According to an article written in the Huffington Post, the average person spends 33 years of their life in bed. That is a whopping average of 41%. No wonder Gloria Hunniford’s quote got used in a bed company’s TV advert.

‘Always buy a good pair of shoes and a good bed as if you aren’t in one you are in the other’

• Gloria Hunniford

Knowing this highlights the importance of a comfortable, safe and secure sleeping environment, especially for those living with disability and mobility problems.

Surprisingly the first real electric adjustable bed was created in the 19th century by Dr Willis D Gatch. Gatch’s invention was used by soldiers in WWI who were hurt and healing in hospitals and care facilities. The multiple positions allowed relief and recovery for various parts of the body.

Fast forward to today and the adjustable bed still follows Gatch’s original design and functionality, but the technology utilised and the capabilities of the beds has changed substantially. There is now a whole range of specialist beds available, each designed for the exacting demands of different disabilities.

The massive selection of adjustable beds on the market can generally be placed in to one of two categories: lifestyle beds and profiling beds.

Lifestyle beds are the ones that offer the least functionality. They provide you with the option to sit up with little effort to make it more comfortable to read or watch television. They don not offer different sleeping positions or adjustable height options. These beds are therefore more suited to those who want an adjustable bed for comfort and luxury rather than a particular need. Having said this, depending on your ability level and your needs, this might suit you.

Looking more at specific mobility beds, the profiling bed offers variable posture positions. They can be adjusted manually or electrically using the controller while you are in bed and move you in to any position you need. One of the reasons the bed can do this is because of the sectioned mattress which allows them to bend into the different positions

Within the category of profiling beds there are two-part adjustable beds, three-part adjustable beds and four-part adjustable beds. The two-part adjustable beds, or sit up beds, enable the upper section to be raised, making it easier to get in and out of bed, or sit up and read or watch television. Three-part adjustable beds offer the same level of adjustability as two-part beds but have a break at the knee to prevent users slipping down. The four-part adjustable beds include an additional flat section for users to sit on.

Additional features such as height adjustability, handrails, drop-down or bed rails, safety mechanisms to minimise movement and even massage functions can be included to make your bed safer and more comfortable.

The average price for mobility beds can vary considerably, depending on the size and its features and functionality. For example, prices for a single bed can range from £500 to £1,600, whilst a duel double bed can cost anything from £1,200 to £2,500.

An adjustable electric bed will help you enjoy a refreshing and comfortable night’s sleep and are great for anyone who is recovering from surgery or suffering long term medical mobility conditions. When reviewing beds, it is crucial to consider your specific needs, try some out in store if possible and pick wisely.

As with all mobility equipment it is best to purchase from a supplier affiliated with the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) to ensure you are getting advice and guidance from a business that has agreed to the BHTA Code of Practice and will not pressure sell.

If you have experience in using these mobility beds, we would love to hear from you. Maybe you can share your story to help others. Get in touch here.