Supporting Stroke Survivors at Home
Recovering from a stroke can be life-changing, not only for the person affected but also for their family and carers. Many stroke survivors return home with limited mobility, weakness on one side of the body (hemiplegia), balance issues, or fatigue that makes everyday tasks more difficult. One of the most challenging areas is bed mobility — getting in and out of bed safely, repositioning, and maintaining comfort throughout the day and night.
An Aged & Homecare Hi-Low Bed Australia solution plays an important role in creating a safer home environment for stroke survivors. With adjustable height and positioning features, these beds support recovery, reduce fall risk, and make daily care safer for both users and carers.
Why Stroke Survivors Need Specialised Bedding Support
After a stroke, common difficulties include reduced strength, impaired coordination, and poor trunk control. These challenges can make standard beds unsafe, especially when transferring to a chair, wheelchair, or walking aid. Many falls at home occur during bed transfers, often because the bed height cannot be adjusted to suit the person’s ability.
Stroke survivors may also spend more time in bed during recovery. Without proper positioning support, this increases the risk of pressure injuries, stiffness, and discomfort. A hi low adjustable bed is designed to address these issues by allowing precise height and posture control throughout the day.
What Is a Hi-Low Adjustable Bed?
A Hi-Low adjustable bed is an electric bed that can raise or lower its overall height, as well as adjust the backrest and knee sections. Unlike standard adjustable beds, hi-low beds are built specifically for aged care and disability support, making them suitable for long-term home use.
These beds are commonly used in hospitals, aged care settings, and now increasingly in private homes across Victoria. As part of assistive bedding solutions Victoria families rely on, hi-low beds support safer transfers, improved comfort, and easier care delivery.
You can see an example of an aged care assistive bed designed for home use on the Assistive Tech Hub product page for the Aged Homecare Hi-Low Bed.
Key Challenges Stroke Survivors Face in Bed Mobility
Stroke survivors often experience:
- Difficulty sitting up independently
• Unsafe transfers due to poor balance
• One-sided weakness affecting rolling and repositioning
• Increased risk of falls when standing from bed
• Pain or stiffness from prolonged positioning
Without appropriate mobility beds, these challenges can slow recovery and place strain on carers. Adjustable beds for elderly people recovering from stroke must address both safety and functional independence.
How Hi-Low Beds Improve Safety and Recovery
1. Safer Transfers With Height Adjustment
One of the most valuable features of a hi-low bed is the ability to adjust the bed height to match the user’s chair or wheelchair. This allows stroke survivors to place their feet flat on the floor and stand with better control. Lowering the bed also reduces injury risk if a fall occurs.
2. Side Rails for Secure Repositioning
Optional side rails provide additional support when rolling or pushing up to sit. For people with hemiplegia, rails can act as a stable handhold without restricting independence. Occupational therapists often recommend rails for early recovery stages.
3. Better Pressure Care for Hemiplegia
Stroke survivors who spend extended periods in bed are at higher risk of pressure injuries. Hi-low beds support pressure care by allowing frequent position changes and compatibility with pressure-relieving mattresses. This is especially important for disability sleeping aids Victoria providers recommend.
4. Comfortable Backrest Support for Weak Limbs
Adjustable backrests help stroke survivors sit upright comfortably for meals, therapy exercises, or social interaction. Knee elevation can also reduce swelling and improve circulation, supporting overall recovery.
5. Reduced Carer Strain and Improved Efficiency
Carers benefit significantly from electric beds for aged care. Adjustable height reduces bending and manual handling, lowering the risk of back injuries. This is critical for family carers and support workers providing daily home care.
Recommended by Occupational Therapists: Clinical Benefits
Occupational therapists frequently recommend hi low beds for elderly NDIS support and stroke rehabilitation. During an assessment, OTs consider bed height, transfer ability, home layout, and carer needs. Beds recommended by occupational therapists are those that support independence while meeting safety standards.
Hi-low beds are commonly prescribed as part of discharge planning, helping ensure continuity of care once a stroke survivor returns home.
NDIS, SWEP & Aged Care Funding Options in Australia
Many stroke survivors may be eligible for funding support. Depending on individual circumstances, hi-low adjustable beds may be funded through:
- NDIS approved adjustable beds for eligible participants
• SWEP approved homecare beds in Victoria
• Aged care funding pathways or transitional care programs
An occupational therapist assessment is usually required to support funding applications. Assistive Tech Hub works closely with allied health equipment suppliers Victoria families trust to ensure beds meet compliance requirements.
Hire or Buy? Choosing the Right Option for Stroke Recovery
Stroke recovery timelines vary. Some families prefer to hire a bed during the early stages, while others choose to purchase for long-term use. Hiring allows flexibility, especially when needs may change over time.
Assistive Tech Hub offers hire options as well as purchase solutions, with support available through the rental enquiry page. This approach helps families make practical decisions without pressure.
Features to Look for in an Adjustable Bed for Stroke Survivors
When choosing an Aged & Homecare Hi-Low Bed Australia solution, consider:
- Wide height range for safe transfers
• Electric backrest and knee adjustment
• Compatibility with pressure-relief mattresses
• Optional side rails for support
• Sturdy frame suitable for daily use
These features support both recovery and long-term safety at home.
Building a Safer Home Environment
For stroke survivors, the right bed can make daily life safer, more comfortable, and more manageable. Hi-low adjustable beds reduce fall risk, support mobility, and ease the physical demands of care. Whether funded through NDIS, SWEP, or private purchase, these beds are a practical investment in recovery and wellbeing.
Families and carers in Victoria can explore suitable options through Assistive Tech Hub, including viewing the Aged Homecare Hi-Low Bed, arranging hire, or contacting the team for personalised support via the contact page.
