what type of bed ???

[freefairy]

Hello All

My mum is needing to get a bed downstairs for dad, she wants to get a metal sprung sofa bed so it isn't so obvious to guests it's a bed! My nurse/social worker friend has advised that if dad deteriorates and the bed needs raising for further care then a sofa bed will be useless.

Has anyone else come across this problem before and has advice on whether a metal sprung sofa bed would be good or to get a single divan?

Thankyou Sheryl x

 

[Colin Cosgrove]

Hi Cheryl,

I think your friend might have a point – is this going to be your dad’s main bed? If so, your mum really does need to think about your dad’s needs later on. As he progresses, his care needs may be such that he’ll need a lot more support and assistance than a sofa-bed can offer. And in my personal experience, event the most comfortable of sofa-beds is not the same as a proper bed.

You could really do with specialist advice before you make any decisions about what to buy – have you had any contact with an occupational therapist? An OT should be able to determine what your dad’s needs are now, and make a reasonable assessment of what he may need in the future – he or she may also have details of beds that would be particularly suitable.

Alternatively, the Disabled Living Foundation (DLF) is a charity that specialises in information on equipment for disabled people. Obviously, they won’t know the specifics of your dad’s situation, but they will be able to give you some advice and information, and they also have a number of showrooms across the country where people can come and try out items before they buy them. Their website, www.dlf.org.uk, has a comprehensive information sheet on choosing a bed, but you would probably also benefit from speaking to one of the specialist advisors on their Helpline. The number is 0845 130 9177, and they operate from 10-4, Monday to Friday.

Hope that’s some help anyway.

All the best,
Colin.

 

[freefairy]

Hi Colin

Thank you for the advice, i will pass on the info to mum to let her know the options she has. After talking to her about sofa beds and them not being as comfy and supportive as a normal bed i think she is going to opt for a single bed instead, especially as this will be dads main bed.

Thank you again.
Take care

Sheryl

 

[Chesca]

Dear Sheryl

When I first read the post title my immediate thought was: a four poster, with integral chiller cabinet and remote control, with room service provided by George Clooney. However, I now see that as ever am completely off course. Sorry about that!

I agree about the sofa beds. Regardless of how much you spend they do not have much longevity and are certainly uncomfortable in my experience. We had one some years ago, not so affectionately referred to as the 'sarcophagus'. It may be better to spend wisely now, looking to the future, rather than have to buy twice. One way to disguise a regular bed would be to buy lots of rather large scatter cushions and place them against the wall after covering the bed with a pretty throw. A pseudo sofa. Or.....you could find a board, not to heavy, to serve as a level top and throw something over - hey ho, you've a table. Bit time-consuming that. I'd go with the cushions. Eat your heart out, Linda Barker!

Best of luck in your search. It is something I'm going to have to look into soon - Mum is in need of a new bed in the nursing home. So thanks for all of the above information.

Best wishes
Chesca