Disabled

Prevent and Heal Bed Sores
Author: MedAme.Com
Alternating Pressure Mattresses Can Help Prevent and Heal Bed Sores

Does your elderly parent or other relative have a bed sore that just won’t seem to heal? Are you a caregiver for someone with a similar problem? Often, caregivers for the elderly despair about the best way to take care of these kinds of issues, but they don’t have to worry so much. There are products that can help! One of the best products out there for the relief and prevention of pressure sores in the elderly and anyone else who is bed bound is the Masonair Alternating Pressure Mattress system. An alternating pressure mattress – or APM – is designed with a therapeutic surface, providing a lot of comfort to a bed-bound or mostly bed-bound person while lowering the chances of developing pressure sores. Using this type of mattress can also help current pressure sores to heal more quickly, giving added comfort to the patient.

The Masonair mattress is a top-of-the-line item. It measures a roomy 35 inches by 80 inches and has an internal system containing 20 individual air bladders. By providing so many different bladders the pressure is more even and this helps to protect the skin of the patient as well as make the mattress more comfortable and more stable. The best thing about the Masonair APM, though, is the fact that it has so many great features that come standard. The air pump used for the bed is quiet and the controls are user-friendly. These help both the patient and the caregiver to use the bed with a minimum of discomfort or confusion. The pump has different comfort settings that adjust to the needs of each patient who uses the mattress. There is low pressure support designed into the bed automatically and an internal sensor that monitors the surface pressure to provide the highest level of comfort possible. Beds that have these kinds of pumps and pressure monitoring systems will alert a caregiver with both an audio and a visual alarm when the pressure gets low. This allows for a quick fix for the patient before any discomfort is developed. The alarm also goes off if the power goes out, the air hose comes unhooked, or the pump is unplugged, and the alarm can be turned off and reset with the push of a button.

The Masonair Alternating Pressure Mattress System also comes in two different types – one that has a powered support surface and one that has a low air loss system. A powered support surface mattress costs less than $900, and a low air loss mattress is slightly more money, coming in at just under $1400. These mattresses have a soft/firm key and an LED display so that the patient and the caregiver can adjust the mattress to to the desired comfort level and see that it stays there. Most APM mattresses are adjustable but not all of them offer the efficiency of the LED display option preferred by caregivers.

Because the pump that comes with the system has such a high output it offers six LPM for the powered support surface and eight LPM for the low air loss option. This can make inflating the mattress very quick and easy for almost anyone. It reduces the strain on the caregivers and keeps the patient from the feelings of guilt that some elderly people end up with when they have reached the point where others have to take care of them. Once the mattress is inflated the alternating cell depth is designed for comfort and the 5.5 inch CPR feature lets you deflate the mattress very rapidly in case of emergency. That safety feature is important to a lot of caregivers but it’s not something that can be found on every APM available on the market today. Another great feature of this brand of mattress is the anti-microbial cover. It is non-shear and fully encloses the entire mattress and the three-inch foam base.

The Masonair brand of alternating pressure mattress is dedicated to both comfort and quality. The company is also very careful about providing its customers with as many features for the price as possible to make the lives of their patients more comfortable and the lives of the caregivers easier as well. There is often a lot of stress on a caregiver of an elderly person. Whether their patient is someone they are paid to take care of or an aging relative, the physical and mental strain on these people can be enormous and exhausting. Anything that the company can do to alleviate that stress is a benefit to all of their customers.
…

Bulging Disc Exercises – Avoid Set-Backs With These Basic Instructions

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Bulging Disc Exercises – Avoid Set-Backs With These Basic Instructions

Post from: Neck Pro Info
Bulging Disc Exercises – Avoid Set-Backs With These Basic Instructions
exercises for a herniated disc are a necessary part of any healing program. However, a person suffering with a bulging disc needs to proceed with caution when it comes to exercises, because there is a good possibility that you could aggravate [...]

There are multiple safeguards to ensure that every patient gets Reliable drug information.

First of all, your doctor is supposed to tell you about drug interactions and side effects. Second of all, the pharmacist is supposed to tell you. They are supposed to either speak to you in person or give you an information sheet to tell you about the effects of drugs you are taking.

They are also supposed to have a database to cross-reference your drug any other drugs you have gotten from that pharmacy to make sure that there are no harmful interactions.

Usually, the system ensures that you get the right drug information. Every once in awhile, however, things don’t work out – sometimes with dangerous repercussions. There are a few different problems.
Read the rest of this entry

Physical Therapy Does Not Have To Be Stigmatized
Author: http://www.MedAme.com
Physical Therapy Does Not Have To Be Stigmatized

All too often, people who need physical therapy avoid it because they feel uncomfortable. It angers them that they cannot do what they used to do before their accident or injury or surgery, and since that is the case they retreat from life and just assume that they are stuck with their new mobility level. Physical therapy, however, does not have to have such a stigma about it. It is a necessary part of life for a lot of people and those people should not be ashamed of working hard to return to the lives that they led before.

For an elderly person physical therapy can be especially difficult, and the same is true for people who are handicapped. These groups may never have – or return to, in the case of an elderly individual – the same mobility level that is seen in most of the population. Even though this is a reality that a lot of people face, that does not mean that they have to waste away and not enjoy everything that they are able to do. Physical therapy aids like hand and arm exercisers, pedal exercisers, and equipment to help a person stretch and strengthen his or her limbs can be of tremendous assistance to someone who wants to improve mobility.

For those who are having trouble walking because of weakness due to old age or a debilitating condition, pedal exercisers can help them strengthen their legs without the dangers of walking around unsupervised. These work like a bicycle, but they can be used anywhere. They are small and portable, and the patient can easily sit on the couch or a comfortable chair, place the pedal exerciser on the floor, and use it while watching TV or visiting with others in the comfort of his or her own home. This makes the pedal exerciser very beneficial to someone who is trying to build up leg strength and become safer and more mobile in the future.

Other people who need physical therapy might be able to get around just fine but have problems with the strength in one or both hands or arms. This can come from an injury, a handicap, or a medical problem such as a stroke. Hand and arm exercisers are a safe and easy option for these people to regain both strength and mobility. Having items to squeeze builds hand strength, and using very light weights can help to return muscle tone and strength to arms that might otherwise not as easily recover. Having enough hand and arm strength is important, especially for elderly or handicapped people who might have balance problems and need to steady themselves to keep from falling.

A fall could be very serious, and this is certainly true if the person lives alone. If no one is around to help an elderly person or someone with a handicap might lay on the floor for a long time waiting for rescue. If the fall injured that person, it could even become life-threatening. There is certainly nothing wrong with using physical therapy aids to regain strength and mobility in an effort to avoid such dangers. Adult children who have elderly parents and caregivers of the handicapped can encourage this kind of physical therapy work by being tactful, open, and honest about the benefits that can be attained.

