When caring for an older adult at home, choosing the right bed is one of the most important decisions for safety, comfort, and care efficiency. Allied health professionals—especially occupational therapists (OTs)—play a key role in assessing the individual’s needs and recommending beds that support daily living, reduce fall risks, and assist caregivers.
If you’re looking for assistive beds for elderly users in Adelaide, this guide will help you understand what to look for, what OTs recommend, and how to access support through trials and assessments.
What Allied Health Professionals Look for in a Homecare Bed
Occupational therapists and other allied health experts assess beds not just for comfort, but based on specific mobility, health, and safety concerns. The goal is to ensure the bed supports:
- Safe transfers (getting in and out with minimal assistance)
- Pressure relief and posture support
- Fall prevention and carer access
- Functionality for repositioning or therapy
Beds with adjustable height (hi-low), backrests, and side rails are often essential, especially for users recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions like Parkinson’s, or at risk of night-time falls.
You can browse our full Aged Home Care Bed collection here.
Key Features that Enhance Comfort, Mobility and Safety
The right aged care bed should be tailored to both the user’s condition and the care environment. Some of the most recommended features by OTs include:
1. Height Adjustability (Hi-Low Function)
This allows the bed to be raised for carer tasks and lowered to reduce fall risk.
2. Adjustable Backrest and Leg Elevation
Helps users sit up, reposition themselves, or relieve pressure points.
3. Side Rails
Offer both safety and reassurance, especially during sleep. For example, our Portable Power Backrest with Side Rails is ideal for short-term or lightweight setups.
4. Waterproof and Pressure-Relieving Mattresses
Support hygiene and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. We recommend our Waterproof Mattress for Aged Homecare Bed for dependable protection and comfort.
5. Remote or Voice Control Functionality
Empowers the user to adjust their bed independently if mobility in the hands or arms is limited.
Product Recommendations Based on User Needs
Here are a few examples of bed types matched with typical health conditions:
| Condition or Concern | Recommended Bed Type |
| Stroke recovery | Hi-low electric bed with backrest and leg raise |
| Advanced arthritis or joint pain | Bed with soft-surface mattress and remote control |
| Risk of falling at night | Bed with side rails and low clearance |
| Bedridden or limited mobility | Full electric adjustable bed with carer access height |
OTs may also suggest accessories such as lifting poles, overbed tables, or bed wedges to support independent movement and reduce strain on caregivers.
You can view specific beds and accessories designed for aged care use in our homecare beds section.
Assessment, Trials, and Local Purchase Support
We understand that selecting a homecare bed is not a one-size-fits-all decision. That’s why we offer support services tailored to allied health professionals and family carers:
1. Free In-Home Trials in Adelaide
Try before you commit. Our trial program helps OTs and clients test features in a real-life setting. Book a home trial here.
2. Assistance with OT Reports and SWEP Requirements
We work directly with allied health providers to ensure the chosen bed and accessories meet SWEP or NDIS eligibility criteria, and provide professional quotes for funding.
3. Flexible Delivery and Setup Support
Our team delivers and installs equipment across Adelaide and surrounding areas, ensuring beds are set up for both safety and comfort from day one.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing a bed for aged care requires clinical insight—OTs consider factors like pressure care, mobility, and carer needs.
- Features like side rails, hi-low adjustment, and back support greatly improve outcomes.
- Local trials and professional support ensure the right bed is selected and funded appropriately.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
- Explore our OT-recommended aged care beds
- Book a professional in-home bed trial
- Contact our team for assistance with assessments or quotes
We’re here to help allied health professionals, families, and aged care teams find the most suitable bed solutions for long-term home care support.
