As we age, some tasks that were once simple can become challenging, and getting into and out of your bed should not be one of them. The bed you choose can significantly impact your lifestyle and well-being.
In this article, we will delve into the differences between hospital beds and adjustable beds, two common options that may come to mind when you consider your next bed purchase. Understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision that meets your needs, enhances your independence, and maintains your dignity.
What Is an Adjustable Bed?
An adjustable bed, as the name implies, is a bed that allows the user to adjust the position of the mattress to various angles. They are usually operated using electric motors and come with a remote control to adjust the head or foot of the bed.
Adjustable beds are versatile and can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms like back pain or acid reflux by adjusting the bed’s position. For example, elevating the head can help with breathing and reduce reflux symptoms. They often come with added features such as massage functions or built-in lights.
However, it’s important to note that adjustable beds are not specifically designed with seniors in mind. They may lack certain safety and accessibility features that are crucial for seniors, especially those with mobility limits. While they offer some level of comfort and flexibility, they might not fully cater to the unique needs of our aging population.
What Is a Home Hospital Bed?
A hospital bed, on the other hand, is specifically designed to assist individuals with medical needs, whether in a hospital or home setting. Unlike the typical bed or even an adjustable bed, a home hospital bed is engineered with safety, accessibility, and health needs at its core.
Transfer Master recognizes these needs and is dedicated to providing solutions for seniors and individuals with mobility issues. Our adjustable home hospital beds, like our Supernal Hi-Low Bed, seamlessly combine the comfort features of an adjustable bed with the safety and accessibility features of a home hospital bed.
These beds offer the flexibility and support needed by seniors, particularly those with mobility limits. The adjustable height feature, for instance, allows for easier independent transfer from a wheelchair to the bed, enhancing your independence. To further ensure your safety, these beds also come with brackets for half-bed rails.
Hospital Bed vs. Adjustable Bed
While adjustable beds and hospital beds may seem similar at first glance, there are a few core differences to consider.
Construction and Design
Adjustable beds are primarily built for comfort and convenience. They offer various positions for sleeping or lounging and often come with added features for convenience. These beds are constructed with a domestic focus, designed to blend into a typical home setting.
On the other hand, hospital beds are crafted with medical and accessibility needs in mind. While many hospital beds still offer adjustable reclining positions, they are also made to accommodate different medical conditions and assist those with limited mobility.
Features and Benefits
Adjustable beds are popular for their range of customizable positions. The added features like massage functions could provide extra relaxation.
Hospital beds, meanwhile, offer essential safety and accessibility features, including adjustable height for independent transfer from a wheelchair, brackets for added safety, and special designs to fit different sizes of rooms. Plus, beds like our Supernal 5 are specially designed to seamlessly blend in with your home environment.
What To Consider When Choosing a Bed
Choosing the right bed can have a profound impact on your quality of life. The right bed can enhance your independence, provide the comfort you need, and promote a healthy lifestyle.
It’s not merely about sleeping; it’s about making your day-to-day life easier and maintaining your dignity as you age in place. The right bed can make your home a safer, more comfortable place to live independently.
Selecting between a hospital bed and an adjustable bed involves considering several factors. You’ll want to think about your health condition, mobility level, and your home environment.
Safety and Ease of Use
When choosing between a hospital bed and an adjustable bed, safety and ease of use are essential considerations. Adjustable beds don’t typically feature an adjustable height setting, so if you frequently transfer from a wheelchair to the bed, a hospital bed with adjustable height would probably suit your needs better.
With hospital beds, you can also add features like bed rail brackets, which can help prevent falls and provide additional support during transfers. These features can significantly enhance safety, especially for individuals with limited mobility or balance issues.
Comfort
Comfort is another crucial factor to consider. Both hospital beds and adjustable beds can provide comfort, but adjustable beds may offer more customization options than standard hospital beds.
At Transfer Master, however, our range of adjustable home hospital beds offer all the comfort features of an adjustable bed, allowing you to find your preferred sleeping position and make adjustments for specific health conditions without compromising on safety features.
For instance, our New Valiant bed features high/low adjustability, as well as head/foot and Trendelenberg and reverse Trendelenberg positioning. It’s the ultimate blend between the safety of a hospital bed and the convenience of an adjustable bed.
Control
Control options play a crucial role in the usability and convenience of adjustable beds. Some adjustable beds rely on Wi-Fi connectivity or smartphone apps to control settings, which may not always be user-friendly for seniors.
Home hospital beds like ours at Transfer Master, on the other hand, typically come with remote controls that are specifically designed to be easy to navigate, ensuring effortless adjustment of bed positions and settings.
Maintaining Independence
Of course, upholding your independence and dignity is paramount. The bed you choose should not only support your active lifestyle but also blend seamlessly into your home environment, providing both safety and normalcy.
Transfer Master’s beds are designed with this dual purpose in mind. They provide additional features that promote independence, especially during transfers in and out of bed. They’re built to resemble regular beds, eliminating any clinical feel, which aids in maintaining a sense of normalcy and dignity.
Not only are these beds attractive and comfortable, but they’re also available in sizes from twin to king, ensuring there’s an option that fits perfectly in your space. Our goal is to help you age comfortably at home, maintaining your independence and dignity without sacrificing safety or comfort.
Key Takeaways
Hospital beds and adjustable beds both have their advantages, but they cater to different needs and situations. Understanding their differences can guide you in making an informed decision that enhances your comfort, safety, and independence.
Remember, the goal is to age in place gracefully, and the bed you choose plays a significant role in that journey. We encourage you to make a thoughtful decision that prioritizes your well-being, dignity, and independence. The right bed can truly make your home the comfortable, safe haven it should be.
With Transfer Master’s range of adjustable home hospital beds, you’re not sacrificing comfort or flexibility for safety — you’re choosing both.
Interested in learning more about how Transfer Master adjustable home hospital beds can enrich your goals of aging in place? Contact us today.
Sources:
Sleep and Bedroom Safety for Seniors | HomeCare
Head of bed elevation to relieve gastroesophageal reflux symptoms: a systematic review | PMC
Mobility in Older Community-Dwelling Persons: A Narrative Review | PMC
