Education Series

with Able Living

Beds

Adjustable and Clinical Beds

đź’ˇ Overview

Adjustable and clinical beds play a vital role in improving comfort, mobility, and safety for clients with medical or mobility challenges. These beds are commonly used in aged care, disability support, post-operative recovery, and palliative care settings.


Key features typically include electric height adjustment, back and knee elevation, lockable castors, and compatibility with side rails and pressure-relieving mattresses. These features help reduce strain for both users and carers during transfers, repositioning, and personal care.


Clinical beds are available in various configurations—from compact home-style designs to fully featured hospital-grade units. Selecting the right bed depends on the client's clinical needs, risk of falls, pressure injury risk, and whether care is provided by family or professionals.

🤔 Did You Know?

Many modern adjustable beds can be lowered to just 200–250mm from the floor—dramatically reducing fall risk for clients who are unsettled or have cognitive impairment. These are called “ultra-low” or “floorline” beds.

Uses of Adjustable & Clinical Beds
Key Features
Types of Adjustable & Clinical Beds
Clinical Matching Tips
đźš© Red Flags

🛍️ Sales FAQ

What’s the difference between a hospital bed and an adjustable home bed?

Hospital beds often have advanced features like Trendelenburg tilt, clinical-grade side rails, and integrated controls for staff. Adjustable home beds offer core functionality—like raising the back, knees, and overall height—without looking overly clinical.

Do these beds come with a mattress?

Beds are typically sold as a frame only. However, pressure-relief mattresses or compatible foam options can be bundled. It’s important to select a mattress that suits the client’s pressure care needs and matches the bed dimensions.

Will it fit through a standard bedroom door?

Yes—most beds come in split or modular frames for easy transport. Assembly is usually done on-site. Always check dimensions if doorways are narrow, or if stairs are involved. We offer delivery and setup services to assist.

Can I use my own mattress on an adjustable bed?

Only if it’s flexible and designed for movement. Most standard innerspring mattresses are not suitable. We recommend using a compatible pressure care or flexible foam mattress rated for adjustable beds to prevent motor strain or poor positioning.

Do I need side rails?

Not always. Side rails can help prevent falls but may not be appropriate for all clients—especially those with cognitive impairment or at risk of climbing over. Some users prefer perimeter guards or floorline beds with fall mats instead. Rails can be added or removed later.

What bed would suit a client with progressive MS or motor neuron disease?

Choose a bed with long-term flexibility: electric height adjustment, back and leg elevation, and compatibility with advanced positioning (e.g., Trendelenburg). A hospital-grade bed is often recommended, paired with a high-level pressure care mattress. Ensure room for hoist access and carer tasks.

Can the bed base be lowered close to the ground but still have rails?

Not all low beds support side rails when fully lowered. Some floorline models offer integrated low-profile rails or perimeter supports. Always check rail compatibility at lowest height, and consider alternatives like fall mats or bed-exit alarms.

Is this bed eligible for NDIS or HCP funding?

Yes—beds with electric height, back, and knee adjustability are generally considered essential for functional support and care. A clinical justification from an OT or physio is required. Features like Trendelenburg tilt or bariatric capacity must be clinically necessary and justified in the funding application.

Do any of your beds support Trendelenburg or reverse tilt functions?

Only hospital-grade beds typically offer these features. Trendelenburg tilt may be used in acute care or advanced neurological cases under clinician supervision. Most home-style beds do not offer this due to complexity and risk of misuse.

The client lives in a rural area—can we ship and assemble there?

Yes, we offer regional delivery and installation services, but lead times and fees may vary depending on location. Beds ship in modular components and require on-site assembly. Always confirm access (e.g., stairs, ramps, tight spaces) before dispatch.

What if the client transfers using a hoist?

Ensure the bed frame has sufficient clearance underneath for hoist legs (typically 130–160mm). Avoid low beds unless they have hoist-compatible bases. If hoisting is expected long-term, confirm the mattress and rail setup also supports safe access.

The client is very tall or broad—do you offer extra-long or wider beds?

Yes—some beds are available in king-single, long-single, or even double-wide bariatric formats. Extended frames and wider mattresses must be ordered specifically. Always check maximum safe working load (SWL) and motor strength for larger clients.

🙋‍♀️ Common Customer Questions

Can I use my regular mattress on this bed?

Only if it’s specifically designed for adjustable bases. Standard inner-spring mattresses may not bend properly and could damage the motor or feel uncomfortable. We recommend using a compatible pressure care or flexible foam mattress.

Will this bed fit in my bedroom?

Yes—most beds come in single, king-single, or long-single sizes. They are modular for easy transport and assembly. We recommend measuring your room and checking doorway access before delivery. Our team can help assess fit.

