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The brisk winter season can be a difficult time for elderly people all around the UK. The colder weather often means that older people are at a higher risk for illness, injury and even weather-related conditions such as hypothermia or influenza. When the temperature drops, taking extra precautions is important to keep you and your home warm and healthy.&nbsp;

The dramatic rise in the cost of living has become increasingly challenging for people of all ages. Last year we saw that energy bills increased by an additional 1%, leaving&nbsp;energy bills <a href="https://www.bigissue.com/news/social-justice/energy-price-rise-cap-january-2025-help-support/">65% higher</a> than winter 2020-21.

Rapid concern is growing for this winter where the <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/energy-price-cap#:~:text=Between%201%20October%20to%2031,on%20typical%20household%20energy%20use.">price cap</a> is increasing. Between 1 October to 31 December 2024 the energy price cap is set at £1,717 per year for a typical household. An an increase of 10% compared to the cap set between 1 July to 30 September 2024.

A <a href="https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/articles/theimpactofwinterpressuresonadultsingreatbritain/december2022">study</a> showed that over 1 in 3 (34%) adults reported that cutting back on heating their home has negatively affected their health or well-being. Furthermore, around a quarter of UK adults (23%) were often, or even never, able to keep comfortably warm in their living room.&nbsp;

With people unable to keep warm in their own homes and being at risk of suffering from the subsequent health dangers of prolonged exposure to the cold, this issue extends far beyond just the winter blues. To help you prepare for the coldest months of the year, Oak Tree Mobility has put together a guide to help you navigate seasonal expenses - and even claim some savings or grants you didn’t know about.

As anyone will be able to tell you - the long winters in the UK can feel cold and unforgiving. Unfortunately, many members of the population will suffer from the cold conditions more than others. The winter can be much harder on those who may be elderly, disabled or on lower incomes - not to mention those who are unhoused. A study by the <a href="https://www.resolutionfoundation.org/">Resolution Foundation</a> found that during winter, over 75s are expected to spend 8% of their total household income on bills - even with significant government support.

Sadly, it has been shown that there is a strong correlation between disability and fuel poverty. Over 1 in 5 (21%) households in fuel poverty have somebody in receipt of disability payments, compared with just 1 in 10 (11%) of households not in fuel poverty.&nbsp;

Looking at the facts, winter can be really hard for older people. With 1 in 4 older people not being able to keep their living rooms warm - or for the many people who have opted for extra layers over putting the heating on - that’s a lot of people feeling the chill at home. This isn’t just uncomfortable - but it can be harmful to health. The cold air inflames the lungs which can have a nasty knock-on effect causing respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD and infections.

Older individuals often confront a unique set of challenges during the winter, with higher heating needs being at the forefront due to often more vulnerable health.

The data affirms that a staggering 62% of elderly individuals have already reduced their home heating recently to manage their finances, underscoring the grave financial and physical predicament they find themselves in during the colder months. This figure isn’t just a statistic, but a reflection of chilling living rooms where seniors, in an attempt to economise, might be inadvertently exposing themselves to health risks.

In a study by Age UK, 52% of people expressed significant concern about the forthcoming winter and 57% are anxious about the potential of very cold weather, the hidden cost also permeates into their mental and emotional well-being. It's a looming cloud of anxiety that impacts their day-to-day happiness and comfort. The winter season, therefore, does not only bring about physical and financial strain but also introduces a psychological burden, generating worry and stress amidst the elderly demographic regarding how they will navigate through the frosty months ahead while maintaining their health, home, and finances.

It’s not just the cost of fuel bills that are impacting the health of older people. In a bid to combat the ever-rising cost of living, elderly and disabled people have taken measures to reduce their social care. An astounding 54% (equivalent to 8.8 million individuals) of older people foresee the rising cost of living affecting their health and care needs. This isn’t just about penny-pinching but about genuine, tangible impacts on their ability to access and afford necessary care. A study revealed an alarming number, 1 in 10 elderly individuals in the UK are reducing or even halting their social care due to the escalating cost of living.

The domino effect this might have on the National Health Service (NHS) in the coming months, with potential increases in healthcare demands and crises, cannot be underestimated. Their unique need for consistent social care and warm homes during winter is not merely a preference but a requisite for maintaining their health and independence.

