Best Bed Rails for Seniors: Staying Safe in Bed!

Many people experience a decline in mobility as they age, which can make everyday activities like getting in and out of bed challenging and even dangerous for seniors. 

Making the home safer and more accessible for seniors is critical, and installing bed rails is one of the best ways to do this. Not only do bed rails reduce the risk of falling out of bed, but they also make getting in and out of bed safer and easier for seniors. 

Today, we offer some tips when shopping for safety bed rails and review the best bed rails for the elderly.

Best Bed Rails for Seniors: Product Reviews

Next, we’ll review some of the most popular bed safety rails in the market to help you make your decision.

1. Able Life Bedside Extend-A-Rail

This versatile adult bed rail can be used on any home or hospital bed. Easy to adjust with just a push of a button, the Extend-A-Rail has a length range of 20 to 30 inches and can be installed on either or both sides of the bed.

While the manufacturer does not state whether or not the rails can be used with an adjustable bed, at least a handful of users have had success using these safety bed rails with an adjustable bed.

It features a simple, modern design that can blend in easily with your bedroom décor. If you dislike the stainless steel look, the Able Life Bedside Rail is a great alternative, with sleek, dark-colored metal. 

This is a safe and affordable option for seniors who need extra support getting in and out of bed. Plus, since the length can be extended, it can also potentially be used to prevent a light individual from rolling out of bed.

Note that this bed rail cannot be folded down, making it a more permanent option than alternative products. Also, while a bedside pocket organizer is available, it must be purchased separately. 

Key Features:

• Functions well for getting in and out of bed as well as preventing falling out of bed
• Adjustable lengths between 20 – 30 inches
• Easy assembly that fits mattresses measuring between 8 to 16 inches tall
• Weight capacity of 300 lbs
• Lightweight model, with bed safety rails weighing 8 lbs
• Dimensions: 30″H x 20-30″W x 18″D
• Storage pocket available for purchase

2. Vive Adult Bed Rail

Compact and easy to install, this is a great option for seniors with mild or temporary mobility issues—such as while recovering from hip replacement surgery.

It’s a lightweight set of legless bed rails that can be installed on any type of bed frame and works with all standard bed sizes (twin to king sized). A big advantage is that it’s convenient to maneuver around due to its compact size, but is still sturdy due to its aluminum construction. 

Note that this is a simple, bare-bones product designed to offer a little extra support while getting in and out of bed. If you have significant mobility issues or falling out of the bed at night is a concern, it may not provide the type of support you need.

Key Features:

• Compact design for getting in and out of bed
• Affordable, no-nonsense adult bed rail that can fit any bed height
• Padded handle for added comfort
• Ultra lightweight model, weighing 2.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 10-18″H x 11″W x 21″D

3. Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail

This is arguably the most versatile bed rail you can find, as it can be installed on hospital beds, regular beds, and adjustable beds.

It’s easy to adjust and is the only set of fold down bed rails that can fold a full 180 degrees, meaning it’s completely out of the way when not in use.

It also comes with a safety anchor strap to keep it secured and a built-in storage pouch on the crossbar bed rails for convenient safekeeping of items like eyeglasses, medication and the TV remote.

It meets the FDA’s stringent bed entrapment guidelines, which is especially important for patients with dementia, which is why we consider this a top bed rail for dementia patients.

On the downside, it’s not the most stylish safety bed rail due to its large size. 

Key Features:

• Higher-end set of foldable bed rails for adults that offers excellent stability to help with getting in and out of bed and prevent falling out of bed
• Adjustable from 26 to 34 to 42 inches after installation
• Fits all standard bed sizes (twin to California king), as well as hospital beds
• Supports up to 300 lbs of weight capacity
• Easily folds completely out of the way when not in use
• Includes organizer pouch with three pockets

4. MedPro MGrip Adjustable Contoured Bed Rail

The MedPro MGrip Contoured Bed Rail features an adjustable height and a non-slip, contoured grip handle which make it helpful for seniors who need a few different grip options for getting in and out of bed.

In truth, this model is less of a traditional bed rail that extends the length of a bed – it’s really a bed grip bar that allows a senior to hoist themselves in and out of bed with ease.

This affordable bed rail system is designed to fit any size bed. The bed grab bar system is mounted to the bed via the use of an extendable bar that slips between the mattress and box spring. It also includes a strap that secures the rail to the bed to prevent movement while in use for extra stability.

The support bar is height can be adjusted to two different heights, and the bed rail can support up to 300 pounds of body weight capacity. It also featured crossbars to prevent entrapment and includes a handy storage pouch!

These legless bed rails set is our favorite for traveling, since it’s small, fairly light-weight, and can easily be assembled and disassembled when you’re on the move.

5. LumaRail-Triple Safe Dual Bed Assist Rail

The LumaRail Dual Bed Assist Rail features not one, but two bed rails, allowing two seniors sleeping on either side of the bed to easily adjust and lift themselves in and out of bed as needed.

This set of dual bed rails has adjustable lengths, as it’s designed to fit any size bed from single and twin, to double size beds. It can even handle thick mattresses and mattress toppers!

