When a loved one requires additional care at home, safety and comfort are paramount. Support from a regular bed often is inadequate. This is when being able to find a hospital bed for sale nearby becomes significant. A hospital bed not only contributes to the comfort of the patient, but also makes life easier and safer for caregivers.
Whether you’re planning for post-surgery rehabilitation or for long-term in-home care, selecting the right bed can be overwhelming. There are so many choices that it is best to know what you are looking for before making up your mind.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know, from the different types of hospital beds, to features to look out for, pricing and where to find a hospital bed for sale near you.
A hospital bed is more than just a piece of furniture. It is medical equipment that is meant to make patients’ lives easier and relieve the burden on caregivers. Families often opt to purchase one for various reasons.
Some of those types include:
Post surgery recovery – Variable positions allow users to relax in comfort as they heal.
Mobility issues – Arthritis, stroke recovery, and spinal cord injuries can make a traditional bed a great challenge. They are able to get in and out safely with the help of a hospital bed.
Senior care – Seniors who are weak and at risk of falling also appreciate the use of side rails and adjustable height features.
Long-term conditions – If you suffer from breathing problems, cardiovascular disease or have long-term illness and/or disability, you may need an adjustable bed to improve your circulation and keep you comfortable.
The right hospital bed at home means less stress, more comfort and safety for all concerned.
But before you hit the Google search button to find a hospital bed for sale near me, it might be helpful to know about the types of beds available. And they fulfill different needs, at different costs.
Manual hospital beds
These have a hand crank for adjustments. They’re typically the cheapest option, but require someone to manage them. They are most suitable for patients who do not require frequent position changes.
Semi-electric hospital beds
Manual/electric for general and intensive care. These beds are both manual and electric. The head and foot of the frame move using a remote, but the height may still require manual adjustment. They provide the convenience of all-electric models at a fraction of the price.
Fully electric hospital beds
There are even controls for everything on a remote or control panel. Simple and quick maneuvers for patients and caregivers to adjust position and height. The most widely used for long-term home care.
Bariatric hospital beds
These beds are made for more heavyweight patients, and as a result have a broader frame and more robust support. They offer durability with increased weight capacities.
Specialty hospital beds
These range in style from low beds that help prevent falls to air beds that minimize pressure sores to high-tech versions with smart sensors. They are best for patients who have certain medical conditions.
When comparing hospital beds, you want comfort and safety to drive your decision. Here are the key points to keep in mind:
Head, foot, and height adjustability will make your bed your own to rest and relax in
Patient-specific weight capacity
The correct mattress – whether foam, innerspring or air
Included side rails for added support and safety
Easy to use for the patient and the caregiver
Brake wheels for transport or to stabilize wheels
The good news is that there are plenty of hospital beds. Some of the most popular places to look include:
Medical supply stores
Local providers both new and pre owned beds. Shopping in a store allows you to try the bed and receive professional advice before purchasing.
Online retailers
You can scan numerous options, compare prices and read reviews, from health care websites to large e-commerce platforms. Internet purchasing frequently provides much more selection and far better pricing.
Rental companies that sell beds
Some firms that rent hospital beds also sell them. This can be useful if you want to test a bed out before becoming a full-fledged owner.
Direct from manufacturers
Buy direct and have new flooring delivered and installed to have warranty coverage and customer service.
Second-hand market
Preowned beds — while they can be less expensive — require you to check for safety and the electronics closely. We recommend buying from a trusted dealer (instead of a private seller).
Families are also often torn between whether to buy new or used.
A brand new hospital bed has the guarantee, features and safety that you’re looking for. It’s really your best long-term choice, and your patients’ best long-term choice.
A secondhand bed is less expensive and may be well-suited for short-term recovery but might not come with a warranty. You might also want to change the mattress just for hygiene reasons.
So be sure to opt for a trustworthy supplier if you decide on a used motor.
So, here's an estimate of price ranges when you are in the market for a hospital bed for sale close to home.
Manual beds: $500 to $1,200
Semi-electric beds: $1,000 to $2,500
Fully electric beds: $2,000 to $5,000 and up
Bariatric beds: $3,000 to $7,000
Specialty beds: $4,000 to $10,000+
Remember, the total cost may rise when you factor in delivery, installation and any upgrades to the mattress. Some vendors also provide financing or a rent-to-own arrangement.
Here are some practical guidelines to help ensure that you choose wisely:
For medical advice, speak to your doctor or therapist
Try the bed in person, or ideally rent one, before making a purchase
Verify from supplier warranty and after sales service
If you do not want something forever, think very long term and about last ditch resale value
Notify of any above ground floor deliveries ahead of time
Get estimated delivery date when you place the order
If possible always call 24 hours in advance at 9 AM but have both numbers just in case
Make arrangements to be home early to avoid extra fees
Check your door openings if you are buying a wide item
When your items are delivered make sure you have a towel ready to dry units down
When trying to find a hospital bed for sale near you, it can seem like a daunting task at first, but with the right plan of attack, it’s very manageable. Spend time researching different kinds, comparing features and figuring out your budget. Above all, shop from someone quite reliable and with good customer service.
A hospital bed is a bed for more than sleep. It’s equipment that directly leads to comfort, safety and quality of life. If you make the right decision, they will be more comfortable and better cared for at home and you will have peace of mind.
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