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Mattress for Profiling Bed
Mattresses supplied by County Council (one type fits all) is probably appropriate for many people but is causing some issues for my son. Aged 27, Duchenne MD, likes to play computer games sat up in bed for several hours a night. The centre now sags and even when new when lying down he has pressure on his heels causing discomfort.
I am happy to purchase privately and I am looking for recommendations of manufacturers and models that might be suitable.
Are pocket sprung of combination pocket sprung out of the question. I cannot find any clarity on this – manufacturers and retailers say yes, but they would.
Personal experience greatly appreciated.
Reply To: Mattress for Profiling BedHi Mike
I have had issues with pressure on certain areas, particularly my heels which led to a 5 year battle with a wound (long story) so I understand what your son is experiencing.
I don’t have a great deal of knowledge of mattresses. All I can tell you is that I was supplied with a pressure care mattress which came with the profiling bed. It was still too hard for my heels and the base of my spine so I ended up buying a memory foam mattress topper which did the trick. It provided that extra bit of softness without losing the support I needed. I have a Baltic Turning bed which solved a lot of issues for me. It can tilt the sides at the same time as lifting the top end of the bed so I can get into a great position for my wonky posture.
I am having issues with pillows right now. My current one is disintegrating – it’s made of foam pockets and over time has moulded to my head and shoulders. I worry what I’ll be able to find to replace it.
Others may have thoughts on good mattresses. I have tried an air mattress but I didn’t get on with it – I found I disappeared into it when sections deflated. I hope you’re able to find a solution.
Let us know how things go.
A learning experience is one of those things that say, “You know that thing you just did? Don’t do that.” - Douglas Adams
Reply To: Mattress for Profiling BedPocket sprung only work for a little while before the springs go wild. I had basic adjustable beds from bed shops for years but int he end it was the mattress that goes before the adjustable bits.
My bed can sit up into a chair seated position and my mattress is only just feeling in need of changing after 8 years. and its the sides that have dipped where I sit alot. Its from Bakare and im sure there was choices of insert depending on weight.
Your OT should be able to help with a air mattress assessment as they are the best for pressure sores. Ive used many times in hospital. If they cant help then the MD Joseph Patrick Trust may be able to help. Or depending on age the Independent Living fund transition fund.
Reply To: Mattress for Profiling BedMike. Do not buy a Mattress. Contact the district nurses in your area, you may already have contact, and ask them to supply a bed with the appropriate mattress.
David
Reply To: Mattress for Profiling BedThank you your replies. They have all been very useful.
The Baltic Turning bed looks like a good option after a lottery win. We saw something similar at the NEC a couple of years ago are were very impressed.
The issue with the air mattress is worth considering and I will look into it.
We had not considered pillow at this point but I will add to my research.
An eight year life span for the mattress seems about right – might need to replace like with like.
Support given by Local Authorities varies considerably. On some aspects Hertfordshire is good (very pleased with the Wheelchair Service after the initial battle) on some poor (physiotherapy) and others limited (mattresses and sleeping aids).
Reply To: Mattress for Profiling BedI agree with you about the variation between authorities. I have had very good experience of OT service in my area. This was a long time ago but my OT helped me get full funding for the Baltic bed – it took two and a half years to convince them it was the best option for me. It gets confusing as mattresses usually come under the District Nurse remit. I think what I find most frustrating is the lack joined up thinking.
A learning experience is one of those things that say, “You know that thing you just did? Don’t do that.” - Douglas Adams
Reply To: Mattress for Profiling BedI had no luck with Local authority regards bed. NHS and Council argued between themselves for more than a year. I was only half heartily offered a used hospital bed (single) on a temp bases. what they called palliative care loan.
In end we had to self fund and save over 4 years to get my small double profiling.
Reply To: Mattress for Profiling BedYes Cat, it really comes down to whether you have access to one or more outstanding people who fight for you. In our case it was the Senior Physiotherapist in West Hertfordshire Children’s Service. Not only did she get the powered wheelchair and profiling bed but also a powered standing frame. We were very upset and left stranded when transferred to Adult Services, all support appeared to vanish.
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