Naren Somadev, Author at Information Centre for Seniors

Caring for a loved one with limited mobility can be physically demanding and emotionally draining. However, with the right tools, caregivers can make the process easier and safer. Powered patient hoists are one such tool that can significantly alleviate the burden of caregiving.

Understanding Powered Patient Hoists

Powered patient hoists are specialized lifting devices designed to assist caregivers in safely transferring patients from one place to another. These hoists are equipped with a motorized lifting mechanism that reduces the physical strain on caregivers, preventing injuries and promoting efficient patient handling.

Key Benefits of Powered Patient Hoists:

Reduced Physical Strain: Powered patient hoists significantly reduce the physical strain on caregivers, minimizing the risk of back injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders.
Improved Patient Safety: These hoists provide a safe and controlled method of lifting and transferring patients, reducing the risk of falls and accidents.
Enhanced Patient Comfort: By minimizing manual handling, powered patient hoists can enhance patient comfort and dignity.
Increased Independence: With the assistance of a powered patient hoist, patients can regain a sense of independence and participate in daily activities.
Efficient Caregiving: Powered patient hoists streamline the caregiving process, allowing caregivers to allocate more time to providing emotional and social support.

Types of Powered Patient Hoists

There are various types of powered patient hoists available, each designed for specific needs:

Mobile Hoists: These hoists are portable and can be easily moved around the home.
Ceiling Hoists: These hoists are fixed to the ceiling and provide a wide range of movement, ideal for transferring patients to and from beds, chairs, and bathrooms.
Standing Hoists: These hoists assist patients in standing up from a seated position.

Choosing the Right Powered Patient Hoist

When selecting a powered patient hoist, consider the following factors:

Patient’s Weight and Size: The hoist should be able to safely lift the patient’s weight.
Patient’s Mobility: The type of hoist should match the patient’s specific mobility needs.
Caregiver’s Strength: The hoist should be easy to operate and maneuver.
Home Environment: Consider the layout of the home and the areas where the hoist will be used.

By investing in a powered patient hoist, caregivers can provide better quality care, reduce stress, and improve their own well-being. It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals and equipment suppliers to determine the most suitable hoist for your specific needs.

Health

Manual Cots: A Foundation for Recovery and Mobility

By Naren Somadev on Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Manual cots, often overlooked in the realm of healthcare, play a vital role in supporting patient recovery and mobility. These simple yet effective tools provide a stable and adjustable surface that can significantly impact a patient’s healing journey. Let’s delve into how manual cots contribute to patient recovery and mobility.

Supporting Recovery

Optimal Positioning: Manual cots allow for precise positioning, reducing pressure points and preventing skin breakdown, a common complication for bedridden patients.
Enhanced Comfort: By adjusting the height and angle of the cot, patients can find their most comfortable position, promoting relaxation and reducing pain.
Facilitating Healing: Proper positioning can improve circulation, accelerate wound healing, and alleviate discomfort.
Preventing Respiratory Complications: Elevating the head of the bed can help alleviate respiratory issues, especially for patients with conditions like pneumonia or COPD.

Promoting Mobility

Safe Transfers: Manual cots can be adjusted to a height that facilitates safe and efficient transfers, reducing the risk of injury for both the patient and the caregiver.
Independent Mobility: For patients who are regaining their mobility, manual cots can provide a stable base for practicing sitting up, standing, and transferring.
Therapeutic Exercises: Physical therapists can use manual cots to perform therapeutic exercises, such as range-of-motion exercises and strengthening exercises.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Manual Cot

When selecting a manual cot, consider the following factors:

Patient’s Needs: Assess the patient’s specific requirements, including weight, height, and mobility limitations.
Frame Material: Opt for a durable and lightweight frame material, such as steel or aluminum.
Mattress Comfort: Choose a comfortable and supportive mattress that can be easily cleaned and sanitized.
Additional Features: Consider features like side rails, head and foot elevation, and castors for added convenience.
Ease of Use: Ensure that the cot is easy to adjust and maneuver, especially for caregivers.

