Adjustable beds are excellent for seniors. As the name suggests, these beds can be adjusted to a position one is comfortable in. This mechanism helps users sleep well and makes getting in and out of bed easier. That said, choosing the right adjustable bed is important. Many brands sell these beds, so seniors must research and compare options before deciding. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes and cause one to pick the wrong product.
Tips to choose an adjustable bed
Seniors who have never purchased an adjustable bed can use a few tips to decide whether a particular option is suitable.
Check the range of motion
When purchasing a new adjustable bed for seniors, checking its ergonomics is important. One can start by looking at the range of motion the bed offers for its upper and lower sections. The higher the range of motion, the more comfortable the bed will be. Along with the range of motion, one must check whether the mechanical movement of the bed is smooth when changing the degree of upper and lower sections. Further, the bed should not make any noise when being adjusted at night as this would disturb the others in the room.
Prioritize ease of use
It’s also important to pick a bed that’s easy to control, especially for seniors. The user should be able to adjust the bed as per their requirements without anyone’s assistance. This feature is especially crucial for seniors living independently.
See if it has safety features
Safety is an important thing to consider when buying an adjustable bed for seniors. Safety rails, LED lighting, and anti-entrapment function are a few safety features the bed should ideally have.
- Safety rails provide extra support to seniors and help them safely get in and out of bed.
- LED lights (usually fixed at the bed’s base) illuminate the floor at night to ensure proper visibility and prevent mishaps.
- An anti-entrapment function prevents one from getting stuck between the bed rails. It also ensures the bed does not apply additional force if a limb obstructs the adjusting mechanism.
Consider a bed with a memory function
One can also consider a bed with a memory or preset function. This feature keeps track of and saves one’s favored sleeping position. When going to sleep, seniors can simply press a button to adjust the bed as per their preferred sleeping position. For more convenience, one can look for a bed with multiple presets. This feature can save or remember multiple sleeping positions, which becomes necessary when more than one person uses the bed.
Go through the list of features
Besides the memory and safety functions, one can look for other features for extra comfort and convenience.
- Many adjustable beds have a massage function that helps relax the body. In some models, one may be able to adjust the intensity and duration of the massage and the settings of individual massagers for the upper and lower sections.
- A zero-gravity position is when the head and the legs are slightly raised (above the heart level) when sleeping. This position reduces discomfort and helps the body relax. One can consider choosing a bed that offers this preset position for seniors.
- For added convenience, one can also consider buying an adjustable bed with wireless controls. Most beds have this feature, but some use a remote control as the wireless controller, while others work with a smartphone app.
Check if a trial is available
Adjusting to a new bed is not so easy, especially for seniors. With that in mind, most adjustable bed companies offer a trial period. When buying adjustable beds for seniors, one can consider looking for companies that offer longer trial periods, preferably more than a month.
Check for warranties
An adjustable bed, with its multiple electrical and mechanical components, is at risk of breaking down. If that happens, one will have to shell out a huge amount for repairs and replacements. So, when purchasing a bed, it is in one’s best interest to check the length of the warranty period the company offers for the parts.
Top beds to consider
If confused, one must always opt for reputable brands when buying adjustable beds for seniors.
Nectar
The Premier Adjustable Bed Frame from Nectar is considered one of the best. The company offers a trial period of 50 days for the bed, which is equipped with features such as under-bed LED lighting, five memory presets, and massagers.
Saatva
The Adjustable Base Plus from Saatva is also a great choice. The company does not offer a trial period, but they do have a massive warranty period of 25 years. The bed has handy features such as under-bed lighting, massagers, and four memory presets.
Puffy
Regardless of which adjustable bed one purchases from Puffy, one will get a generous trial period of 101 days. Among the company’s several products, the Serenity Adjustable Base is the one that has been highly admired, especially for its features. This bed has a two-zone massage function, zero-gravity preset, and under-bed lighting.