This two bed rail system relies on a single unit for ultimate stability, with the middle bar sitting under the mattress via the extendable bar. The 20-inch long hand rails feature a soft, padded grip. But our favorite feature has to be the built-in nightlight strips that turn on via motion sensors.

This may even eliminate the need to install standard night lights in the bedroom!

The support bar is height can be adjusted from from 29″ to 37.5″ when measuring from the floor to the top of grab rail, and the bed rail can support up to 400 pounds of body weight.

6. RMS Single Hand Bed Rail

The RMS Single Hand Bed Rail features a 29-inch wide bar with three different grip bars at different levels, allowing for the user to choose the grip height that works best for their needs.

The RMS set of safety bed rails for seniors can fit beds anywhere from twin to king-sized. These legless bed rails also features a whopping four levels of adjustment, with 11″, 12″, 13″, and 14″ height options above the mattress. With several non-slip grips to prevent the bar from sliding under the mattress, you should have no issue with this bar staying put. Plus, it also includes a tie-down safety strap to secure the bed to the frame as a failsafe.

7. Drive Medical Home Bed Style Adjustable Length Bed Rails

The Drive Medical Home-Style Bed Rails is a set of dual bed rails that stands out due to its unique brown coloring, which may fit in with many seniors’ decor better than some of the more medical-looking adult bed rails featured in this list.

For those who don’t want bed safety rails that look like they belong on a hospital bed, these sleek and attractive rails offer a great alternative.

This bed rail system has adjustable height options, allowing for a height of 37″, 43″, or 57″ using easy push buttons – no tools are required! This adjustment option allows the rail set to fit with any bed size from twin to king.

The set’s crossbar bed rails can be removed as needed, and can be adjusted between 36″ and 72″ long.

8. Medline Bed Assist Bar

The Medline Bed Assist Bar is a simple, no-nonsense bed bar that provides support for a senior to get in and out of bed. It features a soft, padded grip bar along with a convenient crossbar storage pouch.

This bed bar is easy to install, with no tools required for assembly. The bar’s heigh can be adjusted anywhere between 36 to 44 inches.

We also love that this bed bar features feet, rather than relying solely on the under-mattress portion to secure the bed bar. Since the unit’s feet sit against the bed frame and mattress, it provides some additional support

Bed Rail Risks & Dangers

Extra caution is required when installing bed rails for any individuals with dementia, confusion, or restlessness, as an attempt to climb over the bed rails can result in a fall just as dangerous as rolling out of bed.

While deaths due to bed rails are fairly uncommon (the FDA recorded 155 deaths related to bed rails between 2003 – 2012), there is risk of death to rail entrapment, as well as risk of injury.

Rail entrapment occurs when the individual is caught, wedged, or trapped between the bed and the bed rail or between the bars themselves.

In addition to reading over these safety recommendations prior to installing bed rails, be sure to frequently check the rails to ensure they have not shifted or loosened.

Bed rails should not be used to prevent someone with dementia from getting out of bed. This can result in worse injuries if they try to crawl over the rail.

What are Bed Rails? Why Are They Used?

Bed rails are known by a number of different terms, including assist rails, bed assist bars, safety rails, side rails, stand assists, and bed handles. 

These devices typically attach to one’s existing bed frame. They provide a sturdy handhold to assist in moving while lying down, sitting up or getting into or out of bed for those with limited mobility. Bed rails can also reduce the risk of falling out of bed. 

Some bed rail models are longer to enhance fall prevention, but it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers of extended bed rails. In some cases they can cause more safety concerns than the falls themselves!

Types of Bed Rails: Which to Choose

There are four general categories of bed rails:

• Hospital Bed Rails: These are the type of bed rails you see on hospital beds; they are part of the bed itself and cannot be removed. Most individuals will not have hospital bed rails in their home.
• Adjustable Bed Rails: These are any type of railings that can be installed on a typical bed in a home. They are usually installed by placing the connector between the mattress and box spring, or via bed frame straps, and feature adjustable height options that allow you to choose a height that is most comfortable for the individual senior.
• Portable Bed Rails: The best rails for seniors with better mobility, these are lightweight bed rails that can easily be installed and then removed at any time. Some portable bed rails for adults are also adjustable.
• Bars: These go along the side of the bed to aid seniors getting in and out of bed; they do not protect you from falling out of the bed at night. They are best for people who just need a little assistance.

Seniors with mild or temporary mobility issues may be better served by bars or portable bed rails, while people with more significant mobility concerns may want more permanent solutions, such as adjustable bed rails or hospital bed rails.

As with any health-related decision, it’s best to consult with your physician.

What Should an Elder Consider When Choosing the Right Bed Rail?

Elders should ask themselves the following questions before deciding on which bed rail will best meet their needs.