Another good way to use physical therapy aids to improve mobility and strength is through the use of stretching. As we age, we often do not move around as much, because our bodies do not always like to do everything they used to do. Disabled people can have the same problems – they are often not as mobile as others, so they do not make any extra effort to keep up the mobility and strength that they do have. The use of strengthening and stretching equipment such as bands can help make physical therapy exercise more enjoyable and convince people to work harder at making themselves as strong, healthy, and mobile as their bodies will allow.

An important consideration when choosing physical therapy aids for exercise is what the person is already capable of doing and their general level of health. Following a doctor’s recommendations is very important to ensuring that a person starting out on a physical therapy program is not further injured by trying to do too much too quickly. Open and honest conversation with the doctor and with the patient is the way to avoid most problems that could arise, and will allow an elderly or disabled person to enjoy better freedom of movement through rewarding and beneficial exercise.
…

Miracle Treatment for Neck Shoulder Arm Pains-Sciatic Nerve Ache

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Miracle Treatment for Neck Shoulder Arm Pains-Sciatic Nerve Ache

http://www.LiftingChair.info Finds Miracle Treatment for sciatic nerve, neck shoulder arm pains. No methadone for chronic back pain relief with the Wal-Pilo best rest neck pillow at RoLoke.com

http://www.LiftingChair.info Finds Miracle Treatment for sciatic nerve, neck shoulder arm pains. No methadone for chronic back pain relief with the Wal-Pilo best rest neck pillow at RoLoke.com

Read the rest of this entry

Pads and Overlays Are Good Choices for Protection
Author: http://www.MedAme.com
Pads and Overlays Are Good Choices for Protection

There are a lot of different kinds of mattress overlays and it depends on exactly what you’re in need of as to which one would be best for your situation. The most common of the overlays are filled with water, air, or gel. All three have their benefits for the bed-bound patient or for a person who is mobile but who does spend the majority of his or her time in bed. If you are the caregiver for a person in this condition – whether that person is a relative or someone you are being paid to care for – you want that person to be comfortable and well-cared-for. There are a lot of ways to do this, and one of the best is through the use of a mattress overlay. But which one should you buy – water, air, or gel?

A popular water overlay is the Hydr-O-Ease Flotation Mattress Overlay. These can be purchased in both gel and water varieties for about $76 or $62 respectively. This particular overlay works well for home care, but it can also be used in nursing homes and in hospitals, both for therapeutic treatment and for pressure relief. The sleeping surface is comfortable and there is one big benefit with this overlay – it doesn’t have that wave effect and rocking problem that is usually found in most water mattresses. It also won’t easily leak because the seams are heat sealed and then electronically tested. The overlay is durable, too, being composed of high-grade vinyl that has been treated with an anti-microbial agent. Clean-up and sanitation is a snap. The pad measures 32 inches by 72 inches and the instructions for filling it and taking care of it are printed on it, to avoid losing an instruction sheet. There are fill lines on the water flotation overlay and pre-measured packets for the gel overlay to make sure that it is filled to the proper depth. Another good feature of the Hydr-O-Ease is the temperature gauge, which is easy to read and can help avoid problems like hypothermia that can come about from allowing a patient to lie on a mattress full of cold water or gel.

Another popular choice is the Air-O-Ease Static Air Mattress Overlay. This overlay avoids the chance of leakage that can come from a water or gel mattress. It has the same heat sealed seams and anti-microbial surface as the Hydr-O-Ease and costs a bit less, at around $52 making it a more affordable option for patients who are on a very fixed income. The air circulation that comes through the unique construction of this Mason Medical air mattress helps to keep the buildup of heat down and also lower the interface pressures that patients have when they spend a long time lying in their bed. It also helps to remove moisture to keep a patient dry. Placement over the mattress is secured with retraining straps that can be adjusted to fit all types and sizes of mattresses, preventing the overlay from sliding around. The Air-O-Ease is the same size as the Hydr-O-Ease, measuring 32 inches by 72 inches, and features two adaptors for filling the mattress and removing the air when the mattress is no longer needed. One of the best features of this overlay is that it conforms to California Technical Bulletin #117, which means that it has a high degree of fire retardancy. It ships free to anywhere in the continental United States.

If a gel overlay would be preferred, the Sierra Gel Mattress Overlay might be the right choice. At just under $223 it is more expensive than the other options but some people find it to be superior to the other options available for mattress overlays. It is slightly bigger than its competitors, measuring in at 34X78X3, and it not only meets the same fire retardant specifications of the Air-O-Ease but also meets all standards for infection control. It offers a support base and a shell made of a high-density polyurethane foam. Inside the overlay are a series of gel bladders. The surface cleans easily and there is no assembly or inflation necessary. The gel is non-toxic should it ever leak due to a puncture or other problem, and the anti-microbial and anti-bacterial border material and bottom panel help to keep the patient both comfortable and healthy.

When purchasing a pad or overlay for a mattress there are a lot of different considerations and it is easy to see here that there are also a lot of different options. Most of these depend on issues like cost and features, but personal preference also plays a strong role. Patients who are able should certainly have a say in what type of overlay is purchased. For those who do not have that ability, taking a good look at features and benefits can go a long way toward making the right overlay choice.
…

Home healthcare equipment folding walker guide

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Home healthcare equipment folding walker guide

http://www.MedAme.com Handicap homes reviews of Home healthcare equipment folding walker guide along with gastric bypass information.

Oxygen Therapy for Improved Lung Function
Author: www.MedAME.com
Oxygen Therapy for Improved Lung Function

When people need to be on oxygen they must have a source that’s reliable. Some of these people can go for a period of time without their supplemental oxygen but others must have access to it at all times in order to survive. These individuals can range from elderly people with emphysema to much younger patients with chronic heart and lung ailments. If you need supplemental oxygen or if you care for someone who does, chances are you worry about whether they have everything that they need and whether they have a reliable system to provide oxygen for them without failing or breaking down. There are several brands of oxygen concentrators out there for sale, and it’s important to get one of the best ones so that you won’t be fearful of running out of oxygen or having a system that does not produce at a high enough flow rate for the needs that you have.

The Invacare Platinum XL II 5-Liter Oxygen Concentrator is one of the best and most reliable choices on the market today. It comes in two styles – a standard model for around $1165 and an upgraded model for just over $1300, both of which come with a limited warranty for five years. The best thing about the warranty, however, is that there is no hour limit on the compressor. In other words, it could be allowed to run continuously for the full five years and would still be covered by the warranty. This is a great benefit for people who must use the oxygen often and therefore operate the compressor frequently. It is a limited warranty, though, so it’s important to read everything thoroughly and know exactly what’s covered and what’s not to make sure that you understand everything about the machine.

