How to Get Out of an Adjustable Bed? A Comprehensive Safety Guide

According to the CDC, falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, and mastering the right technique for how to get out of an adjustable bed can significantly reduce risk. The automated functions of these beds offer great convenience, but knowing the correct method for a safe and controlled exit is crucial for preventing accidents and injury.

Quick Summary

Master techniques for safely exiting an adjustable bed, including using the remote control for ideal positioning, leveraging body weight correctly, and utilizing assistive accessories for enhanced stability.

Key Points

• Remote-Assisted Positioning: Use your bed's remote to raise the head and level the foot sections to achieve a stable, seated position before exiting.

• Leverage and Balance: Steady your hands on the firm mattress edge or bed frame for support as you swing your legs over and push up slowly to stand.

• Accessory Support: For limited mobility, consider assistive devices like bed rails, bed steps, or grab bars to provide extra stability during your exit.

• Power Outage Preparedness: In a power failure, check for a battery backup or a manual override feature, and use accessory supports for assistance.

• Optimize Bedroom Safety: Keep pathways clear, use adequate lighting, and wear non-slip footwear to prevent trips and falls in your bedroom environment.

• Prioritize Slow Movements: Avoid rushing, especially when standing, to prevent dizziness and ensure you have proper balance before walking.

Mastering the Remote-Assisted Exit

An adjustable bed is designed to assist you, so the first and most fundamental step is to use its core functionality to your advantage. The remote control is your primary tool for a safe and controlled exit. Instead of struggling to push yourself up from a flat surface, the bed does most of the heavy lifting for you.

The Standard Step-by-Step Technique

This method is suitable for most users and provides a smooth transition from lying down to a seated position.

1. Elevate the Head Section: Use the remote to slowly raise the head of the bed. Continue elevating until you are in a comfortable, upright seated position with your back supported. This minimizes the strain on your core and back muscles.
2. Level the Foot Section: Ensure the foot section of the bed is completely lowered or level. Some adjustable beds have a "Flat" or "Zero-Gravity" preset button that can bring the bed back to a flat position quickly. This provides a clear path for your legs.
3. Swing Your Legs: With the head elevated, gently swing both of your legs over the edge of the bed. It can be helpful to use your hands to assist, guiding your legs rather than letting them drop suddenly.
4. Edge and Push: Once your feet are on the floor, steady your hands on the firm edge of the mattress and the bed frame. Push yourself up to a standing position slowly, using both your arms and legs for support. Pause for a moment to regain your balance and prevent lightheadedness from standing too quickly.

Adapting Exit Strategies for Limited Mobility

For those with more significant mobility challenges, a standard exit may still be difficult. Fortunately, there are advanced techniques and assistive accessories that can make the process even safer.

Assisted Roll-and-Pivot Technique

This technique is useful if you have trouble getting directly to a seated position or have significant upper body weakness.

1. Bend Knees and Turn: Bend both knees while lying on your back. Turn your head in the direction you want to exit and allow your knees to fall to that same side.
2. Roll and Push: Use your elbows and arms to gently push your upper body up and roll onto your side, towards the edge of the bed.
3. Lower and Lift: As your legs drop off the edge of the bed, use the leverage from their downward motion to assist you in pushing your torso upward with your arms. This creates a seesaw effect that requires less overall strength.
4. Stabilize Before Standing: Before attempting to stand, take a moment to sit on the edge of the bed with your feet firmly on the floor. Use a nearby sturdy chair or bed rail for support if needed.

Comparison of Exit Support Accessories

Assistive devices can dramatically improve safety and confidence when exiting an adjustable bed. Below is a comparison of common options:

Accessory	Best For	Pros	Cons
Bed Rails	Users needing firm, stable support for rolling and pushing up.	Provides excellent stability; can be adjusted to fit under the mattress; creates a strong anchor point.	Can be bulky; may require careful installation to avoid hindering bed functions; not ideal for standing assistance.
Sturdy Bed Step	Individuals who need a slight height boost to reach the floor comfortably.	Reduces the step height from the bed; often has non-slip surfaces for safety; can be a multi-step design.	Poses a tripping hazard if not placed correctly; requires clear floor space; must be stable and non-moving.
Bed Cane/Grab Bar	Providing a single, firm handhold for pulling up to a seated position.	Offers a simple, single point of support; easy to install; less bulky than full rails.	Less support area than a full rail; may not be suitable for those needing support to roll; requires some upper body strength.
Sit-to-Stand Lift Bed	Advanced mobility issues or caregiver-assisted exits.	Can transition the user from lying down to a near-standing position automatically.	Very expensive; requires specialized training or use; not a standard feature on all adjustable beds.

