Mattress lifting device and method

A method for separating a mattress from a corresponding mattress support to dress a bed comprising:

• providing a mattress having sides and ends along the perimeter thereof and a mattress support under the mattress, the mattress sides being normally accessible by the user;
• providing a device for separating a mattress from a corresponding mattress support, the device comprising a stationary member and a lifting member, the lifting member including a lift plate adapted to slide in and out between the mattress and mattress support along the sides of the mattress and a handle for moving the lift plate, the lift member movable with respect to the stationary member such that when a downward force is applied to the handle, the lift plate moves with respect to the stationary member and exerts a force sufficient to separate at least a portion of the side of the mattress from the mattress support;
• positioning the device along a side of the mattress normally accessible by the user;
• using the handle to slide the lift plate between the mattress and a mattress support at the side of the mattress;
• exerting a downward force on the handle sufficient to move the lifting member with respect to the stationary member, thereby separating at least a portion of the side of the mattress from the mattress support;
• dressing the bed by removing or inserting a mattress sheet while the side of the mattress is separated from the mattress support;
• and
• releasing the handle until the side of the mattress contacts the mattress support;
• and
• using the handle, sliding the lift plate out from between the mattress and the mattress support.