The bed in the barrier-free bedroom
So that the bed can be used comfortably, the lying surface of the bed should be at a height that is appropriate for the individual body. In general, the recommendation applies that the bed including the cushions should not be higher than 55 cm (measured from the floor). You are on the safe side and very flexible with a height-adjustable bed.
As already mentioned above, the movement area along the entry side of the bed should be 150 cm for wheelchair users. People who are not dependent on a wheelchair benefit from a movement area of 120 cm on the bed entry side.
Ideally, the bed is accessible from several – ideally from three – sides, which makes work easier for caregivers.
Depending on the needs of the resident, aids to stand up or to stand up on the bed (e.g. a bed gallows) or in the immediate vicinity of the bed are a great relief.
Under certain circumstances, safety bars on the bed are useful to prevent them from falling out.
For the resident of the barrier-free bedroom, all the important functions that he individually needs in the room should be able to be operated from the bed. A light switch for the ceiling light is mandatory. Furthermore, it can be, for example, motorized roller blinds, ventilation or an intercom system.
The telephone and / or emergency call system should also be easily and quickly accessible from the bed.
Mattresses for beds in barrier-free bedrooms
The mattress should be ergonomic and optimally tailored to the individual requirements of the user. If possible, an allergy-free mattress should be chosen, as it is made of non-irritating materials and has a washable cover.
Due to the good adaptation to the body and the problem-free combination option with adjustable slatted frames, mattresses with a cold foam, visco foam or latex core are particularly suitable:
Cold foam mattresses offer a high level of breathability, as their core has an open-pore structure. This is particularly advantageous for people who sweat a lot.
Viscous foam mattresses are characterized by a particularly precise adaptation to the individual body contours, as they give way (thermoelastically) when exposed to pressure and temperature. They therefore offer very good pressure relief. However, particularly with higher viscose foam cores, it can be negative that the foam only returns to its original shape with a time delay. A change in position can accordingly be associated with greater effort.
Latex mattresses are very elastic and flexible. Their disadvantage is often their higher dead weight, which makes it difficult to handle the mattress, for example for regular turning and turning as part of mattress care.
Bedridden people or people who often spend a lot of time lying down in bed can benefit from a so-called decubitus mattress or anti-decubitus mattress. These mattresses are characterized by a particularly high pressure relief, which helps to prevent bed sores, which can occur when one lies in an almost unchanged position for a long time.
Slatted frames for beds in barrier-free bedrooms
Slatted frames serve as a spring base for the mattress in the bed. Their properties should therefore be matched to the mattress in order to be able to optimally support it in its function.
A height-adjustable slatted frame makes an important contribution to getting up easier.
By using an electrically adjustable slatted frame, the head and foot sections of the lying surface can be individually positioned, for example to relieve veins by putting the legs up or to read with the upper body comfortably upright.
With a specially designed slatted frame (see also: insert frame), it is possible to provide a conventional bed frame with important functional properties for care or more comfort.
Bedding for beds in barrier-free bedrooms
When choosing bedding in the form of pillows and duvets, the individual needs of the user – e.g. with regard to the warming effect of the duvet or the suitability for a certain sleeping position of the pillow – are decisive. In addition, the choice of non-irritating materials or allergy-friendly products is also recommended.
For additional mattress protection and to ensure a high level of hygiene, we recommend the use of a mattress topper (if necessary, waterproof). Molton or Kalmuck products are ideal here, for example.
If an electric blanket is to be used in the bed to cover an increased heat requirement, it should be ensured that it complies with all safety standards and has the appropriate test marks. The electric blanket must not get too hot and it should be possible to regulate the heating effect. After a certain time, the electric blanket should also switch off automatically. For optimal bed hygiene, the electric blanket should be washable.