Ensuring a Cosy and Safe Winter on a Budget

When the chill of winter nips at the door, keeping homes warm becomes paramount, especially for the elderly, who might be more susceptible to the cold. However, managing heating and ensuring a well-insulated home can come with a hefty price tag. Let’s explore ways and means through which the elderly in the UK can manage heating and insulation on a budget, supported by various schemes and tips.

The Winter Fuel Payment is intended to specifically help older people with fuel bills. <a href="https://www.timesandstar.co.uk/news/24767602.dwp-winter-fuel-payment-eligibility-pension-credit-deadline/">From this winter</a>, only those on Pension Credit or means-tested benefits will get the Winter Fuel Payment. The Treasury stated that these changes would see the number of pensioners receiving the payments fall from 11.4 million to 1.5 million. Meaning just under 10 million people would now miss out. If you were born before 23 September 1958 you could get either £200 or £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2024 to 2025.

The Warm Home Discount Scheme is a one-off £150 discount off your electricity bill.&nbsp;If you’re eligible, your electricity supplier will send you a letter in January 2025 and apply the discount to your bill. The money is not paid to you.

Max monetary value: £150 on electrical bills

A payment intended to assist with additional heating costs during particularly cold spells.

Applicability: Available when the average temperature in your area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below for 7 consecutive days.

Max monetary value: Depending on the weather, you will receive £25 for each 7 days of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.

This is a one-off, tax-free payment to people who receive certain benefits, aimed at alleviating the financial strain during the festive season. This is usually paid automatically to those eligible, helping to bring a dash of joy amidst the financial burden of the holiday season.

Max monetary value: The Christmas Bonus is a one-off tax-free £10 payment made before Christmas, paid to people who get certain benefits in the qualifying week. This is normally the first full week of December.

This is a benefit that lowers the council tax one needs to pay. A council tax reduction is particularly relevant in winter when other expenditures spike and every saving is pivotal. Eligibility and amount depend on income, who lives with you, and your circumstances.

Max monetary value: You could be eligible if you’re on a low income or claim benefits. Your bill could be reduced by up to 100%.

This is a regular payment from the government that one can claim upon reaching the State Pension age. While this is not winter-specific, it forms the bedrock on which seniors can navigate through the financial demands of winter, ensuring a consistent fund stream.

Max monetary value: If you receive the new State Pension, the full amount you'll receive for the 2024/25 tax year will be £221.20 a week (compared to £203.85 a week for the 2023/24 tax year). You can claim the new State Pension if you're a man born on or after 6 April 1951 or a woman born on or after 6 April 1953.

This is a government energy efficiency scheme in Great Britain designed to tackle fuel poverty and help reduce carbon emissions. Through this scheme, you may be eligible for help to improve your home’s insulation or replace or repair your heating system through energy suppliers under the <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/energy-company-obligation-eco">ECO scheme</a>.

Smart meters can be installed for free and are designed to help you manage energy efficiently. A smart meter will measure how much gas and electricity you’re using to help you keep track of how much you’re using and whether you can reduce your energy consumption. This is a good way to keep a transparent view of your spending before bills drop through your letter box.&nbsp;

Practical Tips on Heating and Insulation Management

Efficiently manage heating by setting timers for heating systems to warm the home only when needed. This means you can avoid putting the heating on when you’re unlikely to be in the house or just have it on for the coldest times of the day like the morning or evening.

Simple measures like draught excluders, sealing gaps in windows and doors, and insulating letterboxes can prevent heat loss. Also, keep the curtains closed in the rooms you’re not using to preserve heat.

Simple measures like rearranging furniture to avoid blocking radiators and using thermal curtains can help conserve heat.

Ensure that heating systems are serviced annually to maintain efficiency and prevent breakdowns during winter.

Installing reflective panels behind radiators can reflect heat into the room. This a relatively cheap solution that costs around £20.

