9 Best Overbed Tables for Elderly Seniors

Overbed tables are essential for seniors who spend a lot of time in bed, whether due to chronic health problems or temporary mobility constraints.

An overbed table tray can give bed-bound seniors more independence by allowing them to safely and comfortably do regular activities from bed, like eating, working and reading or playing games. 

With so many products to choose from, selecting the best overbed table for the elderly can feel overwhelming.

Do you need an overbed table with a drawer? Are wheels a convenience or a hazard? In general, you should look for a high-quality overbed table that sits on locking wheels, has a large, sturdy surface and can be easily adjusted for height. 

Best Overbed Table for the Elderly: Reviews

1. Best Budget Pick: Drive Medical Non Tilt Top Overbed Table

This affordable overbed table provides all the essentials you need. It’s easy to adjust, lightweight and stable, making it a safe and convenient option.

Features and Specs

• Table height is adjustable from 28”-45”
• Tabletop dimensions: 15” by 30”
• Locking swivel castors make it easy to move from one room to the next
• H-style base
• Weight capacity of 40 lbs

2. Best Overbed Table With Tilt: Invacare Overbed Table

This mid-range overbed table can be tilted in three positions, making a range of activities easy, comfortable and safe.

Features and Specs

• Can be tilted at three different angles using a tilt-release lever
• Height of table can be adjusted between 28”-40”
• Tabletop dimensions 15” by 30”
• Wood-grain laminate tabletop with no-spill lip
• Locking swivel castors allow for easy movement of overbed table
• H-style base 
• Weight capacity 25 lbs

3. Best Overbed Table on Wheels: Silver Spring SDL102 Adjustable Tilting Overbed Table

The Silver Spring SDL102 is a great mid-range option for seniors who want an overbed table that’s easy to move and very sturdy. 

Features and Specs

• Revolving H-base design with locking caster wheels
• Height adjustable from 28”-43”
• Tilts forward
• Easy-to-clean laminate tabletop with a lip to prevent spills
• Weight capacity not stated

4. Best Rolling Work Station: UNICOO Height and Width Adjustable Overbed Table

This is an ideal “bed desk” for seniors who will be doing a lot of work from bed. Note that it is a bit wobbly compared to other overbed tables, so it may not be safe for seniors with shaky hands or more serious mobility issues.

Features and Specs

• Table tray dimensions: 43.3” by 19.7”
• Waterproof, anti-scratch desktop surface
• Width adjustable from 51”-92”, height adjustable from 26”-43”
• Fits over any size bed, from twin to king
• Heavy-duty metal wheels provide smooth mobility and excellent durability
• Weight capacity not stated

5. Best Medical Overbed Table: Vaunn Medical Deluxe Adjustable Overbed Bedside Table

This is the number one overbed table recommended by physicians. Commonly found in both hospitals and homes, this higher-end product can safely allow bedridden elderly people to eat, read and work.

Features and Specs

• Table tray dimensions: 33” by 16”
• Table height can be adjusted from 28” to 42” with an easy, one-handed instant raise mechanism
• Plastic tabletop is antimicrobial, water resistant and has an anti-spill lip
• Sturdy H-style base with four locking casters for easy movement and excellent stability
• Weight capacity of 50 lbs

6. Best Laptop Overbed Table: Carex Overbed Table

This compact, no-tilt overbed table is perfect for working on a laptop or enjoying a meal in bed. This product may not be safe for seniors who need a more stable overbed table because the wheels cannot be locked.

Features and Specs

• Table tray dimensions 16” by 33”
• Height adjustable from 28” to 42” with a crank
• Built-in caster wheels that cannot be locked
• C-shaped base provides good stability 
• Weight capacity of 50 lbs

7. Best Large Overbed Table: TigerDad Overbed Table With Wheels

This extra-long overbed table is a multi-functional solution for seniors who are temporarily bed-bound and want a product that can double as a regular desk once they’re able to move around more freely again. 

Features and Specs

• Length adjustable from 55.1” to 82.7”, easily fits over twin, double, queen and king size beds
• Height adjustable from 25.6” to 37.4”
• Sits on four caster wheels with brakes
• Weight capacity of 350 lbs when steel-frame legs not extended

8. Best Overbed Table With Storage: atHand Overbed Table System

For seniors who want a safe, secure and convenient overbed table with all the bells and whistles, the thoughtfully designed atHand Overbed Table System is the best option around.

Don’t worry about buying a cup holder, a storage pouch or a reading light—this high-end product comes equipped with all the overbed table accessories you could need. 

