Before you buy, consider the points below:
- A cantilever table is a small table top mounted on a ‘C’ shaped base with or without small castor wheels
- The tables are height adjustable and the surface is often angle adjustable
- Cantilever tables are used over a person’s chair or bed when the person is unable to access a traditional table
- The table must move easily in and out of position, especially if the person in the bed or chair has to move it out of the way when they need to get up
- Avoid leaning on the table top when standing from chair or bed as it is not robust enough for that pressure
- Thick carpet or loose rugs may impede the movement of the table
- A wheeled cantilever table moves more easily, but needs more clearance to fit under the bed or chair, it will not fit under chairs or beds that are on small castors
- A non-wheeled cantilever table fits under a chair or bed with a gap of approx 3cm, but it may be difficult to move on some floor coverings
- Tables with or without wheels will not fit under a manual or powered rise and recline chair
- If using the table over a bed, check that the table reaches far enough over the bed for effective use
- If using the table for eating a meal, ensure the table can move close enough to the seated person so that they can maintain an upright position when eating, to aid swallow and digestion
- If using the table at an angle for activities, consider if a raised edge or non slip mat is needed to secure items on the table. Also consider if the angle can be adjusted safely by the person in the bed or chair
- Consider risk of skin damage if feet and legs are resting on the frame of the table and if arms are resting on the raised edge on the table
Cantilever tables are priced from £40