ALS Bed and Sleeping Devices - Your ALS Guide

The sleeping devices on this page are not usually covered by health insurance. You may be able to borrow some devices at no cost from equipment loan closets.

Hospital Beds

Semi-electric hospital beds allow you to raise and lower the head and foot of the bed with a remote control, though the overall bed height must be adjusted with a manual crank. These beds should be covered by insurance as long as you have a face-to-face visit with your doctor and receive medical documentation.

If you find the mattress on your hospital bed uncomfortable, you can try adding a mattress overlay with foam, gel, or air pockets. Or, you could buy a new mattress for the hospital bed frame.

A fully electric hospital bed can be raised and lowered electronically, though these beds are not covered by insurance. If you need a fully electric bed, ask your durable medical equipment (DME) company if you can pay the difference between the two.

The Freedom Bed

This programmable, rotating bed from ProBed eliminates the need for manual turning and repositioning, which can help you and your caregiver sleep through the night. Learn more

Bed Rail

Adjustable bedside support that helps you get in and out of bed

Transfer Pole

Handles can provide greater stability when getting in and out of bed

Bed Ladder

Has handles that can help you sit up in bed from a lying position

Leg Lifter Strap

Device that can help you lift your legs onto a bed, couch, or wheelchair

Blanket Lift Bar

Holds sheets, blankets, and comforters off legs and feet while sleeping

Bed Wedge

Versatile wedge pillow that can elevate your upper or lower body

Overbed Table

Adjustable table that can be positioned over your bed, sofa, or recliner

Table with Tilt

Rolling table with two-part tabletop that can tilt in either direction

Equipment Loan Closets

You can save money by borrowing equipment from ALS loan closets. Many organizations and clinics loan devices at no cost. Learn more

Insurance Coverage

The devices on this page are not usually covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. Learn more

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Body Pillow

Extra large pillow that can help relieve pain and pressure while sleeping

Resting Hand Splint

Holds wrist/hand/fingers in neutral position to prevent contracture

Medical Foot Brace Boot

Helps keep feet in place to prevent contracture while sleeping

Bed Foot Support

Multi-purpose bed block that can be positioned to prevent foot drop

Alternating Pressure Pad

Provides alternating pressure to help prevent and treat pressure sores

Gel Mattress Overlay

Memory foam mattress topper designed to relieve pressure points

Air Cell Mattress Overlay

Non-powered mattress overlay with three customizable zones

Electric Bed Frame

Hand control adjusts head and foot of bed but not overall height

Wireless Doorbell

Provides a way to call for assistance when your caregiver is in another part of your home

Light Touch Call Switch

Sensitive touch pad enables you to call for caregiver assistance if you have limited movement

Portable Alarm

The light touch call switch can plug into this battery-powered portable alarm

Have we missed anything? If so, please contact us. Thank you!

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With input from ALS professionals and families, we have selected but not independently tested the medical equipment and assistive devices listed here. To ensure your safety and proper use, always consult with your team of medical professionals before using these devices.