How to Choose a Hospital Bed for Home Care

A hospital bed can make home care safer for the person in bed and much easier on the caregiver. But the choices can feel overwhelming. Here's what to think about, in plain language.

1. Start with the person's needs

• Can they get in and out of bed on their own? Adjustable bed height helps them sit at a safe height to stand, and lets a caregiver raise the bed to work without bending.
• Are they at risk of falling? A low-height bed lowers close to the floor, which shortens the fall if they roll out at night. Pair it with a bedside fall mat.
• Will they spend most of the day in bed? Pressure injuries become a real risk. Consider a pressure-relief mattress (see below).
• How much do they weigh? Check the bed's weight capacity, including the mattress and accessories.

2. Full-electric vs. manual adjustment

A full-electric bed adjusts the head, foot and overall height with a hand control. For home care, it's usually worth it: the person can reposition themselves, and the caregiver doesn't have to crank the bed. Most good full-electric beds also have a manual crank or battery backup for power outages.

3. Rails: half, full, or none

Half rails give a handhold and help with repositioning while leaving room to get in and out. Full rails offer more protection but can make getting out harder, and some people try to climb over them. Ask the person's nurse or occupational therapist which suits them, and always use rails designed for that bed.

4. The right mattress

• Standard foam mattress: fine for people who move around and get out of bed during the day.
• Pressure-relief air mattress: for people who spend long hours in bed or already have skin breakdown. Alternating pressure moves pressure points around so no area is loaded for too long.

5. Measure your space

Most home care beds are about 36" wide and 80"–88" long. Leave room on at least one side for a caregiver, a commode or a wheelchair. Measure doorways and hallways too, so the bed can be brought in.

6. Buy or rent?

If the need is short-term, such as recovery after surgery, renting may cost less. For long-term needs, buying usually makes more sense. Read our guide to renting vs. buying.

Need help choosing?

Call or WhatsApp us at 647-466-2259 with the person's needs and your room size. We'll recommend the right setup for free. Browse hospital beds.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Ask the person's doctor, nurse or therapist about their specific needs.