To narrow down your search, there are a few basic things to consider about your current bed and the way you’ll be using the bed rails. These include:

• Type of Bed: What size is your bed, and do you have a box spring or does the mattress lay directly on slats? These factors will determine what type of bed rail would work best. While many bed rails are designed to fit mattresses of varying sizes, some bed rails will only work with certain mattress heights.
• Height of Bed: Is your bed low to the ground or higher up? Folding the bed rails when not in use may be challenging with low-profile beds, so avoid units designed to fold away.
• Weight Limit: Most bed rails have a maximum weight limit, so make sure you know what that is before choosing a product. Always choose a set of bed rails with an appropriate weight capacity!
• Grips & Padding. Some bed rails for the elderly have additional grips or padding that provide more comfort. Consider if this is important to you or not – for those with arthritis, this may be a big plus.
• Who Will Be Adjusting the Rails: Will you be pulling the rails up and down yourself or will a caregiver be assisting? Some types of bed rails require more strength to move than others, and it’s important that the bed rails you choose can be safely adjusted.
• How Often Do Sheets Need to be Changed? If incontinence is an issue and you find yourself often changing out washable bed pads or disposable bed pads throughout the week, you’ll want to be sure you are choosing a set of bed rails that doesn’t interfere with this task or make your work much more difficult.
• Other Bedroom Aids. Some seniors employ a variety of bedroom aids, such as overbed tables that make eating and reading in bed more convenient. Consider how your bed rails will work in conjunction with these items and make sure the bed rails are low enough to allow for an overbed table (or simply ensure the two products are installed on opposite sides of the bed).

When comparing bed rail products, also be sure to ask yourself these questions:

• Is the rail complicated to use? It’s usually a good idea to purchase the simplest model that will adequately meet your needs for the lowest bed rail cost.
• Is the rail physically difficult to use considering arthritis, or other issues? If so, it may be a good idea to avoid features such as knobs.
• Am I likely to bump against the rail, leading to bruises or torn skin? Selecting the smallest effective model and padding it with optional padding, if available, can reduce the risk of injuries caused by bumping against the rail. Using a pillow or blanket to pass the rail can work in some cases as well.
• Do I need a place to store small items like tissues, a phone or remote? Consider choosing an organizer pouch to keep personal items handy. Not only convenient, this is safer than bending or reaching far for objects.
• Is the rail designed for use with my bed size and style? Not all rails will work with adjustable beds, or beds without box springs or frames.
• Will I need to uninstall and move the rail once it has been installed? Some people appreciate being able to use their bed rail on more than one bed, or take it along on trips. If you’re looking for portable bed rails, be sure to choose a lightweight option.
• How is it assembled and installed? Many models are “easy to assemble” for people in good health but may not be for those with less strength or more physical issues. Make sure you understand skills will be required for installation.

Bed Rail Alternatives

If you’d like to avoid bed rails due to the risks associated with them, there are other tools for fall prevention and bed comfort adjustments. Some popular bed rail alternatives include:

• Bed Bumpers. Foam panels placed on the edge of the mattress to prevent a senior from rolling off the side.
• Bed Rail Bumpers. Padded covers, which are placed over bed rails, helping to eliminate some of the risks of entrapment between the mattress and the bed rail.
• Concave Mattress. These mattresses have raised edges that slope down towards the middle, preventing the elderly from rolling out of bed.
• Adjustable Height Beds. With adjustable beds, you can make the beds very low to the ground so that if an individual does roll out, they won’t fall very far.
• Crash Mats. Crash mats are cushioned mats placed directly below the bed, so that if an individual does fall, the impact won’t be as powerful.
• Bed Alarms. Bed alarms can be installed that notify a caregiver when an elderly individual is trying to get out of bed.
• Bed Trapeze. A bed trapeze is a system that entails a metal frame anchored to the bed frame that suspends a handle above the bed, which an individual can use to reposition themselves in bed more easily.
• Posey Bed. Posey beds are beds that are completely self-contained with a zippered canopy. Within the zippered enclosure, individuals are safe from rolling off the bed and don’t have the risk of entrapment. They are regularly used in hospitals and are a great option for dementia patients, but they are also quite expensive.
• Bed Stools with Handrails. If a senior just needs a bit of balance help for getting in and out of bed, a sturdy bed step stool with a handrail could provide an easy and convenient solution.

Questions to Ask When Shopping for Bed Rails

Like with any investment, you need to do a bit of homework before purchasing bed rails. There are many different products available with various pros and cons, and one option might be better for your specific circumstances than another. 

Here are some key questions to ask when beginning your search:

Best Bed Rails for the Elderly: Our Recommendation

Our top pick overall is the Able Life Bedside Extend-a-Rail because it offers a fantastic balance of support and style—and comes with an attractive price tag too.

With that said, the Vive Bed Rail may be a more practical option for seniors who have better mobility and only need a little support while getting in and out of bed.

Bed rails can give you more independence in your own home, making your daily life safer and more convenient. Be sure to consult with your physician about which bed rail would be best for you.

If you or a loved one is in need of bed rails, you may also want to consider other household tools to aid in other balance issues, such as car assist handles and bathtub safety rails.

Have you ever used bed rails in your own home or for a family member or friend? What has your experience been like with them? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Last update on 2022-01-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API