Proper Care and Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and functionality of a manual cot, follow these tips:

Regular Cleaning: Clean the cot regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infection.
Inspect for Damage: Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or loose bolts, and repair or replace damaged parts promptly.
Proper Storage: When not in use, store the cot in a clean, dry place to prevent damage.
Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for assembly, disassembly, and maintenance.

By understanding the benefits and proper use of manual cots, healthcare providers and caregivers can optimize patient care and promote a smoother recovery process.

Health

Motorized Cots: A Comfortable Solution for Limited Mobility Patients

By Naren Somadev on Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Motorized cots have revolutionized patient care by providing comfort, convenience, and safety for individuals with limited mobility. These advanced medical beds offer a range of features designed to enhance patient experience and facilitate efficient care.

Why Choose a Motorized Cot?

Enhanced Patient Comfort: Motorized cots allow for precise positioning, reducing pressure points and preventing skin breakdown. They can be adjusted to various angles, supporting optimal posture and alleviating pain.
Increased Patient Independence: Patients with limited mobility can regain a sense of independence by using remote controls to adjust the bed’s position. This empowers them to take control of their comfort and reduce reliance on caregivers.
Improved Caregiver Efficiency: Motorized cots streamline caregiving tasks. Nurses and caregivers can easily reposition patients, reducing the risk of injury to both the patient and the caregiver.
Safety Features: Many motorized cots come with safety features like side rails and alarm systems to prevent falls and accidents. These features provide peace of mind for patients and their families.

Key Features of Motorized Cots:

Height Adjustment: Easily adjust the bed’s height to facilitate patient care and transfer.
Backrest Inclination: Elevate the backrest to support comfortable sitting or semi-sitting positions.
Knee Flexion: Adjust the knee position to relieve pressure on the lower back and improve circulation.
Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg Positions: These positions are beneficial for various medical conditions and procedures.
Side Rail Safety: Ensure patient safety with adjustable side rails that can be raised or lowered as needed.
Remote Control: Conveniently control the bed’s functions with a user-friendly remote control.

Selecting the Right Motorized Cot

When choosing a motorized cot, consider the following factors:

Patient Needs: Assess the specific needs of the patient, including their weight, height, and mobility limitations.
Caregiver Requirements: Consider the caregiver’s needs, such as the ease of use and the weight capacity of the cot.
Additional Features: Look for features like built-in scales, oxygen tank holders, and IV pole holders.
Durability and Maintenance: Choose a cot that is durable and easy to clean and maintain.
Safety Certifications: Ensure the cot complies with relevant safety standards and regulations.

By investing in a high-quality motorized cot, healthcare facilities and home care providers can significantly improve the quality of care for patients with limited mobility. These advanced beds offer a range of benefits that enhance patient comfort, safety, and overall well-being.

Caregivers

How Motorized Cots Make Caregiving Easier for Family Members

By Naren Somadev on Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Caring for a loved one can be a demanding task, especially when it involves lifting and repositioning. Motorized cots have emerged as a valuable tool for caregivers, offering numerous benefits that can significantly ease the burden of caregiving.

Understanding the Benefits of Motorized Cots

Reduced Physical Strain: Manually lifting and repositioning a patient can lead to physical strain and injuries for caregivers. Motorized cots alleviate this burden by allowing caregivers to adjust the bed’s height and position with ease.
Improved Patient Comfort: Motorized cots offer a range of adjustable features, including head and foot elevation. These features can help patients maintain optimal comfort and reduce the risk of pressure sores.
Enhanced Patient Independence: Some motorized cots allow patients to adjust their bed position independently, promoting a sense of autonomy and dignity.
Increased Safety: Motorized cots often come with safety features like side rails and alarm systems, reducing the risk of falls and accidents.
Time-Saving: By streamlining the caregiving process, motorized cots can save caregivers valuable time and energy.