What to Do During a Power Outage

A power failure can render the remote and motorized functions of an adjustable bed useless, which can be a significant concern for those who rely on it for assistance.

• Check for Battery Backup: Many modern adjustable beds come equipped with a battery backup system. Check your owner's manual to confirm if this feature is available and how to activate it.
• Utilize Manual Override: If your bed does not have a battery backup, it may have a manual override mechanism. This often involves a hand crank or a special tool near the motor unit that allows for manual lowering of the bed.
• Practice Non-Remote Techniques: In the absence of power, you must rely on manual techniques like the roll-and-pivot method. Having a grab bar or rail is especially important in this scenario to provide a reliable, non-electric point of support.

Creating a Safe Bedroom Environment

Beyond the bed itself, your surrounding bedroom environment can play a critical role in preventing falls.

• Clear Pathways: Keep the area around your bed free of clutter, loose cords, and rugs that could be tripping hazards. Ensure a direct, unobstructed path from your bed to the bathroom.
• Adequate Lighting: Use nightlights or keep a lamp with a clearly marked, easy-to-use switch within arm's reach. This is especially important for nighttime trips out of bed.
• Non-Slip Footwear: Consider keeping a pair of sturdy, non-slip slippers or socks at your bedside. This adds an extra layer of grip and stability for your first steps out of bed.
• Essential Items: Keep your phone, remote, glasses, and a glass of water on a stable bedside table so you do not have to strain or stand to reach them.

Conclusion

Mastering how to get out of an adjustable bed is a combination of proper technique, smart use of technology, and the right accessories. By utilizing the remote to transition to a safe seated position, considering assistive devices like bed rails for extra support, and maintaining a clutter-free, well-lit bedroom, you can significantly enhance your safety and independence. Remember to move slowly and steadily, especially upon standing, to prevent dizziness and falls. Investing a little time in these strategies will ensure your adjustable bed remains a tool for comfort, not a source of risk.

For more detailed advice on improving mobility, consider consulting resources from trusted health organizations, such as the National Institute on Aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you safely get out of an adjustable bed with limited mobility?

For limited mobility, first use the remote to raise the bed to a high seated position. Then, use assistive devices like bed rails or grab bars for stable support as you pivot and push yourself up. Move slowly to avoid losing your balance.

What if my adjustable bed remote is lost or not working?

Check your bed's owner's manual to see if there is a manual override mechanism, such as a hand crank, located near the motor unit. Some models also have a wired backup remote. During a power outage, use assistive bed rails or grab bars for support.

What is the proper technique for exiting an adjustable bed for seniors?

Seniors should use the remote to raise the head and level the foot sections to a seated position. They should then pivot towards the edge, swing their legs off, and use both arms and legs to push up slowly to a stand. It is crucial to pause and regain balance before walking.

Can an adjustable bed help prevent falls?

Yes, by allowing you to safely transition from a lying position to a seated position, an adjustable bed can significantly reduce the risk of falls that can occur from a flat bed surface.

How does a mattress with edge support help with exiting the bed?

A mattress with firm edge support prevents the sides from collapsing under your weight as you sit or push off. This provides a solid and stable surface, making it easier and safer to move to a standing position.

What accessories are recommended for getting out of an adjustable bed safely?

Recommended accessories include securely installed bed rails, sturdy bed steps with non-slip surfaces, and bedside grab bars. For more advanced needs, a full sit-to-stand lift system is an option.

How do you get out of an adjustable bed if you feel dizzy?

If you experience dizziness, do not stand up immediately. Sit on the edge of the bed with your feet on the floor for a few moments until the feeling passes. Take deep, slow breaths and use a nearby stable surface or bed rail for support.