Bed Risers for Seniors

Complete Guide to Bed Risers for Seniors: Safety, Benefits, and Best Options

Emergency Section – When NOT to Use Bed Risers

Stop and consult your doctor immediately if you have:

• Balance problems or frequent falls – Adding height increases fall risk
• Dementia or confusion – Changes to familiar furniture can cause disorientation
• Severe arthritis in knees or hips – Higher beds may strain joints further
• Visual impairment – Depth perception issues make height changes dangerous
• Use a walker or wheelchair – Bed height changes affect transfer safety
• Recent surgery or injury – Your mobility needs may have changed

Red Flags – Remove bed risers immediately if:

• Bed wobbles or feels unstable when you sit on it
• You hear creaking or see cracks in the risers
• Bed legs don’t fit securely in the risers
• You’re having trouble getting in or out of bed safely
• Anyone has fallen or had a close call

Key Takeaways

The Bottom Line: Bed risers can help some seniors get in and out of bed more easily, but they’re not right for everyone. One in four seniors falls each year, and safety must come first. Before using bed risers, talk to your doctor about whether they’re appropriate for your health condition and mobility level.

What You Need to Know:

• Bed risers add 3-8 inches of height to make bed transfers easier for some seniors
• They’re not covered by Medicare unless prescribed as medical equipment
• Safety depends on proper fit, weight capacity, and your individual health needs
• Alternative solutions like adjustable beds may be safer for many seniors
• Professional consultation is recommended before installation

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What Are Bed Risers and Why Do Seniors Use Them?

Bed risers are sturdy platforms that slip under your bed’s legs to raise the entire bed higher off the floor. Think of them as small pedestals that lift your bed anywhere from 3 to 8 inches higher than normal.

For seniors, the main benefit is making it easier to sit down and stand up from bed. When a bed is too low, getting up requires more strength from your leg muscles and puts extra strain on your knees and back. A higher bed can reduce this strain and make daily bed transfers more comfortable.

The Reality Check: While bed risers help some seniors, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults 65 and older, with 38,000 deaths in 2021 alone. Adding height to your bed can potentially increase fall risk if not done carefully.

The Science Behind Bed Height for Seniors

Why Bed Height Matters: Research shows that the ideal bed height allows you to sit on the edge with your feet flat on the floor and your knees at about a 90-degree angle. For most seniors, this means a bed height of 20-23 inches from floor to mattress top.

Common Problems with Standard Beds:

• Many modern beds sit only 16-18 inches high
• Low beds require more leg strength to stand up from
• They put extra pressure on arthritic knees and hips
• Caregivers must bend awkwardly to provide assistance

When Higher Isn’t Better:

• Beds over 25 inches become difficult to get into safely
• Risk of serious injury increases with fall height
• Some seniors may need a step stool, creating additional fall hazards

Understanding the Real Risks

Fall Statistics for Seniors

The CDC reports that:

• Over 14 million seniors (1 in 4) fall each year
• 37% of falls result in injuries requiring medical treatment
• 3 million emergency room visits annually are due to senior falls
• Hip fractures occur in 83% of fall-related deaths

Bed Riser-Specific Safety Concerns

Stability Issues:

• Bed may wobble if risers don’t fit legs properly
• Uneven floor surfaces can cause tilting
• Weight limits can be exceeded, causing collapse

User-Related Risks:

• Forgetting about height change, especially at night
• Difficulty judging distance when getting in bed
• Loss of balance when sitting on edge of higher bed

Installation Problems:

• Improper measurement of bed leg diameter
• Using mismatched riser heights
• Placing on uneven or soft surfaces

Medical Conditions and Bed Risers: A Doctor’s Perspective

When Bed Risers May Help

Conditions that might benefit (with doctor approval):

• Mild arthritis in knees or hips
• Lower back pain that worsens with deep sitting
• General weakness that makes standing from low surfaces difficult
• Height disadvantage (very tall people with standard beds)

When to Avoid Bed Risers

Conditions that increase risk:

• Parkinson’s disease – Movement disorders affect balance
• Diabetic neuropathy – Reduced sensation in feet
• Stroke survivors – May have spatial awareness issues
• Osteoporosis – Increased fracture risk from falls
• Medication effects – Blood pressure or sleep medications affecting balance

Important: Always consult your healthcare provider before using bed risers. They can assess your specific situation and recommend safer alternatives if needed.