Whilst there are grants and support initiatives put in place by the government, this is by no means a one-stop-shop for tackling the impact of the colder weather for older people. The real question is, what can we do about it? Communities and leaders need to think about how they can step up to help people, particularly older adults, manage these cold months and support their health during this time. This could mean finding ways to support them financially, via their GPs, or by building community to check in on one another and provide a helping hand.&nbsp;

On a local scale, we can begin to think about how we can support those around us who need us the most, whether that be family or neighbours. It could be as simple as sending a text, picking up the shopping, sign-positing to grants and resources, or simply opening a conversation with “How can I help”.

“Winter can be tough, especially for our elderly loved ones. Cold days mean high heating bills and icy paths can turn a simple shopping trip into a risky task. These challenges, alongside the health issues that cold weather can bring, can make winter particularly hard and costly for the elderly. That's why, at Oak Tree Mobility, we think it's crucial to offer extra help during these chilly months. It's more than just lending a hand; it's about making sure our elderly neighbours and relatives are safe, warm, and stress-free during winter. By giving a bit of our time and support, we can make their lives a little easier and their winter days a bit warmer.”

Title 'Bracing for Winter: Your Guide to Increasing Seasonal Expenses'

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Bracing for Winter: Your Comprehensive Guide to Seasonal Expenses

Back pain is a daily struggle for many, particularly for those who suffer from a disability or reduced mobility. As many as<a href="https://www.blackberryclinic.co.uk/articles/how-common-is-back-pain-in-the-uk/"> 2.8 million people </a>in the UK will experience back pain at some point in their lives, with chronic back pain being far more common in those aged 60 and over. For those managing this discomfort, back pain can greatly impact day-to-day life, making everyday tasks and mobility more difficult. Therefore, it is paramount to choose the right mattress, this is because a well-suited mattress can not only ease back pain but transform sleep quality too. In this blog, we’ll explore the best bed mattress for back pain.

Back pain manifests in different ways, each with distinct and damaging effects on the body. It’s important to first identify the most common types of back pain and their unique characteristics to consider the best mattress for back problems.

Degenerative back pain is the most typical form of back pain in seniors. It occurs due to the body’s natural ageing process, where our bones and muscles weaken over time, causing nerve irritation and damage. Degenerative back pain creates inflammation, stiffness and lack of flexibility which can lead to degenerative disc disease or <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/rise-and-recline-chairs/the-ultimate-position-of-a-recliner-chair-for-back-support">Spondylolisthesis</a>, also known as a slipped disc.

Spinal conditions, such as spinal stenosis, are caused when the gaps between our spinal discs narrow or deform, leading them to rub against each other. This inflammation can lead to misalignment of the body, causing persistent pain and reduced mobility.

When we position our bodies incorrectly or use parts of our muscles excessively, it can lead to muscle strain, creating intense pressure and pain. Muscle strain can range from mild to severe and can result in migraines, nausea and stiffness. Thankfully, muscle strains are the easiest form of <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/adjustable-beds/are-adjustable-beds-good-for-back-pain">back pain to treat</a>.

Pinched nerves occur when there is too much pressure pushing against the tissue of a nerve. This causes the muscle surrounding the nerve to tighten, creating a numb feeling and sharp shooting pain. Pinched nerves can make relaxing parts of the body more difficult.

Osteoporosis is a slow-developing disease that weakens bones, making them fragile and susceptible to breaking. Mostly common in people aged 60 and over, Osteoporosis is only diagnosed following a fall or injury when a bone has broken. Living with the condition can be difficult, but managed with moderate exercise, a healthier diet and improved sleep.

Not all mattresses are made the same. There are a plethora of mattress options on the market, each with different properties that can be of benefit; be it through improved sleep, reduced pressure on joints and muscles or temperature regulation. Let’s take a look at the most common types of mattresses in the UK.

Memory foam mattresses are a popular option for many. Crafted from dense foam, they react to a person’s body heat and pressure, molding to the shape of the body. Considered one of the best mattresses for bad backs, memory foam mattresses provide excellent pressure relief, ensuring more restorative sleep.

Memory foam mattresses are created with comfort in mind, with additional cooling gels which help to improve airflow and reduce heat retention. This is particularly important, as our body expels <a href="https://drinkflowater.com/how-sleep-is-impacted-by-your-hydration-levels/#:~:text=Over%20a%20full%20day%2C%20about,through%20their%20mouth%20or%20nose.">300-400 millilitres of water</a> each night. Memory foam mattresses help to regulate body temperature throughout the night and allow individuals to sleep for longer periods as a result.