Can I put the bed on carpet or floorboards?

Yes—beds work on both. Lockable castors prevent movement. On hard floors, use optional non-slip pads. Avoid placing directly over rugs that could catch in castors or interfere with adjustability.

How high does the bed go?

Most adjustable beds raise to around 650–750mm (mattress platform height), which helps carers with transfers and reduces bending. Some models go higher or lower—ideal for specific clinical needs.

Does it come with side rails?

Side rails are usually optional. Some beds include them, but others must be ordered with compatible rails. Rails can help prevent falls but aren’t always suitable for every client—especially if confusion or climbing risk is present.

Can I control the bed myself?

Yes—most beds come with a handheld remote or pendant. These allow the user to raise/lower the bed and adjust the head and leg sections. Some hospital-style beds have nurse lockout functions if needed.

Why does my bed stop working randomly?

Check if the bed is still plugged into the wall and if the power board switch is on. Many beds also have a reset button on the remote or base. If using a remote with batteries, try replacing them. If problems persist, contact us for servicing.

Can I still use this bed during a power outage?

Some models have emergency battery backup that allows for basic positioning during power loss. If your model does not, the bed will stay in its last position until power is restored. We can recommend beds with this feature if needed.

What if the client slides down the bed over time?

This can happen if the headrest is raised too high for long periods. Try repositioning more often or use a profiling bed with knee bend adjustment to prevent downward sliding. A friction-reducing mattress cover or wedge may also help.

Can I raise the feet only without raising the knees?

Some beds allow independent leg and knee elevation, while others lift both as one motion. Let us know your preference—we can help select a bed that suits your postural needs or swelling relief goals.

My remote is unresponsive—what should I do?

First, check the cable connection at both ends and ensure the bed has power. If the remote uses batteries, try changing them. If wired and still unresponsive, the handset may need replacing. Contact us for a compatible replacement or technician check.

Can I lower the bed all the way down but still use a hoist?

It depends on the clearance under the bed. Floorline beds may sit too low for most hoist legs. Choose a bed with hoist-compatible clearance (typically 130–160mm under the frame) or one with adjustable base height if hoisting is required regularly.

What happens if the motor fails?

If a motor fails, the bed may become stuck in its last position. Most components are modular and replaceable. We can organise a technician to assess and repair. Preventative servicing is recommended annually to avoid unexpected failures.


Staff Knowledge Check

Test your understanding with real-life scenario questions. Great for team discussion or self-check.

