Moreover, the societal dimension of permanent crutches cannot be overlooked. Societal norms and expectations can act as crutches that inhibit personal growth and self-expression. For instance, cultural pressures may lead individuals to conform to specific career paths, lifestyles, or behaviors, often at the expense of their desires and passions. Breaking free from these societal crutches requires courage and self-reflection, allowing individuals to redefine their identities on their terms.

Many medical conditions, especially cardiovascular illnesses, require the patient to change their position in ways they can’t achieve in an ordinary bed. These can include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and patients with severe cardiac conditions who can leave the bed but must avoid physical strain can also qualify for hospital bed coverage. These patients may need to have the head of the bed elevated more than 30 degrees due to their medical issues, but this usually comes after the doctor considers pillows or wedges and rules them out.