The Invacare oxygen concentrator is also completely compatible with the HomeFill II Oxygen Filling System and is extremely quiet. It has a proprietary, spring-mounted compressor and comes in at a noise level of only 50 dB. The top handle and the bottom recesses of the system allow for easy handling and because it has an upgraded compressor the time before preventative maintenance is required is longer than it would be on most other brands. In order to help make maintenance and cleaning easier the Invacare oxygen concentrator also has a side door to help a person reach the inlet filter and the diagnostics. The internal components are accessed through removing only four cabinet screws and the system runs on a standard 110 volt outlet, meaning no special wiring is required. The oxygen output of the machine is between 87% and 95% at all flow rates, providing enough oxygen for almost anyone’s needs.

If the 5-Liter oxygen concentrator is not enough, there is also a 10-Liter model. This model provides up to 10 liters of oxygen a minute to help patients who require a very high flow. It only weighs two pounds more than the 5-Liter model and costs around $1000 more, but it can provide enough oxygen for even the most severe patients. Most patients don’t fall into this category but there are certainly some who do, and their very lives could depend on whether they get the amount of supplemental oxygen that they need. The 10-Liter model is also a very attractive alternative to someone who doesn’t want to use one of the liquid systems but still needs something that will provide them with the strong flow rate that they require. In addition to the five-year compressor warranty that the 5-Liter model has, the 10-Liter model also offers a warranty of three years on all of the other components of the machine.

The sound level of the 10-Liter model is just 8 dB louder and the flow rate is the same, at 87% to 95%. Both operate in the same way, need the same kind of maintenance, and have the same basic dimensions. The difference between the two machines and which one a person would want to buy would come down to how much oxygen that person needed on a minute by minute basis. Needing a flow rate of 10 liters per minute would require the larger and more expensive model, as the smaller one wouldn’t be able to produce that amount. If you need oxygen, you should check with your doctor to be sure exactly what your needs are currently and what they’re expected to be within the next few years, so you can be sure to get the right oxygen concentrator to meet all your needs.

…

Lumbar Disc Disease And Herniated Lower Back Disc – Symptoms, Causes, and Therapies

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Lumbar Disc Disease And Herniated Lower Back Disc – Symptoms, Causes, and Therapies

Post from: Neck Pro Info
Lumbar Disc Disease And Herniated Lower Back Disc – Symptoms, Causes, and Therapies
Lumbar Back Disc conditions can be some of the most difficult health conditions a person could suffer with. Not only do they cause quite a bit of pain, they also tend to cause a great deal of disability.
This [...]

What are the basic allergy symptoms?

What to do for relief?

There are millions of people in the U.S. that suffer from allergy symptoms, due to a variety of causes. Some people are allergic to animal fur, others have food allergies, many have plant allergies. No matter what the cause of the allergy, symptoms are much the same.

Rashes and hives are common symptoms. Swelling in the face, watering eyes, coughing and sneezing are typical symptoms. Headaches can be in this picture too, sometimes very severe.

Allergy symptoms can be so severe that the person has trouble breathing. So allergy symptoms are not any fun at all.

If you suffer these symptoms, the first thing you need to do is get an appointment to have a panel scratch test to determine to what you’re allergic.

Read the rest of this entry

Just a few decades ago, a lot of people really thought that aging research would soon yield a miracle.

Research into aging had its eye firmly on the prize – immortality. Scientists were discovering more and more about the mechanisms of cellular aging, and a lot of people figured that soon, we would be able to stop the individual cells from degrading at all. Things, of course, did not work out that way in the long run.

We run into some hitches in research into aging that science had not anticipated. The crux of the matter is that we will not be able to completely stop aging for a while, if ever.

When you are looking for a miracle, any setback looks like a huge disappointment. If you look at the aging research of the last 30 years or so from a more realistic perspective, however, you can see how far we have come. Nowadays, people live longer, healthier lives than ever before in human history. And it only promises to keep getting better.

Research into aging can treat previously incurable forms of cancer, set back the clock on skin aging, and allow older people to live more active, healthy lives than ever before. And things seem to be only getting better from there. Who knows what tomorrow might hold.

There are many different kinds of aging research. Although it seems like we will not be able to stop cells from growing old and dying the way we thought we could, we do understand a lot more about cell health than we used to. For example, one of the byproducts of aging research is that we can now check the uncontrolled growth of some sorts of cancer cells in a way that we never could before.

Research into aging has also yielded more mundane advancements in cell health. We understand what makes a healthy and an unhealthy diet, and how those diets affect cell regeneration. We know foods which can slow down the aging process dramatically, and even undo some damage that we have done to our cells.

Still, the most fascinating fields of aging research are the ones that we haven’t gotten very deeply into yet. What do we do with genetic engineering, for example?

Could aging researchers possibly reformulate the genetic code to slow down the aging process or stop it altogether?

What about nanotechnology?

Will it ever be possible to build miniature machines that can repair cell damage when they are injected into the bloodstream?

Aging research has yet to answer these questions, but when we do find the answers, it is likely will make great strides. Even every failure yields new question and opens new doors. I firmly believe that one day, humanity will be able to live forever.

Moisture Barriers for Incontinence
Author: MedAme.com
Moisture Barriers for Incontinence – Creams for Adults

Anyone who has ever had a baby – or assisted in changing a baby – knows about diaper rash and the fact that there are ointments and creams to help avoid it and clear it up. For many senior adults, rashes and other problems in their personal regions can become a problem due to incontinence. No one likes to talk about it but ignoring it will not make it go away. It only makes it worse. The best thing to do is address the issue head-on, and while you’re doing that you can purchase moisture barrier cream to help your elderly relative feel better. Once a rash gets started, especially in a warm, moist area of the body, it can be difficult to get rid of and can also lead to other problems like infections. By using a moisture barrier cream, these kinds of concerns can more easily be prevented.

If you have to buy a moisture barrier cream it’s easy to get confused. There are a lot of choices out there and knowing which one will work can often be down to trial and error. While they are all designed to do the same thing their ingredients can be quite different, and this can sometimes lead to allergies and other problems. A patient will resist the use of a moisture barrier if it’s more painful than the problems arising from the moisture! Fortunately, Cavilon makes a no-sting barrier film. It comes in swabs, wipes, and bottles. A box of 25, 1ml swabs can be purchased for less than $50, and if you need a much larger quantity or something that can be just sprayed on you can get a box of 12, 28ml spray bottles for around $160, and the shipping is free within the continental United States. There are also 3ml swabs and wipes that can be purchased. This Cavilon product is alcohol-free, painless, and dries very quickly, making it a convenient choice as well as a comfortable one. It works on moisture from the body in the form of sweat, but it is also effective against feces and urine. It is an all-around good choice for a moisture barrier, especially if sensitive skin is a problem.

