When we reach retirement age, many of us will struggle with sleep issues such as insomnia, not to mention the physical health conditions that come with getting older. Luckily, finding the best mattress for seniors can make it easier for them to get healthy sleep. And while comfort is subjective and there’s never going to be a single best option for all elderly sleepers, there are beds that will work wonderfully for certain types of sleepers. We’ve considered more than 15 mattresses for this list, and below we’ve highlighted our picks for the eight best mattresses for seniors.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Seniors?
Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight as the best mattress for seniors due to its exceptional edge support (for ease of getting out of bed), cooling features, durability and comfort.
Best Mattresses for Seniors in 2024
- Helix Midnight – Best Overall
- WinkBed – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- DreamCloud Original – Best Cooling Mattress for Seniors
- Nolah Evolution – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Seniors
- Saatva – Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors
- Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavier Seniors
Best Mattress for Seniors 2024: Video Review
Compare the Best Mattresses for Seniors
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Titan Plus | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 9/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | -- |
| Sleep Position | Back & Side | Combination | Back | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Back & Stomach | Back | Back & Stomach |
Our Testing Process
Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 600 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period and warranty. For a more in-depth guide to the people and processes behind our mattress lab in Austin, TX, read our full testing methodology page.
How We Choose the Best Mattresses for Seniors
When compiling a list of the best mattresses for the elderly, we focused specifically on certain factors, like responsiveness, pressure relief, and accessibility. All of these mattresses should be accessible to the elderly, but they range in design to offer more options. Here’s a bit more detail about some of those factors we zeroed in on, and what you can expect from the beds in this roundup:
Edge Support
People higher up in years may be more stuck in their routines, and if that routine includes sitting on the edge of your bed to tie your shoes, you’ll want a mattress with solid edge support. But that’s a fairly trivial factor compared to the added safety of a bed with robust edge support, minimizing your chances of actually careening off the edge, and making it easier to get in and out of bed — something pregnant people will also appreciate.
Pressure Relief
If you can feel the weather coming in your joints (something that may actually be backed by science), we’re willing to bet you’d like a bed with nice pressure relief. A bed with superior pressure relief ensures that you achy, sore joints don’t get too much pushback from the bed. Instead, you should feel cradled and cushioned. All of the beds in our roundup feature memory foam comfort layers, for added pressure relief, and we were sure to note however if a bed’s foam layers are more bouncy and firm, and less pressure relieving.
Pain Relief
On the topic of sore and achy joints, pressure relief is a good way to treat the symptom, however, other qualities in mattresses may even prevent pain entirely. The key quality to look for in a mattress is solid overall support, so that the spine stays aligned in its neutral S-curve. Our mattress testers found all of these beds to be above-average in terms of support, and noted when beds may not offer enough support for heavier weight sleepers.
Best Overall – Helix Midnight
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Of all of the different models, we’ve chosen the Helix Midnight as our best overall pick for the best mattress for the elderly. It’s cooling, durable, and extremely comfortable.
Best Mattress for Seniors with Back Pain – WinkBed
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
An innerspring mattress that features extra-tall coils and a plush pillow-top, the WinkBed has an exceptional amount of support, which makes it a sound choice for anyone experiencing back pain. It should help keep the spine in a neutral alignment.
Best Cooling Mattress for Seniors – DreamCloud Original
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Falling asleep feeling clammy and trapped in heat can turn a night of sweet dreams into nightmares. The DreamCloud Original hybrid mattress specializes in producing a breathable and crisp sleeping surface to help keep you dry and help you fall asleep feeling cool. The hybrid construction uses individually wrapped coils to retain and stimulate airflow at the bed’s foundation combined with a breathable gel-infused memory foam and a cashmere-blend cover top that helps to disperse body heat while maintaining a sleep-friendly, cool surface.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re older, you may be more susceptible to aches and pains, so it’s important that you select a mattress firmness that best matches your sleeping style and body type to mitigate these issues. Thankfully, the Nolah Evolution provides seniors with options, as it comes in multiple firmnesses.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Seniors – Bear Elite Hybrid
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With a zoned support system, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress is a great fit for those with back pain.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With a zoned support system, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress is a great fit for those with back pain.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a durable, well-constructed hybrid mattress that provides good support and pressure relief. We tested the Medium version of the mattress, which is wonderful for back sleepers, but it’s also available in Soft and Firm versions.
Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors – Saatva
Saatva Mattress
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re after a hotel-quality mattress that will provide comfort and support for years to come then we recommend you consider the Saatva mattress. The materials used in the Saatva are impressive—organic cotton, high-density foam, and high-grade coils come together to create a product that is truly luxurious.
Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a reliable mattress that performs well pretty much across the board. However, we think the biggest selling point for the Signature Hybrid is its price. Costing under $1,500 for a queen—and often under $1,000 after sales—this mattress provides great bang for your buck.
Best Mattress for Heavier Seniors – Titan Plus
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re an elderly person with a larger body type, then the Titan Plus may be for you. It was actually designed specifically for heavy sleepers. The foam at the top of the mattress is more responsive than typical memory foam, giving just a little bit of relief while also creating enough support to keep the spine neutrally aligned. Further support comes from a layer of tall coils at the bottom of the mattress.
Why Seniors Need a Great Mattress
Sleep is important for everyone at every stage of their life, and that includes seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults between the ages of 61 and 64 should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night, while adults over the age of 65 should slumber for approximately 7 to 8 hours every night.
Even though sleep remains critical as we age, many seniors struggle to obtain quality sleep on a regular basis. Some of them deal with pain-related issues such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and/or back pain, making it harder to fall and stay asleep. Additionally, certain pain medications can act as stimulants and make it even more difficult to get enough shut-eye.
Even seniors who don’t deal with pain might struggle to obtain quality sleep, because sleep itself changes as we age. A long-term study of 9,000 people over the age of 65 found that, compared to younger adults, elderly adults have more fragmented sleep and spend less time in deeper sleep stages. There’s also evidence that circadian rhythms might shift as we age, prompting our bodies to wake up earlier and shortchanging sleep.
So how does this relate to a mattress? Well, mattresses play a huge role in determining whether we feel comfortable (or not) when we lie down to sleep. An uncomfortable or unsupportive mattress can exacerbate pain and make it harder to fall asleep and sleep soundly through the night. A high-quality mattress that feels good and helps mitigate pain can facilitate restful sleep.
For more information, check out our article on Sleep Changes Seniors Should Know.
Choosing the Best Mattress for Seniors
Whether seniors go with one of our recommended mattresses or decide to keep looking, here are some factors they should consider.
- Bounce: When people reach an older age, they may struggle with serious mobility issues. This makes it more difficult to get in and out of bed and change positions. They want to ensure that their mattress doesn’t sag and make things worse, causing them to feel trapped. So, it’s a good idea to find a mattress that is more responsive and contains coils, bouncier foams, or even latex.
- Pressure relief: Many elderly sleepers might have a condition such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, or they could just be dealing with joint pain. A softer mattress that contains pressure-relieving memory foam should cushion those trouble areas and relieve built-up pressure. Take a look at our list of the best mattresses for hip pain.
- Firmness: Although comfort is subjective, medium firmness lends a balance of comfort and support. This is important for cushioning joints and maintaining spinal alignment. Is your current mattress too soft? Here’s our latest resource on how to make a mattress firmer!
- Cooling: As our bodies age, they’re not as effective at regulating our temperature. That’s why it’s a good idea to choose a mattress that will stay cool. Try to find a bed with coils that allow for good airflow, or foam that has additional cooling features.
- Edge support: Seniors will want to ensure that their mattress has great edge support, meaning that they need a mattress that ensures they won’t roll off and become injured from sleeping too close to the edge of their bed.
What Type of Mattress Is Best for Seniors?
There are more types of mattresses on the market than ever before, from classic innerspring models to beds made from memory foam and latex. Here’s an overview of some of the mattress types that might appeal to senior sleepers.
Innerspring Mattresses
As the name suggests, innerspring mattresses include springs (otherwise known as coils) in their construction. There’s a lot of variety under the innerspring umbrella; some innerspring beds are made with pocketed or individually wrapped coils while others stack multiple layers of coils on top of each other, and so on.
Pros of innerspring mattresses for seniors:
- They tend to be supportive, helping maintain spinal alignment and reduce back pain.
