The difference between adjustable beds and regular beds is significant: one is a motorised bedframe which can offer enhanced comfort and alleviate symptoms for people with certain health conditions. The other is a regular bed which cannot cater to these circumstances but fulfils its own purpose for rest and relaxation.
In this blog, Opera Beds explores the difference between Adjustable beds and Traditional beds so you understand the distinctions and can confidently decide between the two should you need to purchase one for yourself or a loved one.
Adjustable beds vs. Traditional beds - A Detailed Examination
The hallmark of adjustable beds lies in their ingenious design, featuring motorised mechanisms that provide more autonomy to users to effortlessly customise their sleeping or resting positions.
This adaptability is a game-changer, offering an unparalleled level of flexibility that traditional beds lack. With the touch of a button, users can elevate specific areas, such as the head or feet, enhancing overall comfort and addressing individual preferences.
In contrast, traditional beds boast a steadfast frame and mattress, maintaining a more conventional structure. While these beds provide reliability and stability, but lack the dynamic adjustability that defines adjustable bed frames.
The lack of motorised features limits the range of sleeping positions and may not cater to the diverse needs of individuals with specific care requirements.
Cater to More Complex Care Needs with Adjustable beds
Facilitating Ease of Movement
For individuals with care needs, particularly those grappling with limited mobility, an adjustable bed becomes a true asset. The ability to adjust the bed's head and leg height allows for easier entry and exit, promoting independence and reducing the risk of accidents.
Tailored Personalised Support
Care is inherently personal, and so should be the support provided by a bed. An adjustable bed base shines by allowing users to tailor their support, accommodating specific comfort requirements.
Whether it's finding the perfect position for pressure relief or optimising comfort during daily activities like reading or watching TV, the adaptability of adjustable beds caters to the unique preferences and needs of each individual.
Combatting Chronic Illnesses
Adjustable bed frames can be a great help for individuals suffering from chronic illnesses. We go into more detail on the top five benefits of sleeping on an adjustable bed, but some conditions this type of bed can help with include:
- Arthritis: Adjustable bed bases allow users to find the optimal sleeping position that minimises joint pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. Elevating the legs, for example, can reduce pressure on the knees and hips.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): For individuals with COPD, finding a comfortable sleeping position that promotes better breathing can be challenging. Adjustable beds enable users to elevate the upper body, aiding respiratory function and reducing symptoms like shortness of breath.
- Acid Reflux: Adjusting the inclination of the upper body with an adjustable bed can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux by preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus.
- Fibromyalgia: fibromyalgia often causes widespread pain and sensitivity. Adjustable beds provide the flexibility to position the body in a way that minimises pressure on sensitive areas, offering relief for those with fibromyalgia.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Adjusting the bed to accommodate the specific comfort needs of individuals with Multiple Sclerosis, such as supporting proper spinal alignment, can contribute to managing symptoms like muscle stiffness and spasms.
- Back Pain: Chronic back pain sufferers benefit from the customisable support of adjustable beds. Elevating the legs or adjusting the incline can alleviate pressure on the lower back and promote a more comfortable sleeping posture.
- Sleep Apnoea: Elevating the upper body can help reduce the severity of sleep apnoea symptoms by improving airflow and reducing the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep.
To ensure optimal functionality, adjustable beds require periodic maintenance. The intricate motorised mechanisms demand attention to keep the bed in peak condition and allow it to fulfil its intended purpose of additional support and adaptability to its user. At Opera Beds, we're specialists in maintaining all kinds of beds for the benefit of those with ongoing care requirements - see our guide about the set-up and maintenance of adjustable beds.
Read our guide on beds for the disabled if your or a loved one’s circumstances have recently changed and you’re trying to find out how a specific type of care bed can help them.
Traditional Beds: A Different Perspective
While Adjustable beds offer many advantages, it's important to also acknowledge the unique benefits that traditional beds bring to the table:
Easier to Move
Traditional beds are often more straightforward to move, making them an ideal choice for individuals who anticipate changes in living arrangements, such as moving house. The absence of complex motorised components contributes to their ease of manoeuvrability.
Adjustable beds, equipped with motorised components, tend to be heavier and more challenging to move around than their simpler counterparts. This consideration is especially relevant for individuals who may need to move home or wish to rearrange their living space.
Easier Maintenance
Traditional beds typically have a simpler design, making them easier to maintain. Without intricate motorised features, upkeep and repairs are more straightforward and cost-effective.
Cost Considerations
Regular beds are generally more budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for those looking for a cost-effective sleep solution. The simplicity of their design often translates to a lower upfront cost.
It's important to acknowledge that the adaptability and advanced features of Adjustable beds come with a higher price tag.
Both the initial investment in the bed itself and potential future costs for maintenance and repairs contribute to a more substantial financial commitment compared to regular beds.
Mattress Compatibility
Purchasing a mattress for a traditional bed is typically easier. Standard mattress sizes and designs align seamlessly with the fixed structure of regular beds, providing a wide range of options for users.
Certain Conditions
While regular beds may lack the dynamic adjustability of adjustable beds, they can still be suitable for individuals without specific care needs. For those seeking a stable and reliable sleep surface without the need for customisation, traditional beds offer a practical choice.
For one-to-one expert advice with a member of our knowledgeable team, don’t hesitate to book a virtual consultation.
Allow Opera Beds to improve your quality of life
The choice between adjustable beds and traditional beds involves considering individual preferences, care needs, and lifestyle factors.
At Opera Beds, we're pleased to be able to cater to a variety of different circumstances, not just with adjustable beds but with a selection of Hospital beds too.
This diverse range of specialised sleep solutions allows us to provide a tailored approach to the unique care requirements of our customers and their loved ones.
Whether you opt for the dynamic adaptability of adjustable beds or the adaptability of a Profiling bed, rest assured, Opera Beds stands dedicated to yours and your loved ones comfort, dignity and peace of mind.
If you have any questions contact us today. You can also give us a call on 0343 253 8741 or schedule a callback for a free consultation at a time that suits you.
