Tips for living in bed

Danni Brennand, born in 1986, in UK, suffers from Autism, myalgic encephalomyelitis, probable postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, Irritable bowel syndrome, dyspraxia and anxiety. She has to spend a lot of time in bed due to her conditions, so she shared some tips about how to have a “perfect beding life”.

• Comfort is the top priority. Most clothes are not comfortable for lying in so don’t get worn. Some clothes are good though- t-shirts and leggings, shorts and skirts tend to work well for me. Pyjamas and night clothes are also good, and some of them can even pass as daywear.
• When I’m too ill for a proper bed bath, bath in bed wipes are often a pretty good substitute. These wipes are especially designed to be used for washing in bed.
• There are various ways of dealing with hair. Dry shampoo works for a few days, but I find it doesn’t do a great job when it’s gotten really greasy.
• For proper hair washing, an inflatable basin makes it a lot easier.
• Cushions and pillows are essential for comfort. The best I’ve found for me is a U shaped body cushion.
• An overbed table makes life much easier.
• If you’re living life completely in bed, then toileting will be done either by bedpan or incontinence pads.
• A sheepskin is wonderful for helping make a bed more comfortable and helping to prevent bedsores.
• If you’re well enough, a laptop, tablet or internet connected phone makes a massive difference.
• A Hydrant is great for drinks in bed without having to worry too much about spilling and you can go for a bit longer between refills as they go up to 1 litre in size.
• If possible, have as much stuff in reach as you can. The less you need to call for someone to get stuff, the better. When I was in a single bed I had a small bookcase next to my bed that held quite a lot.
• Bed socks are amazing. I find my feet get cold even while the rest of me is sweating and overheating, and proper bed socks are warm, comfortable and unlike normal socks, don’t dig in.
• My microwaveable penguins are awesome. Not only do they keep me company at all times, the heat also helps warm me up when my body temperature is all wonky and helps with pain.
• Try and have the bedroom as pleasant as you can.
• You can get remote controlled lights and electric switches.
• Don’t forget to move while you’re in bed!
• A waterproof mattress protector is essential. You will spill something at some point and the last thing you want to do is soak the mattress.
• Have a way to contact whoever helps you. For me, I can use my tablet to message Johan, or if necessary send him a text message or call his phone (it’s connected to my phone via Bluetooth).
• Try to remain positive. Living in bed is not the end of the world. It may not be what you choose but it doesn’t have to be completely negative.

Adapted from: http://dannilion.com/2013/07/perfecting-bed-life/