Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors

Best adjustable beds for seniors

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A standard bed may not be suitable as we get older. Our physical needs change as we age, and having an adjustable bed can increase comfort and reduce pressure on the body.

With the wide selection of adjustable beds available, it can be a struggle finding one that matches your exact needs. This guide explores the factors you should consider before buying one. We’ll also cover some of the best adjustable beds currently on the market that are particularly suited for older adults for a better night’s sleep.

Adjustable Beds for Seniors Comparison Chart

Saatva Lineal Adjustable Bed Base

Sven & Son King Adjustable Bed Base

Lucid L600 Adjustable Bed Base

iDealBed 5i Custom Adjustable Bed Base

Blissful Nights e4 Adjustable Bed Base

Sizes

Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King

Twin XL, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King

Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King

Twin XL, Full, Queen, Split Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King

Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Split Top King, Split California King

Massage

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Elevation

Head, Feet

Head, Feet

Head, Feet

Head, Feet

Head, Feet

Sleep Trial

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Warranty

25-year

10-year

10-year

10-year

10-year

Weight Capacity

850 lbs

900 lbs

750 lbs

850 lbs

800 lbs

Price

How Do Adjustable Beds Work?

How do adjustable beds work?

Adjustable beds come with a handheld control unit. This allows you to move the bed into one of several positions. Most adjustable beds have an infinite number of positions, so you can find something that feels most comfortable for you.

These beds are ideal for getting into and out of bed as you can use the hand controller to raise and lower the bed, making it easier to get in and out.

Are Adjustable Beds Good for Seniors?

Are adjustable beds good for seniors?

Adjustable beds may be extremely beneficial for seniors for a number of reasons, including:

Improved Sleep

If you have been struggling to get a good night’s sleep and get comfortable in bed, then an adjustable bed may be right for you.

Since you can alter the position of the bed to something that feels right for you, you’ll always be supremely comfortable. This will allow you to drift off to sleep more easily and stay asleep as you won’t be waking up as often to get comfortable.

What’s more, most adjustable beds are made from materials like memory foam which contours to the shape of your body, further personalizing your comfort.

Arthritis Relief

Many of us experience joint pain or arthritis as we get older but using an adjustable bed could help to reduce your pain.

When you sleep in a comfortable position, this will improve circulation, which can help to lessen pain associated with arthritis and joint pain.

Ageing In Place

A lot of seniors struggle to age in place as a result of mobility issues. If you are unable to get in and out of bed unaided then this can be a problem.

However, since you can raise and lower an adjustable bed to help you get in and out, you’ll be far more independent.

Reduce Back Pain

A lot of seniors experience back pain, but sleeping in an optimal position could help to reduce this. An adjustable bed provides the support your body needs to keep your posture as it should be and prevent back pain.

Adjustable Bed vs Hospital Bed – What Should You Choose?

Adjustable bed vs hospital bed

Some seniors may benefit from an adjustable bed, while others might find a hospital bed to be more suited to their needs. Before making a decision, it’s important to look at how each type of bed can benefit you and make a decision based on this information.

Adjustable Bed

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require the use of a hospital bed, then an adjustable bed might be a viable alternative. Things like sleep apnea, back pain, arthritis, and poor circulation can all be improved through the use of an adjustable bed.

Adjustable beds are ideal for normal day to day use where the person doesn’t need to be in bed for all or most of the time. They’re also typically smaller, so you won’t have to make special allowances to get it into the house, and you’ll normally be able to use regular bed linen.

Hospital Bed

Hospital beds are more of an in-home care option and are largely used for people who need to be in bed for most of the time. This includes those with long term medical conditions or people that are recovering from injuries or surgery.

Hospital beds are also adjustable to improve comfort but can also be raised to help caregivers when it comes to performing certain tasks like cleaning and administering treatments.

Can a Regular Mattress Fit on an Adjustable Base?

Can you use a regular mattress on an adjustable base?

If you already have a mattress that you’re fond of then you might wonder whether this would be compatible with an adjustable bed.

When choosing a mattress for your adjustable bed, you must keep in mind that it should be flexible enough to put up with the adjustments. Durability is also essential as the mattress will regularly be moved into different positions and shapes.