A pocket sprung mattress is made from individual springs which are encased in a fabric pocket, allowing each to move individually when the mattress is in use. For example, when someone lays on their mattress, the separate springs respond to the body's pressure, resulting in greater comfort and support.

Pocket-sprung mattresses are great for active sleepers. This is because they provide greater support than other mattress types. The separated springs provide stability and adapt quickly to sudden changes in position and movement, helping an individual to feel better supported when tossing and turning. Additionally, pocket-sprung mattresses are great for those sleeping with a partner as they will be undisturbed by the motion of an active sleeper.

Latex mattresses are crafted from latex foam, providing a firm feel. In a similar way to memory foam mattresses, they conform to the contours of the human body, however, latex mattresses don’t create the same sinking feeling. Latex mattresses are a great option for those looking for a balance between comfort and support.

Latex options are some of the best mattresses for back problems. This is because they offer consistent support across the entire body. Latex’s natural elasticity supports better sleep posture and helps to maintain spinal alignment. These mattresses are particularly effective for those who require additional back support as the latex material helps to create the right pressure on spinal discs and back muscles.&nbsp;

Medical Grade™ foam and PostureCell® technologies 

Medical Grade™ foam, like that in our <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/mammoth-mattress">Mammoth mattresses</a>, was developed and used in health settings to help people get the rest and recovery they need. Crafted with PostureCell® technologies, the mattress material cushions and moves independently, evenly distributing body weight, providing pressure relief and minimising partner disturbance.

Best for: Scientifically proven technologies

Medical Grade™ foam has been rigorously tested with Northumbria University’s Centre for Sleep Research and is scientifically proven to enhance sleep quality. The only mattress on the market to achieve this accreditation.

In a scientific study, participants using Medical Grade™ foam mattresses fell asleep 29% quicker, with 21% of those enjoying better sleep too. Additionally, participants experienced a 7% increase in sleep efficiency during REM and non-REM sleep, supporting them to wake up less throughout the night.

Introducing our NHS award-winning <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/mammoth-mattress">Mammoth mattresses</a>. Crafted using Medical Grade™ foam with PostureCell® technologies, they’re the preferred mattress for those recovering from an injury or living with an ongoing health condition, like chronic back pain or arthritis. Our Mammoth mattresses provide 69% better cooling technology when compared with traditional mattresses, help customers fall asleep more quickly and provide greater pressure relief too.

Can Mammoth mattresses be used on adjustable beds?

Absolutely! Our <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/mammoth-mattress">Mammoth mattresses</a> can be purchased with every adjustable bed.

Because they’re crafted with PostureCell® technology, mammoth mattresses naturally conform to the different positions of an adjustable bed easily. Made from Medical Grade™ foam, wear and tear is also reduced when compared with traditional mattress types, making them one of the best mattresses for back problems.

Choosing a mattress can feel like an overwhelming prospect. You want the assurance that the mattress you buy is right for your specific requirements and needs. Occupational Therapist, Samantha Shann explains that ‘alleviating pressure while you sleep can help relieve pain, improve joint and muscle recovery, and promote a more independent lifestyle so it’s important to find the right mattress.

Start by identifying how you sleep; side sleepers benefit most from softer mattresses, whilst those who lie flat will want something a little firmer to support their body and spine.

Chronic back pain affects as many as 80% of people, so it’s important to consider any underlying health conditions or concerns, both now and in the future.

Memory foam mattresses offer excellent pressure relief, whilst latex mattresses are known for their durability and support. When looking at mattresses, pay attention to factors like the level of firmness, the feeling and softness of the materials and whether a mattress will regulate body temperature. These are all important factors in finding a mattress that keeps you comfortable throughout the night.

Discover why Oak Tree Mobility is the ideal place for finding your perfect mattress

At Oak Tree Mobility, we believe everybody deserves the best night’s rest, and that starts with the right mattress. With the purchase of every adjustable bed, we provide the option of a high-quality pocket-sprung, memory foam, latex or award-winning Mammoth mattress. Whether you’re looking for extra support, pressure relief or unmatched comfort, our mattresses are designed to suit your specific needs and requirements.

