A bed assembly (10) includes a wheeled base (12), a sub-frame (16) and mattresssupport frame (18). The sub-frame (16) supports a plurality of electricallyoperated actuators which provide for raising and lowering of the bed (10). Thebed can be lowered to a first low position in which the bed frame (18) is around 38to 45 centimetres above floor height and to a lower position in which the frame(18) is around 30 centimetres above floor height. The bed is lowered to the firstheight upon receipt of a first command input and can only be lowered below thatfirst height upon receipt of a second control input distinct from the first controlinput. Preferably, the bed is lowered at a slower speed from the first low heightto its lowermost position.
