Is an adjustable bed right for you?

Adjustable beds were originally designed for use in hospitals, so naturally the first ones made for home use were commonly called "hospital beds." The very use of the term implies some benefits for the health of the users, so the decision to buy an adjustable bed was based on health needs.

Today, adjustable beds are marketed for lifestyle and convenience, with several activities facilitated by a motion base. Even the term adjustable bed is changed to adjustable base, adjustable foundation, and motion base. But the greatest selling points are still ones of well-being. Listed benefits are more restful sleep, back health, relief from shoulder, hip and neck pain, better breathing and circulation. A crossover issue is relational: snoring–stopping snoring allows a sleeping partner to sleep better.

Offsetting the benefits of an adjustable bed are issues of cost, accessability and safety. Safety has been addressed with improved design. Several adjustable beds now have a low-level light under the bed to illuminate the way when someone gets out of bed and returns in the dark. The articulated frames are now designed to be pinch-proof. The bed lowers by gravity, avoiding the risks of powered descent.

Accessability is an issue, because the sleeping surface of an adjustable bed is usually higher than the same mattress on a regular foundation or bed. For short or mobiliy-impaired persons, this is a challenge, and placing a stool next to a bed has safety issues of its own. Fortunately, some adjustable beds have a lower profile and shorter legs, and some lower the feet into a lounge position, which makes it possible to get in and out at the foot of the bed.

As to cost, a new option lowers the cost of a basic adjustable bed: head only elevation. For some persons this is all that is needed for better sleep and to facilitate sitting up in bed (an important consideration for someone who has to stay in bed for several days). Also, fully adjustable beds are available with fewer features. Some of the features which add to the cost of an adjustable bed are wireless remotes, wall-saver (keeping the head in the same horizontal position), massage, Bluetooth access, accessory and electronic outlets/ports, and extra sections (such as the headrest). More powerful motors also cost more, and they are not needed by lightweight persons.

Another consideration in buying an adjustable bed is space. How much room is needed? Also, is the wiring in the room adequate for operating an adjustable bed? And can you get the adjustable bed to and into the room in the first place?

Is an adjustable bed right for you? What are your needs? Will an adjustable bed really help you with these? What is the cost of the adjustable bed you are considering? Will you really use those extra features? How easy is it for you and others to get into and out of bed? And will it fit?