Key Features to Look for in a Motorized Cot

When choosing a motorized cot, consider the following key features:

Height Adjustability: The ability to adjust the bed’s height can make it easier for caregivers to provide care and reduce the risk of back strain.
Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg Positions: These positions can be beneficial for patients with certain medical conditions, such as circulatory problems or respiratory issues.
Side Rails: Side rails can help prevent falls and provide a sense of security for patients.
Silent Operation: A quiet motor ensures minimal disturbance to the patient and other household members.
Easy-to-Use Controls: User-friendly controls make it simple for caregivers to adjust the bed’s position.
Durable Construction: A sturdy and durable frame can withstand the demands of daily use.

Making the Right Choice

When selecting a motorized cot, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of the patient and the caregiver. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a medical equipment supplier can help you make an informed decision.

By investing in a motorized cot, families can enhance the quality of care for their loved ones, reduce caregiver stress, and improve overall well-being.

Senior Care

Disposable Adult Diapers: A Lifesaver for Comfort and Dignity

By Naren Somadev on Thursday, September 7, 2023

Disposable adult diapers, often referred to as incontinence briefs or adult briefs, have revolutionized the lives of millions of individuals around the world. These specialized products play a vital role in maintaining comfort, hygiene, and dignity for people dealing with various forms of incontinence, mobility issues, or other medical conditions. In this article, we will explore the significance of disposable adult diapers, their evolution, and the benefits they offer to both users and caregivers.

The Evolution of Diapers

The concept of adult diapers is not new, but their design and functionality have significantly improved over the years. The earliest forms of diapers were bulky and uncomfortable cloth garments that required frequent washing, making them impractical for most users. However, as technology and materials advanced, it became widely available in the mid-20th century, marking a significant turning point in the care of individuals with incontinence.

Today, disposable adult diapers have become highly sophisticated, offering a range of features that cater to the unique needs of users. They are available in various sizes, styles, and absorbency levels, making it easier for individuals to find the right fit and protection.

The Benefits of Disposable Adult Diapers

Improved Quality of Life: They provide an effective solution for managing incontinence, allowing individuals to lead active and fulfilling lives without constant worry or embarrassment.

Hygiene and Comfort: They also effectively contain odors, maintaining a fresh and hygienic environment.

Convenience: Users can easily change them when needed, without the hassle of washing and drying cloth alternatives. This convenience is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations.

Discreetness: Modern disposable adult diapers are discreet and slim-fitting, allowing users to wear them under regular clothing without revealing their presence. This discreetness helps users maintain their dignity and self-esteem.

Variety of Styles and Absorbencies: Disposable adult diapers come in a wide range of styles and absorbency levels to accommodate various needs. From light to heavy incontinence, users can find a product that suits their specific requirements.

Reduced Burden on Caregivers: Caregivers also benefit from the use of disposable adult diapers. They simplify the process of providing care and minimize the workload associated with washing, drying, and maintaining cloth alternatives.

Travel and Independence: For those who love to travel or maintain an active lifestyle, disposable adult diapers provide the freedom to venture out without the need for constant bathroom access. This independence is a significant emotional boost for users.

Environmental Considerations: While disposable adult diapers are single-use products, some brands are working on developing more environmentally friendly options, such as biodegradable materials and recycling programs.

Conclusion

These products have played a pivotal role in breaking down the barriers and stigmas associated with incontinence, allowing individuals to live their lives with confidence and independence. As technology and sustainability efforts advance, we can expect even more innovative and eco-friendly solutions in the future, further enhancing the lives of those who depend on disposable adult diapers.

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Dementia

Why use the Adult Bib?

By Naren Somadev on Tuesday, June 28, 2022

People with special needs might need a way to protect their clothing while dining. Perhaps an adult has a disability that affects their strength or coordination. Cocoon makes the Snug Fit, an adult bib that promotes dignity and pride while protecting clothing.

Cocoon’s Adult Bib is unlike any other adult bib on the market. After one of Cocoon’s founders became aware of the need to create a product to help caregivers and seniors with limited mobility, the Cocoon Adult Bib was born!