If a moisture barrier cream is more what you’re looking for there are options for that as well. Carrington Moisture Barrier Cream can also be shipped for free, and it has the staying power that many people are looking for when it comes to a moisture barrier and protectant. Like the Cavilon product, it also protects against urine and fecal matter and since it moisturizes it can help to soothe irritated and reddened skin. Being long lasting helps to save both time and money, as well. A 3.5 ounce tube of Carrington Moisture Barrier Cream costs less than $20, and if you buy 12 tubes at once the cost is less than $83, which is a tremendous savings. These kinds of products can be used by mobile people who have incontinence problems and also by caregivers of the elderly and disabled, since many of these people are bed-bound and some cannot control their bladder and bowels. Using a moisture barrier helps avoid infection and odor, as well as the skin irritation that can come from the elimination process and also from the repeated washing of the area in an effort to keep the patient clean.

If a person has allergies or very sensitive skin, or if a person is bothered by fragrances or dyes in their products the best choice might be ConvaTec Aloe Vesta Protective Ointment. There are no irritating dyes or fragrances found in this product and it is long lasting as a moisture barrier, repelling moisture while it conditions the skin. It works on diaper rash, feces, urine, and wound drainage, and it’s hypoallergenic. The company states that it provides superior protection, and it can be purchased in a two-ounce tube for less than $18 or in an eight-ounce tube for just a little over $25. If larger quantities are needed the discounts are impressive, with 24, two-ounce tubes costing just over $100 and 12, eight-ounce tubes costing just under $133 with no shipping charges.

Whether you want sprays, swabs, wipes, creams, or ointments there are a lot of different options to look at when choosing a moisture barrier. Of course price is usually a consideration, but patient comfort should come first. Whether you’re the patient or the caregiver you understand the importance of a product that works well, and you might need to try a couple of different choices until you find the one that’s best for you.

…

Everything You Require to to Prevent Unreliable Acupuncture Center

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Everything You Require to to Prevent Unreliable Acupuncture Center

Post from: Neck Pro Info
Everything You Require to to Prevent Unreliable Acupuncture Center
Visiting acupuncture center is incredibly useful experience in taking care of your healthy problems. Actually, you ought to pay some attention before you at last choose to attend an acupuncture center. First things to be measured are the ability of the practitioner and [...]

I’ve been interested in alternative medicine for about 20 years now, and my interest has gone from a solidly skeptical beginning to a more optimistic end.

When I first started researching alternative treatment, it was over concern about a friend. I had a good friend who was a big fan of complementary medicine, and I was worried that he wasn’t getting the treatment that he needed.

I figured that, by refusing conventional treatment in favor of alternate medicine, he might be doing more harm than good.

At the time, I didn’t fully understand my friends position. I thought that his position on alternative medicine was a little bit extreme, but it turned out that I was the extreme one. He basically believed that it was a mistake to take harsh pills and other sorts of Western medicine before looking for more subtle, holistic cures.

Read the rest of this entry

More and more, scientific studies are showing that an active senior is a healthy senior.

Between physical activities for seniors, staying mentally active, and keeping up a healthy social circle, older people can prolong healthy living by years or even decades. With all the attention people put into good nutrition and exercise when they’re young, it is amazing that senior activities have escaped attention until recently. Fortunately, things are changing, and changing quickly!

Within a decade, active seniors will be the norm and the days of old people sitting bored in front of the TV all day will be a distant memory.

Choosing appropriate activities for seniors is easier than you might think. The main thing is that seniors live in or have access to facilities where social activities are organized. A lot of senior homes nowadays have poker nights, bingo games, water aerobics, and many other types of physical fitness activities and social gatherings that seniors enjoy.
Read the rest of this entry

Increase Your Loved One’s Mobility
Author: Med AME
Canes and Crutches – Increase Your Loved One’s Mobility

Not everyone can get around at 80 quite as well as they did at 30, although there are some exceptions. For most people, however, mobility becomes difficult once they pass their seventies, and sometimes younger people have trouble as well. This trouble can be short-term from an accident, injury, or surgery, or it can be long-term, chronic, and debilitating. When it becomes long-term the goal becomes helping the person have as much mobility as possible. There are several ways to do this, but the most common are canes, and crutches. Which one of these is needed will depend on the degree of mobility that someone has, how steady they are on their feet, their overall health and strength, and other factors. One thing is for sure, though, and that’s the fact that there are almost always options – but they should be looked at carefully to make sure you’re getting the best item for your needs.

Where crutches are concerned a lot of people who use them all the time prefer the forearm crutch. Since it fits over the forearm it is more stable than the standard crutches that fit into the armpit. The forearm crutch is also beneficial because it does not rub on a person as hard as the standard crutch and this avoids the sensitive and irritated skin that can often come about due to pressure and rubbing. Invacare, a leader in home health products, makes a forearm crutch in junior, adult, and tall, and a pair can be purchased for just over $60, making them a good bargain. They are aluminum with vinyl-coated cuffs, oversized crutch tips for stability, and a three-year warranty. Since they have cushioned vinyl handgrips and can hold up to 300 pounds they are a logical choice for many people who need crutches with added stability. For people who are looking for the standard crutches, Invacare makes these as well, in junior, adult, and tall, for about $27. They have a weight capacity of 250 pounds, padded handgrips, and rubber tips that are reinforced with metal.

If crutches are not needed, canes are also good choices. Invacare and Rubbermaid both make canes. Invacare’s standard cane is made of aluminum and costs only a little over $20. It is lightweight at less than a pound but can support up to 250 pounds, and it adjusts from 30 inches to 39 inches so that it can fit anyone from 4′6″ to 6′6″ in height. The grip on the cane is soft and spongy, reducing hand fatigue. However, it is still strong enough to resist compression so that it stays solid for a long period of time. The best thing about the Invacare cane, though, is that it has such a low price and still comes with a limited lifetime warranty. It’s a great deal for someone who will be needed a cane to get around, but it’s not the only cane worth considering.

Rubbermaid also has canes available with both round and offset handles. The round-handle cane comes in a standard grip and a narrower grip which is often more comfortable for the smaller hands of women. The price for one of these canes, with either grip, is just over $22, and with a 250 pound weight capacity the cane can be used by almost everyone. The height adjustment starts at 29 inches and goes all the way up to 38 inches in one inch increments, and shipping is free. However, if you need a cane with an offset handle, Rubbermaid can meet your needs there, as well. The offset handle cane has the same weight rating and height adjustment, but provides a cushioned grip and a wrist strap for just over $28 and free shipping.

