Start with the tasks and dimensions, then decide whether a standard bed fits. A ready-made electric bed may meet the person’s needs with a shorter specification process. A custom bed may be worth assessing when body proportions, transfers, control access, room constraints or likely changes cannot be accommodated by the available standard configuration.
Novacorr offers Novacare ready-made products and Novacustom beds configured for individual needs. Neither range is automatically the right choice for a particular diagnosis or funding source. The person and treating team should define the clinical and functional requirements first; Novacorr can then confirm what each proposed model can provide.
First check the standard bed against the real setup
Compare the person’s body dimensions with the bed’s sections and the chosen mattress. Observe lying, sitting up, leg positioning and moving in bed. Add the mattress height when checking transfers. Measure the room and the access route, including any partner bed, wheelchair, hoist or bedside equipment. Test the controls from the positions in which they will actually be used.
If a standard bed meets those needs and the team has no unresolved concern, its simplicity may be valuable. Do not assume customisation is clinically better merely because it is available.
Signs that an individual specification deserves closer assessment
The person may need a different overall length or width, a changed torso or knee-break section, a particular lowest or working height, extra hoist clearance or another control method. A small room or unusual transfer route can matter as much as body size. The person may also need a partner-bed arrangement or a design that can be reviewed as function changes. The Novacustom HiLo Health Bed is one route to discuss, subject to the exact build and technical feasibility.
Write each required change as a measurable problem, such as “the current mattress raises the seated transfer surface above the wheelchair”, rather than “needs a custom bed”. This makes a trial and quote more useful, and prevents a feature list from replacing the assessment.
Compare the whole configuration and ownership needs
Check the bed with its mattress, accessories, controls and mobility equipment. A different base size can affect mattress availability and delivery access. Rails, supports and attachments require a separate compatibility and risk review. Ask about care instructions, service access, warranty, replacement parts and what might be adjustable or modifiable later. Possible future changes depend on the original build and a later assessment; they should be documented as options, not guaranteed outcomes.
The person-centred scripting guide explains what to record when needs may evolve. A bed and chair reassessment may be needed after a change in function, transfers or the environment.
Use a trial to resolve specific uncertainty
Ask the OT to identify the tasks that will decide between the options. Test bed heights, transfers, positioning, controls, mattress and hoist access in the real room where possible. Record which dimensions and accessories were present on the trial unit, and compare them with the exact proposed order. If an in-home trial cannot be arranged, document what a video or off-site demonstration cannot answer.
Send Novacorr the person’s goals, dimensions, room plan and unresolved questions. Contact the team to compare the available Novacare and Novacustom configurations and ask about trial arrangements in your area.
Frequently asked questions
Is a custom bed always more supportive?
No. Support depends on fit, mattress, positioning, transfers and the care plan. A suitable standard bed may meet the assessed requirements.
Does a standard bed mean there are no options?
Standard models may offer choices, but the available dimensions and functions vary. Confirm the exact model and compatible accessories before ordering.
Can a custom bed be modified after delivery?
Some Novacustom builds can be reviewed for selected changes. Novacorr must check technical compatibility and the treating team should reassess the person’s current needs.