Some mattresses won’t be suitable for use with an adjustable bed. For example, a regular spring mattress won’t have the right flexibility and will probably be uncomfortable. However, something like gel foam, memory foam or latex will bend and move much more easily and would be ideal for using with an adjustable bed.

Don’t be tempted to use a mattress just because you already own it. Not only could it damage the mattress and be highly uncomfortable, but there is also a risk of damaging the adjustable bed.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Adjustable Bed

Factors to consider when choosing an adjustable bed

If you want to get the best night’s sleep and improve your quality of life through the use of an adjustable bed, then you must make sure that you choose the right one for your needs. Before committing to anything, we would recommend considering the following factors.

Adjustable Bed Dimensions

Adjustable beds come in a range of sizes that aren’t all that dissimilar to a regular bed. You’ll need to think about how much space you require and whether you’ll be sharing the bed with a partner.

If you are sharing the bed with someone else, then you might consider a split bed. These come in either king or queen sizes and allow each user to adjust their own side of the bed. While you can get king and queen adjustable beds that don’t split, it’s highly unlikely that both sleepers will have the same needs.

Split king beds are a good choice if you have independent needs from your partner, but there are some downsides to consider. One of the main disadvantages is that there is a crack down the middle of the bed which can limit how you’ll use the bed. For example, if you want to sleep closely with your partner.

You’ll also need to consider that you need two twin sheets which can be a little trickier to put on.

You’ll find that the bed base may be slightly larger than average, but the mattress sizing will remain the same as a standard bed. Here are the most common options.

  • Twin – 38 x 75 inches
  • Full Size – 54 x 75 inches
  • Queen – 60 x 80 inches
  • King – 76 x 80 inches
  • Split king – two pieces each measuring 38 x 80 inches
  • California king – 72 x 84 inches

Number of Positions/Adjustability

Some people may simply need an adjustable bed that raises them to make it easier to get in and out of bed. Other people may have more complex positioning needs, so it’s essential to look at how the bed adjusts and the number of positions available.

There are some lifestyle beds that are designed just to support you when sitting up in bed and doing things like reading or watching TV. However, these beds don’t typically have the adjustability for altering your sleeping position.

If you need something to help you find a more comfortable sleeping position to help in the treatment of a medical condition, then you’ll want a profiling bed. These are far more flexible and offer a greater number of positions, including elevating the feet and head or even putting you in a position that reduces snoring.

These beds may come in two, three, or four pieces. The more pieces there are, the more flexible the bed will be. Some even allow you to get into a zero gravity position which reduces pressure and aids in a better night’s sleep.

Mattress Type

As we discussed earlier, it is important to find the right mattress for your adjustable bed. The good news is that there are a lot of options to choose from, and each one has its pros and cons.

Memory Foam

Memory foam is a common choice as this material works well in terms of flexibility. Moreover, memory foam is incredibly supportive and stops any issues with pressure points associated with other types of mattresses. The foam contours to the shape of your body for ultimate comfort.

Latex

Latex mattresses aren’t all that different from memory foam, but they are made with 100% instead and so may be a little firmer. They still offer a good amount of support and can relieve pressure and pain. A lot of people say that these mattresses feel more buoyant than memory foam.

Hybrid

A hybrid mattress combines the benefits of both springs and foam. That said, these are not the same as innerspring mattresses, which aren’t suitable for adjustable beds.

Hybrid mattresses offer a good degree of flexibility and provide much more bouncy and soft support than other types.

Remote Control

You’ll get a lot of use out of your adjustable bed remote control so it’s important that it is user-friendly. One of the first things you’ll need to think about when choosing an adjustable bed for seniors is their personal abilities.

If the user has poor eyesight, then a backlit display can really help with that. But even for users with good vision, backlit displays are useful when using the remote control in low light.

Also, think about the size of the buttons. Some seniors may struggle to push buttons that are too small so ensure they are large enough.

Most things are cordless these days and this makes it so much easier as you aren’t tethered to one spot when controlling the bed.

Massage Function

Some adjustable beds come with a therapeutic massage function which is ideal if you suffer from muscle aches and pains.

If you’d like a bed with a massage feature then you’ll need to further consider your options. Some beds have a simple vibration massage, but this can usually be adjusted in terms of intensity. Others may be more advanced and might have different massage modes suited to various conditions.