No matter what cane or crutch is chosen it is important to get the right one that meets the needs of the patient. If you are the patient, you may already know what you need or what you would like better. If you are taking care of the patient, listening to that person and letting them tell you what they need is a good first step. They may have to try out some options until they find what works best for them, but they should be active participants in their care for as long as they are able. By keeping them active in the decision making process they feel more useful and the transition from their previous abilities to the need for a crutch or cane can be made in a less painful way. Depression can be a real problem for the elderly or for people who are disabled and allowing them to have as much control over their lives as possible works to lessen that.

…

Herniated Disc Exercises – Simple Exercises For Long-Term Relief

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Herniated Disc Exercises – Simple Exercises For Long-Term Relief

Post from: Neck Pro Info
Herniated Disc Exercises – Simple Exercises For Long-Term Relief
exercises for a bulging disc can be helpful or harmful, so it’s important that you follow a few simple guidelines for exercising with this condition. This article will cover some simple exercises that you can do for bulging disc healing, but before [...]

Gel Cushions – Low Price and High Comfort
Author: www.MedAme.com
Gel Cushions – Low Price and High Comfort

If you have aging parents or if you are a caregiver for an elderly or bed-bound person, you probably know about pressure ulcers. These can be hard to treat, hard to get rid of, and very painful. The key to healing them and stopping more from appearing is to take the pressure off of the area, but this is not always something that can be done. There are times when a person must lie a certain way, in a specific position, and there are also individuals who simply cannot turn over by themselves. Anyone like this is vulnerable to getting pressure ulcers, and the people who take care of them can get very concerned about the health and comfort of their patients when these ulcers appear. Ulcers can lead to infections, and these can be highly detrimental to a patient who is already in a weakened state.

For people who suffer with different kinds of pressure ulcers, Convo-Gel Ulcer Prevention Cushions are the way to go for both healing and comfort. These cushions come in four sizes: 16X16X3, 18X16X3, 20X16X3, and 20X18X3. Even the smallest one, at 16 inches square, is still a good size for most people and most pressure ulcers. The 20 by 18 inch size can accommodate almost anyone. This allows someone who is smaller to get an ulcer prevention cushion that fits well while still offering products for larger people. At less than $65 per cushion they are an economical way to provide comfort and to allow an ulcer to heal more quickly. The Convo-Gel cushion is an innovative product and is designed to not only reduce pressure but to prevent and heal ulcers that are caused by having too much pressure on one area. Other cushions also claim to do this, but many of them cannot compete with the Convo-Gel brand. One of the reasons that it works so well is because it has three separate and unique materials contained in one cushion.

In its first, outside layer, the Convo-Gel cushion has Unitek Nylon, which is a 70 Denier urethane coated nylon fabric. This fabric is very durable but will not rub and chafe sensitive skin. This is important. Rough fabric continuously rubbing on an area that already has or is in danger of developing an ulcer would be both painful and dangerous. In its second layer, the cushion offers convoluted foam in a very high density for added comfort and to protect the center. In the third layer, the very center, the Convo-Gel ulcer prevention cushion has an aqueous gel in it to provide another layer of comfort and to help take pressure off of a particular area in the easiest way possible. By having all three of these materials combined in one cushion the interface pressure that the patient would otherwise have is greatly reduced. This not only provides the much-needed comfort that the patient is looking for but it also offers a higher chance for healing than would be seen with some of the other types of cushions on the market today. The key is in the three-layer design and the support of the foam layer.

Ischial tuberosities are supported by the viscous gel, which is also non-toxic. If for some reason the cushion would break or leak, there is no danger of it making the patient sick. This is true of both gel that is ingested and gel that gets on the skin. Over three quarts of this gel is contained in a bladder surrounded by fire-retardant polyurethane foam, another safety feature that Convo-Gel offers. The Convo-Gel cushion also offers a zippered nylon cover for easy removal and cleaning, and carrying handles so that it can be moved around without a problem. While the cushion is not extremely heavy the solid foam design and the gel that is included in the cushion do add some weight to it. The Convo-Gel cushion can be shipped within the continental United States for free. For other places, shipping can be arranged.

For people who are dealing with bariatric ulcers, Convo-Gel also makes a Bariatric Ulcer Prevention Cushion. These cushions are made of the same material as the other Convo-Gel cushions, but they come in six larger sizes: 22X18X3, 22X20X3, 24X18X3, 24X20X3, 26X18X3, and 26X20X3. These sizes can handle almost any pressure ulcer with ease, and they range in price from just over $75 for the smallest one to around $100 for the largest of the bariatric cushions. While slightly more expensive than the more standard Convo-Gel Ulcer Prevention Cushion the bariatric version is also much larger, which makes the higher price understandable. For people who have pressure ulcers the cost is usually not the largest issue. The main concern is making sure that individuals who are suffering from the discomfort of a pressure ulcer get the relief they need.
…

Bulging Disc Exercises – Avoid Set-Backs With These Basic Instructions

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Bulging Disc Exercises – Avoid Set-Backs With These Basic Instructions

Post from: Neck Pro Info
Bulging Disc Exercises – Avoid Set-Backs With These Basic Instructions
exercises for a herniated disc are a necessary part of any healing program. However, a person suffering with a bulging disc needs to proceed with caution when it comes to exercises, because there is a good possibility that you could aggravate [...]

Bariatric Beds Provide Comfort For Larger Patients
Author: Med Ame
Bariatric Beds Provide Comfort For Larger Patients

It’s no secret that obesity has become a serious problem today. People in the United States have been gaining weight by leaps and bounds, and they often have trouble losing it. With that being the case there are critics who have no sympathy and others who believe that these people are simply victims of a problematic society. Whatever the case, though, there doesn’t seem to be any quick fix and this overweight population is getting older, putting more pressure on an already strained healthcare system. Just because there are a lot of overweight people, however, does not mean that they should be made to suffer if they become disabled. Thankfully, there are products designed just for them!

One of these is the Invacare Manual Bariatric Bed. It can support up to 600 pounds but is easy to set up in the home. Despite the ease of setup, though, the bed is very substantial and sturdy. While the cost of the bed is near $4700, the value for the money is unsurpassed. That cost is no more than what would be paid for a high-end, full or queen size bed with mattress and box spring, and the Invacare bed is rated for much higher weights. The wider surface and truss assembly helps provide the maximum amount of support while still giving comfort, as does the extra bracing that is integrated into the bed frame itself. The bed ends are removable and the bed offers a split-spring design, which helps make the bed easier to set up. This allows a caregiver to set up this kind of bed for a bariatric patient and does not require a team of individuals or a professional installer to assemble, and there are not even any special tools needed to put the bed together.

