The newer mattresses are very high. I am short. I have a 5 in boxspring instead of the normal 10 in. Makes a difference. You may want to take the bed off the frame. Sitting the boxsping on the floor. With a 5 in boxspring and onthe floor it would give u maybe 10 in or more.
Another option would be a platform bed. No boxspring because the platform has slats or a solid bottom. We put pieces of plywood on the slats of my daughters bed.
Are you transferring him from a wheelchair? There are transfer boards. But the w/c needs a side that goes up.
Medicare might be the answer, give them a call, they did provide one for me when my husband needed it. Also, google for used medical equipment in your area, or a senior medical loan closet.
Lowering the bed or providing a platform are good ideas. Also see if you can get some suggestions from a po/ot on how to handle this. They taught us to use low furniture to climb on and with assistance we were able to get Luz up with minimal effort. Her climbing and me helping sure saved my back.
Another option would be a platform bed. No boxspring because the platform has slats or a solid bottom. We put pieces of plywood on the slats of my daughters bed.
Are you transferring him from a wheelchair? There are transfer boards. But the w/c needs a side that goes up.