For most adults, getting in and out of bed is automatic. For seniors dealing with limited mobility, arthritis, or post-surgery recovery, it's one of the most physically demanding — and risky — tasks of the day. A hi-low adjustable bed solves this at the root level, not with workarounds, but by adjusting the bed itself to meet the person where they are.

This guide covers exactly how these beds work, who benefits most, what to look for, and which Beverly Hills Bed models are worth considering.

What Is a Hi-Low Adjustable Bed?

Most people are familiar with adjustable bases that raise the head or foot sections. A hi-low bed goes further: the entire bed frame moves vertically, from close to the floor up to a comfortable standing height. This is different from raising a head section — it's the whole sleeping surface moving up and down, controlled by a simple hand remote.

These beds were once found only in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Today, residential models are available that look like a normal bed and function the same way — without the clinical appearance. They're built for people who need the functionality of a hospital bed but want to stay at home, in comfort.

Who Benefits Most

Seniors with Limited Mobility

For anyone who uses a walker or wheelchair, the transfer in and out of bed is a daily risk. A hi-low bed eliminates the height mismatch by lowering the mattress surface to seat height — allowing a smooth lateral transfer without having to push up or drop down. This one change can dramatically reduce fall incidents and caregiver strain.

Post-Surgery Recovery

After hip or knee replacement, sitting down and standing up are the hardest movements. An adjustable bed for seniors that adjusts to an optimal entry/exit height makes this significantly easier — and can reduce reliance on additional equipment or caregiver support during recovery.

Those with Chronic Pain or Breathing Issues

Because hi-low beds also include head and foot section controls (like a standard adjustable base), they help manage acid reflux, sleep apnea, back pain, and leg swelling — all common in older adults. This is the functional difference between a hi-low bed and a basic adjustable base: you get both the vertical height control and the positional comfort features.

Home Caregivers

The leading cause of injury for home caregivers is back strain from bending over a bed. Raising a hi-low bed to the caregiver's waist height turns exhausting manual work into comfortable assistance — and makes it possible for a single caregiver to help post surgery patients and daily needs.

What to Look for When Buying

Not all hi-low beds are equal. These are the features that actually matter for home use:

Height Range

The most important spec. Look for a low position of 10–12 inches (for nighttime safety) and a maximum height of at least 28–30 inches (for comfortable caregiving). Some models, like Beverly Hills Bed's massaging hi-low model, include an ultra-low position for maximum fall protection.

Remote Controls and Voice control

Remotes are large and easy to read. Some models include programmable memory positions. The Luxurious model and Dawnhouse bed also have voice control. 

Features that can help 

All Hi-low beds come with zero gravity positioning ability which is good for blood flow and relaxing

Mattress Compatibility

Hi-low beds work best with memory foam or latex mattresses and air adjustable mattresses, which flex with the frame without losing support. 

Safety Features

Look for optional bed rails, anti-collision obstruction sensors (the motor stops if it detects something beneath the frame while lowering), and lockable casters if the bed will need to be repositioned. These details matter a great deal in a daily-use safety product.

Size Options

If two people share the bed, a Split King configuration — two Twin XL hi-low bases side by side — lets each person adjust their side independently. Beverly Hills Bed's Dawnhouse Hi-Low Base is available in Twin Long Full hi low beds and Split King, which is the most practical configuration for couples with different mobility needs.

Full High Low Bed Tilt Feature

Queen Hi Low Bed with Side Rails