Best Bed Grab Rails for Seniors
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For many carers, the fear of having an elderly or infirm patient falling out of their bed, while they are not present, is a nightmare. They are looking for a secure way also, to get the person, who may have impaired mobility, in and out of bed. In these situations, this may prove to be a real challenge.
Falls can be dangerous, in particular for the elderly. This is why bed grab rails can be the answer to these problems and they can even help the user to be more independent without having to rely on a caregiver.
In this article, we will cover the main benefits of using bed rails in the bedroom as well as the different types that are available. We’ll also cover the important factors you should consider before purchasing a bed rail, and we will cover the best assist and safety rails that can help to keep seniors safe in the bedroom.
Bed Grab Rails for Seniors Comparison Chart
Drive Medical Bed Assist Rail | Stander Econorail Bed Assist Rail | RMS Dual Bed Rail | LumaRail Bed Assist Rail | Stander EZ Adjust Bed Assist and Safety Rail | |
Weight Capacity | 250 lbs | 300 lbs | 250 lbs | 350 lbs | 300 lbs |
Product Dimensions | 32.75" (D) x 19.75" (W) x 13.5 -16.5" (H) | 21.5" (D) x 20" (W) x 16" (H) | 31"-58" (D) x 23" (W) x 23" (H) | 16"-20" (D) x 18" (W) x 36" (H) | 25" (D) x 26" (W) x 23" (H) |
Product Weight | 9.99 lbs | 1.5 lbs | 12 lbs | 9 lbs | 14 lbs |
Material | Steel | Aluminum | Steel | Steel | Steel |
Price |
What is a Bed Grab Rail?
A bed grab rail also known as a bed assist rail, bed guard or side rail is a supportive aid that can assist a user in transferring to and from bed, as well as helping with bed repositioning. It can also function as a rail to prevent users rolling out of bed while they are asleep.
Bed grab rails come in a range of styles and sizes to suit all needs. Some can be placed between the mattress and the bed base, others need to be secured to the actual bed frame itself. Freestanding ones need to be positioned between the underside of the bed and the floor.
Types of Bed Grab Rails
Most grab rails are height adjustable so they can fit on many types of bed frame and mattress combinations. Installing a bed grab rail is a relatively straightforward process. Most can be installed in a matter of minutes and many require no additional tools to fit them. They are designed to be used on either side of the bed. Some versions are also double-sided so they can be attached to both sides of the bed, providing the user with increased safety.
The frame on bed grab rails are usually constructed from durable metal that consists of either lightweight aluminum or steel. They are normally fitted with a padded non-slip handle which provides the user with a secure grip to hold onto when getting into and out of bed.
While there are a wide range of available bed grab rails, they can be divided into two main types which include:
Bed Assist Rail
A bed assist rail is shorter in nature and usually only extends the partial length of the bed. It provides the user with additional support when getting into and out of bed. It can also help with repositioning allowing the user to shift position more easily while lying in bed without needing to rely on others for help.
Bed Safety Rail
A bed safety rail is primarily used for anyone who is at an increased risk of rolling/falling out of bed thus helping to reduce the risk of any dangerous accidents while the user is asleep. They are longer in nature and are designed to extend the majority or full length of the bed.
Some safety bed rails have a foldable design so that the rail can easily be folded down when the user needs to get out or into bed.
Are Bed Grab Rails Safe?
Bed grab rails can prove particularly beneficial for the elderly and those with impaired mobility as it can help to prevent or reduce the risk of slips and falls in the bedroom, but they are not recommended for all users.
Bed grab rails are not suitable for anyone with cognitive impairments such as dementia, epilepsy or those suffering with conditions which affect movement and co-ordination such as cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis. They can prove unsafe and particularly dangerous in these circumstances.
Users with such conditions have an increased risk of sustaining accidental injuries from bed rails including cuts and bruises, as well as more serious injuries such as entrapment and strangulation. In such situations, it is recommended that you consult with an occupational therapist so that the person can be assessed to determine the most suitable aids for them.
Benefits of Bed Grab Rails
The main benefits of using bed grab rails include:
Reduces the Risk of Slip and Falls
Bed assist rails are ideally suited for anyone with limited mobility or those suffering with balance issues. The handle on the bed assist rail provides the user with a secure handle to hold onto when transferring to and from the bed, thus helping to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
It can also increase someone’s independence as they do not need to rely on the assistance of a caregiver or loved one to help them into and out of bed, meaning they can live at home for longer without needing to pay for a caregiver or have to move into assisted or residential care.
Assists with Bed Repositioning
Regularly changing position while lying in bed is particularly important for those who need to spend prolonged periods in bed due to an illness or injury in order to prevent the risk of developing pressure sores.
If the user is unable to or struggles to shift position while confined to their bed, the risk of developing pressure sores increases. A bed assist rail can assist the person in regularly shifting their position while in bed without needing to rely on others for help.