The motor that comes with the bed can be attached and detached easily with the easy-release motor mounts. The frame is made of steel and is robotically welded, reducing the chance of problems such as frame failure. There is a hand pendant that comes with this bed, and that allows both the caregiver and the patient to operate the controls. With the pendant a person can adjust the position of both the head and the foot of the bed, and also raise and lower the height of the actual bed surface itself. The motor, in addition to being easy to attach and remove, features a very smooth operation and is extremely quiet. This is a benefit to a patient who does not want to disturb others with too much sound when he or she raises and lowers parts of the bed, and can be especially important for circumstances where the caregiver is a husband or wife and shares the same bedroom. Many people who are bariatric patients already feel guilty about their weight and feel as though they are a burden to their families. Anything that can be done to help alleviate this and make them more comfortable is important to patient and caregiver alike.

Another fine feature of the Invacare Manual Bariatric Bed, though, is that there is also a hand crank. It allows a person to manual raise or lower any part of the bed that has been adjusted via the pendant and the motor. This can be very helpful for cases where there might be a power failure which could otherwise leave the patient in a very uncomfortable position. The height of the bed itself can also be adjusted from 18 to 25 inches, providing options based on the size and height of the caregiver and also helping a bariatric patient that might not be totally bed-bound to set a height that is comfortable for getting in and out of bed. An 80 inch long and 42 inch wide sleep surface helps to ensure that patients will be comfortable once they are in bed and will not overhang the bed, which can cause serious discomfort and make it almost impossible for them to change positions.

The bed comes with a lifetime warranty on the welds, a five-year warranty on the structure and the frame, and a one-year warranty on any of the electrical and mechanical parts. Not all bariatric beds provide that kind of comprehensive warranty. This makes the Invacare Manual Bariatric Bed one of the overall best choices for people who are too heavy to be comfortable in a standard adjustable bed. If you are one of those people, or you take care of someone who is, checking into the Invacare bed can be a good investment in your future comfort.
…

Bariatric Centers for Disabled Accessibility & Gastric By Pass

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Bariatric Centers for Disabled Accessibility & Gastric By Pass

http://www.aedrx.info Bariatric Centers for Disabled Accessibility and Gastric By Pass. Bariatric Reclining lightweight weelchair for up to 450 lb patients.

Best Folding Commodes for the elderly-Low Low Prices

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Best Folding Commodes for the elderly-Low Low Prices

http://www.medical-reference.info Best Folding Commodes, rolling shower chairs and bariatric equipment for the elderly

Heart Attack Symptoms
Author: http://www.Medical-Guides.info

Heart Attack Symptoms

…
 

Home healthcare equipment folding walker guide

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Home healthcare equipment folding walker guide

http://www.MedAme.com Handicap homes reviews of Home healthcare equipment folding walker guide along with gastric bypass information.

http://www.HeartMedics.Info Heartstart Onsite Electrode Pads for AED Trainer & Home Defibrillator Zoll AED’s Plus in Alpine Read the rest of this entry

Early Pregnancy Symptoms
Author: http://www.Medical-Guides.Info

Early Pregnancy Symptoms

…
 

Bariatric Centers for Disabled Accessibility & Gastric By Pass

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Bariatric Centers for Disabled Accessibility & Gastric By Pass

http://www.aedrx.info Bariatric Centers for Disabled Accessibility and Gastric By Pass. Bariatric Reclining lightweight weelchair for up to 450 lb patients.

DNA Testing
Author: http://www.Medical-Guides.Info

DNA Testing Explanation and Options Review

dna testing for paternity in american bulldogs
dna testing in dogs for canine distemper
…
 

Best Folding Commodes for the elderly-Low Low Prices

Post from: Neck Pro Info

Best Folding Commodes for the elderly-Low Low Prices

http://www.medical-reference.info Best Folding Commodes, rolling shower chairs and bariatric equipment for the elderly

A nursing home cares for elderly people and the care and attention that they need. Most of the residents of a nursing home will have medical conditions but whilst a little frail they are generally not bedridden. They may need canes or walkers to help them get around and aid with everyday tasks such as eating, dressing and washing. The design of the nursing hiome is very important as most residents will spend the remaining years of their life there.

A nursing home isn’t just a facility where care is provided – it really is a home for its residents. The long term emotional and physical needs of a resident needs taking into account when considering the design of a new nursing home. A welcoming atmosphere must combine with all the practicality that is needed to give a good quality of medical care. When designing a nursing home the decor is just as important as the building itself. Getting the care home contract furniture and furnishings correct is a vital part of running a successful and welcoming care centre. A good contract furniture specialist is one of the first factors to take into account when designing a nursing home.

The nursing home environment can have a great impact upon the health of its residents. It is very difficult to get the design correct both from a designers point of view and an architects. Such things as outside space, catering, activity areas along with residents conditions such as poor eyesight can effect this. A friendly care centre is much more helpful for the recovery of patients than a sterile hospital.

Canes and Crutches – Increase Your Loved One's Mobility
Author: www.medical-reference.info

Not everyone can get around at 80 quite as well as they did at 30, although there are some exceptions. For most people, however, mobility becomes difficult once they pass their seventies, and sometimes younger people have trouble as well. This trouble can be short-term from an accident, injury, or surgery, or it can be long-term, chronic, and debilitating. When it becomes long-term the goal becomes helping the person have as much mobility as possible. There are several ways to do this, but the most common are canes, and crutches. Which one of these is needed will depend on the degree of mobility that someone has, how steady they are on their feet, their overall health and strength, and other factors. One thing is for sure, though, and that's the fact that there are almost always options – but they should be looked at carefully to make sure you're getting the best item for your needs.

…
 

Bed Sores, Ulcers and Wound Care Guide to Healing
Author: http://www.Medical-Guides.Info

Reasons why your wound or bed sore isn't healing

But there are places to look for your local wound specialist, such as:
. www.woundcenters.com (list of wound centers)
. www.nawccb.org (Directory of Board Certified wound clinicians)
. www.aawm.org (Directory of Board Certified wound clinicians)
. Call your local hospital and ask if they have a wound specialist, for example, someone in charge of the hospital’s pressure ulcers
Once you locate a specialist, make sure you are comfortable with their level of expertise and capabilities….
 

Everyone wants to get good help when it comes to taking care of their aging parents. Providing in home care for your loved ones not only takes a lot of tension off of you, but it also helps the patient recover much faster. It has been a proven fact that people fare much better in their own surroundings rather than in a hospital or nursing home.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor almost 85 % of children have taken their aging parents into their homes in order to keep them from having to stay in a long term nursing home. These aging parents were part of the baby boom generation, and now their children have been caught in the middle of having to take care of their own children and their aging parents, who were not able to take care of themselves.

