How to Make a Bed Safe for the Elderly: A Comprehensive Guide

According to a 2024 review published in PMC, falls from beds among elderly outpatients are a prevalent issue, with many resulting in significant injury. Taking proactive steps to improve bed safety can dramatically reduce the risk of falls and help seniors maintain their independence. This guide will show you how to make a bed safe for the elderly by addressing key risk factors in the bedroom.

Quick Summary

This guide provides practical solutions for enhancing bedroom safety for seniors, focusing on bed height, proper use of bed rails, and creating a clutter-free environment. Learn about essential assistive devices, lighting strategies, and mattress considerations to prevent falls and ensure a more secure sleeping space. A comparison table of bed safety products is included for easy reference.

Key Points

• Optimize Bed Height: Adjust the bed so the elderly person can sit with feet flat and knees at a 90-degree angle for safe transfers.

• Install Assistive Devices: Use bed rails, transfer poles, or trapeze bars to provide stable support for getting in and out of bed.

• Ensure Adequate Lighting: Place night lights or motion-sensor lights on the path to the bathroom to prevent nighttime falls in the dark.

• Remove Clutter and Trip Hazards: Keep all floor spaces clear of cords, rugs, and unnecessary items that could cause a fall.

• Secure Bedding and Mattress: Use a non-slip pad under the mattress and avoid slippery fabrics to prevent shifting.

• Create Roll Barriers: Utilize firm body pillows or wedge pillows along the bed's edge to prevent rolling out during sleep.

Ensuring the Right Bed Height and Support

One of the most critical factors for elderly bed safety is the height of the bed. If a bed is too high, it increases the risk of injury from a fall; if it's too low, it can be difficult to get in and out of, straining muscles and increasing instability.

How to Determine the Correct Bed Height

The ideal bed height allows an elderly individual to sit on the edge with their feet flat on the floor and their knees bent at a 90-degree angle. This posture provides a stable starting point for both sitting and standing. To achieve this, you may need to:

• Lower the bed: Bed risers can be used in reverse to lower the frame, or a new frame with a lower profile may be considered.
• Invest in an adjustable bed: High-low adjustable beds can be lowered significantly to reduce the distance of a potential fall. Some can even lower to just 7 inches from the floor.
• Replace the mattress: An old, saggy mattress can be difficult to rise from. A newer, firmer mattress can provide better support and make movement easier.

Using Assistive Devices for Getting In and Out of Bed

Beyond adjusting the height, several devices can offer additional support:

• Bed Assist Rails: These smaller rails provide a sturdy grab bar for leverage when transitioning from lying down to a seated or standing position. Many models feature storage pockets for keeping essentials nearby.
• Transfer Poles: A floor-to-ceiling pole offers 360-degree support and can be a safer alternative to some bed rails, particularly for those with greater mobility challenges.
• Trapeze Bars: For individuals with upper body strength, a trapeze bar mounted over the bed can help them reposition themselves or pull up to a seated position.

Creating a Clear and Well-Lit Bedroom Environment

Clutter and poor lighting are primary culprits for falls in the bedroom. A clear pathway is essential, especially for nighttime trips to the bathroom.

Eliminating Obstacles

• Declutter the floor: Remove shoes, laundry hampers, and any unnecessary furniture that obstructs the path to and from the bed.
• Secure cords: Bundle and secure all electrical cords from lamps, phones, and other devices against the wall or furniture legs to prevent tripping.
• Remove or secure rugs: Loose throw rugs are a major tripping hazard. Either remove them entirely or use double-sided tape or a non-slip pad to secure them firmly to the floor.

Enhancing Lighting for Nighttime Safety

• Night lights: Install night lights along the pathway to the bathroom to provide soft, continuous light.
• Motion-activated lights: These are particularly effective, as they automatically illuminate the area when a person gets out of bed, minimizing the need to fumble for a switch in the dark.
• Easy-to-reach lamp: Ensure there is a lamp with a large, accessible switch on a bedside table. Motion-sensing lamps are another excellent option.

Addressing Bedding and Mattress Issues

Even the mattress and bedding can impact an elderly person's safety. Slippery fabrics or poor support can increase the risk of an accident.

Bedding Considerations

• Non-slip fabrics: Avoid overly slippery sheets or pajamas made from materials like satin or acetate, which can cause someone to slide off the bed.
• Mattress grippers: If the mattress or topper tends to slide, a non-slip mattress gripper pad can hold it firmly in place.
• Avoid overstuffing: Do not use so many pillows or blankets that they create a fall hazard by piling up on the floor.

Mattress and Positioning Aids

• Pressure-reducing mattresses: For seniors who spend a lot of time in bed, a quality mattress designed to prevent pressure sores is essential for skin health.
• Bed wedges and pillows: Wedge pillows can provide comfortable support for breathing and circulation. For individuals at risk of rolling out of bed, placing a long, firm body pillow or a specifically designed wedge pillow along the edge can act as a barrier.

