Adjustable Beds for Seniors

When it comes to beds, a comfortable and safe option for seniors is an adjustable bed. They can offer much more comfort and support, and be tailored to their needs. These beds typically allow users to adjust the head, foot, and overall positioning, improving circulation, reducing pressure on joints, and alleviating conditions like arthritis and acid reflux. Adjustable beds can also aid seniors in getting in and out of bed. 

All this helps promote independence and safety, making them a valuable investment in senior health and well-being.

What Are Adjustable Beds for Seniors?

Adjustable beds for seniors are specialized beds explicitly designed to give seniors more comfort, support, and an overall feeling of safety and well-being. They come with many motorized functions that allow the user to adjust the position of the head, foot, or even the entire bed to suit their individual needs. This capability benefits seniors with chronic pain, mobility issues, or certain medical conditions. Elevating the head or feet can help improve poor circulation and reduce discomfort for back pain, which a regular bed can’t do.

Unlike a regular type of bed, adjustable beds come equipped with many key features to improve comfort, safety, and mobility. While they are similar to a hospital bed, they come with the added comfort of home use. 

Many models feature fully adjustable height settings, making it easier for seniors to get in and out of bed and reducing the risk of falls. Some models also have built-in massage or vibration features, giving extra comfort and relaxation. There are many additional features that you can choose from to aid in both comfort and relaxation.

Adjustable beds are customizable, letting seniors tailor the bed's position to their specific wants and needs, whether for sleeping, reading, or watching TV. This allows for a personalized sleep environment, helping to improve sleep quality and overall health.

Types of Adjustable Beds for Seniors

Adjustable beds offer many different features that can be specifically tailored to seniors' unique needs and wants, improving comfort, safety, and mobility. Each type of adjustable bed can address specific needs, helping seniors maintain a higher quality of life by promoting comfort, safety, and independence. Here are some of the features on offer:

Standard Adjustable Beds

• Allow some simple movement for head and foot adjustments to help with comfort.

• Ideal for seniors who need moderate elevation for better sleep or to alleviate discomfort.
  

Hi-Low Adjustable Beds (Hospital-Style for Elderly)

• It can be raised or lowered, reducing the risk of falls.

• Suitable for seniors who use walkers, wheelchairs, or need assistance when standing.

Rotating & Pivoting Beds

• Have adjustable bases, allowing the mattress surface to pivot, allowing seniors to transition from lying to standing.

• Minimize joint strain, promoting independence and mobility.

Bariatric or Heavy-Duty Options

• Designed with wider frames and higher weight capacities.

• Reinforced for stability, perfect for heavier users needing extra support.

Smart & Electric Adjustable Beds

• Motorized controls

• Remote apps

• Advanced settings like massage or zero-gravity modes.

• Offer great comfort and are a good choice for those looking for a “smart bed for seniors” with personalized features. Key Features & Considerations

When choosing a bed, you should consider the various features that it can offer to make sure it meets the specific needs of the individual. Here are some key features and considerations to keep in mind:

Motorized Controls & Ease of Use

• Optionally equipped with wireless remotes, voice controls, or simple push-button interfaces.

• Perfect for seniors with limited dexterity or mobility.

Height & Angle Adjustments

• Have high and low functionality to match the user’s height or to be at wheelchair level.

• Allow for head or foot elevation to alleviate acid reflux, swelling, or breathing problems.

Safety Add-Ons

• Include side rails.

• Under-bed lighting.

• Locking casters.

• Built specially to prevent nighttime falls.

• Support for people with balance issues.

Durability & Warranty

• Built with a strong and stress-sturdy frame construction.

• Equipped with reliable motors.

• Available with multi-year warranties.

• Easy access to parts/service.

Massage & Heating Functions

• Massage functions that can help soothe arthritis pain or ease muscle tension.

• Offer spa-like relaxation at home. 

Sizing & Fit Guide for Adjustable Beds

The adjustable bed frame comes in various shapes and sizes. Choosing the right size is very important when picking a bed to guarantee access to comfort and the functionalities you require. Whether looking for a bed for individual use or shared comfort, you must find the right fit, taking into account the size and shape of the room it will be in as well.

