An overbed table is one of the most important pieces of equipment that someone who spends a large amount of time in bed can have. Keeping important items close by and having space to eat, drink and entertain yourself can make a real difference to your mental health. Whether you or someone you look after is elderly, disabled or convalescing, it can be very difficult to feel “normal” when you spend a lot of time in bed. You might feel down, like you are missing out and that you are out of sight, out of mind. Having an overbed table enables people to retain a degree of independence and pursue their hobbies and interests.
An overbed table can come with a range of features which may or may not be helpful to you, it depends on how you plan to use it and what your needs are. We have put together a range of resources to help you decide which overbed table best meets your needs.
Read our overbed buying guide and read our blog outlining some of the best overbed tables.
The most common use for an overbed table is for keeping refreshments close by and providing a clean surface to eat meals on. Of course, many people prefer to sit in a chair to eat, if they are able to, and wheeled overbed tables are perfect for use as an over chair table too.
When it comes to meal time, a secure flat surface is the most important thing to look for. An overbed table for patients that can hold a reasonable weight may be more suitable for those who may need to lean on the table a little while eating.
A larger table top may be preferable if you have large dinner plates, use side plates or if you are a little unsteady and need a little more space so that drinks are less likely to get spilled.
Bear in mind that tables are heavily used surfaces with potentially lots of people touching them which means they need regular cleaning and disinfecting. An easy to clean surface is essential for overbed tables used for eating. Eating meals can be made easier with a curved edge overbed table for those who may need to sit closer to the table itself.
If you are just looking to keep snacks and drinks close by, we would recommend considering choosing between two types of features for your overbed table:
An overbed table doesn’t need to be large or take over your space if you watch a lot of television, sleep a lot or don’t need a surface to work on at all. There are smaller tables available that can’t hold a great amount of weight but are perfect for keeping your tea, your mobile phone or your television remote close to hand.
If you are using your table for hobbies or activities, a split overbed table for laptop use may be just what you are looking for. The smaller table section can remain flat for using a mouse or keeping a drink close if you are using the main surface for your computer or if you are using that surface tilted.
An overbed table for disabled, elderly or sick people can provide a lifeline away from boredom, providing a stable surface for hobbies and leisure activities. Keeping in touch with friends and relatives and up to date with the latest news and current affairs is vital for keeping spirits up and so is having the right surface to do so.
Depending on your hobby or your interests, you may wish to consider certain features that will best support you. For example, an overbed table with a surface that can be tilted is great for activities such as:
It is very easy to spend a long time using technology such as a computer tablet and so an over bed table for tablet use ideally should be tilted so that you aren’t hunching over a flat surface for hours at a time. Make sure to look out for a substantial raised edge or ‘lip’ to ensure that nothing slips out of reach.
A large, flat surface would be perfect for activities such as:
A raised edge around the table is still useful to look for to help stop drinks spillages or pens rolling off the bed but they may not need to be as pronounced if the table top tilted.
Whichever type of table top you choose, you should also consider lockable wheels or castors to stop your projects being accidentally pushed away at a critical moment!
Thinking ahead about how you intend to use your overbed table is the best way to ensure that you get the right table as it is important that you are comfortable and happy in bed at the earliest opportunity.
Don’t forget to take a look at our overbed table buying guide for more practical considerations and advice for families and patients.
If you’re ready to take a look at which product may best suit your individual needs, view the full range of overbed tables available at Complete Care Shop here.
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