Comparison Table: Bed Safety Products

Feature	Bed Assist Rail	Floor-to-Ceiling Pole	Adjustable Bed	Fall Mat
Function	Provides a grab bar for leverage when entering/exiting the bed.	Offers 360-degree support for standing, repositioning, and transferring.	Electronically adjusts bed height and position for easy entry and exit.	Cushions a fall if it occurs, reducing the risk of serious injury.
Installation	Easily slides between the mattress and box spring, secured by a strap.	Can be installed from floor to ceiling or floor to wall, often requiring no permanent fixtures.	Varies by model; often requires professional setup or assembly.	Placed on the floor next to the bed; requires securing to avoid creating a trip hazard.
Pros	Affordable, easy to install, portable, and includes storage options.	Extremely sturdy, provides full-body support, and can be used as a transfer aid.	Highly customizable, reduces strain, and can improve sleep quality with adjustable positions.	Provides peace of mind, especially for those at high risk of falls.
Cons	Not suitable for all bed types or mattresses; can be a risk if not securely anchored.	More expensive and less discreet than a simple rail; can feel institutional.	High cost, can be very heavy, and may require a new mattress.	Can be a tripping hazard if not properly secured and can feel bulky in the room.

Conclusion

Making a bed safe for the elderly involves a multi-pronged approach that addresses both the immediate sleeping area and the surrounding bedroom environment. By adjusting the bed to a proper height, incorporating assistive devices like rails or poles, ensuring adequate lighting, and removing potential tripping hazards, caregivers and seniors can create a much more secure and accessible space. Regularly assessing and modifying the bedroom layout as needs change is an ongoing process. These simple, yet effective, changes can significantly reduce the risk of falls and allow seniors to maintain greater independence and confidence in their homes.

For more information on general home safety for seniors, visit the National Council on Aging website at https://www.ncoa.org/.

Keypoints

• Adjust bed height for easy access: The ideal bed height allows an individual to sit with feet flat on the floor and knees bent at 90 degrees.
• Install bed assist rails or poles: These devices provide a stable grip for leverage when getting in and out of bed, minimizing fall risk.
• Enhance bedroom lighting: Use night lights or motion-activated floor lights to ensure pathways are well-lit, especially for nighttime trips.
• Remove all floor clutter and hazards: Keep the area around the bed clear of items like cords, shoes, and loose rugs to prevent tripping.
• Secure the mattress and bedding: Utilize non-slip mattress gripper pads and avoid slippery bedding fabrics to prevent sliding.
• Consider adjustable or low-profile beds: For individuals with more advanced mobility issues, an adjustable bed or a hospital-style bed can offer a higher level of safety and support.

Faqs

Q: What is the most important safety feature to add to an elderly person's bed? A: While several factors contribute to safety, a sturdy and securely installed bed assist rail is often the most important feature. It provides crucial support for getting in and out of bed, a common time for falls.

Q: Are bed rails safe for everyone? A: Bed rails are generally safe when used correctly, but they are not suitable for all individuals, particularly those with dementia or who are prone to entrapment. A full safety assessment is always recommended, and alternative options like floor-to-ceiling poles or fall mats may be safer.

Q: How can I prevent an elderly person from rolling out of bed? A: You can create a physical barrier using a long, firm body pillow or a wedge pillow placed along the edge of the bed. Some people also use pool noodles rolled in a fitted sheet to create a subtle bumper.

Q: What is the ideal mattress for elderly bed safety? A: A firm, supportive mattress is ideal because it makes it easier to move and get up from the bed. Overly soft or sagging mattresses can increase the difficulty and strain involved in standing.

Q: What should I do about nighttime trips to the bathroom? A: A clear path to the bathroom is essential. Use motion-activated night lights to illuminate the path automatically, and ensure assistive devices like a walker are within easy reach of the bed.

Q: Should I remove area rugs from the bedroom? A: It is highly recommended to remove all loose area rugs, as they are a significant tripping hazard. If a rug is necessary, it must be secured firmly to the floor with double-sided tape or a non-slip pad.

Q: What are the benefits of an adjustable bed for elderly safety? A: Adjustable beds allow for independent head and foot elevation, which can improve circulation and reduce strain. Many models also have a high-low function to set the bed at a safe height for transfer, minimizing fall risk.