To find out more about our adjustable beds, and accompanying mattresses, including our new Mammoth mattress, the only mattress scientifically proven to provide better sleep, please visit our <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/mammoth-mattress">website</a>.

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The Best Bed Mattress for Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most frequent health concerns worldwide with as many as<a href="https://www.theregenerativeclinic.co.uk/news/80-uk-adults-experience-back-pain/"> 80% of adults</a> experiencing it in their lifetime. Back pain more frequently concerns the elderly and is typically coupled with additional health issues that exemplify pain severity, including arthritis and spinal stenosis. Fortunately, there are a number of furniture products on the market aimed at reducing back pain discomfort. In this blog, we’ll discuss the correct usage and positioning of rise and recliner chairs for elderly people and explore their benefits for those suffering with chronic back pain.

Back pain is common in seniors due to influencing factors, from specific health conditions to the general ageing of muscles and bones. These result from natural physiological changes, lifestyle changes and wear and tear to the body over time. Pain in the back is also not concentrated in one specific area, with many people suffering pain in different areas of the back and with varying levels of discomfort.

Degeneration of the discs and joints in your spine

Spinal discs are like cushions between each of our vertebrae (spine bones) that help to keep us flexible and absorb daily shocks from movement. As the body ages, these discs become impacted, shrink in size and lose elasticity and moisture. This process reduces spinal flexibility and creates friction along the vertebra, increasing the likelihood of back pain and stiffness.

Spinal Stenosis is an abnormal process that can happen when the space inside the spinal canal narrows, putting adverse pressure on the nerves that run the length of the back. Spinal Stenosis affects up to <a href="https://www.southtees.nhs.uk/resources/ten-lumbar-spinal-stenosis-facts/">11% of Britons</a> over the age of 60 and sufferers of the condition experience intense pain in their lower back and legs.

Because spinal discs shift and shrink with time, it’s common for them to move out of place. This is known as Spondylolisthesis, or commonly referred to as a ‘slipped disc’. Because one or several of the spinal discs are out of alignment, Spondylolistehsis causes radiating pain and numbness that can travel the length of the body from the neck down towards the legs and feet.

Finding the best position to sit in recliner chairs is key to enjoying full comfort and back support. Recliner chairs for seniors are built with this in mind, with features including an adjustable position and height, ensuring improved posture, and reducing pressure on the back, neck and spine.

Lumbar support for correct spine positioning

Most back support chairs, like a rise and recliner, include lumbar support which contours to the natural shape of the back and body, holding the lower back firmly in position. Lumbar support can help to correct the placement of the spine, discouraging slouching and reducing the possibility of pain from developing.

Allows buttocks against the back of the chair

When sitting it’s important that the buttocks are positioned against the back of the chair. This supports better posture, reducing pain and ensuring optimal comfort. The adjustable height of a rise and recline chair ensures an individual’s buttocks are always firmly against the back of the chair. This helps to balance weight distribution evenly, correct spinal alignment and improve stability.

While in the seated position, recliner chairs for elderly people ensure their arms are kept by their side. This promotes good posture, helping people to feel more comfortable and relaxed. Additionally, sitting with arms placed by the side helps to prevent shoulder or neck strain and supports better circulation throughout the body.

Footrest when sitting and support when standing

The use of a footrest when sat in a rise and recline chair helps to keep feet flat, ensuring proper posture. When feet are elevated the spine is in better alignment with other parts of the body, such as hips and knees. This prevents unwanted back pain from developing and is particularly beneficial for elderly people who are more likely to be sat for longer periods of time with reduced mobility.

The best part of a rise and recline chair is the ability to alter the body’s position with ease, allowing for greater movement, flexibility and comfort. The adjustable height and reclining features of these chairs reduce swelling and stiffness and reduce discomfort to our bones and muscles. Reclining chairs make it easier to feel fully supported when standing up, correctly positioned when sat for a long time and more comfortable when in a resting position.

