Height Adjustable Beds

Summary:  If getting in and out of bed safely is a concern then you'll want to investigate height adjustable beds.  They can go down to just under 8 inches in height and adjust up to 30 inches.  Many models also have bed rails to help you get in and out of bed safely and prevent bad falls.  Some insurance companies may help with the costs of these beds.

Q:  My husband doesn't have back problems or anything like that.  What he does struggle with is getting in and out of bed due to some other health issues.  In fact, he prefers a nice flat bed with a firm mattress.  Do you have any suggestions?

A:  Probably the best solution for your husband is a height adjustable bed.

A lot of times folks who have had health issues like a stroke or Parkinson's or even bad arthritis have a heck of a time rising from a very low position.  For example, a normal fixed frame bed.

Of course, some folks compensate by buying higher beds.  But, those don't always work either and it sure helps to have something that adjusts up and down to get the perfect 'feel' for rising and sitting down on the bed.

That's what makes an a bed with adjustable height setting so ideal for your husband.  Not only will he still be able to enjoy the comfort he had on his regular mattress but he won't have to struggle any more to get in and out of it because it's adjustable.  In fact, many models adjust from as low as 8 inches all the way up to 30 inches.  That's quite a range.

Now, a little education is in order.

Working With A Height Adjustable Bed

To get the safest bed height for your husband you want to make sure that he is able to sit on the side of the bed and when he does - both his feet are planted firmly on the floor.  

In addition, adjustable height beds give caretakers a lot more convenience in the fact that you can raise the bed while he is in it to help him with anything.

Height Adjustable Bed Prices

While this is the ideal solution for you understand that you will be paying more money for the convenience.  You can check out some basic models here and get a feel for what you're looking at.

Also, many of the hi-lo beds (as height adjustable beds are commonly referred to) are also adjustable in the fact that you can elevate the head, the feet, incline and decline positions.

But, as you said, your husband is putting himself in a dangerous situation each and every day trying to get out of a traditional bed.  Sooner or later, this may lead to a fall.  And I probably don't need to tell you that something like that could lead to a broken hip and a hospital stay.

Additionally, many insurance companies will help with payments on products like these (especially, since it may prevent them from having to pay hospital and surgical bills.)

Adjustable Bed Rails (Enablers)

When you begin searching for hi-lo beds you'll probably find another additional - and very helpful - feature in the form of bed rails.

These rails can take the form of small one or two foot rails all the way up adjustable 'fence' type rails that run the length of the bed.  Because these rails enable you to get in and out of bed safer, and often times by yourself, they are called enablers.

Hope this helps.