An occupant assist assembly (38) for an occupant of a bed includes a pair of substantially vertically extending stanchions (44) laterally spaced apart by a prescribed clearance C. A lower portion (44A) of the pair of stanchions is configured to be connected to a person-support apparatus (10). A longitudinally extending support arm (72) is connected to an upper portion (44B) of the assist assembly. The clearance space C between the stanchions provides easy access to a bed occupant for a caregiver positioned at the head end of the bed and also provides an unobstructed line of sight when an attendant moves the bed from place to place.