Features and Specs

• Height adjustable from 29” to 44”
• 2 built-in LED lights with 3 brightness settings
• Includes cup holder, shelf basket, storage bin and trash bin
• H-shaped base with locking casters make this a safe and sturdy option
• Steel frame with a weight capacity of 50 lbs

9. Best Over Bed Table Alternative: Able Life Tray Table

This hybrid product functions as both a TV table and a stand-assist safety handle that seniors can grab for support when sitting down or standing up from the couch or a chair. Note that the tray table is designed for chairs and couches, not beds.

Features and Specs

• Ergonomic safety handle gives elderly patients stability and support when sitting down or standing up from a chair or the couch
• Designed to fit most chairs and sofas
• Bamboo tray table dimensions: 16” by 18”
• Table tray height adjustable from 26” to 32”, support handle from 34” to 40”
• Base length adjustable from 20” to 36”
• Does not sit on wheels
• Weight capacity of 250 lbs

Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Over-Bed Table

What type of overbed table would work best for you? That depends on your level of mobility and how you plan to use the overbed table.

Here are some key features to consider when shopping for a hospital overbed table:

1. Size

Overbed tables range in size from compact trays to extra-long tables that can cover the entire width of a king-size bed.

Seniors who will be doing a lot of work from bed should look for a large overbed table with plenty of space to fit a computer, paperwork and any other items they regularly use. For elderly people who will primarily be using the overbed table for meals, a more compact solution may be sufficient.

Positioning and location will also be important considerations – especially if you have bed steps or bed rails installed. Consider how the overbed table will work in conjunction with these other bedroom items.

2. Wheels

Many overbed tables come with wheels, which is generally a good feature. Wheels make the table easy to move away when not in use, and can allow you to adjust the table’s position (which can be especially helpful when you have an adjustable bed, whose position changes require changing the table’s position as well).

However, while wheels allow you to move the overbed table around, they can also be a hazard if they’re not locked.

Look for an overbed table with wheels can be easily locked. If your bedroom is carpeted, ensure the wheels can glide smoothly over carpet.

3. Storage and Other Accessories

Think about how you’ll be using the overbed table. For seniors who are bedridden, an overbed table with built-in storage, LED lights and other extras can give you more independence. You can keep your reading materials, medication, a pill cutter or pill organizer, and other items stored close by, and you can easily reach what you need without help from a caregiver. 

On the other hand, a table with all these bells and whistles may be overkill for elderly people who are able to move around more easily.

4. Tilt

An overbed table with tilt is a good choice for people who will be reading in bed or using a tablet for video chat with family members and friends. You can conveniently tilt the tray so you don’t have to lean forward and strain your neck when using it.

If you’ll be mainly using the overbed table for laptop work and meals, however, the tilt function may not be necessary. 

5. Height Adjustment

Height-adjustable overbed tables are convenient. You may find that you want your table at a different height when you’re eating than you do when you’re reading or playing a game.

When deciding what height range you need, consider the height of your bed and whether you’ll be using the table in other areas of your home that would require a different height.

Seniors with arthritis or other mobility issues should look for a table with an instant raise mechanism for easy operation. 

6. Style

Overbed tables come in a wide range of styles and designs, from medical-grade products that look like they belong in a hospital, to sleeker tables that can fit in more seamlessly with your existing décor.

If style is important to you, you may want to consider products with a simpler design that can blend in with the other furniture in your room.

Our Recommendations: Best Overbed Tables for Seniors

Our overall top pick is the Invacare Overbed Table because it provides all the essentials—a spacious tabletop that can tilt, convenient height adjustability and locking wheels. It also features a simple, no-frills design that will complement any décor. A mid-range option, this product gives you excellent all-around value.

For elderly people who spend the majority of time in bed and need everything in close reach, the atHand Overbed Table System is a top contender because it can give you a higher degree of independence by allowing you to keep everything you need in arm’s reach.

This high-end hospital overbed table comes with all the bells and whistles, from multiple storage compartments to outlets for charging your devices and LED lights. 

---

The right overbed table can allow you to safely and conveniently enjoy many of your regular activities from the comfort of your bed, whether you’re temporarily bed-bound due to an injury or experiencing chronic mobility problems.

By considering how you’ll be using the overbed table and determining which overbed table accessories and features you need, you can easily narrow down your options and choose a product you’ll be happy with.

Have you ever used one of the overbed tables detailed here? Which type of overbed table is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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