It makes a lot of sense to do a bit of research before purchasing an adjustable bed for a fall-care patient. You find some findings about the model, durability, and make of the bed. You should also do some basic comparison of the makes and models of adjustable bed variants. Durability is key because of the expensive nature of these adjustable beds.
The durability of an adjustable bed depends on its make, model, and frequency of use. Typically, an adjustable bed should last up to ten years.
The frame of an adjustable bed is usually very strong and produced from sturdy, steel fabric and plastic. The mattress of an adjustable bed is susceptible to wear and tear. The deterioration of the mattress is primarily because it has to contain a bedridden patient for a long time. Some features of the bed may also wear with time and an example of that is the motorized feature.
How fast does an adjustable bed wear out?
| Adjustable Bed Parts | Life Span | Reason |
| Bed Frame | 10 to 15 years | Typically, adjustable beds have a heavy duty frame usually made from steel and plastic materials. They are made to be durable so that they last longer than ordinary bed frames. They are also produced for frail care facilities. |
| Mattress | 7 to 10 years | There is a high chance that a mattress used on an adjustable bed will wear out quicker and faster than a mattress used on an ordinary bed frame. The benefits of these beds are numerous and they include medical benefits, pressure reduction, etc. They are susceptible to wear and tear because of bending and the weight of the user. Specialized mattresses made specially for adjustable beds are sold in a lot of stores and online outlets. These mattresses may last as long as an ordinary mattress. |
| Motorized Parts | 5 to 10 years | The bed frame’s motorized features may not last for a long time. They are not really made for long-term work. These components can be replaced with ease. |
How to take care of an adjustable bed
- The weight of a person concentrates on a small portion of an adjustable bed because there are sitting positions. This may cause some parts of the mattress to be depressed. To address this, turn the mattress from head to foot from time to time. The rotation will help the mattress to regain shape.
- Inspect the power cord for damage. You should also inspect the wired hand control cord. The bed may push against the power plug if it is pushed too close to the wall. This can lead to damage of the plug when the bed is brushed by the wall during adjustment.
- The outlet for the plug should be separate and distinct. Don’t make use of a wall outlet that has been plugged in too many appliances.
- Do not sit on the edge of the adjustable bed mattress. These mattresses are made with soft edges causing them to bend. This can cause damage to the mattress. Adjustable bed mattresses can be easily damaged compared to the mattresses used on conventional beds
- The motor will be subjected to additional stress if the user sits at the end of the bed. This is because of body weight which will cause failure of the motor.
- Make sure the mattress is cleaned frequently. The beddings should be washed after the bed is stripped. Stains should be removed with water and a cleaning solution. For effective cleaning, baking soda should be sprinkled all over the mattress and left for some time. Baking soda is good for the absorption of moisture and odor. After this, vacuum the mattress and when it is completely dry, a mattress protector should be fitted into it before the bed is made.
How to troubleshoot adjustable bed power problems
There are a few things you should check if you are encountering power-related issues with your adjustable bed. The first thing is to confirm that the bed is plugged to an outlet and the fuse is not tripped. You should also inspect the power cord for damages.
Some adjustable bed models have memory systems that can be reset. The reset can be done by unplugging and re-plugging the power cord after some seconds.
You may also go through the owner’s manual for suggestions on how to reset the bed because all beds aren’t the same. The adjustable bed should come with an owner’s manual.
If it has been established that the power outlet supplies power and the bed makes use of a remote control, check the batteries and put a replacement. It may just be a simple remote issue.
What is the best mattress for my adjustable bed?
There are different types of mattresses that can be used on an adjustable bed. Below are some of the available options and their features.
What are some features of an adjustable bed?
These beds have several features depending on the model and make.
| Type of Mattress | Information |
| Memory Foam Mattress | This is the best adjustable bed mattress. It ensures even weight distribution and conforms to the shape of the body. It is extremely comfortable. |
| Latex Mattress | This is another good mattress produced from 100% foam. It has a bit more rigidity and tends to be thinner. |
| Inner Spring Mattress | This mattress is made of coiled springs. It has a padded top that adds to its stiffness. Although they aren’t really compatible with adjustable bed frames, some makers have produced flexible models for adjustable beds. Foam beds are actually more expensive than innerspring mattresses. There is a need for frequent replacement, they aren’t that flexible, and they create pressure points. |
| Airbed Mattress | They are produced with at least one inner air chamber. The support they offer can be adjusted by raising or lowering the air pressure. There are specific airbed mattresses that can be used on an adjustable bed. The models featuring several chambers are okay for this purpose. However, their rigidity makes them unsuitable for a purpose like this. |
Foot adjustments
This makes the patient more comfortable. It is also ideal for seniors that struggle to get in and out of bed. The bed can simply be adjusted into a sitting position which makes it possible for the patient to eat or read. The patient will sit comfortably because of the leg adjustment position. The sitting position may not be medically okay for patients with back problems. It is however a position that benefits people who find it difficult to breathe.
Remote controls
The fact that the bed can be controlled remotely makes it easier for the patient or senior to adjust the bed in any position of choice. Some models of adjustable beds allow these adjustments to be made from a smartphone.
Built-in massage features
This is a feature that greatly benefits bedridden patients. Massaging the body helps to prevent bedsores and stiffness of the muscles. The senior may even fall asleep while the massage is taking place. This feature offers great comfort to seniors.
Built-in bedroom amenities
Items that could come in handy such as charging ports, night light, and wake-up alarms for the reading and relaxation pleasure of the patient or senior. Some models even have built-in heating systems for combating the cold weather. Seniors love this feature because they are particularly vulnerable.