Low Beds, Fall Prevention, Low Bed Frames

The Importance of Reducing the Risk Factors for Falls

Each year one-third of adults aged 65 or older fall, and 2 million are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries. Falls are the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults, and are the leading cause of fatal injury. With each decade of life, the risk of falling increases. The long-term consequences of fall injuries can impact the independence and health of older adults, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and hip fractures. Falls are not an inevitable part of aging, because many falls can be prevented. A growing number of older adults limit their activities and social engagements because of their fear of falling. This can result in further depression, physical decline, social isolation and feelings of helplessness.

Many individuals are at risk for falls from a bed from either getting up and walking unaided when it is no longer safe to do so, or from rolling out of bed. Bedrails are sometimes used to help keep a person safely in bed. But studies have shown that those with dementia are at an increased risk for serious falls if they try to get out of bed by climbing over the rails. Others may become agitated if they feel restrained. Some become entrapped in the space between the mattress and the rail, or caught in the rail.

The FDA recommends using only partial rails when needed, and special high-low beds. These beds can be lowered close to the floor for sleeping and raised for caregiving tasks. If the person were to roll out of bed, the risk of injury is less because the bed is closer to the floor. Some bed frames (without the mattress) are as low as seven inches above the floor. A fully electric high-low bed is the easiest type to operate.

What is a Low Bed?

A low bed normally refers to a bed frame and not the actual mattress. There are two different types. Some low beds are actually minimally designed, meaning they may be very simple so they do not dominate a room. Another type of low bed is made with the bed frame closer to the floor. These are helpful for those who do not like to climb up into bed, and the lower height can diminish the sense of the bed overwhelming a small room.

The metal bed frame type is the simplest low bed of all. These are the most minimally made in design and are close to the floor. The metal bed frame is barely noticed unless someone is looking under the bed. Some feel they want some design in their bed; therefore, the metal frame is not quite sufficient for their decorating tastes.

How do I Choose a Low Bed?

Some factors to consider when choosing a low bed are style, price, materials and comfort. The most common materials for furniture are metal, composite board, and different types of wood. Although the primary factor in terms of comfort is the mattress, the frame material should still be considered. The look and style of a low bed is the final factor when choosing one. There is no right or wrong way to choose the style, it is completely subjective. If there is already existing bedroom furniture that will stay in the room, choose a bed to coordinate with those items. Going with a low bed that has an entirely different look can also be used as an accent.

How do I Choose a Low Bed Frame?

When choosing a low bed frame, consider whether or not a box spring will be used along with a mattress. Some frames are designed to be used with only a mattress, while others are designed to accommodate both the box spring and a mattress. If the box spring will be used to provide a flat surface for the mattress, a low bed frame made from steel will work with both a mattress and box spring together.

Platform beds made from metal or wood can provide a flat surface for the mattress, which eliminates the need for a box spring. Platform beds come in a wide variety of colors, designs and styles. Some low bed frame models feature footboards and headboards, while others may not feature either.

The most basic thing to consider when choosing a low bed frame is its size. It is important to think about how much space is available in the room as well as who will be sleeping in the bed. A twin size bed will accommodate one adult, a queen size bed can fit two adults, and a king size bed can accommodate two adults with room to spare. The low bed frame needs to match the size of mattress you intend to buy or already own. Sometimes the frame will be designed for one specific size only, and sometimes it is designed to be adjustable to fit more than one size of mattress. To avoid complications, it is possible to buy a frame and a mattress together.

Rehabmart is pleased to carry a wide assortment of low beds from well-respected vendors such as Invacare, IPU, MJM International, Drive Medical and Convaquip.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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