Lifting Capacity

When choosing an adjustable bed, make sure that it can comfortably hold your weight. Using something that is not designed to lift your weight can be incredibly dangerous.

Most adjustable beds come with a generous lifting capacity between 650lbs and 900lbs. However, if you’re using a split bed, then you’ll need to total up the weight of both sleepers to ensure safe use.

Extras

If you want to go all out, then there are a lot of adjustable beds that come with some nice extra features. Take a look through some of the following options to see what might be advantageous to you.

  • Zero gravity mode raises the legs and tilts the head. This neutral position is far more conducive to a good night’s sleep.
  • USB charging ports for your smartphone, tablet, laptop, and other devices
  • Storage drawers to keep essential items close by or for storing larger belongings.
  • Speakers which are great for movie nights in bed, listening to music, or audiobooks and podcasts.
  • Memory settings that allow you to set your favorite positions and automatically get back into them
  • Sleep tracking which monitors your sleep and provides a report in the morning.

Warranty & Trial Period

Not all bed manufacturers will provide a trial period. For this reason, it’s important to look at this before you commit. You will typically get your standard return period of 30 days but even where there is a sleep trial, the return fees can be high if you decide not to keep the product.

That said, most manufacturers will place a generous warranty on the bed. Some last for just a few years, while others may be as long as 40 years.

Do be mindful that there are different types of warranty. A prorated warranty means that you may have to pay some of the cost of repairs or replacement, whereas a non-prorated warranty means that the manufacturer will cover all of the costs.

Top Rated Adjustable Beds for Seniors

If you’re a senior looking for a good quality and comfortable adjustable bed, then you may have noticed that there are a lot of options. We’ve put together some reviews on the best adjustable beds for seniors to help you make a more informed choice.

1. Saatva Lineal Adjustable Bed Base

Saatva Lineal adjustable bed base

Best Overall Adjustable Bed Frame – Saatva Lineal Adjustable Bed Base

Saatva is an online mattress company that has launched this adjustable bed base which has been very well received. What’s great about this bed is that you can adjust your feet, head, and knees independently so you can really get into a position that feels right for you.

What’s more, this super luxurious bed comes with a massage function which is ideal for improving circulation and reducing pain. In addition to this, the bed features additional foam around the edges, so there aren’t any parts that jut out and make you feel uncomfortable.

The Saatva bed can be fitted to almost any bed frame, making it incredibly versatile, and it comes with a whole range of options, including a split king for couples. The motor is super quiet, so you won’t disturb your spouse when using your side of the bed.

There are lots of add-ons with this bed, including LED under-bed lighting, zero gravity, and a one-touch remote control. However, you should be aware that the company does not offer returns, and you have to use one of their mattresses, or you may void the warranty.

Key Specs:

  • Size: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
  • Massage: Yes
  • Elevation: Head, Feet
  • Warranty: 25-year
  • Weight capacity: 850 lbs

Pros

  • Good adjustment options
  • Massage function
  • Split options available
  • Quiet operation
  • Easy to use remote
  • Lots of additional functions
  • Fits most bed frames

Cons

  • No returns
  • You have to use a Saatva mattress

2. Sven & Son King Adjustable Bed Base

Best Zero Gravity Adjustable Bed Frame – Sven & Son King Adjustable Bed Base

Zero gravity positioning raises the feet above the head and enables you to have a much better night’s sleep. Not only does the Sven & Son bed have a comfortable zero G option, but it also comes with an anti-snore position and a massage function.

We love that this bed comes in a wide choice of sizes, and the weight capacity is up to 900lbs, so it’s ideal for couples, even if both people are heavier than average. Moreover, the steel frame is super durable and sturdy.

You get the choice of either a gel or hybrid mattress, but they must come from the same brand, which isn’t the end of the world but something to keep in mind if you already have a mattress you had hoped to use.

The Sven & Son adjustable bed has a good range of extra features such as USB charging ports and under-bed lighting. That said, we should point out that the remote control is a little more complex than others and the buttons are quite small, which might not be ideal for all seniors.

