Homepro Medical Supplies

Getting into and out of bed is a task that most people can do without much difficulty. However, seniors and those with certain medical conditions that limit mobility and strength aren’t able to move as freely as everyone else. This makes simple movements, such as getting out of bed, problematic.

There is a great need for safety when getting into and out of bed. Starting at age 65, the chance for a fall at home increases greatly with age. A lack of balance and unsteadiness, shifting weight and possible imbalance or lack in depth perception from medications makes the need for safety in the bedroom very important. Bed assists are a great piece of equipment focused on helping people get into and out of their bed safely. 

Using a Bed Assist

Designed specifically for helping people into and out of bed, bed assists come in two main types:

• Bed Assist Handles- a single, smaller handle to hold onto
• Bed Assist Rails- a larger bar providing more space to grab onto

Bed assists come with a board or two rails that slide between the mattress and bed frame. A strap then wraps around the mattress to create a tight, secure fit. This makes them sturdy enough for you to lean on getting in and out of bed to prevent a fall that could result in bruises, a fracture or a complete break of a bone. This makes them a valuable and necessary piece of equipment for seniors and others with restricted mobility and strength.

Bed Assists vs. Bed Rails

There may be some confusion when you hear “bed assists” and “bed rails.” These pieces of equipment are not the same.

Bed assists, as we’ve discussed, are for helping you ease into and out of bed. On the other hand, bed rails run along the side of the bed and are designed for keeping you in your bed as you sleep.

Another main difference between bed assists and bed rails is the types of beds they are made for. Bed assists are built to be used with normal beds. There are two types of bed rails, with some of them being made for hospital beds and some being made for regular beds. Hospital rails are not made to support your weight like a bed assist is. Continually leaning on a bed rail that isn’t designed to support your weight is a dangerous risk.

Bed assists are an essential piece of equipment to have in place for those who are older and/or have certain medical conditions that limit strength and mobility. Not only do bed assists make it easier to get into and out of bed, but they also make the bedroom a safer place for you or your aging parent.

Homepro Medical Supplies offers bed assists and other items that greatly reduce the chance of a fall, so browse our catalog to learn more and order your equipment today.