Top 5 Things to Know Before Buying a Hospital Bed for Home Use in Canada

There are so many important decisions to be made while caring for your loved ones at home—one of the most dire being that of selecting a hospital bed. Whether looking after an aged parent, handling an individual recovering from surgery, or providing care for a person suffering from chronic ailments, comfort and safety can really be upgraded with the correct hospital bed. 

Here are the five top considerations to ponder before purchasing a hospital bed for home use in Canada.

1. Study the Different Types of Hospital Beds

In Canada, home hospital beds are generally grouped in the following main five categories:

• Manual Beds: Has to be adjusted using a crank by hand. The least expensive but, from the standpoint of the caregiver, can be physically demanding.
• Semi-Electric Beds: Electric controls for positioning of the head and feet; height adjustment manual.
• Fully Electric Beds: All functions can be powered by means of a remote, bringing comfort and ease of use to patients and caregivers.
• Low Beds: Lower to the ground to reduce risks of falls—ideal for seniors or those with mobility issues.
• Bariatric Beds: Extra-wide and a bit more reinforced to carry heavier persons. 
• Pro Tip: As for the mobility issue, either fully electric or low hospital beds with safety rails are the way to go.

2. Understand Canadian Health Regulations & Support Options

Each province might offer financial assistance or equipment rental programs through the local health authorities or their respective insurance plans. 

Some examples of price-supporting situations:

• There are cases when Ontario’s ADP (Assistive Devices Program) subsidizes hospital beds.
• Veterans Affairs Canada offers medical equipment support to eligible veterans.
• Provincial health-care programs or private insurance may cover part of cost.
• Check beforehand in case you are eligible for assistance or reimbursement.

3. Selecting the Right Mattress for Comfort and Health

The mattress is as important as the bed frame. Most medical suppliers in Canada offer one or more of the following:

• Foam mattresses: General comfort and short-term use
• Alternating pressure mattresses: For long-term or immobile patients to prevent bedsores
• Gel or hybrid mattresses: Better support and pressure relief

Always consult a healthcare professional to review which mattress will best suit the patient’s needs.

4. Measure Your Space and Consider Setup Logistics

Because hospital beds are much larger and more complex than an average bed, ensure to:

• Measure your bedroom or care space to confirm it fits well.
• Consider whether there is enough room for caregivers to navigate and for any additional medical equipment.
• Ask if the supplier provides delivery and professional installation, which is particularly important in rural or snowy parts of Canada.

5. Purchase from a Reliable Canadian Supplier

Not all hospital beds are created equal-and neither are sellers. In Canada, look for:

• CSA-approved or Health Canada-compliant equipment
• A warranty and after-sale service
• Rental options if the need is temporary
• Canadian Customer Service and Local Support

Some highly esteemed suppliers from Canada include Shoppers Home Health Care, Motion, and Healthwick.

Final Thoughts

A hospital bed for home use in Canada is a huge purchase and thus should not be an overwhelming one. Know first what your needs are, find out what financial assistance is available, and pick a bed and mattress combination that will enhance comfort, safety, and ease of care.

From Toronto to Vancouver, Halifax, or even interspersed in-between, choosing the right hospital bed will make life much easier at home and comfortable for everyone.

Looking to Buy a Hospital Bed in Canada?

We have a curated collection of CSA-approved hospital beds with delivery and setup available throughout Canada. Call our team today for expert advice to select the best bed for your home care needs.