Besides Cocoon Snug-Feed adult bibs and clothing protectors make mealtime easier for people with limited mobility, or who suffer from long-term health conditions that make eating and drinking difficult.

All Cocoon Snug-Feed adult bibs are:

Durable
Hygienic
Comfortable
Breathable
Washable
Fits across sizes
Light weight
Highly absorbent
Dries very fast
Easy to wear Velcro Fasteners
Non fading
Quick fold food crumb pocket
Lightweight Waterproof Backing
Gift- quality design and material
Locally manufactured in Chennai, India.

Adults can now enjoy dining with this newly designed adult bib. The wearer looks stylish and dignified! By protecting diners’ clothing from spills, they also make caregivers’ jobs more convenient.

Also suitable for persons with conditions such as Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Severe arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, Stroke recovery, Sundowner’s syndrome, Ageing, Post Surgery and Post accident recovery.

Cocoon Snug-Feed Adult Bibs are available in 2 colours. You can buy them at The Old Gold Store.

Health Useful Information

Sleeping with acid reflux: Dos and Don’ts

By Naren Somadev on Tuesday, June 14, 2022

While sleeping with acid reflux, it is important to keep your head elevated at an angle. Sleeping at an incline is proven to manage GERD.

Do

Sleep with your torso elevated

Lying down make reflux more likely since gravity no longer helps keep stomach acid down. Because of this, sleeping on an adjustable bed base that lifts your torso helps a lot. Researchers have shown that elevating your torso by at least six inches during sleep can reduce reflux.

Sleep on your left side

Experts recommend sleeping on your side. When it comes to acid reflux, what is the best side to sleep on? For people with acid reflux, being on their left side is the best sleeping position. The left side down reduces reflux episodes and exposure to stomach acid in the oesophagus. For that reason, it is considered the best sleeping position for acid reflux sufferers.

Don’t

Sleep on your back

Reflux is more likely to occur when you sleep in other positions, including on your back. Sleeping on your back increases your likelihood of having acid reflux.

Sleep lying flat

Whatever your body position, you do not want to lie flat. Your stomach and throat are at the same level when you are lying flat in bed. Consequently, stomach acids can easily flow up your oesophagus, causing Acid Reflux.

Bed and Mattresses for Acid Reflux

Don’t

Sleep on a mattress that is too soft

A mattress should support you, not allow you to sink too deeply. Keeping your throat and neck above your stomach is the key. While it doesn’t have to be a Firm mattress, it must provide significant support for your body weight.

Do

Sleep on a Wedge Mattresses

It ensures that the upper part of the body is higher than the lower part of the body, thereby reducing reflux.

Where to buy Acid Reflux Wedge Mattress?

The best place to buy Acid Reflux Wedge Mattress is The Old is Gold Store. CLICK HERE TO BUY

Other Tips for Sleeping with Acid Reflux

It is often best to prevent acid reflux in the first place by preventing it from happening! GERD is caused by factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity. In addition, the kind of food you eat before bed has a big impact. You should limit your intake of spicy and acidic foods, especially at night. Whatever you eat, allowing your stomach three hours before lying down will allow your stomach to digest and reduce the possibility of reflux. If you suffer from Acid Reflux, try eating a smaller meal in the evening to prevent a flare up.

Caregivers Senior Care

Why is caring for parents different from caring for children?

By Naren Somadev on Monday, November 9, 2020

We often hear these phrases; “Why do they behave like kids? They are so stubborn like children!” As our parents grow older, we play the dual roles of being parents to our children and caregivers to our parents. Is caring for our parents the same as caring for our children?

Having experienced both roles, I can say categorically that it is completely different caring for our parents. Children require us to walk the talk. We as parents need to guide them through tough choices, be supportive through tough situations and help them navigate through life. Until they grow up and become independent, we support them through the phases of childhood, teenage years and adulthood. We can see them bloom and grow into strong, independent adults.

Our parents have been there and done that with us. In their twilight years, they face a different future. They see themselves becoming weaker. It takes longer to walk the stairs. They require more visits to the doctors, more medicines, and different diets. They find it so difficult to ask for help. A walking stick is a symbol of their growing old and is often resented.

