Is a Hospital Bed Too High? Solutions for Users with Shorter Stature

A hospital bed is supposed to make your life easier and more comfortable—not more challenging. But if your hospital bed is too high, you might feel like you’re constantly struggling. Maybe you find it difficult to get in and out of bed, your feet don’t touch the ground properly, or you’re worried about falling.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone! Many hospital beds are designed for standard height, meaning that shorter individuals or those with mobility issues often struggle with a bed that’s too high for their needs. And let’s be honest—no one wants to feel like they need a ladder just to get into bed when they need proper rest and support.

At Prosperity Health Inc., we believe that your hospital bed should fit you—not the other way around. So, what can you do about it? Let’s dive into the best solutions to make your hospital bed work for you, not against you.

Why a Hospital Bed Too High Is a Problem

A hospital bed that’s too high can create a range of issues, from making transfers difficult to increasing the risk of falls.

Difficulty Getting In and Out of Bed

A bed that’s too high makes it harder to get in and out safely, especially for individuals with limited mobility, joint pain, or weakness. Straining to climb in or slide down can also increase the risk of falls and injuries.

Increased Fall Risk

When using a high hospital bed, it’s harder to maintain stability during transfers. And if your feet don’t reach the ground properly, you may struggle to balance, increasing the risk of slipping or falling.

Strain on Joints and Muscles

An elevated bed forces you to exert extra effort just to get in and out. This added strain can also cause discomfort, especially for individuals with arthritis, muscle weakness, or post-surgery recovery.

Challenges for Caregivers

For those who rely on caregivers, a bed that’s too high can make assisted transfers more difficult. Caregivers may have trouble providing support, leading to an increased risk of injury for both the patient and the caregiver.

Difficulty Using Mobility Aids

If you use walkers, wheelchairs, or other mobility aids, it can create transfer difficulties too. You may find it hard to shift safely, making daily movements more stressful.

Safe Transfers: The Key to Stability and Independence

One of the most critical aspects of hospital bed design is ensuring safe and stable transfers for patients. If the bed height isn’t right, transitioning in and out of bed can become physically straining and unsafe.

How a Lower Hospital Bed Enhances Safety

For safe and independent movement, your feet should be able to touch the floor while sitting on the edge of the bed. When this isn’t possible, several risks arise:

• Loss of Stability – Standing up from a high bed increases the chance of losing balance, which can result in falls.

• Difficulty Using Mobility Aids – Walkers, canes, and wheelchairs must align properly with the bed for smooth transitions.

• Strain on Joints and Muscles – Dangling feet force the body into an unnatural position, leading to pain in the knees, hips, and lower back.

• Dependence on Caregivers – If you can’t get in and out of bed on your own, you may require assistance for even basic movements, reducing your independence.

If your hospital bed is too high, adjusting the height or exploring alternative solutions is crucial for a safer and more comfortable experience.

Solutions for a Hospital Bed That’s Too High

1. Lower the Bed Frame

Many modern hospital beds come with height-adjustable frames that can be lowered to a more comfortable level. If your current bed has this feature, try adjusting it to a height where your feet rest flat on the floor when seated at the edge.

✔️ Ideal bed height: Your feet should be flat on the ground, with knees bent at a natural 90-degree angle.

✔️ Check your bed’s manual to see if height adjustments are possible.

2. Switch to a Low-Profile Hospital Bed

Low-profile hospital beds are specifically designed for individuals who need a lower height for safer transfers. These beds can often be adjusted to as low as 15 inches from the floor.

✔️ Reduces fall risk by keeping you closer to the ground.

✔️ Easier to get in and out without straining your legs or joints.

✔️ Ideal for shorter individuals or those with limited mobility.

3. Use a Thinner Mattress

If your hospital bed doesn’t adjust to a lower height, switching to a thinner mattress can help reduce overall bed height. Standard hospital mattresses range from 6 to 12 inches thick, but opting for a thinner, high-density foam mattress can make transfers easier.

✔️ Maintains proper support while reducing height.

✔️ Easier to climb in and out of bed safely.

✔️ Can be a cost-effective solution compared to replacing the entire bed.

4. Remove Bed Risers or Adjust Casters

Now if your bed has casters (wheels) or risers, removing them can help lower the height significantly. Some hospital beds come with removable or adjustable casters that allow you to bring the bed closer to the floor.

✔️ Check if your bed has removable risers or wheels.

✔️ If mobility is needed, look for locking casters instead of fixed risers.

5. Add a Step Stool with Handrails

For individuals who struggle with a high bed but can’t lower it, using a step stool with handrails can provide extra stability when getting in and out of bed.

✔️ Helps with balance and stability.

✔️ Ideal for temporary situations when lowering the bed isn’t an option.

✔️ Ensure the stool has non-slip features for added safety.

6. Consider a Fully Electric Adjustable Bed

If you frequently struggle with bed height, investing in a fully electric adjustable hospital bed may be the best long-term solution. These beds allow for precise height control at the push of a button, making it easy to find the perfect level for safety, comfort, and mobility.

✔️ Adjusts to the perfect height for getting in and out of bed.

✔️ Provides long-term flexibility and convenience.

✔️ Ideal for individuals with changing mobility needs.

Finding the Right Hospital Bed for Your Needs

If your hospital bed is too high, you don’t have to struggle. The right bed height can make a huge difference in your safety, mobility, and overall well-being.

At Prosperity Health Inc., we offer a range of low-profile hospital beds and adjustable height beds to fit your needs. Our team is here to provide expert guidance to help you choose the right bed for your situation.

Don’t settle for a hospital bed that’s too high! 

Call us today for a free consultation, and let’s find the perfect solution for you.