Twin Adjustable Beds

A twin adjustable is a good choice for individual use. It offers a compact option for smaller bedrooms.

Full and Queen Adjustable Beds

The full or queen size is a good size for couples or those needing more space. They are ideal, providing lots of room whilst maintaining the flexibility of the adjustable positioning. 

Also, consider caregiver space to make sure that the bed layout allows easy access for assistance.

Mattress Compatibility

Foam, latex, memory foam, or hybrid mattresses that flex easily are excellent choices, as they give smooth adjustments without compromising comfort. The optimum mattress thickness is between 8 and 12 inches, as thicker mattresses may interfere with the bed’s ability to adjust effectively.

Room Layout and Mobility Gear.

The space in the room where the bed will go is also going to be an important decision. You need to make sure that the bed’s frame height accommodates any mobility aids, such as walkers or wheelchairs, that might be needed, allowing seniors to get in and out of bed comfortably. 

Benefits of Adjustable Beds for Seniors

Adjustable beds for seniors can improve their overall quality of life by enhancing comfort and mobility. They can instill independence, improve comfort and sleep quality, and, with the ability to elevate the head or feet, help with different kinds of aches and pains. They give more restful sleep and can make a big difference in seniors’ health and well-being.

A big advantage over regular beds is their improved comfort and sleep quality. With the ability to be customizable and to adjust the bed’s position independently, seniors can reduce their reliance on caregivers for assistance. Such features as massage, heating, and zero-gravity modes provide additional comfort, while remote controls allow for quick adjustments, whether they are watching TV, reading, or relaxing.

They also offer caregivers much-needed extra help by making it easier to assist seniors with sitting, standing, or repositioning without the need for strenuous lifting. These features minimize physical strain on family members or professional aides, ensuring the senior and their caregivers experience less stress.

How to Choose the Right Adjustable Bed for Seniors

Picking the best adjustable bed for seniors requires some thought and careful consideration of health, budget, and professional guidance. Common conditions like arthritis, sleep apnea, edema, or limited mobility can impact your choice of features, such as the head/foot elevation and the bed size. 

Seek the professional assessment of a physical or occupational therapist. They will help you determine the ideal bed height, angles, and additional features like side rails or assist bars, which you may need to improve safety and mobility. 

With these elements in mind, seniors can find an adjustable bed that improves their comfort, supports their health, and meets any budgetary constraints. For seniors with specific medical needs, check if Medicare or insurance will cover the cost of the bed if it is prescribed by a doctor.

Shop Home Med is an online retailer specializing in health and wellness products. On our site, you can find hospital beds, mattresses, wheelchairs, patient lifts, and bathroom safety products. 

We accept Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for eligible products, letting you use pre-tax funds for purchases. We have partnered with SIKA Health to facilitate these transactions securely and efficiently. Furthermore, we offer a "Buy Now, Pay Later" option through Shop Pay, which lets you acquire products immediately and pay in installments.

Browse our store or contact Shop Home Med to help you choose the right bed for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an adjustable bed for seniors different from a standard bed?

An adjustable bed for seniors offers customizable positions for the head, foot, and entire frame, providing relief from many conditions. Unlike standard beds, these beds feature motorized controls, height adjustments, and safety features like side rails, enhancing comfort, independence, and caregiver support.

Does Medicare cover adjustable beds for elderly individuals?

Coverage depends on medical necessity, doctor’s prescription, and specific policy terms.

Which size bed is best for seniors—twin, full, or queen?

It depends on the senior's individual needs and the size of the room in which the bed is placed. Consider both their mobility constraints and the caregiver’s needs.

Can adjustable beds help with back pain or swollen legs?

Yes. Elevation reduces pressure on the spine and aids circulation in the legs.

Are there affordable adjustable beds for seniors with basic features?

Yes. Many affordable, budget-friendly models are available on the market that focus on core functionalities without luxury extras.

Do I need a specific mattress for an adjustable bed?

Yes, an adjustable bed will require a flexible mattress, such as foam, latex, or hybrid, that can easily bend and adjust with the bed’s movement without damage. This helps maximize the senior’s comfort and their smooth positioning.

Is professional installation required, or can I set it up myself?

Some beds come pre-assembled or partially assembled; others might need professional assembly for safety.