Getting out of bed at night can be difficult for many older adults and those with medical conditions that impair their mobility, balance, or cognitive abilities. A brief moment of confusion, hurrying to the bathroom or neglecting to utilise a walking aid can result in a fall.
One of the biggest causes of injuries, medical hospitalisations, and loss of independence among the elderly continues to be falling. Beyond the physical effects, there is a negative influence on confidence, which can make daily activities stressful and add emotional strain to family and caregivers.
At Ravencourt, we believe people shouldn't have to sacrifice their independence to stay safe. That's why we're proud to offer products that support people to live more confidently in their own homes, and why Bide stood out as a practical solution.
Helping to prevent falls before they happen
For people at risk of falling, the night can be one of the most vulnerable times of day. Waking feeling drowsy or disorientated, forgetting to use a walking aid or standing up too quickly can all increase the risk of a fall, often with life-changing consequences.
After more than 30 years as a GP, Dr Tom Adler recognised that while many technologies focus on detecting falls after they happen, very few are designed to help to prevent them in the first place.
"During my career as a GP, I saw the impact that falls could have on people's lives. It wasn't just the physical injuries that concerned me; it was the loss of confidence and worry it created. By launching this falls prevention device, I believe it has the potential to reduce night-time falls whilst providing reassurance for both the user and their loved ones."
Dr Tom Adler, Co-founder and Creator of Bide.
That way of thinking served as the basis for Bide. Instead of depending on sophisticated technology or ongoing monitoring, Bide simply plays reminder messages which prompt users to stop, reorient, and make safer choices before getting out of bed.
How does Bide work?
Bide sits next to the bed and senses when a person has woken up in the night.
A family member, caregiver, or support worker can record the device's customised audio cues, which are combined with a gentle visual traffic-light system. These well-known slogans can be customised for each person and may serve as reminders to:
- Take your time.
- Before getting up, take a seat on the edge of the bed.
- Remember to use your walking stick.
- Press the call bell.
- Ask for help if you need it.
In the dark, Bide’s initial traffic light system (red-green) provides an additional visual cue to help people pause before getting up. Bide then acts as a bedside light supporting users to be more aware of their surroundings.
Bide is unique as it places equal emphasis on reassurance and guidance. In times of restlessness and anxiety in the middle of the night, hearing a loved one's familiar voice can reassure and promote safer routines. These cues also allow individuals to learn behaviours that promote safer mobility and more self-assurance at night.
Technology performs best when it integrates seamlessly into daily life. Bide has been designed to be accessible, intuitive and easy to use across a range of settings, including private homes, care homes and hospitals. Its straightforward design means the focus remains where it should be: supporting people to live safely and confidently.
Supporting independence for individuals and reassurance for families
A fall's consequences frequently go far beyond the injury. Many people have a persistent fear of falling again, which makes them less assured in their ability to move and more dependent on others for assistance. These worries are common among families and carers, especially when a loved one lives alone or moves about at night.
This device is especially beneficial for:
- Older adults.
- Those with cognitive impairment or dementia
- People who have trouble balancing or have limited movement
- People recovering from illness, surgery or injury
- Anyone more vulnerable to falls at night
Bide was tested in homes, assisted living facilities, and healthcare settings.
Positive results for both users and caregivers, such as a decrease in falls and an increase in confidence when moving at night, have been reported by early feedback.
Innovative Solutions for Everyday Living
At Ravencourt, we handpick products that make a real difference to people's daily lives.
"Every product we offer at Ravencourt has to answer one simple question: will it make a meaningful difference to someone's everyday life? Bide does exactly that.
"We know that getting out of bed at night can become a source of worry for individuals and their loved ones. Bide is a thoughtful solution that helps to reduce the risk of falls and gives people greater confidence while providing reassurance to those who support them. Helping people live with dignity, confidence and as much independence as possible is at the heart of everything we do, and Bide is a wonderful example of that commitment."
Jodi Sanders, Managing Director at Ravencourt
Bide represents that commitment by solving a challenge that impacts millions of people in a way that is straightforward, practical and person-centred. As opposed to waiting until after a fall, it offers an opportunity to encourage safer decisions.
As more people explore ways to stay independent at home for longer, preventative solutions like Bide encourage confidence, wellbeing and quality of life.
Discover how Bide can support safer nights and greater independence.
Designed to help reduce the risk of nighttime falls, Bide offers a simple way to support safer movement at home.
