As we age, maintaining comfort, independence, and safety becomes more important than ever — especially at home. One of the most overlooked ways to improve quality of life? The right bed.
If getting in and out of bed is becoming a challenge, or if you’re spending more time resting due to health conditions, an adjustable homecare bed might just be a game-changer. These beds aren’t just glorified hospital furniture — they’re designed to support mobility, ease pain, and help you (or your loved one) stay in control of your daily routine.
Here’s everything you need to know before you buy one.
What Is an Adjustable Homecare Bed?
An adjustable homecare bed is a specialised electric or manual bed that allows the user (or their carer) to raise and lower the head, foot, or full height of the bed — all with the push of a button or a simple crank. Think of it as part comfort upgrade, part essential health aid.
Modern versions even come in sleek, upholstered finishes that wouldn’t look out of place in a designer bedroom.
They’re commonly recommended for seniors with:
- Back pain or spinal conditions
- Poor circulation or swelling in the legs
- Arthritis or limited mobility
- Respiratory conditions (like COPD or sleep apnea)
- Frailty, injury recovery or palliative care needs
According to Spine-Health’s guide to buying an adjustable bed, they’re also beneficial for improving digestion, reducing reflux, and minimising snoring — even if you don’t have complex health needs.
Types of Adjustable Homecare Beds
There’s no one-size-fits-all here. Your choice will depend on who’s using it, how often adjustments are needed, and your physical support needs.
1. Electric Adjustable Beds
The gold standard in comfort and control. These beds are fully motorised and can be adjusted at the touch of a button — usually via remote control. Most models adjust the head, foot, and full bed height. Some premium options even offer zero gravity mode, under-bed lighting, and massage settings.
Best for: long-term use, independent users, or those with progressive mobility needs.
2. Semi-Electric Beds
These are a hybrid option — the head and foot of the bed are adjustable via remote, but the overall bed height needs to be changed manually using a crank. If you won’t need to adjust the height often, this might be a cost-saving alternative.
Best for: users with regular carer support.
3. Manual Beds
As basic as it gets. These require all adjustments to be done by hand using manual cranks. They’re typically the most affordable, but offer limited flexibility.
Best for: short-term use or low budgets.
Want a visual comparison? Check out this helpful breakdown by Mobility Caring on how different adjustable homecare beds stack up.
What To Ask Before You Buy
Buying an adjustable homecare bed isn’t just about picking the flashiest model. It’s about choosing the one that suits your lifestyle now — and in the future.
How Much Time Will You Spend in Bed?
If you're spending several hours a day in bed — for rest, recovery, reading or even mealtimes — it’s worth investing in a model with multiple adjustable zones and a compatible pressure-relieving mattress. Being able to elevate your legs or sit upright can make a big difference to daily comfort.
Sleep Sophie’s senior bed guide suggests prioritising beds with smooth transition settings and ergonomic hand controls to make every position change effortless.
Will Your Needs Change Over Time?
Many people start with simple needs, but conditions like arthritis or frailty can progress. Opting for a modular or upgradeable model — like one that allows side rails or IV poles to be added later — will help future-proof your choice.
According to Seniors Plus, long-term planning is key: a bed that works now and later means less disruption down the track.
Is Aesthetics Important?
Gone are the days of bulky, clinical-looking beds. If you’re furnishing a warm, welcoming home — not a hospital room — modern adjustable beds come in finishes that match traditional furniture styles.
Low-profile beds with fabric-covered headboards, timber trims, or colour-matched surrounds can help preserve the feel of your bedroom while still offering all the support and functionality you need.
What About Mattresses?
Adjustable beds need compatible mattresses that flex with the base. You’ll want to pair yours with:
- Pocket spring mattresses: Great airflow, zoned support, ideal for hot sleepers.
- High-resilience foam mattresses: Pressure-relieving, supportive and long-lasting.
- Alternating air mattresses: Best for high clinical needs or pressure sore prevention.
For a deep dive, see our full guide: How to Choose the Right Mattress
Funding and Support: Are Adjustable Beds Covered?
The good news is that adjustable homecare beds may be eligible for funding under:
- NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) – If the bed is considered reasonable and necessary for daily living.
- Home Care Packages (HCP) – Government-funded care for seniors living at home.
- DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs) – For eligible veterans or their spouses.
- State-Based Equipment Programs – Like SWEP in Victoria or MASS in Queensland.
Visit our Funding Programs Guide → to learn more about what you may be eligible for and how to apply.
Final Thought: Is It Worth the Investment?
If you or your loved one are struggling with standard beds — or facing health issues that demand better rest and safer transfers — an adjustable homecare bed can be life-changing. It’s not just about getting up and lying down. It’s about staying independent, feeling supported, and sleeping better every night.
Ready to explore the options? Browse Mobility Hub’s full range of adjustable homecare beds online — or reach out to our team for a personalised recommendation (no pushy sales talk, promise).
Let’s make your home the most comfortable place to be.
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