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Choosing the Right Hospital Bed for Home Use

Choosing the Right Hospital Bed for Home Use

When the need arises to care for a loved one at home, choosing the right hospital bed becomes crucial to ensure their comfort and safety. Making an informed decision can feel overwhelming with various types available, such as electric, semi-electric, adjustable, low, and bariatric beds. Let us explore each bed's features, benefits, and considerations to help you find the perfect fit for your home care needs.

Understanding Hospital Beds for Home Use

What is a Hospital Bed?

A hospital bed is specifically designed for hospitalized patients or others needing some form of health care. These beds have features such as adjustable height for the entire bed, the head, and the feet, adjustable side rails, and electronic controls, which are essential for patient care and the convenience of care providers.

Why Choose a Hospital Bed for Home Use?

  • Enhanced Comfort: Adjustable features allow for optimal positioning and can help with recovery and comfort.ย 
  • Safety Features: Rails and adjustable height decrease the risk of falls and assist in mobility.
  • Health Benefits: Proper positioning can help improve circulation, prevent bedsores, and aid in better breathing, which is vital for patients who spend a lot of time in bed.

Types of Hospital Beds for Home Use

1. Electric Hospital Beds

Features and Benefits

Electric hospital beds are powered entirely by electricity and allow for easy adjustments of the bed's height and position, usually via a remote control. This type of bed offers the highest level of comfort and convenience for both the patient and caregiver.

Considerations

Electric beds require a reliable power source and are typically more expensive than manual ones. They can range from $800-$3,000.ย  They are also heavier, which might complicate transport and setup.

Read more about electric hospital beds here.

2. Semi-Electric Hospital Beds

Features and Benefits

Semi-electric beds combine manual and electric controls. Height adjustments are generally manual, while head and foot positions are electric. This offers a balance between cost and functionality.

Considerations

While cheaper than fully electric beds at $730-$1,200, semi-electric models may require more effort from the caregiver to adjust the bed height manually.

3. Adjustable Beds

Features and Benefits

Adjustable beds offer versatility and are particularly suited for patients recovering at home who don't require the all features of a traditional hospital bed. These beds provide electric controls for head and foot adjustments and can include luxury features like massage or heat.

Considerations

They might not have all the medical features of a hospital bed, such as side rails or height adjustment, making them less suitable for patients with severe mobility issues. The price range is large at $550-$5,500 thanks to the variety of available features.

4. Low Hospital Beds

Features and Benefits

Designed for fall prevention, low hospital beds can be adjusted to sit very close to the floor and are ideal for patients with a high risk of falling out of bed.

Considerations

The low height might be a challenge for caregivers when assisting the patient, potentially leading to strain. They can cost anywhere from about $1,100-$5,500.

5. Bariatric Beds

Features and Benefits

Bariatric beds are built to accommodate heavier patients, featuring a stronger frame, wider surface area, and higher weight capacity. They ensure comfort and safety for all patients, regardless of size.

Considerations

These beds are larger and require more space in the home, and they are also more expensive due to their specialized build. A basic model can be purchased at around $550 while top-of-the-line models can run youย  $5,500. The average cost is about $3,000.ย 

Choosing the Right Bed

Key Considerations

  • Patient Needs: Assess the specific needs of the patient, including mobility, risk of falls, and required care level.
  • Space: Consider the amount of space available in your home.
  • Accessories: Some beds may not come with vital accessories such as bed rails or bedding and will have to be purchased in addition to the bed.
  • Budget: Determine what you can realistically afford, keeping in mind that more features can lead to higher costs.
  • Flexibility and Features: Evaluate what features are necessary and which are not.ย 

Top Picks

Here are a few of our top picks for hospital beds:

Invacare Electric Hospital Bed


ProHeal Semi-Electric Hospital Bed


Med Mizer Adjustable Beds

Medacure Low Hospital Beds

ProHeal Bariatric Beds



If you need help choosing the right hospital bed, contact our customer service team today!

Conclusion

Choosing the right hospital bed for home use involves balancing the specific needs of the patient with the features offered by different types of beds. By understanding the options and assessing your requirements, you can ensure that your loved one receives the best care in the comfort of your home.

FAQs

  • What is the best type of hospital bed for elderly patients at home? Electric or low beds are typically best for elderly patients due to ease of use and safety features.
  • Can hospital beds be rented instead of purchased? Yes, many medical supply companies offer the option to rent hospital beds for home use.
  • Are hospital beds covered by insurance? Often, yes, especially if prescribed by a doctor, but coverage can vary, so check with your provider.
  • How much do hospital beds for home use cost? Costs range from $500 for basic models to over $5,000 for advanced versions.
  • What should be considered when placing a hospital bed in a home? Ensure ample room for the bed, easy access for caregivers, and proximity to necessary medical equipment.
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