Advice on what would offer physical comfort out of bed

FormerMember over 5 years ago

3 replies
97 subscribers
2179 views

Hello.

My Dad is unfortunately in the late stages of lung cancer and has a few weeks left, according to the professionals. My question is not strictly related to lung cancer, apologies if this is posted in the wrong section.

He recently had a hospital bed fitted at home due to developing bed sores and other discomfort when laying down. My question is, has anyone come across anything that provides a similar level of comfort/adjustability outside of the bedroom? He currently spends his waking hours on a sofa with an air cushion and is constantly trying to shift his weight (which is next to nothing these days) to find a more comfortable position. The pain is becoming an unwelcome addition to what he's already going through. The nurse came round today and gave him a gel cushion but it is no better.

My Mum has seen some things on the internet (not sure what exactly) but without an opinion or experience to go on it is difficult to know if they will work.

Has anyone any experience of this and/or recommend a solution or product?

Thanks in advance

Martin

FormerMember over 5 years ago

Hello Martin

I am sorry to read of your Dad's diagnosis.

You have done the right thing by discussing this with his nurse. The most helpful I can be is that quite often we use V shaped pillows or maternity pillows. This can support parts of us and used in various ways. They do a much larger version too which has three sides.

Can I suggest giving 0808 808 00 00 a call. It's freephone and Macmillan is open 8am to 8pm everyday.

Have they suggested an increase in painkillers for your father, it is priority now to keep him as comfortable as possible. Please raise this with the nurse/GP to enable them to change this to something else or prescribe something similar.

Kegsy over 5 years ago

Hi Martin

So very sorry regarding your Dad's situation.

Do you have a hospice near to you that you could visit for advice? They are very experienced in making people physically comfortable throughout their end of life care and will be able to offer you the practical advice you need. They may even be able to loan you some equipment or point you in the right direction to obtain same.

I hope this helps.

Kegsy x

"If you are going through hell, keep going" ; Sir Winston Churchill

" Cancer may take my life; however it will not become my life" Kegsy August 2011