Choosing a home care bed is a significant decision that directly impacts the comfort, safety, and quality of life of a loved one! The right bed makes daily care easier for both the user and the caregiver, and GatesCo Medical Supplies can help. Read on as we help customers navigate the options to find the perfect fit for their specific needs.
Home Care Beds: Features to Look For Before You Buy
Full-Electric vs. Semi-Electric
The first choice you'll likely face is between a full-electric and semi-electric medical bed lift model. A full-electric bed allows for electronic adjustment of the bed's height, as well as the head and foot sections. Semi-electric beds have a manual crank for height adjustment, though the head and feet still adjust electronically.
The Value of Adjustability
The ability to reposition the home hospital bed is its most important feature. Elevating the head makes breathing, eating, and watching TV easier. Raising the feet can help with circulation. Crucially, adjusting the bed's overall height makes transfers to a wheelchair or walker much safer for the user and helps protect caregivers from back strain during assistance.
Essential Safety Features
Safety is paramount when selecting any piece of home medical equipment. For beds, this means considering side rails. Half-length rails are often preferred as they provide security without making the user feel overly restricted. For patients at a high risk of falls, bed exit alarms can also be integrated to alert caregivers of movement.
Selecting the Right Mattress
Remember the bed frame is only half of the equation; the mattress is vital for comfort and health. Options range from basic innerspring to advanced foam mattresses designed for pressure redistribution to help prevent bedsores. Choosing the right mattress is a critical part of the overall home medical equipment solution for anyone spending significant time in bed!
The right home care bed can dramatically improve independence and make life easier for everyone involved, but finding the right blend of features is key. The team at GatesCo Medical Supplies is here to answer your questions and help you select the bed and accessories that best suit your family!