Sitting positions to avoid to reduce pain

Sitting incorrectly can have a serious impact on the body, leading to increased chances of spinal injuries and musculoskeletal disorders which can affect up to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5395891/#:~:text=Studies%20have%20suggested%20that%20the,4%2C%207%E2%80%9310%5D.">85% of seniors.</a> While sitting in a skewed position might seem comfortable, it can cause distress to the body. Here are a few different seating positions you may be guilty of adopting that could be harming your posture.

Sitting crossed legged increases pressure on the pelvis, causing it to tilt. This imbalance can result in back pain and muscle strain. Sitting with one leg crossed is equally as bad because it places extreme pressure on other parts of the body like knees. When an elderly person sits with their legs crossed it also reduces the rate of blood and oxygen circulation throughout the body.

Head tilting is particularly common when sitting, this is because we’re likely to be scrolling on our phone, reading a newspaper or tucking into something tasty. When the head is tilted forward it shifts the centre of gravity, this results in the neck muscles working harder to support the weight of our head, leading to upper back strain and in some cases, causing nauseating headaches.

Many people find it comfortable to lean to one side, this is because it feels natural to be supported by a part of a chair or a cushion in a rested position. Leaning to one side creates positioning imbalances and the misalignment of the back bones and muscles can cause severe pain to occur in a very short amount of time.

Slouching is most common when individuals are seated for long periods of time, which can disrupt the natural curvature of the spine. Frequent slouching can cause what is referred to as a ‘C’ spine. This increases pressure on the vertebrae, accelerating wear and tear and creating heightened pain and stiffness.

Sitting for longer than two hours in one position

As we just touched upon, sitting for long periods of time in the same position can cause increased back pain. The NHS states that some older people are likely to spend upward of <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/why-sitting-too-much-is-bad-for-us/#:~:text=Some%20older%20people%20(aged%2065,move%20during%20TV%20advert%20breaks">9 hours a day sitting</a>, so it’s important to break these habits where possible. Recliner chairs for seniors can support this, with their rise function encouraging mobility and better ease of movement.

Our rise and recline chairs are the perfect piece of furniture for the<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/health-and-wellbeing/the-benefits-of-napping"> ultimate refreshing afternoon nap</a>. However, we recommend that at night time you sleep in a fit-for-purpose bed. Whilst our rise and recline chairs are ever so comfortable, they have not been designed for nightly sleep.&nbsp;

We have a beautiful collection of <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds">adjustable beds</a>. These are made-to-measure, helping to improve deeper, <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/adjustable-beds/how-adjustable-beds-help-with-mobility-problems">more restorative sleep </a>for longer.

If you’re tired of the aches and pains caused by sitting in your current furniture suite and you’re looking to explore the benefits of a rise and recline chair, speak to the Oak Tree Mobility team today.

Our Mobility Experts are here to provide you with the best advice, with years of industry know-how they’ll share all the information and benefits using a rise and recline chair has to offer. To find out more you can request a <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-brochure/chair-v2?ref=em1&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=pardot_email&amp;utm_campaign=email_OctSpreadtheCost">free brochure.</a> Alternatively, you can book a <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-home-appointment">free home appointment</a>, where one of our friendly Mobility Experts will present you with a demonstration of one of our chairs in the comfort of your own home.

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The Ultimate Position of a Recliner Chair for Back Support

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Kai Anders is a junior marketing executive, writing articles on interesting subjects relating to health, wellbeing and accessibility.

Kai, who holds a Fine Art degree from Arts University Bournemouth and has worked in the healthcare industry, combines his passion for art and design with critical thinking skills and his knowledge of the industry to create compelling content and build community on Oak Tree Mobility’s social media and email channels.

In his spare time, Kai is also a small business owner and passionate about ensuring his customers receive a positive experience, a value that translates into his creative endeavours with Oak Tree Mobility.

Kai Anders is a social media specialist, passionate about sharing information on topics relating to healthcare, mobility and accesibility.

Junior Marketing Executive

Kai Anders

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An Occupational Therapist's Guide to Making Your Bedroom More Accessible

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What is Occupational Therapy?

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The <a href="https://www.theotservice.co.uk/">OT Service</a> is one of the UK’s foremost private occupational therapy companies and provides independent occupational therapy services worldwide.

Samantha qualified in 1992 as an occupational therapist and gained her masters in health and social care in 2011. In addition she holds a post-graduate teaching qualification.