Citations

• Secure Safety Solutions: Bedroom Safety for Seniors: Practical Tips to Prevent Falls, Boost... - https://www.securesafetysolutions.com/bedroom-safety-guide-for-seniors/
• Home2stay: 5 Tips for Improving Bedroom Safety for Older Adults - https://home2stay.com/blog/5-tips-for-improving-bedroom-safety-for-older-adults
• United Zion Retirement Community: 10 Tips for Avoiding Nighttime Falls for Seniors | Elderly Fall Prevention - https://www.uzrc.org/blog/health-wellness/tips-for-avoiding-nighttime-falls/
• Network Health: How to Keep Elderly from Falling Out of Bed and Other Bedroom... - https://networkhealth.com/grow-in-the-know/2024/03/how-to-keep-elderly-from-falling-out-of-bed-and-other-bedroom-safety-tips
• ElderLife Financial Services: Bedroom Safety Modifications for Seniors Aging in Place - https://www.elderlifefinancial.com/resources/bedroom-safety-modifications-for-seniors-aging-in-place/
• Elderly Caregivers: Creating a Safe Bedroom for Seniors: Essential Tips - https://www.elderlycaregivers.org/creating-a-safe-bedroom-for-seniors-essential-tips/
• Hudson Surgical Supplies: How to Set Up a Safe Bedroom for Your Aging Loved One - https://www.hudsonsurgical.com/blog/post/how-to-set-up-a-safe-bedroom-for-your-aging-loved-one-practical-tips-trusted-products
• Secure Safety Solutions: Bedroom Safety for Seniors: Practical Tips to Prevent Falls, Boost... - https://www.securesafetysolutions.com/bedroom-safety-guide-for-seniors/
• Lunderg: Medline Bed Assist Bar: Product and Offers - https://lunderg.com/bed-rails-for-seniors/?attribute_select-size=17.5+inches&attribute_select-style=Without+Bag&srsltid=AfmBOopmKKrsqJhz4NwfgWuk2uA_5uBV_BjyL4cLNz-sVz0cTAVAZ3ZzUH0
• Innovage: Avoiding Falls at Home - https://www.innovage.com/innovage-news/three-tips-to-avoid-falls-at-home
• VEVOR: VEVOR Trapeze Bar for Bed Mobility: Product and Offers - https://www.vevor.com/bed-safety-handles-rails-c_12422/vevor-trapeze-bar-for-bed-mobility-250lbs-bed-trapeze-with-clamps-metal-chain-p_010234133774?adp=gmc&srsltid=AfmBOopFon57Zs0NPpGVdy6EnIFZC3238xY_VrqsEj0h0NFnhVWCxU-0aAQ
• Lunderg: lunderg Bed Rails for Seniors with Motion Light and Optional Storage Pocket: Product and Offers - https://lunderg.com/bed-rails-for-seniors/?attribute_select-size=17.5+inches&attribute_select-style=Without+Bag&srsltid=AfmBOorVTd4yHO4qlLek2XT5D9f71t0XUnUYudCLEv3LoWEg7gtefguavKQ
• Gorilla Grip: Gorilla Grip Original Slip Resistant Mattress Gripper Pad: Product and Offers - https://gorillagrip.com/products/mattress-gripper-1?variant=50022860259644&country=US&currency=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&srsltid=AfmBOoqJvBpLvauuxpYKpydoSOGCOAAZgt4AQqoiUdhhEcLzS9sUgHQR2Hc
• National Institutes of Health (NIH): Falls From Beds Among Elderly Outpatients: Injuries and Outcomes - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11064969/
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA): A Guide to Bed Safety Bed Rails in Hospitals, Nursing Homes ... - https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/hospital-beds/guide-bed-safety-bed-rails-hospitals-nursing-homes-and-home-health-care-facts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important safety feature to add to an elderly person's bed?

While several factors contribute to safety, a sturdy and securely installed bed assist rail is often the most important feature. It provides crucial support for getting in and out of bed, a common time for falls.

Are bed rails safe for everyone?

Bed rails are generally safe when used correctly, but they are not suitable for all individuals, particularly those with dementia or who are prone to entrapment. A full safety assessment is always recommended, and alternative options like floor-to-ceiling poles or fall mats may be safer.

How can I prevent an elderly person from rolling out of bed?

You can create a physical barrier using a long, firm body pillow or a wedge pillow placed along the edge of the bed. Some people also use pool noodles rolled in a fitted sheet to create a subtle bumper.

What is the ideal mattress for elderly bed safety?

A firm, supportive mattress is ideal because it makes it easier to move and get up from the bed. Overly soft or sagging mattresses can increase the difficulty and strain involved in standing.

What should I do about nighttime trips to the bathroom?

A clear path to the bathroom is essential. Use motion-activated night lights to illuminate the path automatically, and ensure assistive devices like a walker are within easy reach of the bed.

Should I remove area rugs from the bedroom?

It is highly recommended to remove all loose area rugs, as they are a significant tripping hazard. If a rug is necessary, it must be secured firmly to the floor with double-sided tape or a non-slip pad.

What are the benefits of an adjustable bed for elderly safety?

Adjustable beds allow for independent head and foot elevation, which can improve circulation and reduce strain. Many models also have a high-low function to set the bed at a safe height for transfer, minimizing fall risk.