The different types of adjustable beds have become a good solution to improve the care of sick, elderly, or mobility-impaired people. By allowing different postures, those who are required to lie down for extended periods feel much more comfortable and can carry out different activities from bed, like watching television or eating.
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What is an adjustable bed?
It is a type of bed that can be adjusted to different positions, providing more support and comfort to the user than a traditional or fixed bed.
Adjustable beds include a mechanism that allows movement and adjustment of different sections of the base independently. Typically, the head, trunk, and legs can be adjusted, allowing the user to find the most comfortable posture at any given moment.
These beds are particularly useful in assistance systems. They are commonly used in hospitals and healthcare centers but have also started to grow in popularity in private homes in recent years because they are very beneficial for people with mobility issues, chronic pain, or a health condition that requires extended periods of lying down.
Among the advantages of these devices, the following can be highlighted:
Adjustability
The sections of the bed allow raising the head and legs to different levels, which helps improve blood circulation and alleviate pain.
Comfort and Support
They allow the user to personalize the resting position, which provides better support and increases the feeling of comfort.
Ease of Use
Different types of adjustable beds come equipped with remote controls or control panels that are very easy to operate. In this way, the bed can be adjusted with very little effort.
Health Benefits
They are especially beneficial for people who suffer from sleep apnea, respiratory problems, leg swelling, or gastroesophageal reflux, among other health conditions.
Versatility
They are suitable for both hospital and home use. They are available in different sizes and styles.
What types of articulated beds exist?
They can be classified based on different factors:
According to the number of planes
The planes are the different sections of the bed base that can be adjusted independently. We have articulated beds with:
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Two planes. These are the simplest; they elevate the upper part of the body, the trunk, and the head. They are recommended for those who suffer from digestive issues and sleep apnea.
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Three planes. Along with the head and trunk, these beds allow the elevation of the legs, leaving the pelvis in a fixed position. They are a good choice for those with circulatory system problems or those who need to spend a lot of time lying down, as this articulation allows them to switch to a seated position to eat or watch TV.
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Four planes. They raise the trunk and legs vertically and the lower part of the body is raised horizontally. They are recommended for those with severe bone and joint pathologies.
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Five planes. These beds elevate the trunk and legs both vertically and horizontally, with special attention to adjusting the neck position. They are recommended for those with neck and cervical problems.
According to size
Individual articulated beds have a width that can vary from 0.85 meters to 1 meter, and a length of 1.80 to 2 meters. But there is also a matrimonial modality designed for shared use by two people. Here, the width can range from 1.20 to 1.40 meters, and the length ranges from 1.80 to 2 meters.
The matrimonial articulated bed consists of two mattresses that can be articulated independently. This allows each user to adjust their position without disturbing the other.
According to the driving mechanism
Manual beds are operated using levers and cranks, so it is necessary for another person to adjust the bed planes. However, nowadays, the common type is that the articulated beds are electric. These beds include an electric motor that is controlled through a remote control or a panel with buttons, so the user does not need assistance to place the bed in the desired position.
According to its use
Domestic use articulated beds are somewhat simpler. In contrast, hospital beds have a greater reinforcement, as they are made with a dense iron frame that integrates a hydraulic self-propulsion system.
They can be moved laterally and have safety rails. These beds are designed for intensive use and greater mobility, making them especially durable and at the same time, easy to move.
Types of mattresses for articulated beds
In addition to choosing the proper bed structure, special attention should be paid to the mattress. In the case of articulated beds, you can choose between:
Latex mattresses
Latex is a very flexible material, which adapts well to movements. However, it is not breathable, so it is not recommended for patients who spend a lot of time in bed and are prone to developing ulcers.
Viscoelastic Mattresses
It adapts perfectly to the shape of the body and provides good support. It facilitates blood circulation, making it an ideal material to prevent pressure ulcers.
Anti-bedsore Air Mattresses
These mattresses reduce pressure on body support areas. They are usually filled with air or foam.
Articulated Storage Beds
Articulated beds can be complemented with folding and articulated storage beds, which provide extra storage space.
There are different types of articulated beds that make it easier to find the most suitable one for each specific case. If you need assistance systems, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Advantecnia, and we’ll be happy to advise you.