- They have strong edge support, so it’s easier to climb in and out of bed.
- They work well for hot sleepers since the spaces between the coils allow for plenty of airflow.
- They often suit back and stomach sleepers, who need plenty of support for proper spinal alignment.
Cons to innerspring mattresses for seniors:
- Some innerspring beds might feel too firm and won’t offer enough cushioning for achy joints.
- They might not be well-suited to side sleepers, who need plenty of pressure relief around the shoulder and hips.
- A coil construction can sometimes add height to a bed, making it harder to climb in and out.
- Some innerspring mattresses don’t do a great job of minimizing motion transfer, which might wake up elderly couples if they shift around during the night.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are made from (that’s right!) memory foam, a material that’s known for being soft and pressure-relieving. Memory foam also tends to contour the body and have a slow response to pressure.
Pros of memory foam mattresses for seniors:
- Memory foam tends to be pressure-relieving, so it can help cushion achy joints.
- Because it contours the body, foam can be a great choice for side sleepers looking to find comfort around the shoulder and hips.
- It’s easy to find thinner memory foam mattresses, which can be useful for folks who have a hard time climbing in and out of a tall bed.
- Memory foam tends to be silent and does a great job of absorbing motion. This is crucial for senior couples who don’t want to disturb each other during the night.
Cons to memory foam mattresses for seniors:
- Memory foam mattresses on the softer side might not provide enough spinal support.
- Some memory foam mattresses have poor edge support, making it harder to climb in and out of bed.
- Because of their slow response to pressure, it can be hard to move around on top of memory foam beds.
- As a general rule, memory foam mattresses trap heat and might not be a great choice for hot sleepers.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses can be made from natural latex (which is derived from rubber trees), synthetic latex (which is made through chemical processes), or a blend of the two. It can be processed in one of two ways: Dunlop latex has a firmer feel, while Talalay latex has a softer feel. Both natural and synthetic latex mattresses are known for their durability and bounce, and they tend to sleep cool.
Pros of latex mattresses for seniors:
- Latex tends to be responsive, making it easier to move around and get on and off the bed.
- Latex generally sleeps cool, so it’s a good choice for hot sleepers.
- Because latex is known for its durability, a latex mattress is less likely to sag than a foam mattress. This means the mattress is more likely to promote spinal alignment over the long term, which can help combat back pain.
Cons to latex mattresses for seniors:
- Latex is a heavy material, so it can be challenging to move these mattresses around (especially for folks who might deal with reduced muscle mass or mobility and coordination issues).
- Latex mattresses tend to be expensive, so they won’t suit every senior’s budget.
- Because latex is fairly bouncy, it doesn’t do a great job of minimizing motion transfer. This can be an issue for elderly folks who share a bed with a restless partner.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses feature a combination of coils and foam, thereby offering the best of both worlds (or, er, both mattresses). Typically, hybrid mattresses are built with a foam comfort layer laid out over coils. The foam layer could be made from memory foam or another type of foam, and the coils may or may not be individually wrapped.
Pros of hybrid mattresses for seniors:
- They generally offer a nice combination of comfort and support, which can help combat back pain while cushioning joints.
- The innerspring coils enable air to flow through the mattress, helping people sleep cooler than they might on an all-foam bed.
- The foam layer offers more pressure relief than might exist on a standard innerspring mattress.
- They tend to suit multiple sleep positions, so senior couples with different preferred sleep styles might be able to compromise with a hybrid.
Cons to hybrid mattresses for seniors:
- Because they feature multiple layers and coils, hybrid mattresses sometimes weigh a lot. This could make it challenging to move the mattress.
- Hybrid mattresses are on the pricier side.
Airbeds
Not to be confused with air mattresses, airbeds are luxurious mattresses made from adjustable air chambers. Sleepers can customize the firmness of the mattress to their preferences on a nightly basis, and some airbeds allow couples to customize their respective sides of the bed.
Pros of airbed mattresses for seniors:
- Seniors who deal with fluctuating levels of aches, back pain, or mobility can customize the mattress to their needs on a nightly basis.
- Senior couples who have different sleep preferences might be able to customize each side of the mattress to their respective taste.