Q1. Why are electric adjustable beds often used in home care or aged care settings?
  • A) For entertainment purposes
  • B) To assist with positioning, comfort, and carer support
  • C) To make bedrooms look more modern
  • D) Because they are smaller than standard beds
Q2. What is the benefit of a "low-low" height feature in some adjustable beds?
  • A) It helps the user exercise more
  • B) It allows the bed to be used as a couch
  • C) It reduces the risk of falls when getting in or out of bed
  • D) It improves heating efficiency
Q3. What does the term “hi-lo” bed typically refer to?
  • A) A bed that plays music
  • B) A bed that can raise or lower in height electrically
  • C) A bed that has no footboard
  • D) A bed made for bunk rooms
Q4. What is the role of a handset or remote on an adjustable bed?
  • A) To call the nurse
  • B) To control head and foot positioning, and sometimes height
  • C) To control lighting in the room
  • D) To lock the wheels of the bed
Q5. Why is the “safe working load” important when selecting a bed?
  • A) It determines how fast the bed can be delivered
  • B) It indicates the maximum combined weight the bed can safely support
  • C) It sets the size of the mattress
  • D) It helps decide what colour the bed is
Q6. What bed feature can assist with nighttime safety and visibility for users or carers?
  • A) Headboard decoration
  • B) Under-bed lighting
  • C) Louder motors
  • D) Adjustable legs
Q7. Why might a dual-bed or partner-bed system be chosen in home care settings?
  • A) For decoration purposes
  • B) To allow both partners to sleep together while only one needs adjustability
  • C) To increase bed weight
  • D) Because single beds are not available
Q8. Which clients benefit most from an adjustable head/back rest in a bed?
  • A) Those who enjoy watching TV
  • B) Clients with respiratory issues, reflux, or who need assistance sitting up
  • C) Young children only
  • D) Clients who don’t use pillows
Q9. What does a “battery backup” feature do in an electric bed?
  • A) Makes the bed charge your phone
  • B) Powers the bed during a power outage for emergency repositioning
  • C) Helps the mattress inflate
  • D) Keeps the bed warm
Q10. When might bed rails or side handrails be recommended?
  • A) To prevent falls or support during repositioning
  • B) To hang clothes from
  • C) To replace a headboard
  • D) Only in hospital settings
Q11. What is the purpose of a “lockout” feature on a hospital-style bed remote?
  • A) To stop the bed from being stolen
  • B) To prevent accidental or unsafe use of functions
  • C) To play music from the bed
  • D) To disable the lights in the room
Q12. Why might a client require a bariatric bed?
  • A) They need a longer mattress
  • B) They require a bed with a higher safe working load and wider sleeping surface
  • C) They want more colours to choose from
  • D) They want more noise from the motor
Q13. What is a key benefit of trendelenburg and reverse-trendelenburg positioning in a bed?
  • A) Allows fashionable bed angles
  • B) Supports clinical needs like circulation, respiratory therapy, or comfort in specific conditions
  • C) Helps make the bed easier to iron
  • D) Makes the bed compatible with bunk setups
Q14. When would a client likely benefit from a bed with adjustable knee lift (leg raise)?
  • A) If they want to sleep upright all the time
  • B) If they have swelling in their lower limbs or need postural support
  • C) If they enjoy stretching their calves
  • D) Only if they are very tall
Q15. What type of mattress is commonly paired with adjustable care beds?
  • A) Standard innerspring mattress
  • B) Foam or pressure-relieving mattress with flexibility for movement
  • C) Waterbed
  • D) Cot mattress
Q16. What should be checked before assembling an electric care bed in a client’s home?
  • A) Whether the TV remote works
  • B) That there is enough space, a flat surface, and access to a power outlet
  • C) That the curtains match the bed
  • D) If the client owns a vacuum cleaner
Q17. Why are locking castors important on an electric bed?
  • A) To let the bed move faster
  • B) To prevent the bed from moving during transfers or care
  • C) To help the bed float
  • D) To turn off the power
Q18. Which of the following is a key safety concern when using bed rails?
  • A) They may cause the client to sleep longer
  • B) They can create entrapment risks if not fitted properly
  • C) They make the bed lighter
  • D) They block Wi-Fi signals
Q19. What is a “split mattress platform” and why is it useful?
  • A) A platform that plays music under the mattress
  • B) A segmented surface that allows different parts of the bed to move independently
  • C) A mattress that separates into two beds
  • D) A bed that only lifts the head area
Q20. What is the benefit of a “home care appearance” bed frame?
  • A) It reduces the weight of the bed
  • B) It helps the client feel more comfortable and less medicalised at home
  • C) It helps hide wires
  • D) It improves remote control distance
Q21. What is one risk if a client is placed in a bed that is too high off the ground?
  • A) The bed will wear out faster
  • B) The client may fall when transferring in or out
  • C) The mattress will become harder
  • D) The bed will move too quickly
Q22. What is a major advantage of profiling beds compared to flat, fixed beds?
  • A) They look better on camera
  • B) They allow adjustable head, leg, and overall height sections for better care
  • C) They are always cheaper
  • D) They prevent users from moving too much
Q23. Which feature helps a bed be more easily moved around the home or facility?
  • A) Swivel arms
  • B) Large castors with directional locking
  • C) Extra pillows
  • D) Louder motor functions
Q24. When delivering a bed to a client with dementia, what additional factor may be considered?
  • A) The colour of the wheels
  • B) The position of the bed near familiar surroundings
  • C) The size of the truck used
  • D) Whether the client prefers online shopping
Q25. What is one reason a therapist might recommend a bed with a back-up manual crank?
  • A) To help during power outages
  • B) To practice hand strengthening
  • C) To reduce the need for a mattress
  • D) To improve the sound of the bed
Q26. Which of the following client groups is most likely to benefit from a height-adjustable bed?
  • A) Clients with good mobility and no support needs