Prevents User Rolling Out of Bed
Rolling out of bed while the person is asleep can prove particularly dangerous especially if the user suffers with broken or fractured bones as a consequence. Broken or fractured bones in particular for the elderly can be particularly dangerous. Not only can they take longer to heal but it can also knock someone’s confidence.
Medication, problems with balance, or a poor night’s sleep, can all be contributory factors that can cause someone to become disoriented and confused, leading to them rolling out of bed. Installing a bed safety rail can help to keep the user safe, and prevent them from rolling out of bed at night.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Grab Rail
Some important factors you should consider before deciding on the best grab rail for your needs include:
User’s Needs
An important factor to consider before deciding on the most appropriate bed grab rail, is the user’s particular needs. Do they require assistance with transferring to and from their bed or do they need a bed rail to keep them safe while they are asleep in order to prevent them from rolling out of bed?
A bed assist rail is the best option to go for if the user needs a supportive aid to help them into and out of bed, without needing to rely on others for assistance. If on the other hand, the user has fallen out of bed in the past, or they are worried that they may do so, a bed safety rail that extends the full length of the bed would be a better choice.
Another factor to consider is does the patient need a bed rail that simply attaches to one side of the bed, or do they require one that attaches to both sides for increased safety? If one side of the patient’s bed is pressed against a wall, a one-sided bed rail should be sufficient. If however, there is space on both sides of the bed, double-sided rails may be more appropriate for the user’s safety, especially if there’s an increased risk of them rolling out of bed.
Installation
If you’re looking for a bed grab rail that is simple to fit, choose one that either fits between the bed base and the mattress, or a freestanding bed rail. These can generally be installed in a matter of minutes and they often require no additional tools to assemble.
Height Adjustable
Bed rails that are height adjustable are generally preferable over fixed rails. Grab rails that can be raised or lowered, allow the user to adjust them to the correct height, so that it provides sufficient support without having to struggle when transferring to and from the bed, thus increasing safety.
Bed Type
Remember to always check that the grab rail is suitable for your particular type of bed and mattress. If you have an adjustable bed, or the bed base is slatted, a grab rail that fits between the mattress and the base will not be suitable. In these situations, you should instead opt for a freestanding bed rail that fits between the underside of the bed and the floor.
While most bed rails are designed to fit twin, full, queen and king sized beds, you should always check to see if it’s suitable for the dimensions of the bed, otherwise a poorly fitting rail could prove particularly dangerous for the user.
Weight Capacity
It’s important to select a bed grab rail that can safely support your weight. Most bed grab rails have a weight capacity of up to 250 lbs. For larger individuals, bariatric versions are available that have weight capacities of up to 400 lbs.
Portability
Choose a lightweight and foldable bed grab rail if you require one that you can easily take with you when you go on vacation, or when you visit friends or relatives. Ones constructed from aluminum are generally lighter than ones made from steel, and they are often just as durable.
Best Bed Grab Rails Reviews
1. Drive Medical Bed Assist Rail
Drive Medical Bed Assist Rail
A reasonably-priced bed assist rail that is easy to fit and should be suitable for most mattress and bed combinations.
The Drive Medical bed assist rail is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a bed rail that is reasonably priced as well as one that is extremely easy to fit. Out of the box, the rail comes in three pieces which is easy to assemble and requires no additional tools to fit. Fitting the rail simply involves sliding it under the mattress.
The bed rail is suitable for beds that have a minimum height of at least 16″ (measured from the floor to the top of the box spring). It is unsuitable for low profile beds but it should be suitable for most standard mattress and bed base combinations.
The rail is height adjustable and ranges from 13.5″ – 17″ allowing the handle to be raised or lowered to suit the individual needs of the user. The horizontal bar that fits between the matters and the box spring is also adjustable and can be extended from 33″ up to 44″ making it suitable for most bed widths.
The frame is constructed from chrome-plated steel making it strong but also relatively lightweight (9.99 lbs) and it has a good weight capacity of 250 lbs. The handle on the rail is made from non-slip foam so it is comfortable to hold and as well as safe to grip when transferring to and from bed.
Another nice feature is it folds completely flat so it can easily be stored away when not in use without requiring too much storage space.
Key Specs:
- Product dimensions: 32.75″ (D) x 19.75″ (W) x 13.5 -16.5″ (H)
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Frame material: chrome-plated steel
- Suitable for beds: minimum height of at least 16″ (floor to top of box spring)
- Height adjustable: 13.5″ – 17″
- Non-slip handles
2. Stander Econorail Bed Assist Rail
Stander Econorail Bed Assist Rail
A lightweight and durable bed assist rail that is perfect for the regular traveller.
The Econorail from Stander is the lightest of all bed rails that we’ve reviewed. Weighing just 1.5 lbs, the rail is ideal if you’re looking for one that you can easily take with you when you go on vacation or when visiting friends or family.