- Airbeds are almost immune to sagging, so they should support healthy spinal alignment for the full life of the mattress.
Cons to airbed mattresses for seniors:
- Airbeds tend to be pricey.
- Adjusting the airbed might involve some noise from the pump.
- Airbeds might not offer enough cushioning for folks who really want to sink in the bed.
How to Make a Bedroom More Accessible for the Elderly
While choosing an accessible mattress is crucial if you have mobility issues, it’s just as important to consider your entire sleeping environment.
- Purchase an adjustable bed.
- Utilize bed rails and/or grab bars.
- Rid the bedroom of unnecessary clutter.
- Visualize the pathway to your bed and come up with a plan of how to best clear it. Keep in mind furniture placement, space on each side of the bed, doorway width, and loose rugs.
Choosing an Accessible Mattress for Seniors
As we age, it’s common for mobility and flexibility to decline. That means it’s important to think about accessibility while shopping for a mattress for elderly folks.
- Look for a shorter mattress: Tall mattresses can look elegant, but they aren’t practical. As a general rule, many elderly folks need a shorter mattress so it’s easier to climb in and out of bed.
- Prioritize edge support: Edge support refers to how comfortable a sleeper feels while sitting or lying down near the edge of a mattress. The edge support is strong when a person feels secure in these positions; it’s poor if the person feels like they’re going to tip off or out of the bed.
Sleep Tips for Seniors
As we’ve noted, quality sleep is essential for seniors, but it’s hard to come by. Here are some tips that increase the odds of seniors enjoying sound sleep.
- Create a bedroom environment that’s conducive to sleep: Good sleep hygiene involves keeping the bedroom cool, quiet, and dark, and eliminating electronic devices from the bedroom. Also, make sure to limit the activities on that mattress to sleep and sex so the brain doesn’t associate the bed with more stimulating activities.
- Stay active: Engaging in physical exercise during the day makes it more likely that someone will feel sleepy at night.
- Practice soothing bedtime rituals: Make a habit of winding down before bed with a comforting ritual such as taking a bath, reading a good book, or listening to calming music. Or maybe consider a combination of these activities. Avoid screens in the hour or two before bed, because the blue light they emit can interfere with the body’s circadian rhythm.
- Sustain a consistent sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps train the body to start winding down at a consistent time each night.
Summary
| Mattress | Superlative |
| Helix | Best Overall |
| WinkBeds | Best Mattress for Back Pain |
| DreamCloud | Best Cooling Mattress for Seniors |
| Nolah Evolution | Best Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Best Hybrid Mattress for Seniors |
| Saatva | Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors |
| Titan Plus | Best Mattress for Heavier Seniors |
Best Mattress for Seniors FAQs
Do you need a softer mattress as you get older?
It depends on your specific situation, but a soft mattress can work for elderly sleepers who are dealing with issues such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, or joint pain. However, a firmer mattress might work better for elderly sleepers in need of more support. When buying a soft mattress, watch out that it’s not too soft. Seniors will likely want a mattress that is easy to move around on—beds with thick layers of memory foam can be hard to get in and out of.
What’s the best mattress for seniors with arthritis?
Seniors who deal with arthritis should choose a mattress that’s on the softer side, as it will relieve pressure in any trouble areas. We recommend the Nectar Premier Copper as our favorite mattress for arthritis. This bed has soft, cushioning foams that should help cradle and reduce pressure on sensitive joints.
What type of mattress is best for the elderly?
This depends on many factors, including pain issues and sleeping position. A person who has arthritis or fibromyalgia might want to choose a softer mattress with something like memory foam in the construction, but those who need more support might want to seek out a firmer mattress that contains coils or some other more supportive material. And mobility is also something to consider—a responsive mattress will make it easier to move around and get out of bed.
Is memory foam good for the elderly?
Memory foam can relieve pressure for those with joint pain issues and provide some excellent overall comfort. However, it can make it more difficult to move around on a mattress, which isn’t ideal for those with mobility issues. Also, memory foam is known to sleep hot and could cause some seniors to overheat at night. Overall, we recommend looking at a memory foam bed with cooling infusions or a hybrid memory foam bed; hybrids have coils which allow air to flow through the mattress.