  • B) Clients with limited mobility or those who require carer assistance
  • C) Children who like to jump on beds
  • D) Clients who prefer hard mattresses
Q27. What is a key reason for using a pressure care mattress with an adjustable bed?
  • A) It’s cheaper than other options
  • B) It helps prevent pressure injuries and improves comfort during long periods in bed
  • C) It helps the bed change colour
  • D) It makes the bed easier to clean
Q28. What does "adjustable backrest elevation" mean in the context of electric beds?
  • A) The headboard is removable
  • B) The upper body section of the bed can be raised for comfort or support
  • C) The entire bed tips backward
  • D) The mattress inflates with air
Q29. Which statement is TRUE about assembling beds with split bases or foldable frames?
  • A) They are only used in hospitals
  • B) They make delivery and setup easier in tight spaces
  • C) They cannot support adjustable features
  • D) They are more decorative than functional
Q30. Why is client assessment important before recommending a bed model?
  • A) So we can guess what they’ll like
  • B) Because all clients are the same
  • C) To match the features of the bed with the client’s specific clinical and comfort needs
  • D) To speed up delivery time
Q31. What is the purpose of a low-height or floor-level bed?
  • A) To make cleaning easier
  • B) To reduce fall injury risk for clients at high risk of rolling out of bed
  • C) To improve the look of the bedroom
  • D) To help the bed float during floods
Q32. What safety feature should be considered for clients who are at risk of becoming trapped between the bed and rail?
  • A) Coloured bed linen
  • B) Soft rail covers or entrapment gap fillers
  • C) Adding a second mattress
  • D) Keeping the remote away from the client
Q33. Which part of an electric bed helps carers reduce bending and manual handling strain?
  • A) The wooden slats
  • B) The height-adjustable frame
  • C) The colour of the side rails
  • D) The size of the mattress
Q34. Why is compatibility between bed and mattress important?
  • A) So the colours match
  • B) So the mattress will bend safely with the profiling features of the bed
  • C) So the mattress fits in a car
  • D) So the bed can be used outdoors
Q35. Which client need might require a bed that can tilt forward slightly?
  • A) To discourage use of pillows
  • B) To assist with getting in and out of bed (transfer support)
  • C) To help the sheets stay tucked in
  • D) To keep pets off the bed
Q36. What is a “Trendelenburg” position in electric beds used for?
  • A) To elevate the head above the feet
  • B) To create a rocking motion
  • C) To position the feet higher than the head for medical purposes
  • D) To store the bed under a desk
Q37. Why might a mattress with side bolsters be recommended?
  • A) To make the bed look wider
  • B) To reduce the risk of the client rolling out of bed
  • C) To hold extra pillows
  • D) To attach side tables
Q38. What is an important reason to check for bed exit alarms or sensor compatibility?
  • A) To reduce mattress cost
  • B) To alert carers if a high-risk client attempts to get up without assistance
  • C) To automatically adjust bed temperature
  • D) To control the television volume
Q39. What is the primary benefit of a partner bed with independently adjustable sides?
  • A) One side can be used for storage
  • B) Both users can customise their sleep position without disturbing each other
  • C) It’s easier to lift the whole bed
  • D) It reduces the need for pillows
Q40. What does “auto-regression” mean in the context of electric beds?
  • A) The bed goes back in time
  • B) The mattress hardens automatically
  • C) The backrest slides back slightly when elevating to reduce pressure on the stomach and hips
  • D) The bed automatically lowers every hour
Q41. Why is it important to check weight capacity when recommending a bed?
  • A) So it fits better in the room
  • B) To ensure the bed can support the client safely without risk of mechanical failure
  • C) To match the bed linen
  • D) To make the mattress softer
Q42. What does the “safe working load” (SWL) of a bed include?
  • A) Only the client’s weight
  • B) The weight of the client, mattress, and any accessories
  • C) Just the mattress and sheets
  • D) The weight of the delivery team
Q43. What is a key benefit of having a remote with clear symbols for bed controls?
  • A) It helps carers avoid using the wrong appliance
  • B) It reduces confusion for clients and carers, especially for those with cognitive or visual challenges
  • C) It improves TV reception
  • D) It makes the bed cheaper
Q44. What feature of electric beds may improve respiratory function in some clients?
  • A) Head elevation or backrest adjustment
  • B) Wooden frame construction
  • C) Battery backup
  • D) Extra bedding
Q45. In which situation might a split queen or king bed be most appropriate?
  • A) When both partners need different bed heights and positioning
  • B) When the client wants to sleep alone
  • C) To reduce furniture in the room
  • D) When standard beds are too long
Q46. What does “battery backup” in an electric bed allow for?
  • A) It improves the lighting in the room
  • B) It powers the bed temporarily during a power outage for safety or repositioning
  • C) It keeps the bed warm
  • D) It stores music
Q47. What role do lockout features play on electric bed remotes?
  • A) They make the bed more expensive
  • B) They prevent clients from accidentally pressing unsafe functions
  • C) They reduce electricity usage
  • D) They dim the screen automatically
Q48. What should be considered when recommending a bed for a bariatric client?
  • A) Bed colour
  • B) Enhanced weight capacity, wider frame, and reinforced structure
  • C) Smaller mattress to reduce movement
  • D) A basic single bed with added pillows
Q49. What is the benefit of removable or tool-free side rails?
  • A) They make the bed less comfortable
  • B) They allow carers to adjust or remove rails quickly based on client needs
  • C) They reduce electricity usage
  • D) They are more colourful
Q50. Why might a caregiver request a handset with fewer buttons or simplified controls?
  • A) To reduce costs
  • B) To make the bed look more modern
  • C) To make the bed easier to use for clients with cognitive or vision impairments
  • D) To improve the sound system