Not all in home care patients are restricted to a bed or chair. Many still have the ability to move around their home as they normally do, and the care giver is still there in case they are needed. So the assistance each client receives depends upon their own limitations.

There are many different reasons that aging people should not be left alone. One is that they are always afraid that they will fall, due to weakness or dizziness from some of their medicine. Some get dizzy trying to simply stand up.

Another reason for in home care professional help is that many elderly people need help in the bathroom, and taking a bath. Some may have Alzheimers, others may have had a serious stroke and need professional care givers to help bathe, eat, and dress themselves. These types of aging parents need the love of the family around at all times, but they also need professional in home care as well. Many of the home sitters are available to live in your home either as full time or part time care givers.

Families want to take care of their elderly parents, but simply do not have the knowledge that is required to take care of them. It is best to call a Senior Home Care professional service and have one of their capable staff come help with the care of your parent. This will allow you and your family to be able to continue on with your own life, whether it is to go to work or other activities.

Choosing in home care does give a gift of freedom to your loved ones, and we as their children should help take care of them in their time of need, just as they took care of us when we needed it the most.

Homeopathic Uses for Vodka
Author: http://www.medical-guides.info

Vodka Naturalist Uses and Homeopathic Remedies -470 words

15. Swish a shot of vodka over an aching tooth. Allow your gums to absorb some of the alcohol to numb the pain….
 

Affordable home Stair lifts at fantastic prices at the Chair Lift Store. http://www.DISABLEDLIFTS.INFO Read the rest of this entry

Heat Therapy or Cold Therapy -Which Is Right For You?
Author: http://www.Medical-Guides.Info

Heat Therapy or Cold Therapy -Which Is Right For You?

…
 

Herpes Symptoms & Treatment
Author: http://www.Medical-Guides.info

Herpes Symptoms, Prevention and Cures Review

…
 

Hot and Cold Packs – Physical Therapy Aids for Pain Reduction
Author: www.medical-reference.info

For an elderly person who may have problems with muscle and joint pain just getting around can be difficult. One of the ways that a caregiver can help a person to feel better is through the use of hot and cold packs. A lot of people think that these are only for athletes, but they can be used on anyone in any walk of life who has an injury or suffers from general aches and pains. These are designed to help ease muscle tension and strain, and they can also help joints to feel better as well. Most of these hot and cold packs are small as well and they can be used by an elderly person without much, if any, help which makes them a good choice for almost everyone. Choosing a hot or cold pack, however, can be confusing because there are a lot of different options to pick from.

…
 

There Is No Shame for the Elderly With Bed Wetting Issues
Author: http://www.Medical-Guides.Info

by Steve Laurvick, President, Affordable Medical Equipment, Inc.

If you would like a free copy of our guide, "How to Talk to Your Bedwetting Parent" and receive archived and any new material go to www.BedPad.Info, type in your name and email address, hit the button and go to your email to confirm it. Sign up now, you'll be glad you did….
 

It has been found out from top leading comparison sites that when you are taking home insurance policy you do not put only the cost into account but you should also consider other important factors, the disadvantage here is that many times customers are truly under-insured since they do not take the time to get the best out of their insurance companies. In the event of an emergency you may find yourself responsible for the settlement of all the bills rather than the insurance company.

Start right now to search for an affordable home insurance coverage for your home. The best way to do this is to search online and compare quotes from quotes comparison sites. By the time you have compared quotes on up to 5 quotes sites, you would have a very clear idea of the savings to be made and where they can be made.

In this financially unsettled times price is a very important factor; not withstanding people need to consider seriously that at the event of any happenstance and there is no adequate insurance coverage, it may be much more expensive to recover from the situation. For this reason comparison sites and a popular high street building society have teamed up to persuade both home owners and tenants to make sure they are fully insured with complete coverage and policies. The comparison sites concluded that they would recommend home owners to compare the home insurance policies and whatever their coverage is before making the choice of taking the cheapest that can be found.

Even in the united kingdom, homes that make cheaper rates (instead of quality) their main focus could also be at risk of being under-insured. Analysis now show that there is no one perfect policy that satisfies all needs; truth is you get the best value for what you pay and not for all. Where To Get the Best Service Online?

Here Are My Favorites: mobile home insurance rates / contents home insurance

This is only a small fraction of the things you can do to lower your homeowners insurance premiums and put more money back into your budget each month. Speak to your insurance agent to find out how you can save money on your homeowners insurance.

The best method to get the best insurance company is the internet. This means will help you get and compare home owners quotes without stress. You are required to do this under the comfort of your home.

P.S. For the diversification of profit stream during the recession times think about foreign currency investments.

Technology To Help Diabetics With Their Care
Author: Medame.com
Home Diagnostics – Technology To Help Diabetics With Their Care

When a person must deal with a diagnosis of diabetes there are several different ways that he or she can react. Most often, however, the person gets on with his or her life and adapts to the changes that must be made. These can include diet and exercise, but they often also include medication and a need to check blood sugar levels. Some diabetics have to do this only once a week, some once a day, and others several times each day. No matter which category you fall into, getting a good and accurate blood sugar reading can be essential to good health. Without knowing your blood sugar levels you may have trouble properly regulating your diet and your medication dosage, especially if you must take insulin frequently. Diabetes used to be more complex in its care, but advances in both medicine and technology have made it easier to address.

One example of this is the Accu-Chek Advantage Diabetes Care Kit, which sells for around $86 and comes with free continental United States shipping. Using this device is very simple. In order to get your blood sugar test results with this kit you only need to complete two simple steps and wait 26 seconds. Then you get a reading and know what your blood sugar is. In addition to the simplicity that it has and the rapid results that can be viewed on the easy-to-read display the meter is capable of storing up to 100 tests, meaning you can go back and see whether your blood sugar has been staying stable. In addition, the results can be downloaded to a computer and stored that way. By doing this you will be able to chart your blood sugar more easily and keep track of whether it is well-controlled or whether there is more that needs to be done. Perhaps a medication change or a dosage adjustment may be necessary if blood sugar levels are still consistently running higher than normal or if there are large fluctuations. The only way to know for sure is to test your blood sugar when you should and use a reliable meter.

There are many benefits to the Accu-Chek Advantage kit, and one of the most important ones is that so many things come with it. In the kit you will receive the meter and its carrying case, but you also get test strips, a Chek strip, a battery, a lancing device and lancets, a diary to record your sugar levels and other information, and control solution. By providing a kit with all of this included a diabetic can save both time and money. If all of these things were bought separately they would total up to a lot more than the price of the kit and probably take longer to shop for, as well. The convenience of the kit helps make having diabetes a little bit easier.

