In recent years, electric adjustable beds are becoming increasingly popular due to their wealth of benefits and capabilities. The increase in demand for adjustable beds over traditional beds can be attributed to several factors including enhanced comfort and sleep technology.
Unlike regular flat beds, adjustable beds offer a wide range of customizable features that cater to the diverse needs and individual preferences. In this article, we’ll uncover the advantages and disadvantages of traditional and electric beds, helping you make an informed choice.
If you’re interested in purchasing an electric bed, our experts can guide you through the process. Get in touch to get started today.
The benefits of electric beds
There are several benefits of investing in an electric bed which positively Impact your health, sleep and overall well-being. Electric beds provide a range of personalised positions, allowing you to be properly supported and comfortable.
Here are some key advantages of electric beds:
Proper postural support
Electric beds have an elevating back and leg rest so individuals can find the optimal position. This makes them ideal for watching tv in bed, reading, working in bed or even those with specific health conditions such as acid reflux or back pain.
Compared to a traditional flat bed, electric adjustable beds contours to the shape of the body, allowing it to maintain a neutral position. This helps to provide a more comfortable sleep and alleviates pressure across the body.
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.
Personalised comfort
Traditional beds are limited for the positions they offer compared to electric adjustable beds. With the touch of a button, users can effortlessly adjust the elevation of the head, back, and legs, finding the perfect angle that suits them.
This versatility proves particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions like snoring and sleep apnoea, or circulation problems, as they can find relief by elevating specific areas of their body.
Furthermore, electric beds often incorporate additional features such as built-in massage functions and targeted lumbar support, further enhancing the customised experience. By allowing users to fine-tune their sleep environment to match their individual needs, electric beds provide an unparalleled level of personalized comfort, elevating the sleep experience and revolutionizing the way we rest and rejuvenate.
Additionally, many adjustable beds come equipped with advanced features to promote better sleep quality. For example, our adjustable beds come with zero-gravity. The pressure-free position simulates the feeling of weightlessness and relives pressure on the body for a great night’s sleep.
Enhanced well-being and independence
As well as offering a range of positions, electric beds allow users to sit up, recline or get in and out of bed easier. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or long-term illnesses, chronic pain, or limited physical capabilities, as it reduces dependence on caregivers and fosters a sense of self-sufficiency.
Typically, electric beds are operated by a handset control which allows easy operation of the bed’s features. Our range of electric adjustable beds have pre-set positions for seamless transitions. Electric beds offer more versatility and comfort compared to traditional flat beds, and the ability to change position independently can contribute to improved well-being and restore dignity for individuals.
Convenience for daily activities
Electric adjustable beds can be beneficial for carrying out various daily activities. They provide a convenient platform for activities such as reading, eating, or using electronic devices. By adjusting the bed's position, users can find a comfortable angle that suits their activity, making it easier to perform tasks without straining their bodies.
Meanwhile, electric beds eliminate the need to manually prop yourself up with pillows or using additional supports – saving time and effort. Elevating the back rest on an electric bed is also kinder to your lower back by giving proper support and alleviating pressure.
Better sleep solution for couples
Electric beds offer several advantages for couples compared to traditional flat beds. Here are some reasons why electric beds are often considered better for couples:
- Independent Adjustability: One of the significant advantages of electric beds for couples is the independent adjustability feature. Each side of the bed can be adjusted separately, allowing individuals to customize their sleeping positions. If one partner prefers a slightly elevated headrest while the other prefers a flatter position, an electric bed allows them to achieve their desired settings independently. This eliminates the compromise couples may have to make on a traditional flat bed, where a single fixed position may not suit both individuals.
- Reduced Motion Transfer: Electric beds often come with features that minimise motion transfer. This means that when one person adjusts their side of the bed, it doesn't cause significant movement or disturbance on the other side. This feature is particularly useful for couples with different sleep schedules or if one partner tends to move a lot during sleep. This promotes better rest for each person.
- Health Benefits: Electric beds can provide specific health benefits for couples. If one partner suffers from conditions such as acid reflux, snoring, or sleep apnoea, they can elevate their head section to alleviate these issues without affecting the other person's sleep position. This can lead to a more restful sleep for both individuals and better overall health outcome.
Browse our range of electric beds for two people.
Traditional beds
Unlike an electric bed, traditional flat beds are limited in terms of seating/sleeping positions. However, there are circumstances where someone may prefer a flatbed over an electric bed:
- Cost: Electric beds tend to be more expensive than traditional flat beds. The added features and adjustments of electric beds contribute to their higher price.
At Opera, we have a wide selection of electric beds which include cost-effective options. Discover our full range of beds for the home.
- Simplicity: Some people prefer the simplicity of a regular flat bed. Electric beds come with motors, remote controls, and some models may require additional components that require maintenance and occasional repairs. In contrast, flat beds have a straightforward design without any mechanical parts, making them easier to use and maintain.
Our electric beds come with an easy-to-use handset control and every Opera bed is backed by generous warranty for peace-of-mind.
- Space Constraints: If your bedroom has limited space, a flatbed can be a more practical choice. Our wide selection of electric beds includes an array of designs and sizes, offering plenty of choice to suit all bedroom interiors.
Limitations of traditional beds
Traditional beds, while widely used and familiar, have some limitations when compared to electric beds. Here are some of the limitations of traditional beds:
Limited adjustments: Traditional beds are typically designed with a fixed position, offering little to no adjustability. The mattress and foundation are usually set at a flat level, which may not cater to individual comfort preferences or specific health needs. This lack of adjustability can be limiting for individuals who require customised positions for optimal comfort, support, or relief from certain medical conditions.
Improper support: Traditional beds may not provide adequate support for different parts of the body. The mattress and foundation are generally designed to provide a basic level of support but may not offer targeted support to areas like the head, neck, back, or legs. This can result in discomfort, pressure points, and inadequate spinal alignment, which can negatively impact sleep quality and overall well-being.
Lack of Convenience: Adjusting the bed's position, whether for reading, watching TV, or finding a more comfortable sleeping position, requires manual effort, such as propping up pillows or using additional supports. This can be cumbersome and less convenient, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those who require frequent adjustments.
Summary
While traditional beds serve a basic purpose and can be suitable for many individuals, they lack the versatility, customization, and convenience offered by electric beds. The limitations of traditional beds can be particularly noticeable for individuals with specific health needs, mobility issues, or a desire for personalized comfort and adjustability.
If you or your loved one are interested in purchasing an electric bed, our team are on hand to find the perfect solution. Choose how you’d like to get started with a free consultation or video appointment with a dedicated Opera advisor.
