Lightweight Bedding Ideas for a Parent With Fibromyalgia
Symptoms of fibromyalgia include fatigue and muscle pain and tenderness.
In addition, there are often unexplained sensations of pins and needles and muscle spasms. While the pain can hit anywhere, it’s most common around the neck and shoulders, the elbows, the knees, the hips, and the buttocks.
When the pain is bad enough, it can be hard to sleep. Using lightweight comforters and blankets can help some. NSAIDs and SSRI medications are prescribed to help ease the discomfort.
People with fibromyalgia can sleep better when they have the right bedding. Many fibromyalgia sufferers report gel and memory foam mattresses help them get a full night’s sleep by supporting and cradling the joints. Lightweight bedding in the right type of fabric is equally important.
Ditch the Combination of Top Sheets, Blankets, and Comforters
Instead of a sheet, blanket, and comforter, look into duvets for your parent. A duvet is an all-in-one bed covering. You put a comforter into the duvet cover. That duvet cover is machine washable and eliminates the need for a sheet or blanket.
To make a bed with a duvet, you put a bottom (fitted) sheet on the mattress. The duvet cover goes over the comforter and is spread over the mattress. There are no sheets to tuck in. Your parent sleeps under that duvet instead.
In addition to the duvet cover, you’ll need the comforter that fits inside. The three best options are down, synthetic down, or bamboo fibers.
Stick to Natural Fabrics
Choose fabrics that allow air to flow through the coverings. Bamboo is one that is gaining ground. It is very lightweight, wicks away moisture, and allows air to flow. Cotton, lightweight wool, and silk are other options.
Plan for Swings Between Feeling Too Cold and Too Hot
People with fibromyalgia may find the body fluctuating between feeling too cold or too warm. With fabrics that breath, the skin is less likely to feel clammy when the body heats up. If additional warmth is needed during a cold chill, your mom or dad could have a lightweight wool or cotton throw next to the bed.
Make Sure Senior Care is Available When Needed
When the muscle discomfort of fibromyalgia is present, your parent may have a hard time with daily chores. Look into the services caregivers offer. With someone to help change and launder bottom sheets and duvet covers and make the bed again, your mom or dad will be able to focus on things like stress relief, diet, and exercise.
Talk to your parent’s doctor, make sure the treatment plan is working effectively, and have senior care agency to get started.
Are you or a loved one considering a Home Care Service in Provo, UT? Please talk to the friendly staff at December Rose Senior Care at Home. Providing Home Care in Highland, Utah and Surrounding Communities. 801-427-ROSE (7673)
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