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My husband has advanced Parkinson’s disease and is now confined to bed. Our bed is hard on my back as he is virtually totally immobile.

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Ask one of his doctors, probably the doctor treating him for PD, to script for the bed.  The doctor's staff probably have an established relationship with a DME (Durable Medical Equipment) supplier company and can arrange for the delivery.   

Do you have any in-home care help?  You can raise that issue as well with the doctor's staff.   

I'm assuming that assistance is needed for turning, as opposed to getting out of bed?  You might also ask for a one time, or longer, script for an occupational therapist to evaluate the situation and offer ways of helping both you and your husband.

A trapeze might be appropriate, if he's able to raise his arms enough to hold onto it.   But it would have to be installed by a carpenter or handyman with carpentry credentials.

Nurses learn how to safely turn bedridden patients, so perhaps an OT, or even a nurse, can share these techniques with you.

Good luck, and best wishes for a quick alternative to the lifting you're doing now.
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Kathmac Sep 2019
Thank you. I will be speaking to his neurologist on Monday and will pose the question.
i have learnt all the techniques for turning him. It is just that the bed is rather low. A higher bed would be much easier for me.
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Ask at the local catholic charities...
ask the local Salvation Army...they get lots of medical equipment donated.
ask the local council on aging...they may have other charities that might have one.
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Thank you very much. Those are great ideas.
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His doctor should be able to write for a prescription for one for him and possibly insurance would cover the cost. Especially if you're dealing with Medicaid or Medicare. I know that my mother was able to get other medical equipment paid for through Medicare, such as her wheelchairs and a lift to help us get her up and out if bed. Check with his doctor and with any insurance you may have and see what they cover. Also any charities in your area may be a good place to look if the insurance/ doctor route isn't an option. Perhaps even the Salvation Army may be a good place to look, maybe sit down a make a few calls. Good luck in your search. I know it made all the difference in the world when we were able to get one for my mom. Hope you're able to find one soon. ☺️
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We met recently with a palliative care team and they suggested we get eligibility for hospice. Being in hospice is not always end of life and they can offer support such as a bed and other equipment.

Check and see if this is path for you. You doctor can help.
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