Considering that the average person spends a third of their life in bed, according to research from The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the importance of a comfortable, safe and secure sleeping environment is crucial. For those living with disabilities and mobility problems, it can be even more important.

Originally developed to aid soldiers who had been injured during WW1, the earliest inception of electric adjustable beds was created in the 19th century by Dr Willis D Gatch. The ?Gatch Bed? offered restorative comfort for wounded military personnel, as it could be adjusted and manoeuvred to multiple different positions.

Today?s modern adjustable mobility beds still follow Gatch?s original design and functionality, however, the technology utilised and capabilities of beds has changed substantially since the first adjustable bed was developed. There is now a whole array of specialist beds available, each designed for the exacting demands of different disabilities.

The most common mobility beds are profiling beds, which are sometimes referred to as variable posture beds. These beds can be adjusted manually or electrically via a handset whilst in use and can be manoeuvred into a variety of positions. They typically require an electrical supply to function and offer multiple levels of adjustability.

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 bed. Whilst, 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, plus much more, can also be added, so it is crucial to consider your personal needs.

The average price for mobility beds can also vary considerable, dependent on the size of the bed and its features. Prices for a single bed, for example, range from ?400 to ?1,600, whilst a duel double bed is likely to cost anything from ?1,200 to ?2,400.