Samantha has worked as an occupational therapist in numerous high, medium and low resourced education, management and practice settings. She is a regular guest lecturer at various national and international universities and frequently speaks at international conferences.

Samantha is the current President of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT). She is committed to promoting and advocating for occupational therapy and person-centred care by supporting the development of professional standards and new educational programmes.

In 2022 Samantha was awarded a Fellowship from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the profession. She remains a member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) including membership of RCOT’s specialist sections – Older Persons and Mental Health as well as being registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC).

Through her work with the WFOT Samantha represents the occupational therapy profession at the highest-level during World Health Organisation (WHO) meetings and contributes to specific WHO projects for example the GATE (Global Assistive Technology) initiative, Rehabilitation 2030 and Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP). Samantha is on the steering committee for the WHO World Rehabilitation Alliance and is also a founding board member for the International Society for Wheelchair Professionals (ISWP).

Award winning Occupational Therapist, Director of The OT Services and President of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapist

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Samantha Shann

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A Sleep Expert’s 5-Non-Negotiables for Deeper More Nourishing Sleep

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What Mattress is Best for Me?

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Can Sleep Help With Weight Loss?

An Interview with Sleep Expert Dr Nerina Ramlakhan

How to Sleep Well with Arthritis

Why Do We Dream?

What is Sleep Apnoea?

Signs That You’re Not Getting Enough Sleep

How To Stop Dreading Bedtime

Is Sleeping With Pets Harmful to Your Health?

Insomnia Vs Sleep Problems

I am passionate about helping people to sleep well, so much so that I have spent 25 years helping people to sleep and have published 5 books on the topic. When we sleep well and restoratively, the body is healed on so many levels – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. When we are well-rested, we feel happy, resilient and better able to cope with life’s inevitable challenges.

My belief is that our physiology is perfectly designed for optimal sleep. The key is understanding our unique relationship with rest. To unlock optimal rest, we need to make the daily choices that will enable us to get the deep, restorative sleep we deserve. It’s my mission to shine a light on these choices and make them achievable for everyone.

I received both my undergraduate degree and a doctorate in physiology at King’s College London, where I studied and conducted research on the brain and sleep science. Following my post-doctoral research posts, I worked in a health screening clinic in London’s Square Mile where I measured the health of city professionals working in law, banking, accountancy, media, insurance and other industries. It was here that I noticed that insomnia was a prevalent issue for an overwhelming amount of our patients and that I had a particular knack for supporting sleep issues to improve overall health. Following the wide experience gained in this position, I have been able to help many with their sleep issues, from school children to professional athletes, including those at Chelsea FC.

In my mission to learn even more about sleep practices, I looked to the ancient practices of Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Through my studies of sleep throughout time and different cultures, my methodology has grown into a holistic blend of Eastern and Western Sciences.

I spent a decade helping patients with severe mental health problems at The Nightingale Hospital. I was headhunted for this role to support patients with my wide range of experience and combined holistic and evidence-based practice. Seeing so many patients successfully reach their sleep goals by utilising my methodology inspired me to make this valuable knowledge accessible to all, by writing my first book Tired but Wired.

With Oak Tree Mobility, I am proud to share practical advice to support you with your sleep goals, free of charge. You can access my advice on the <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice">Oak Tree blog</a>&nbsp;or on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OakTreeMobility">social media</a>, and you can access even more health and sleep support on&nbsp;<a href="https://drnerina.com/">my website</a>.

How Oak Tree Mobility Supports Great Sleep

Our relationship with sleep is unique and, as such, the more able we are to cater to our individual needs for comfort, the better chance we stand of being able to rest and sleep well. The variety and range of comfort solutions offered in the Oak Tree product range is great. I recommend that customers really take their time and explore what makes them feel most comfortable and at ease. 

I particularly like the semi-contoured position of the <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds">adjustable beds</a>, and the variety of mattresses on offer will be highly beneficial to many as it will help you to find the best level of support and comfort. The semi-contoured design enables optimal breathing, a key factor in being able to rest and sleep well. An adjustable bed supports the joints in the back, hips and knees to ease tension and arthritic aches and pains, helping you to feel refreshed in the morning.

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