In this paper we present the results of research aimed at the development of a 'smart' bed to non-intrusively monitor patient respiration, heart rate and movement using spatially distributed integrating multimode fibre optic sensors. The research is focused upon allowing more automation of patient care, an especially important matter for the elder population, which is a rapidly growing fraction of much of the world population today. Two spatially integrating fibre optic sensors were investigated, one of which was based on inter-modal interference and the other on mode conversion. The sensing fibre was integrated into a bed and test subjects were monitored in different positions. The sensor outputs were then correlated with subject movement, respiration rate and heart rate. The results indicated that the inter-modal sensor could detect patient movement and respiration rate while the mode conversion sensor could detect patient movement, respiration rate and heart rate. Results and analysis of the research are presented and future research activities discussed.