Types of Bed Risers Explained

1. Stackable Plastic Risers

How they work: Hollow plastic blocks that slide under bed legs Heights: Usually 3, 5, or 8 inches when stacked Best for: Lighter beds, temporary solutions

Pros:

• Affordable ($15-30)
• Easy to adjust height
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• May crack under heavy weight
• Can slide on smooth floors
• Limited weight capacity (usually 1,000-1,500 lbs total)

2. Solid Wood Risers

How they work: Dense hardwood blocks with leg receptacles Heights: Typically 2-6 inches Best for: Traditional bed frames, permanent installation

Pros:

• Very stable and durable
• Attractive appearance
• High weight capacity (up to 2,000+ lbs)

Cons:

• More expensive ($40-80)
• Heavy and harder to move
• Limited height options

3. Metal Screw-In Risers

How they work: Replace existing bed legs entirely Heights: 4-12 inches Best for: Beds with removable legs

Pros:

• Most secure attachment
• No risk of sliding
• Professional appearance

Cons:

• Permanent installation
• Requires tools and mechanical skill
• May void bed warranty

4. Adjustable Risers with Features

How they work: Stackable with added conveniences Heights: Variable, 3-8 inches Best for: Tech-savvy users, bedside convenience

Special features:

• USB charging ports
• Electrical outlets
• LED lighting

Pros:

• Multiple functions
• Customizable height
• Convenient charging

Cons:

• More expensive ($50-100+)
• More complex installation
• More things that can break

Comprehensive Product Reviews

Top Pick for Safety: Vive Health Stackable Bed Risers

Why we recommend them:

• Made by a medical supply company
• Tested for senior use
• Wide, stable base design
• Clear weight capacity ratings
• Easy to return if unsuitable

Key features:

• 2.9″ x 2.9″ opening fits most bed legs
• Non-slip bottom surface
• Can stack to create custom heights
• 1,760 lb total weight capacity

Where to buy: Vive Health official website, Amazon, medical supply stores

Reality check: Even the safest bed risers aren’t right for everyone. If you have balance issues or take medications that affect coordination, consider alternatives first.

Best Budget Option: Home-It Adjustable Bed Risers

Why they work for many seniors:

• Very affordable at under $25
• Three height options in one set
• Good customer reviews from seniors
• Available at major retailers

Limitations:

• Made of lighter plastic
• Lower weight capacity than medical-grade options
• May not last as long under heavy use

Where to buy: Amazon, Walmart, Target

Premium Choice: Honey-Can-Do Wood Bed Risers

Best for seniors who want:

• Attractive, furniture-quality appearance
• Maximum stability and durability
• High weight capacity
• Long-term investment

Consider these:

• Higher cost ($50-70)
• Heavier to move
• Limited height adjustability

Where to buy: Home improvement stores, furniture retailers, Amazon

Installation Safety Guide for Seniors

Before You Start

Measure Everything:

1. Bed leg diameter (round) or dimensions (square)
2. Current bed height from floor to mattress top
3. Distance from bed to walls and furniture
4. Your comfortable sitting height (when feet are flat on floor)

Check Your Floor:

• Must be level and firm
• Avoid soft carpeting that compresses
• Clean area of dust or debris
• Consider non-slip mats under risers on hard floors

Step-by-Step Installation

Safety First:

• Have someone help you – don’t lift the bed alone
• Remove all bedding and pillows first
• Clear the area of obstacles

Installation Process:

1. Lift one corner of the bed slightly – just enough to slide riser under
2. Place riser under bed leg – ensure leg sits completely in center
3. Lower bed slowly – check that leg seats properly
4. Repeat for each leg – use same height risers
5. Test stability – gently shake bed to check for wobbling

Critical Safety Check:

• Sit on edge of bed – does it feel stable?
• Try getting in and out – is height comfortable?
• Walk around bed – any wobbling visible?
• Check again after 24 hours – settling can affect stability

