Overbed Tables: Types, Benefits, and Uses

ByMed guard

As people age, injuries, illnesses, and mobility issues become an everyday part of life. Due to all this, people have to spend an extended period on their beds. Thus, medical supplies like overbed tables have become an essential and helpful part for most sick and elderly people. To help you choose the best one that meets your needs, here is everything you need to know about overbed tables. First, let us know what these tables are:

What Is an Overbed Table?

Referred to as a hospital bed table, these tables are helpful for patients who have mobility issues or have to stay in beds for an extended period. These tables have a rectangular tabletop on a 4-wheeled lockable base. They are adjustable in height and size. So that one can easily slide the table to a patient’s bed and use it for various purposes like:

  • Serving meals
  • Working on a computer
  • Reading books
  • Scrolling mobile phones
  • Keeping necessary medical tools within reach
  • Performing other hobbies and crafts

These tables are useful in hospitals, homes, rehabilitation facilities, etc.

Benefits of Using an Overbed Table

Overbed tables make a great addition to a patient’s bedroom. These tables rest over your beds or chairs and help to prevent strains from bending. These have become essential needs for elderly people, bed-bound patients, and for those who want convenience while working on their beds.

Some of its benefits include:

Easy access to things

Storage space for personal belongings

USB sockets

Types of Overbed Table

Choosing overbed tables needs a little more effort and research. Every table satisfies different purposes. To find the ideal one, you must consider the

  • Shape
  • Capacity
  • Features
  • Specific requirements

All of these tables come with some unique features to serve one or more unique purpose/s. We can help you by explaining to you their types and their uses:

  • Senior Living Overbed Tables

These tables are lightweight and straightforward. This makes them ideal for the elderly’s use. These tables fit perfectly on the regular beds. They do not have any extra features other than being adjustable in height.

  • Inpatient Overbed Tables

These tables are of heavy-duty types. Typically designed for hospitals and healthcare facilities, these tables can hold up to 100 lbs. of weight. These are generally useful for accommodating various medical tools and equipment.

It also comes with features like:

  • Cup holders
  • Drawers
  • Spill guards
  • Dual-surface trays
  • All these features provide extra space and access to many medicines or necessary items within reach
  • Bariatric Overbed Tables

These types of tables are similar to inpatient overbed tables. The only difference here is that it comes with a longer, broader, and bigger surface top. These types of tables are ideal for assisting larger patients. This table offers a comfortable area of space to perform their various activities.

Also, it is important to consider durability, price, and size factors before making any purchase. As one may need to use overbed tables for years. Tables made with high-quality PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and MDF (Medium-density Fiberboard) which are an excellent choice. Also, hospital beds are higher than regular beds, so get an appropriate measurement to know the ideal table size you will need.

Wrapping Up

Over the years, overbed tables have evolved drastically. From being simple to fully functional, it provides an ease to function daily activities in challenging times. Having an overbed table in your home adds ease and comfort to bedridden or any mobility restrictions. Eating, reading, and even working can be safer and more comfortable with these tables. Also, it is advisable to read and do your research before investing in any medical supplies. Seeking a doctor’s help can also be helpful to choose the best one for your loved ones or yourself.