Assembling the rail is a breeze and involves snapping it into place. In order to fit the rail, you simply need to slide it between the mattress and bed frame making the installation hassle-free.
When not in use, the rail is collapsible and can be stored in the included travel pouch which can conveniently fit in a small suitcase or carry bag.
The rail is suitable for mattresses heights between 10″ to 16″ making it ideal for low-profile and standard beds alike. Despite it being featherweight, the strong and durable anodized aluminum frame can support weights up to 300 lbs.
The bed rail is also fitted with a 4-pocket organizer so you can store essentials and have everything to hand such as reading glasses, essential medication or a book without needing to get out of bed which is a nice feature that others seem to be missing.
Key Specs:
- Product dimensions: 21.5″ (D) x 20″ (W) x 16″ (H)
- Product weight: 1.5 lbs
- Height adjustability: Fixed
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Suitable for mattresses heights between 10″ to 16″
3. RMS Dual Bed Rail
RMS Dual Bed Rail
A bed assist and safety rail that is ideally suited for anyone susceptible to rolling out of bed.
If you’re worried that there’s an increased risk that the user may roll out of bed or they need some extra assistance when getting into and out of bed, this dual rail can help to keep them safe. The RMS dual rail is a combination of a bed assist and safety rail in one and attaches to both sides of the bed.
Assembling the rail is relatively straightforward and can be completed in a matter of minutes without requiring any tools. The rail is designed to fit both twin (31″ minimum) and full size beds (58″ maximum). In order to fit it, you need to adjust the width of the rail to match the bed size and it then simply needs to be slid underneath the mattress.
To prevent it from slipping under the mattress, the rail is fitted with non-slip foam pads that helps keep it securely in place. The rail is height adjustable and can be incremented in 4 different height increments including 11″, 12″, 13″ or 14″. The rail can also retract to the same level as the mattress when the user needs to get into and out of bed allowing for easier transfers.
Key Specs:
- Suitable for bed sizes: Twin (31″ minimum), full (58″ maximum)
- Weight capacity 250 lbs
- Product weight: 12 lbs
- Product dimensions: 31″-58″ (D) x 23″ (W) x 23″ (H)
- Height adjustable: 4 height levels (11″, 12″, 13″ or 14″)
4. LumaRail Bed Assist Rail
LumaRail Bed Assist Rail
With the built-in motion-activated LED light, the bed assist rail is particularly suited for those who regularly need to get up in the middle of the night.
Many slips and falls in the bedroom are caused due to insufficient lighting. The bed assist rail from LumaRail has tried to remedy this problem by fitting a motion-activated LED light that automatically comes on when it senses any movement. This helps to keep the patient safe and it saves the user from having to keep switching the lights on when they go to the bathroom at night.
The rail is designed to accommodate all types of beds including twin up to king-size and it is suitable for beds as low as 12″ in height.
It comes with an anchor strap that can be attached to the underside of the bed which helps to keep it securely in place and stops it from moving.
The rail is height adjustable and ranges from 29″ up to 37.5″ (floor to top of handrail) allowing the handrail to be extended to accommodate thicker mattresses and mattresses with toppers.
Due to the frame being constructed from durable steel, it has a weight capacity of 350 lbs making it suitable for heavier individuals.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Motion-activated LED light
- Suitable for beds: twin – king size (12″ (minimum height))
- Product dimensions: 16″-20″ (D) x 18″ (W) x 36″ (H)
- Product weight: 9 lbs
5. Stander EZ Adjust Bed Assist and Safety Rail
Stander EZ Adjust Bed Assist and Safety Rail
A versatile assist and safety bed rail in one that is easy to fit and operate. With its extendable rail, it can provide good fall prevention as well as support when transferring to and from the bed.
The Stander EZ bed rail is definitely recommended if you’re looking for a versatile combined assist and safety bed rail in one.
One of the benefits of the Stander EZ bed rail is that it is width adjustable. This means it can be extended to keep the patient safe while asleep in order to prevent falls, and it can also be retracted providing the user with a sturdy standing handle to help them transfer to and from bed without needing to struggle.
The button that controls the adjusting mechanism on the rail is simple to operate and it is suitable for users with even limited hand dexterity and it can be adjusted in length from 26″ to 34″ to 42″.
The bed rail is simple to fit, slide it between the mattress and the box spring and then attach the adjustable safety strap around the bed frame. It is suitable for mattresses that have a 12″ to 18″ in thickness and it will fit most sized beds including twin up to king sized beds as well as adjustable beds.
When the bed needs to be made up or when the user needs to get out of bed, the rail can be folded down 180 degrees out of the users way. The rail also features an organizer pouch so you can store essentials close-by without needing to get out of bed.
Key Specs:
- Product dimensions: 25″ (D) x 26″ (W) x 23″ (H)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Product weight: 14 lbs
- Suitable for bed size: twin – king size including adjustable beds
- Suitable for mattress heights: 12″ – 18″
- Width adjustable length: 26″ – 34″ – 42″