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How can I position my 80 year old mom in bed to keep her head supported on the pillow more? Her head would slide off the pillow and she would end up in a fetal position then she coughs and gets congested sounding. Is it good or bad to have her elevated in bed? I noticed if she’s not very elevated, she stretches out more and her knees aren’t up to her chest.Any help would be appreciated.

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My mom, with CHF, benefitted from a raised head of the bed. My DH Aunt, who did not have CHF but would slide down into the bed, off the pillow, etc. benefitted from having her knees raised and her rear lower than her chest to keep her from sliding down. I’m probably not describing that properly. Both of them used a hospital bed to achieve the best positions.

Have you had your mom evaluated for hospice? If she qualifies, then hospice can provide a hospital bed which might make it easier for you to manage her positioning, plus you would have the benefit of a nurse to advise you and many other benefits. It sounds like your mom might qualify. If you look for a hospice that also has a home health group, your mom may benefit from their service if she is not yet at the hospice stage. Depending on your mom’s insurance, she could still get a hospital bed through Medicare. My mom did. She was not on hospice. I know this is a lot of “ifs”. Sorry for that but you could benefit from some nursing advice from someone who understands your mom’s medical needs. Ask her doctor to send someone out to evaluate her. Physical therapy could also be helpful.

You could also go to YouTube and do a search for positioning a patient in bed and get some ideas.

I just read your earlier post. I see your mom is already on hospice. Does she have a hospital bed? I’m remembering the PT is the one who showed me how to position aunt in bed. Please know that if your hospice isn’t responsive, you can always switch to a different Hospice provider.

Also my aunts CNA who came to bath her was very helpful on positioning aunt in bed. Of course you know she has to be moved often to protect her skin.

I’m sorry for your mom’s dementia. She and your dad are lucky to have you. Take good care of yourself. You matter too.
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Sounds like elevation would help her.

Walmart sells wedges that may help in positioning: one placed beneath her knees and another behind her head to keep her upright so she stays in her back.

Even rolled up towels inside a pillowcase could work.

Or removing the stuffing from the center of a pillow, so that the sides of the pillow are still firm and up against her ears, keeping her head from moving to either side?

Simple soft household items you may already have at home may do the trick.

I hope you can find what works.
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Reply to daughterofAD
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