Professional Installation Option

Many seniors benefit from professional installation. Consider this if you:

• Live alone without help
• Have arthritis or back problems
• Feel unsure about the process
• Want warranty protection

Cost: Usually $50-100 for professional installation Where to find: Medical supply stores often offer this service

Medicare and Insurance Coverage

The Hard Truth About Coverage

Medicare generally does NOT cover bed risers when used simply to make bed transfers easier. However, there are some exceptions:

Medicare Part B may cover if:

• Prescribed by a doctor as durable medical equipment (DME)
• You have a specific medical condition requiring bed positioning
• Used with a hospital bed for medical purposes
• Part of a broader treatment plan

What’s typically NOT covered:

• Convenience or comfort improvements
• Fall prevention as primary purpose
• Over-the-counter purchases
• Self-directed modifications

Medicare-Approved Alternatives

What Medicare DOES cover:

• Hospital beds (when medically necessary)
• Bed rails for hospital beds
• Patient lifts for transfers
• Wheelchairs and mobility aids

Getting Coverage:

1. Discuss needs with your doctor
2. Get written prescription if appropriate
3. Use Medicare-approved suppliers
4. Expect to pay 20% coinsurance after deductible

Important: Medicare.gov has the most current coverage information.

Alternative Solutions to Consider

Adjustable Beds

Better for many seniors because:

• Can adjust height at the touch of a button
• Medicare may cover when medically necessary
• Safer than adding risers to regular beds
• Help with multiple health conditions

Drawbacks:

• Much more expensive ($1,000-3,000+)
• Require electrical outlet near bed
• May not fit existing bedroom furniture

Bed Transfer Aids

Safer options for mobility issues:

• Bed rails: Provide support getting in/out
• Bed assist handles: Sturdy grip points
• Transfer boards: Help with wheelchair users
• Leg lifters: Assist with positioning

Height-Adjustable Bed Frames

Modern solution:

• Legs adjust from 6-14 inches typically
• No add-on pieces needed
• More stable than risers
• Often work with existing mattresses

Cost: $200-800 for quality frames

Real-World Considerations

Living Situations

If you live alone:

• Consider emergency alert systems
• Keep pathway to bathroom well-lit
• Have phone within reach of bed
• Tell neighbors about bed height change

If you have a partner:

• Both people must be comfortable with new height
• Consider split-height solutions
• Discuss emergency procedures
• Test getting in/out from both sides

In assisted living:

• Get facility approval first
• May need maintenance department installation
• Consider liability issues
• Alternative solutions might be provided

Seasonal Considerations

Summer: Air circulation under raised bed improves, reducing humidity

Winter: Higher bed means farther from floor heat sources

Year-round: Dust accumulation under bed may increase

Pet Considerations

Dogs and cats:

• May have trouble reaching higher bed
• Consider pet steps or ramps
• Check that risers won’t hurt paws if pet runs underneath
• Some pets may be startled by bed height change

Maintenance and Long-term Care

Regular Safety Checks

Monthly:

• Check all risers for cracks or wear
• Ensure bed legs still seated properly
• Test bed stability by sitting on edge
• Look for floor damage under risers

Quarterly:

• Deep clean around and under risers
• Check that your comfort level with height hasn’t changed
• Reassess if health conditions have changed
• Consider if alternatives might now be better

Annually:

• Complete safety evaluation with family or caregiver
• Discuss with doctor at regular checkup
• Consider if needs have changed with age

When to Replace

Replace risers immediately if:

• Any visible cracks or damage
• Weight capacity has been exceeded
• Bed wobbles or feels unstable
• Your mobility needs have changed significantly

Typical lifespan:

• Plastic risers: 2-5 years depending on use
• Wood risers: 10+ years with proper care
• Metal risers: 15+ years

Comparison Tables

Height Recommendations by Senior Height

*Assuming standard bed is 17-18 inches high

Safety Features Comparison

*With proper installation and medical clearance

Cost Comparison Over 5 Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are bed risers safe for seniors with arthritis? A: This depends on your specific type and severity of arthritis. Mild knee or hip arthritis might benefit from easier bed transfers with appropriate height risers. However, severe arthritis affecting balance or hand strength could make higher beds more dangerous. Always consult your rheumatologist or primary care doctor before making changes. They can assess whether the benefits outweigh the risks for your particular situation.