Key Specs:

  • Size: Twin XL, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King
  • Massage: Yes
  • Elevation: Head, Feet
  • Warranty: 10-year
  • Weight capacity: 900 lbs

Pros

  • Zero gravity position
  • Sturdy frame with a generous weight limit
  • Massage function
  • USB charging for devices
  • 10-year warranty

Cons

  • Have to use Sven & Son mattress
  • Complicated remote control

3. Lucid L600 Adjustable Bed Base

Best Affordable Adjustable Bed Frame – Lucid L600 Adjustable Bed Base

You don’t have to break the bank to get a good adjustable bed, and the Lucid L600 is a prime example of this. The bed has a timed massage function as well as other additional features like a Bluetooth smartphone app and LED lighting under the bed.

One of the things that really sets this bed apart from a lot of the competition is that you can buy just the frame or combine it with a mattress so you can use your own if you wish. Once your bed is set up, there are several options in terms of adjusting the bed and there are even programmable memory positions for your favorites.

If the grandkids like to visit regularly then the addition of a child lock ensures safety and the stylish design is sure to be appreciated by all of the family.

While this is a great bed, there are a couple of things that let it down. For example, while other beds come with adjustable legs, the Lucid L600 only has this feature as an optional extra. Moreover, the weight limit is only 750lbs which isn’t as generous as some others.

Key Specs:

  • Size: Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King
  • Massage: Yes
  • Elevation: Head, Feet
  • Warranty: 10-year
  • Weight capacity: 750 lbs

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Massage function
  • Very stylish design
  • Child lock
  • Compatible app with Bluetooth connection
  • Can buy either the base only or combine it with a mattress
  • USB charging

Cons

  • Adjustable legs don’t come as standard
  • Low weight limit

4. iDealBed 5i Custom Adjustable Bed Base

Best Wall Hugger Adjustable Bed Frame – iDealBed 5i Custom Adjustable Bed Base

A wall hugger bed allows you to remain close to your bedside table even when you’re in an upright position. As the head end moves up, the mattress moves back towards the wall, which is far more convenient.

But this isn’t the only feature that’s worth getting excited about with the iDealBed. It comes with various positioning functions such as anti-snore and zero gravity. What’s more, there’s a dual massage function with a timer so you can relax before sleeping.

The iDealBed comes in a choice of sizes as well as split option and each bed has a weight capacity of 850lbs. This isn’t the highest we’ve seen but it is more than sufficient for two average-sized adults.

What’s really good about this bed is that it comes with a battery back up in the event of a power outage. For seniors who would otherwise struggle to get in and out of bed, this is a very welcome addition.

However, one thing we have noticed is that the company doesn’t offer the best customer service.

Key Specs:

  • Size: Twin XL, Full, Queen, Split Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split Cal King
  • Massage: Yes
  • Elevation: Head, Feet
  • Warranty: 10-year
  • Weight capacity: 850 lbs

Pros

  • Good wall huggin feature
  • Memory positions
  • Choice of sizes and split options
  • Massage function
  • USB charging ports
  • Very sturdy construction
  • Simple remote control

Cons

  • Lower weight limit than some models
  • Bad customer service

5. Blissful Nights e4 Adjustable Bed Base

Best Easy to Assemble Adjustable Bed Frame – Blissful Nights e4 Adjustable Bed Base

For a lot of seniors, complicated assembly isn’t a welcome thing but since the Blissful Nights e4 requires no tools and has an easy set-up this is something that most older adults will be able to manage.

What’s more, the bed is really easy to operate with one-touch controls for things like zero gravity and anti-snore positions. There’s also a three-speed massage function that can be easily set using this simple remote control.

The Blissful Nights e4 bed can hold up to 800lbs in weight which, much like the previous bed, is ideal for two average-sized adults. What’s more, you should keep in mind that this isn’t the sturdiest option out there. There are options in terms of whether you want a split bed as well as a choice of sizes to suit your needs.

The bed comes with a 10-year warranty and a good amount of additional features like USB charging and under-bed light. Although these features aren’t as advanced as some of the competing beds.

Key Specs:

  • Size: Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Split Top King, Split California King
  • Massage: Yes
  • Elevation: Head, Feet
  • Warranty: 10-year
  • Weight capacity: 800 lbs

Pros

  • No tools assembly
  • Easy to use remote control
  • Massage function
  • Adjustable legs
  • Quiet operation
  • Anti-snore and zero gravity
  • 10-year warranty
  • 800lbs weight capacity

Cons

  • Frame doesn’t feel very sturdy

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