Choosing the Right Bed for Your Loved One
Selecting the right bed is a key part of aged care planning. For many families, the choice comes down to a hospital bed or a home care bed. While both options provide safety and support, they serve different purposes. Hospital beds are designed for clinical environments, while aged care beds are tailored for comfort and independence at home.
What Is a Hospital Bed?
A hospital bed is built for medical facilities and is usually designed for short-term care or acute conditions. These beds are:
- Heavier and bulkier in design
- Equipped with clinical functions such as advanced tilt and positioning
- Intended for high-dependency care
They are ideal for hospital stays but can feel restrictive or uncomfortable for long-term use at home.
What Is a Home Care Bed?
A home care bed, also known as an aged care bed, is designed to meet the needs of elderly or disabled individuals in a home environment. These beds combine safety features with comfort-focused design.
Examples include:
Key Features Comparison: Hospital vs Home Care Beds
| Feature | Hospital Bed | Home Care Bed |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Clinical | Residential |
| Comfort | Functional, not always comfortable long-term | Designed for everyday comfort |
| Adjustability | Advanced clinical positions | Hi-low, reclining, and voice control options |
| Safety | Meets hospital-grade standards | Includes side rails and fall-prevention accessories |
| Aesthetics | Institutional look | Designed to blend into a home environment |
| Cost | Higher, due to medical-grade build | More affordable, NDIS-funded options available |
Benefits of Home Care Beds for Elderly and Disabled Individuals
Home care beds are designed to make life easier for both users and carers. Benefits include:
- Adjustable height for safer transfers
- Reclining backrests for reading, eating, or resting
- Side rails to reduce fall risks
- Improved independence through remote or voice controls
- More homely appearance compared to hospital beds
Popular options include:
When a Hospital Bed May Be Necessary
A hospital bed may still be the right choice if:
- The user requires complex medical positioning (e.g., Trendelenburg)
- Care is primarily medical and supervised by healthcare staff
- The bed is needed short-term after surgery or acute illness
Accessories and Enhancements for Home Care Beds
Home care beds can be customised with a wide range of aged care bed accessories such as:
- Waterproof Mattress
- Foldable Steel Side Rails
- Mattress for Voice Control Bed
- Side Rails for Voice Control Bed
These additions improve comfort, hygiene, and safety.
NDIS and Funding Considerations for Aged Care Beds in Victoria
In Victoria, many home care beds for elderly individuals are NDIS-approved and SWEP-approved. Funding may cover:
- Beds recommended through occupational therapist assessments
- NDIS home support beds in Victoria
- NDIS bed rails for aged care
- Mattresses and accessories
Conclusion
Hospital beds are best for clinical or short-term use, while home care beds provide safety, comfort, and independence for long-term care at home. With NDIS support and a wide range of accessories, home care beds are often the most practical choice for families and carers in Victoria.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between a hospital bed and a home care bed?
Hospital beds are clinical and designed for medical facilities, while home care beds are made for comfort and safety at home.
2. Are home care beds covered by the NDIS in Victoria?
Yes, many aged care beds NDIS approved are funded for eligible participants in Victoria.
3. How much does a home care bed cost in 2025?
Most home care beds cost $1,800–$6,000, depending on features and accessories.
4. Do I need side rails for a home care bed?
Yes, side rails improve safety. They help reduce fall risks, which account for 125,000+ elderly hospitalisations annually in Australia.
5. How long does a home care bed last?
With proper maintenance, a quality bed lasts 7–10 years. Mattresses may need replacement every 3–5 years.