Q: Can I use bed risers if I take blood pressure medication? A: Blood pressure medications can sometimes cause dizziness or lightheadedness when changing positions. A higher bed might actually help by reducing the distance you need to stand up, but it could also make falls more dangerous. Discuss this with your doctor – they may want to monitor your blood pressure and balance before recommending bed modifications. Never make this decision without medical consultation.

Q: How do I know if my bed risers are the right height? A: The right height allows you to sit on the bed edge with your feet flat on the floor and your thighs parallel to the ground. Your knees should be at about a 90-degree angle. If your feet don’t touch the floor comfortably, the bed is too high. If your knees are much higher than your hips, it may be too low. Remember, what feels right can change as your mobility changes, so reassess regularly with your healthcare provider.

Q: What should I do if my bed wobbles with the risers? A: Stop using the bed immediately. A wobbly bed is dangerous and could cause falls or injuries. Check that all bed legs are properly seated in the riser centers, that you’re using risers of equal height, and that your floor is level. If problems persist, remove the risers and consult a medical supply professional. Don’t try to fix stability issues yourself – it’s not worth the safety risk. Consult your healthcare provider about safer alternatives.

Q: Can bed risers help with getting out of bed after surgery? A: This is a medical question that only your surgeon or physical therapist can answer. Different surgeries have different requirements for bed height, movement restrictions, and safety considerations. Some post-surgical situations benefit from higher beds, while others require specific positioning that risers might interfere with. Always get clearance from your medical team before making any bedroom modifications during recovery. They may recommend professional medical equipment instead.

Q: Do I need different bed risers if I use a walker? A: Yes, using a walker significantly changes your bed transfer needs. The bed height must work with your walker height and your ability to safely position the walker. Too high a bed can make it difficult to safely maneuver your walker, while too low might not provide the leverage you need. This is definitely a situation where you should consult with a physical therapist or occupational therapist before using any bed risers. They can assess your specific walker type and mobility pattern to recommend the safest solution.

Q: Are bed risers covered by Medicare if my doctor prescribes them? A: Medicare rarely covers standalone bed risers, even with a prescription. However, Medicare Part B may cover other solutions like hospital beds, bed rails, or patient transfer equipment when medically necessary. If your doctor believes bed height modification is medically necessary, they’re more likely to prescribe a hospital bed (which Medicare may cover) rather than risers for a regular bed. Always check with Medicare directly and get written confirmation before making purchases, as coverage rules can change. Contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE for current coverage information.

Resources and Further Reading

Government Resources

• CDC Falls Prevention: cdc.gov/falls
• Medicare Coverage Information: medicare.gov/coverage
• National Institute on Aging: nia.nih.gov

Professional Organizations

• American Occupational Therapy Association: aota.org
• American Physical Therapy Association: apta.org
• National Association of Area Agencies on Aging: n4a.org

Medical Supply Companies

• Vive Health: vivehealth.com
• Drive Medical: drivemedical.com
• Invacare: invacare.com

Safety and Emergency Resources

• National Council on Aging – Falls Prevention: ncoa.org/falls-prevention
• CDC STEADI Initiative: cdc.gov/steadi

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Disclaimer

This article provides general information about bed risers for seniors and should not replace professional medical advice. Individual health conditions, medications, and mobility needs vary significantly among seniors. Always consult with your physician, physical therapist, or occupational therapist before making any modifications to your bedroom setup or mobility aids.

The safety recommendations and product information in this article are based on available research and manufacturer specifications as of 2025. Product details, Medicare coverage rules, and safety standards can change. Always verify current information with manufacturers, healthcare providers, and relevant agencies before making purchasing or health decisions.

Falls among seniors can result in serious injury or death. If you have any concerns about your balance, mobility, or fall risk, seek professional medical evaluation immediately. The authors and publishers are not responsible for any injuries or damages that may result from the use of bed risers or following the information in this article.

Medicare and insurance coverage information is subject to change. Always verify coverage with your specific plan and providers before making purchases. This article does not constitute insurance or legal advice.