Another great example of a diabetes test kit that has everything in one convenient place is the Ascensia Elite XL Diabetes Care System. This test kit contains the same basics as the Accu-Chek kit but comes with one extra battery and the ability to store 120 tests as compared to the 100 tests which can be stored by the Accu-Chek device. Since this test has capillary action, exactly the right amount of blood is drawn each time the device is used. You’ll never have to worry about not getting enough for an accurate test or getting more than you need. The Ascensia care system also has a five-year warranty, which is highly beneficial for diabetics that must use the kit very often and is two years longer than the three-year warranty on the Accu-Chek kit. The more usage it receives the faster it will wear out, and knowing that it is guaranteed for several years can help a person on a limited income feel better about his or her purchase. For just over $72 the Ascensia kit can be purchased and you can get the same things that you would get with the Accu-Chek kit with the exception of the diary.

Some people have a personal preference about which brand of blood sugar meter they want to use and have differing opinions about what constitutes value and quality. Because of that it is important to spend some time researching options when it comes to devices that can affect your health. The matter of a few dollars should not determine whether you get the brand of blood glucose meter that you feel is best for you. No matter whether you base your choice on the warranty, the number of tests stored, or something else, getting the meter that you want and feel comfortable with can go a long way toward establishing the proper routine of checking your blood sugar and taking care of your health.
…

Alcohol and drug treatment has evolved through the ages. Back in the dark ages, little or nothing was known about treating addiction. In fact, addiction was perceived as demonic. In other words, the patient is seen as demonized or possessed by demons. The only treatment in those days was being burned at stake. What a terrible way to deal with a straightforward matter! It was truly a dark age!

A little progress was made in the later century. Instead of seeing the patients as being possessed by demons, they were seen as being mad! It’s relatively unbelievable. The Alcohol and drug treatment back then include straight jackets, padded rooms, and electric shocks. Our modern perception of addiction and appropriate alcohol and drug treatment literally dates back to the 12 step program. This is a program started by the Alcoholics Anonymous. It is not until then that we commence to see that addiction is neither demonic nor insanity. Yes, it is a predicament but it is never solved by those terrible means in the past. There are now better approaches to dealing with addiction.

In order to assist folks with addiction, countless alcohol and drug treatment centers were established. But most of these centers only have the 12 step model as treatment option. The patient is handed a book and told to look for the nearest Alcoholics Anonymous centers. While there he will be told to attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Proponents of this method claim that it is relatively effective in helping the addict get off the predicament.

We won’t like to delve into the pros and cons at this phase. But it suffices us to know that it is the starting point of what we now as modern alcohol and drug treatment. One thing that is appealing about the 12 step program is that it is free. In other words, you don’t have to pay any high fee before getting treatment. It is not hard to find AA center nearby that you can attend. You can hop online and get it or check your phone book or yellow pages. Contact them and see what they can do to assist you get off addiction.

The 12 step program however is not the only way to get off drug and alcohol addiction. There are countless methods out there that you can use. So, I beg you to ask if the center you desire to check into has other services apart from the 12 step program. It is fine to check into one that has more than the 12 step program.

Finally, it is commendable that you try out as countless alcohol and drug treatment options as feasible. This is the only way you can know the right and perfect one for you.

No matter how much you feel you are aware regarding Alcohol And Drug Treatment information like information about Alcohol And Drug Abuse Treatment, or even Alcohol And Drug Treatment Centers, visit Ras Reed’s site to be entertained with very revealing information.

More tips about immune system boosters published here.

Disabled

Prevent and Heal Bed Sores
Author: MedAme.Com
Alternating Pressure Mattresses Can Help Prevent and Heal Bed Sores

Does your elderly parent or other relative have a bed sore that just won’t seem to heal? Are you a caregiver for someone with a similar problem? Often, caregivers for the elderly despair about the best way to take care of these kinds of issues, but they don’t have to worry so much. There are products that can help! One of the best products out there for the relief and prevention of pressure sores in the elderly and anyone else who is bed bound is the Masonair Alternating Pressure Mattress system. An alternating pressure mattress – or APM – is designed with a therapeutic surface, providing a lot of comfort to a bed-bound or mostly bed-bound person while lowering the chances of developing pressure sores. Using this type of mattress can also help current pressure sores to heal more quickly, giving added comfort to the patient.

The Masonair mattress is a top-of-the-line item. It measures a roomy 35 inches by 80 inches and has an internal system containing 20 individual air bladders. By providing so many different bladders the pressure is more even and this helps to protect the skin of the patient as well as make the mattress more comfortable and more stable. The best thing about the Masonair APM, though, is the fact that it has so many great features that come standard. The air pump used for the bed is quiet and the controls are user-friendly. These help both the patient and the caregiver to use the bed with a minimum of discomfort or confusion. The pump has different comfort settings that adjust to the needs of each patient who uses the mattress. There is low pressure support designed into the bed automatically and an internal sensor that monitors the surface pressure to provide the highest level of comfort possible. Beds that have these kinds of pumps and pressure monitoring systems will alert a caregiver with both an audio and a visual alarm when the pressure gets low. This allows for a quick fix for the patient before any discomfort is developed. The alarm also goes off if the power goes out, the air hose comes unhooked, or the pump is unplugged, and the alarm can be turned off and reset with the push of a button.

The Masonair Alternating Pressure Mattress System also comes in two different types – one that has a powered support surface and one that has a low air loss system. A powered support surface mattress costs less than $900, and a low air loss mattress is slightly more money, coming in at just under $1400. These mattresses have a soft/firm key and an LED display so that the patient and the caregiver can adjust the mattress to to the desired comfort level and see that it stays there. Most APM mattresses are adjustable but not all of them offer the efficiency of the LED display option preferred by caregivers.

Because the pump that comes with the system has such a high output it offers six LPM for the powered support surface and eight LPM for the low air loss option. This can make inflating the mattress very quick and easy for almost anyone. It reduces the strain on the caregivers and keeps the patient from the feelings of guilt that some elderly people end up with when they have reached the point where others have to take care of them. Once the mattress is inflated the alternating cell depth is designed for comfort and the 5.5 inch CPR feature lets you deflate the mattress very rapidly in case of emergency. That safety feature is important to a lot of caregivers but it’s not something that can be found on every APM available on the market today. Another great feature of this brand of mattress is the anti-microbial cover. It is non-shear and fully encloses the entire mattress and the three-inch foam base.

The Masonair brand of alternating pressure mattress is dedicated to both comfort and quality. The company is also very careful about providing its customers with as many features for the price as possible to make the lives of their patients more comfortable and the lives of the caregivers easier as well. There is often a lot of stress on a caregiver of an elderly person. Whether their patient is someone they are paid to take care of or an aging relative, the physical and mental strain on these people can be enormous and exhausting. Anything that the company can do to alleviate that stress is a benefit to all of their customers.
…