Today, I'm eager to share with you a recent modification project undertaken in my parents' bedroom, which not only eased my dad’s mobility challenges but also ensured a comfortable sleeping and resting experience.

So, let’s delve deeper into the thoughtful changes brought to life in this personal space that spells comfort – the bedroom.

Setting the Stage: Understanding the Challenges

On returning home post his hospitalization, it was evident that my dad was facing a tough time in his bedroom - be it getting up from the bed or even rolling while in it.

This led me to ponder and come up with a simple yet multipurpose modification that could assist him in moving around with greater ease.

The Mastermind Behind the Modification: Introducing the Bed Rail

The centerpiece of this modification project was a tool called the bed rail or bed cane, readily available online platforms like Amazon.

This marvel of a device seamlessly slides between the mattress and the box springs, serving a dual purpose - aiding in rolling over the bed and providing support to stand up.

Dual Purpose Configuration: The Initial Set-Up

During the initial setup, the bed rail was installed on one side of the bed, functioning as a robust support system assisting my dad to get up from the bed.

This setup worked well, providing the necessary leverage for him to push himself up to a standing position.

Tailoring to Individual Needs: Adjusting the Bed Rail

However, observing my dad over a few days brought to light that he preferred sleeping on his right side but was unable to roll onto it autonomously. This realization birthed a second iteration of the modification, where the bed rail was transferred to the other side of the bed.

To further facilitate his movement, a bedside commode was strategically placed between the two single beds, which my parents use. This was used as an impromptu rail, enabling him to roll over with ease.

The back of this commode provided the required support for rolling onto his preferred sleeping side while retaining the benefit of the bed rail to aid in standing up.

Creating a Haven of Comfort and Independence

The core essence of these modifications was to foster a space where my dad could move around freely and independently, without feeling constrained due to mobility issues.

This thoughtful reconfiguration of the bedroom setup facilitated a greater degree of self-sufficiency, granting him the comfort of sleeping in his preferred position and the independence to get up without assistance.

The Furry Companion and the Atmosphere of Love

While focused on the logistics and functionality of these modifications, one cannot overlook the tranquility imparted by the presence of a loving pet.

The gorgeous cat, being a silent observer throughout the process, added a sense of warmth and affection to the environment, constantly reminding us of the love and care that drives such innovations.

Conclusion: A Labor of Love

Embarking on this modification journey was indeed a labor of love, a testament to the affection and concern for a parent’s well-being.

The transition from initial observations to final implementations showcased the beautiful journey of catering to the intricate needs of an individual.

What started as an effort to aid mobility transformed into a holistic approach to ensuring comfort and happiness in the most personal space in a home — the bedroom.

In closing, this endeavor has been a rich learning experience, bringing forth the realization that minor modifications can have a substantial impact on an individual’s life, promoting comfort and fostering independence.

It stands as a beacon of the changes that love can inspire, molding a standard space into a haven of comfort and ease, one thoughtful modification at a time.

As we forge ahead in our mission to create more adaptive and comfortable living spaces, I invite you to join me in this wonderful journey of love, care, and innovation.

Stay tuned for more insights and tips to transform everyday spaces into havens of comfort and accessibility, fostering a nurturing environment for our loved ones.

Feel free to share your experiences, insights, or suggestions in the comments below, as we build a community of caring and innovative souls working towards a common goal - a home that understands and caters to our senior loved one's needs.

Let me know in the comments below if you have questions about dementia that you need answered.

If you would like more information on how to help a parent living with dementia, join our next free workshop here.

Read More:

Make Your Living Room Senior-Friendly

Debunking the Myth: Is Home-Based Dementia Care Really Possible?

Disclaimer: These blogs, videos and any work done by Lizette Cloete OT, as a Member of Think Different Dementia, LLC, is given only as educational content and consulting work. This does not create an Occupational Therapist-Patient Relationship. The educational content and consulting work performed should not be considered medical treatment as an Occupational Therapist. The consulting work does not take the place of medical work normally performed by a licensed Occupational Therapist. Please consult a licensed Occupational Therapist for medical advice.

“Think Different” Dementia’s owner, Lizette Cloete, OTR/L graduated as an Occupational Therapist from the University of Pretoria in South Africa in 1992. She and her husband emigrated to the USA in 1993, and currently reside in South Carolina. They have 2 daughters and one son-in-love, 4 cats, one dog and 16 chickens.

Lizette has almost 30 years of experience as an Occupational Therapist in a variety of settings, the latest being in the home health environment. Among her many accomplishments, she served on the South Carolina Occupational Therapy Association’s Board of Directors from 2008-2014. She enjoys teaching on the topic of dementia, most recently presenting at a national conference on the topic “Dementia Made Simple”