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Posted by New Hampshire Medical Supply on 03/26/2023

Bedroom Safety for an Older Adult: Overbed Tables

Bedroom Safety for an Older Adult: Overbed Tables

This is part of a comprehensive series of articles on Bedroom Safety, refer to the main article for details and links to other resources.

 What is an overbed table used for?

An overbed table is a table that is designed to be used over a bed, and it provides a stable surface for patients to place items such as food, drinks, books, or electronic devices. Here are some common uses for an overbed table:

1.    Mealtime: An overbed table can be used during mealtimes to provide a stable surface for the patient to eat and drink. This can be especially useful for patients who have limited mobility or who are bedridden.

2.    Reading and Writing: An overbed table can be used as a surface for reading and writing, which can be important for patients who want to stay mentally engaged and active while recovering from an illness or injury.

3.    Recreation and Entertainment: An overbed table can be used to hold electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones or to hold books, puzzles, or other recreational activities. This can help to provide a source of entertainment and diversion for patients who may be bedridden or have limited mobility.

4.    Work and Productivity: An overbed table can be used as a surface for working on a laptop or other work-related tasks, which can be useful for patients who are recovering from an illness or injury but need to stay connected with their work.

Overall, an overbed table can be a versatile and useful tool for patients who may be bedridden or have limited mobility. It is important to choose an overbed table that is appropriate for the patient's needs and circumstances and to ensure that it is used safely and appropriately.

What are the common dimensions of an overbed table?

The dimensions of an overbed table can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer, but here are some common dimensions that you might encounter:

1.    Tabletop: The dimensions of the table top can range from 15 to 30 inches in width and 20 to 30 inches in length.

2.    Height: The height of the table can typically be adjusted to accommodate different bed heights and patient needs. The height range can vary from around 28 to 45 inches.

3.    Base: The base of the overbed table is typically designed to fit over the bed frame and can range from 22 to 32 inches in width and 15 to 25 inches in length.

It is important to choose an overbed table that is appropriate for the patient's needs and size and to ensure that it is installed correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is also important to consult with a healthcare provider or a specialist in home safety equipment to determine if an overbed table is appropriate for the patient's needs and circumstances.

What material are overbed tables made from?

Overbed tables are typically made of lightweight, sturdy, and durable materials that can support the weight of objects on the table and be easily cleaned. Here are some common materials that overbed tables are made of:

1.    Plastic: Overbed tables made of plastic are lightweight, easy to clean, and can be inexpensive. They are typically made of high-density polyethylene and have a smooth surface that is easy to wipe down.

2.    Metal: Overbed tables made of metal are typically made of lightweight metals such as aluminum or steel, which provide durability and strength. They can be adjusted to different heights and may have features such as locking wheels or adjustable tabletops.

3.    Wood: Overbed tables made of wood are less common but can provide a more aesthetically pleasing look. They are typically made of lightweight, durable wood such as bamboo or beechwood and can have features such as adjustable height or tilting table tops.

4.    Composite materials: Some overbed tables are made of composite materials such as MDF (medium-density fiberboard), which is a type of engineered wood. These materials are durable, lightweight, and easy to clean and can provide a more aesthetically pleasing look than plastic tables.

The specific materials used in an overbed table can vary depending on the manufacturer and model. It is important to choose an overbed table that is made of high-quality and durable materials to ensure that it can support the weight of objects on the table and provide a stable surface for the patient to use. It is also important to ensure that the overbed table is installed correctly and used safely and appropriately by the patient.

What are the top manufacturers of overbed tables?

There are many manufacturers of overbed tables, and some of the top manufacturers include:

1.    Invacare: Invacare is a leading manufacturer of healthcare products, including overbed tables. Their overbed tables are designed to be durable, lightweight, and easy to adjust.

2.    Drive Medical: Drive Medical is a popular manufacturer of medical equipment and supplies, including overbed tables. Their overbed tables are designed to be sturdy and easy to adjust, with features such as locking wheels and adjustable tabletops.

3.    Graham-Field: Graham-Field is a leading manufacturer of medical equipment and supplies, including overbed tables. Their overbed tables are designed to be durable, lightweight, and easy to adjust, with features such as locking wheels and adjustable table tops.

4.    Medline: Medline is a leading manufacturer of medical equipment and supplies, including overbed tables. Their overbed tables are designed to be lightweight, easy to adjust, and easy to clean.

5.    Carex: Carex is a manufacturer of healthcare products, including overbed tables. Their overbed tables are designed to be lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust, with features such as tilting table tops and adjustable heights.

There are many other manufacturers of overbed tables as well, and it is important to choose a product that meets the specific needs and circumstances of the patient. It is also important to ensure that the overbed table is installed and used safely and appropriately.

What are the price ranges for overbed tables?

The price range for overbed tables can vary depending on the manufacturer, materials, features, and quality of the product. In general, overbed tables can range in price from around $50 to $500 or more.

Lower-priced overbed tables that are made of plastic and have fewer features, such as non-adjustable height, can typically be found for around $50 to $100.

Mid-range overbed tables that are made of metal or composite materials and have more features, such as adjustable height and tilting tabletops, can typically be found for around $100 to $300.

Higher-priced overbed tables that are made of higher quality materials have advanced features such as electronic controls and are designed for commercial or institutional use, which can range from $300 to $500 or more.

It is important to choose an overbed table that is appropriate for the patient's needs and circumstances and to balance the cost with the quality and features of the product. It is also important to ensure that the overbed table is installed and used safely and appropriately to prevent accidents and injuries.

This article was originally published on LinkedIN

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