with other people. It is these types of innovations that have helped seniors and others with mobility issues continue to be able to go out in public, although in a new way.

Using the above tips will put you in a better position to ensure public spaces are safe and accessible for seniors, people with mobility issues and the general public now and into the future.

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The post 5 Tips for Keeping Public Spaces Safe & Accessible for Seniors Beyond the Pandemic appeared first on MedPlus.