To maintain independence and safety in the bedroom, it is important to ensure a comfortable environment, prevent falls, make it easier to find the toilet at night, enable safe wandering/ walking about at night, as well as support healthy sleep for others living in the same home.
Consider these features in a bedroom which may support independence and safety:
- Enough circulation space to move about freely with a walking stick, frame or wheelchair if used
- Correct bed height (for the persons needs e.g., falling out of bed)
- Floor free of hazards such as rugs, bed ruffles or items that can be tripped upon or walked into
- Mirrors covered if they are a disturbance
- Storage of non-seasonal clothing
- Labels and signs
- Remove electric blanket
- Comfortable temperature
- Water proof carpet/ furnishings
- Continence support eg, products, mattress protector, enuresis sensor and / or sensor night lighting for night-time visits to the toilet, glow in the dark adhesive strips
- Orientation support eg, automatic calendar clock with night and day time, talking alarm clock
- Motion detectors - bed occupancy sensor, infra red door beams, voice alert door entry system, sound and movement monitor
- Emergency call assistance button or personal emergency response system (PERS)
- Picture telephone
- Good night button – home automation system
Some of the ideas are simple and inexpensive, whilst others require professional installation and are more costly. For professional advise regarding your circumstances and needs, please contact the Independent Living Centre on 1300 885 886.