Mobility issues are one of the primary challenges that seniors face. Getting in and out of bed is one of the biggest challenges. Statistics show that most falls that happen at night happen between 9pm and 7am and happen in the process of getting in and out of bed to visit the bathroom.
Bed step stools can make getting in and out of bed easier and safer. However, it is important to ensure that the stool you buy is safe and sturdy and will not create a fall.
What are Bed Step Stools?
A bed step stool is essentially a mini staircase to get into and out of your bed. It is a device used to help a person get in and out of bed. The raised height that it offers makes climbing onto and off the bed easier. It can reduce the risk of falling if the correct stool is used. Bed step stools come in a variety of sizes, heights and designs from single steps to double steps, wood to plastic or metal.
There are three main categories of bed step stools.
- One-Piece Step Stools. These are non-adjustable and consist of one solid piece of material. They are sturdy and provide some height to make getting on and off the bed easier.
- Foldable Stools. These can be folded and packed away. Care must be taken to ensure that they are securely and fully open when being used.
- Stools with Handles. Some stools come with handles to give extra support when climbing on and off the bed.
All categories of stool come in both single and double step options. Weather you choose single or double step will depend on the height of your bed and the amount of assistance needed. Some step stools come with height adjustable steps and handles. This is ideal as you can change the height to suit changing needs.
FAQs
How High Should a Bed Step Stool Be?
The height of a step stool will depend on the height of the bed and the mobility of the user. The higher the bed, the higher the step needs to be. The less mobility the user has the higher the step will need to be. If the user has difficulty stepping up onto the stool you may need to choose a 2-step stool to gain the extra height needed.
Should Seniors Even Use a Step Stool?
A step stool can be a huge help for seniors with limited mobility and can help them to retain their independence. It is vitally important, however, that the stool is strong and secure. It must be fitted with non-slip feet and must be sturdy enough that there is no risk of it tipping over if weight is not evenly distributed. If there is a handle ensure that putting weight on the handle does not cause the stool to tip over. Always ensure that step stools are used on even, solid ground.
How Much Weight Can a Step Stool Hold?
Step stools come in 4 weight capacity categories:
- Light duty step stool – 200 lbs
- Medium duty step stools – 225 lbs
- Heavy duty step stools – 250 lbs
- Extra heavy duty step stools – 300+ lbs
Consider the weight of the user carefully. Do not buy a stool above the necessary weight category as this may lead to the stool being unnecessarily heavy and cumbersome.
How to Choose the Right Bed Step Stool for Seniors
Choosing the right step stool can be tricky but there are certain factors that must be taken into account to help you make the right choice. Each person’s individual needs will determine which stool is best for them. Before purchasing a stool see whether a stool is a viable option.
If the user has balance problems, a stool may not be the answer or you may need to buy a stool that is fitted with a handle. Look instead at improving balance.
If balance is not an issue, consider the following factors when making your choice.
- Size. The more unsteady on your feet you are the bigger the step should be to ensure that you have a good, secure footing before lifting off the ground. Large steps can be cumbersome and get in the way when not in use so the size is important to ensure safety.
- Height. The height of the stool depends on the height of the bed and the mobility of the user. A higher step will be needed for someone with less mobility. If the height of the bed is high and the mobility is poor you may need a 2 step stool.
- Material. It is important that the stool is made of sturdy material such as wood or metal. It should also be non-slip.
- Non-Slip. The stool should be fitted with rubberized feet or some other kind of non-slip material. A stool that slips or moves is a liability and a danger. If the stool has a handle, this should also be fitted with a non-slip grip.
- Collapsibility. If you need the stool to be packed away each day, or you need to be able to transport it easily, you may need to find a collapsible or foldable stool. Ensure that it is easy enough for the user to fold away if this is necessary.
- Handrail. A handrail offers extra support but only if it does not cause the stool to tip when weight is put on it. Test the stool before buying to make sure this is not a hazard. The rail should be fitted with a non-slip grip.
- Weight Capacity. Ensure that the stool you choose can carry your weight safely. It is also unnecessary to get a big heavy stool if it is unnecessary. This will make moving it around difficult. A heavy stool that is in the way can cause its own hazards and dangers to anyone with mobility issues.
- Style. When all practical features have been considered, one should look to style. If possible, choose a good step stool that does not detract from the peaceful tranquility of the bedroom.
Top 7 Best Bed Step Stools
Given all of that, here are some choices that might fit your situation.
1 – Step2Bed Bed Step Stool for Elderly
This step stool is specifically designed with seniors in mind. Its handrails offer extra support and its wide base (18” x 32”) ensures even the unsure foot will find a secure resting place. It is fitted with non-slip rubber feet and a rubber grip on the handrail. The handrail can hold a weight of up to 400lbs.
- FALL RISK REDUCTION & MOBILITY INDEPENDENCE: Step2Bed portable bed assist rails help your loved one get in and out of bed safely and easily. Our one-of-a-kind adaptive bed assistance products include durable, easy grab handles for extra safety and support. They have been clinically shown to help decrease both the required effort and slip force during the transition out of bed, conceivably leading to a safer, more comfortable experience.
- ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT STOOL: This uniquely designed bed stool offers versatile height adjustments suitable for all sides of high or low beds, allowing users to customize the size for their specific needs and further reducing the risk of falls.
The lightweight, sturdy steel makes the stool strong and sturdy while remaining light enough to move around. It is fitted with a motion activated LED light which will guide you back to bed after late night bathroom visits. The height is adjustable from 2.5” to 7.5” enabling the height to be modified as needs may change.
It comes in a mini or XL option. It requires some easy assembly with 6 bolts to fasten. The small amount of effort needed to assemble this safe step stool is definitely worth the advantages in safety and practicality it offers.
2 – Vaun Medical Foot Step Stool
This chrome plated, heavy-duty steel step stool is used by medical professionals in clinics and hospitals. It is durable and sturdy and offers support when getting in and out of bed. It is light enough to move around the house allowing you to use it at the bed as well as to reach up into cupboards and shelves.
- LIFETIME DURABILITY - Triple-layered chrome-plated heavy duty steel construction offers ultimate stability & lifetime durability. The number 1 durable foot step stool for indoor and outdoor use compared to standard or plastic stools
- RUST RESISTANT - Newly designed with high quality triple-layered chromium plating ensures the product stays rust-free for a lifetime.
The handrail, with non-slip grip, offers extra support. The platform is fitted with non-slip ribbed rubber and the legs are fitted with non-slip rubber feet. The maximum weight capacity is 250lbs and will raise you a height of 9”. This stool is both practical and sturdy offering support and independence.
3 – 2-Step Wooden Foot Stool by Rorkee
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This iron and wood step stool is sturdy and solid. It weighs 4 kg making it relatively easy to move around should the need arise. It supports a weight of up to 500lbs. it needs to be assembled and does not fold away. It adds a height of 11” over 2 steps making it easy to climb. Each step is 13,8” wide. This is an ideal stool for people with mild to moderate mobility challenges.
4 – RV Step Stool by GoGood
If space is an issue this small, foldable step stool folds away quickly and easily. It is fitted with an auto locking security system which ensures it will not collapse once in place. It offers a height of 11.8 inches and its lightweight aluminum construction makes it easy to move around and strong enough to hold up to 440lbs.
- Full Aluminum Construction - Light in Weight (around 6LB) but Heavy Duty (Load up to 440LB)
- Easy and Quick Folding Design, and with Auto Locking Security system
The 19’ x 8,11’ platform is fitted with sandy grip strips to ensure your foot does not slip. The legs of the stool are fitted with rubber feet for secure placement. This sturdy stool can fold away and be stored in a 3” gap. This stool is ideal for seniors living in small homes or those who may be traveling or visiting and need a stool on their trip.
5 – Step2Bed Mini Bed Step Stool
This is the little brother of the Step2Bed Bed Step Stool looked at above. It has all the same safety features but in half the volume. This is an ideal stool if you do not have the space or the need for the large step2bed stool. It has two handrails for extra support when climbing in and out of bed.
- FALL RISK REDUCTION & MOBILITY INDEPENDENCE: Step2Bed portable bed assist rails help your loved one get in and out of bed safely and easily. Our one-of-a-kind adaptive bed assistance products include durable, easy grab handles for extra safety and support. They have been clinically shown to help decrease both the required effort and slip force during the transition out of bed, conceivably leading to a safer, more comfortable experience.
- ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT STOOL: This uniquely designed bed stool offers versatile height adjustments suitable for all sides of high or low beds, allowing users to customize the size for their specific needs and further reducing the risk of falls.
The handrails are fitted with non-slip padded grips for extra security. The non-slip step has an adjustable height of 8” to 10”. The feet of the stool are fitted with non-slip rubber feet. It weighs 13lbs and supports a weight of up to 300lbs. it is assembled easily with 6 bolts. This compact, yet sturdy and secure bed step stool is the perfect companion for anyone with mobility challenges.
6 – Medical Step Stool Wooden with Handles
The sturdy wooden base can hold a weight of up to 300lbs. The solid legs ensure it remains firmly on the ground even when weight is put on the supporting handles. The legs are fitted with non-slip rubber feet. Two strong supporting handles are fitted with non-slip grips.
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Some installation is required but all necessary screws etc. are included. This step stool is a little heavy for moving around the house but it is reliable and sturdy and will provide peace of mind when climbing in and out of bed.
7 – Elenker Adjustable Bed Step Stool
Two adjustable handrails are fitted with non-slip padded grips. The height of the step is also adjustable enabling you to customize the step to your specific needs. An action-activated LED light further reduces the danger of falling. A wide non-slip step ensures your foot will land securely every time.
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It can support a weight of up to 350lbs. the legs of the stool are fitted with rubber non-slip feet. It comes with a removable mesh basket, which is handy for storing magazines, books, or other daily necessities. This is definitely one of the safest step stools for anyone with serious mobility challenges.
Conclusion
Choosing the right step stool can make the world of difference to your independence and safety. Let this article be a guide when shopping for the right step stool for you. Always test a stool’s stability before allowing a person with mobility challenges to use it. Testing stability before purchasing is obviously preferred but not always possible.
