Electric beds, also called adjustable beds, have been mainstays in medical facilities for several years now, but they are also finding their way in many homes. In particular these beds are proving popular among those who have trouble sleeping on ordinary beds.

Characteristics and Features

Those made for homes are more attractive than the ones used in hospitals, but their function remains the same. The beds have hinges and can be adjusted. That is why these are also called adjustable beds.

The upper part and lower parts can be raised and lowered without affecting each other. The heights of these beds can be adjusted. They can also be set into different positions.

Differences with Hospital Beds

Two of the major differences with homecare and hospital beds are durability and strength. Those made for hospital use are much stronger. This is necessary because they are used and cleaned more often.

Those made for hospital use must also meet the standards required in the medical facility. This means the material used for hospital beds are limited. Because homecare beds are not subject to such intense usage, more varied materials can be employed.

Features of the Bed Base

These electric beds have either slatted or flexible bases. The slatted base typically has motors of the triple drive kind. The slats are used to sustain the mattress. For this reason they are flexible. Actuators are used to elevate the bases.

Other beds have more flexible bases. This gives full support for every pressure point. These beds are heavier than the slatted ones. Hence, they need more powerful motors.

The way these are set up will depend on the maker. Often they are comprised of cold foam. HR fillings are also used by some manufacturers. These beds are layered with latex and some type of mesh. The material used for these parts affect the comfort level of the bed.

Other Features

Both slatted and flexible bases may have four joints or five joints. The four joints are back, stable, leg and foot. The five joints are back, foot, leg, stable and neck. These are operated by twin motors that function in the back and the leg joint.

The sliding system is called the wall hugger. This restricts the space with the rear wall as the bed is raised up. Formerly available on pricey beds, these are now becoming commonplace.

Why Use These Beds?

If you are a caregiver, these beds can make your work much easier. You can set the height to the desired level, eliminating stress on the back. At the same time you can set the bed height to the level that suits the patient.

Those with back or spine problems will also benefit. Unlike flat beds, these are specially designed to release the pressure on the body.

Electric beds today have different features, but their main purpose remains the same; helping people rest and sleep more comfortably. As long as you are familiar with their essential features, you should be able to find one that soothes your back pain.

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