Introduction: Falls Are a Major Risk for Older Australians
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older Australians, particularly for those living with frailty. Many incidents happen during everyday routines such as getting out of bed, standing up in the morning, or moving at night.
For families and carers, an Aged & Homecare Hi-Low Bed Australia option is often recommended to reduce these risks. Providers like Assistive Tech Hub focus on equipment designed specifically for safer ageing and home care in Australia.
Why Frailty Increases Fall Risk in Home and Aged Care Settings
Frailty affects muscle strength, balance, reaction time, and joint control. Standard household beds are often too high and unstable, making transfers unsafe.
This is why occupational therapists frequently recommend aged care beds and mobility beds that allow proper height adjustment and positioning, especially for frail older adults receiving care at home.
What Is a Hi-Low Bed and How Does It Work?
A hi-low bed is an electric bed that raises and lowers vertically, in addition to adjusting the head and knee sections. Unlike basic adjustable beds for elderly people, hi-low beds are designed for clinical safety and assisted transfers.
The Aged Homecare Hi-Low Bed allows the mattress to be lowered close to floor level to reduce injury risk or raised to a safe height for standing and care tasks.
Key Reasons Hi-Low Beds Reduce Falls
Lowering the Bed to Prevent Roll-Out Injuries
Hi-low beds can be lowered significantly, reducing injury risk if a user rolls out during sleep. This is why many aged care assistive beds in Victoria are recommended for people with balance or cognitive challenges.
Safer Sit-to-Stand Transfers
Adjustable height makes standing easier and more stable. This feature is essential in mobility beds Victoria clinicians prescribe for frail adults.
Side Rails for Repositioning Support
When clinically appropriate, side rails support turning and repositioning. Many homecare beds for disability support Victoria include rail options that improve safety without limiting independence.
Electric Backrest for Controlled Rising
Electric backrests allow gradual movement from lying to sitting, reducing dizziness and instability — a key benefit of reclining beds for elderly users.
How Adjustable Beds Support Night-Time Safety
Night-time falls often happen due to fatigue and disorientation. Hi-low beds support safer routines by allowing carers to lower the bed before sleep and raise it again in the morning, a feature commonly found in mobility equipment for aged care homes.
Clinical Recommendations from OTs and Physiotherapists
Occupational therapists and physiotherapists often recommend beds recommended by occupational therapists that include vertical height adjustment, electric controls, and optional side rails to reduce fall risk during transfers.
NDIS, Home Care Package & SWEP Funding Options
Hi-low beds may be funded through NDIS approved adjustable beds, Home Care Packages, or SWEP approved homecare beds. Families unsure about eligibility can seek advice by contacting the Assistive Tech Hub team.
Hire or Buy: Choosing the Right Hi-Low Bed
Short-term recovery or respite care may benefit from hi-low bed hire, while long-term needs may justify purchasing.
Families can submit a rental enquiry to receive personalised recommendations.
Conclusion: Supporting Safer Ageing at Home
Falls are not inevitable. With the right equipment, risks can be significantly reduced. Hi-low beds improve transfer safety, night-time stability, and confidence for both older adults and carers.
Explore suitable options through Assistive Tech Hub to support safer ageing at home.
