Pick the right spot
Bed is best when he has a fever, aches or a heavy head. The sofa is fine if he wants company and a view of the television. Either way, choose somewhere warm, quiet and close to the bathroom.
Keep the room comfortable rather than hot. A slightly cool, fresh room helps with a blocked nose and with sleep.
Build the bedside kit
Everything he will otherwise shout for, within arm's reach:
- A glass of water and a jug to refill it.
- Tissues, and a bin within throwing distance.
- His phone and an extra-long charger.
- The remote, and a spare remote.
- A thermometer, and a pen and paper for notes.
- A blanket he can throw off.
Pillows, blankets and temperature
Two or three pillows help a blocked nose, because lying a little propped up makes breathing easier.
Layers beat one heavy duvet. He will feel cold with a fever, then hot, then cold again. Let him add or remove a layer himself, and take one away if he is sweating.
What to say at the start
Keep it warm and short. You are setting up a routine, not holding a meeting.
I've set you up in here. Shout if you need something, or text me.
I'll bring a drink at three and something to eat at six.
The rules of the room
A few gentle rules save a lot of arguments later.
- The bin is not a suggestion.
- Plates and mugs come back down once a day.
- Windows get opened for ten minutes, whether he agrees or not.
- He rests. Meetings can wait.
When settling in is not enough
If he is struggling to breathe, has chest pain, is confused or has a temperature that will not come down, he needs more than a comfy sofa.
Call NHS 111 for advice, or 999 in an emergency. Do not wait for it to pass.
Common questions
Bed or sofa?
Whichever he will actually rest in. Bed is better for a fever and aches. The sofa is better if he wants company and will otherwise wander about.
Should the room be hot?
No. Warm and fresh is best. Too hot a room dries the throat and makes sleep harder.
How often should I check on him?
Look in every hour or two at first, and whenever he asks. He will let you know if he needs more.
A quick recap
- Choose the spot and prop him up.
- Fill the bedside kit.
- Layer the blankets.
- Say the short, warm sentence.
- Agree the rules of the room.
Reality check
Rest and comfort do help. Most colds clear in a week to ten days. If he is getting worse after a week, see a GP.