The biggest difference in caring for our parents as compared to caring for our children is our attitude. We are used to looking at our parents for help, guidance and support. They were so strong, could carry us on their shoulders and were there in our universe forever. And now, to see them grey, weak and ill often moves us to anger and frustration. We are not ready for them to become old. But it creeps up on them and on us. And one day, we find ourselves changing diapers, giving them medicines, taking them to the doctors, making special food. We feel panicked when dementia, Alzheimer’s, or just old age diminishes their physical and mental capabilities until they don’t resemble the parents we know.

Acceptance

It is acceptance that changes the way we care for our parents – acceptance of their old age, their infirmities, their helplessness, and their need for independence. Once we accept, we can move past our feelings. The anger and frustration dies away replaced by empathy and love. It becomes easier to give your Dad a bath without being embarrassed.

Parents in their twilight years face the prospect of illness, loss of independence and death. We need to create an environment where they feel safe, well cared for and inclusive. We need to treat them with dignity, help them face their illnesses and fears.

Alzheimer’s Dementia

Checkmating Cognitive Impairment in Seniors

By Naren Somadev on Tuesday, April 16, 2019

It’s a well-known fact that our population is aging due advances in technology and medicine. The global average life expectancy is close to 80 years. Downside of this increase life expectancy is that it hasn’t been accompanied by an increase in the quality of life. Also, many seniors struggle with depression, loneliness and cognitive impairment.

Seniors are at the greatest risk

Seniors are at the greatest risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. Chess being a particularly good brain builder, it reduces risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Besides, studies have shown that playing games like chess, which is a mentally stimulating game keeps seniors cognitively active. Playing chess also increases social interaction with others and thereby reduces loneliness.

Moreover, chess is a fairly easy game to learn and involves cognitive activities such as planning, strategy and analysis which keeps the mind sharp. Playing chess not only actively engages the brain but also improves social and physical wellbeing. Research has shown lower rates dementia in active chess players. Most importantly, there is no signs of dementia among all current chess grandmasters.

Benefits of playing chess

Cognitively-challenging activity
Provides seniors with a hobby
Increased socialization
Reduces depression due improved interactions with others
Improves emotional health
Stimulates all the parts of the brain
Lower rates of dementia
Improves Creativity
Strengthens mental capacity
Improves information retention
Also improves short-term and long-term memory
Uses both sides of the brain

In conclusion, chess seems like a treatment for cognitive impairment that really works. Further reading – A game of chess a day may keep Alzheimer’s at bay – The Hindu

Senior Care

Understanding cots for home use

By Naren Somadev on Sunday, March 10, 2019

For a person who is unwell and likely to spend a lot of time in bed, choosing the right cot is of paramount importance. Just like there are special cots that are in use at hospitals, there are special cots for home use as well.
Some of them are described below.

Common Features

While hospital cots are on the higher side to be more comfortable for Doctors and nurses, the typical cot for home use should be no higher than 20” from the ground. Similarly, while hospital cots come with caster wheels to enable easy movement of the patient to other parts of the hospital, home cots are safer without wheels. Cots also come in manual and electrical versions.

The Semi-Fowler

This cot provides facilities to raise the head side into a reclining position using an easy to operate crank. The diagrams below illustrate what the cot looks like when it is in a completely flat position and when it is in a reclined position.

The Fowler Cot

This cot allows you to raise the knee segment in addition to the functions of the semi-fowler.

The image above shows the different positions of a fowler cot. This cot is useful when the knee side also has to be raised.

The Five Function Cot

This is a more advanced cot that provides all the features of a Fowler cot. In addition, it provides height adjustment and tilting (head side and foot side) facilities. These cots come in manual and electrical versions, with and without wheels.

More advanced versions

There are more advanced cots available which can be procured on request. However, they may not be essential in a home care environment. You can position the head side segment at any angle. You can do this without disturbing or moving the person lying on the bed.