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, we’ve highlighted the seven best mattresses for seniors that might be an excellent match.
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 2023
- Helix Midnight – Best Overall
- WinkBed – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- Nectar – Best Adjustable Bed
- Loom & Leaf – Best Mattress for Pain Relief for Seniors
- Titan Plus – Best Mattress for Heavier Seniors
- Layla – Best Mattress for Couples
- DreamCloud – Best Mattress for Seniors Who Sleep Hot
Best Mattress for Seniors 2023: Video Roundup
Compare the Best Mattresses for Seniors
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Loom & Leaf Mattress | Titan Plus | Layla Mattress | DreamCloud Original Mattress | |
| Rating | |||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 9/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid |
| Cooling | -- | ✓ | -- | -- | -- | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sleep Position | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Combination | Back |
How We Chose Our Top Picks
Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 150 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.
When it came to compiling a list of the best mattresses for the elderly, we focused specifically on response, pressure relief, and accessibility. All of these mattresses should be accessible to the elderly, but they range in design to offer more options.
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
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for back sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Of all of the different models, we’ve chosen the Helix Midnight as our best overall pick for the best mattress for the elderly. It’s cooling, durable, and extremely comfortable.
Helix has become renowned for its customization. When selecting a bed, seniors can choose from one of the brand’s many mattress models or they can take Helix’s sleep quiz. Based on their answers, Helix will recommend the most suitable mattress.
What the testers say: “I’m a fan of Helix Midnight’s mix of pressure relief and response. Lying down, I felt it contouring to the shape of my body, but I never had trouble moving around or changing positions.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Helix Midnight
- Easy for seniors to get in and out of bed
- A good option for senior couples
- You can upgrade to the Luxe or Elite models
Cons of the Helix Midnight
- May not be supportive enough for heavy sleepers
- Stomach sleepers require more support
Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses 2023 for more great options.
Best Mattress for Back Pain: WinkBed
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
An innerspring mattress that features extra-tall coils and a plush pillow-top, the WinkBed has an exceptional amount of support, which makes it a sound choice for anyone experiencing back pain. It should help keep the spine in a neutral alignment.
Of the four firmness options available, we’d recommend either the Luxury Firm or Firmer model. Both of these beds should have the requisite amount of comfort and support for folks with back pain.
What the testers say: “As a person who deals with back pain, I loved the zoned construction found in the WinkBed mattress. Lying on my back, I felt the firmer area of the mattress press up into my lumbar area. I felt all the support I needed there.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the WinkBed
- Has a luxury look and feel
- One of the best innerspring mattresses
- Breathable and cooling
Cons of the WinkBed
- Not the best motion isolation
- Lack contouring
- Has a higher price point
Read our full WinkBed mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Back Pain for more great options.
Best Adjustable Bed: Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
An adjustable bed creates a truly customizable experience. This is ideal for seniors because of the numerous health benefits associated with adjustable frames.
Our personal favorite mattress and adjustable base bundle is the Nectar mattress and the Nectar adjustable frame. Together, this pair provides versatility, comfort, support, and convenience at a great value.
What the testers say: “The Nectar mattress worked very well with the Nectar adjustable base. I was able to raise up the head area of the mattress, and this helped curb some of the snoring I deal with.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nectar
- Nectar’s adjustable frame is easy to set up
- Should offer excellent pressure relief
- Great for back sleepers and side sleepers
Cons of the Nectar
- The adjustable frame doesn’t hug the wall
- Not as responsive as some mattresses
Read our full Nectar mattress review for more information. Or see our roundup for the Best Adjustable Beds.
Best Mattress for Pain Relief for Seniors: Loom & Leaf
Loom & Leaf Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Loom & Leaf Mattress
Loom & Leaf is a perfect choice for those looking for a luxury memory foam feel that relieves pain.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Loom & Leaf Mattress
Loom & Leaf is a perfect choice for those looking for a luxury memory foam feel that relieves pain.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Many elderly shoppers looking to relieve pain in their joints should consider a memory foam mattress. These beds can really cushion the shoulders and hips and prevent a build-up of pressure. For seniors, we recommend the Loom & Leaf, which comes in two firmnesses: Relaxed Firm and Firm.
Both models combine gel memory foam with a high-density memory foam that should make it easy to move around and prevent sleepers from getting stuck.
What the testers say: “While the Loom & Leaf felt firm at first, its memory foam slowly gave in and let me sink into the mattress. In the end, it offered some of the best pressure relief I have ever felt. The memory foam cradled my shoulders and hips, making it especially great for side sleeping.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Loom & Leaf
- A durable, long-lasting mattress
- Zoning assists with spinal support
- Boasts nice cooling features
Cons of the Loom & Leaf
- Not very responsive
- Not the best cheap mattress
Read our full Loom & Leaf mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Arthritis and Joint Pain for more great options.
Best for Heavier Seniors: Titan Plus
Titan Plus
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Titan Plus
The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 9/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re an elderly person with a larger body type, then the Titan Plus may be for you. It was actually designed specifically for heavy sleepers. The foam at the top of the mattress is more responsive than typical memory foam, giving just a little bit of relief while also creating enough support to keep the spine neutrally aligned. Further support comes from a layer of tall coils at the bottom of the mattress.
Folks 230 lb or above are likely to feel the most pressure relief from the foams, but average-weight stomach sleepers should also be comfortable on the Titan Plus, especially if they experience back pain.
What the testers say: “I’m a heavier guy, and the Titan Plus gave me plenty of support. I often struggle to get enough support when I’m back sleeping, but it wasn’t an issue on the Titan Plus. Heavier people of all ages should love this mattress.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Titan Plus
- A cooler-sleeping mattress
- A good fit for elderly back sleepers over 230 lb
- Has impressive edge support.
Cons of the Titan Plus
- Not built for lightweight sleepers
- Not for fans of soft mattresses
- Doesn’t have a memory foam feel
Read our full Titan Plus mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Heavy People for more great options.
Best for Couples: Layla
Layla Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Mattress
An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re an elderly couple with different sleep preferences, you might want to take a look at the all-foam Layla. With a flippable design, you can test out two very different firmness levels to figure out what works best for you both. On the soft side, you’ll get a lot of plushness and contouring — two traits that tend to be best for side sleepers. The firm side, meanwhile, is firmer and more supportive.
What the testers say: “When I tested out the motion transfer on the Layla, I was very impressed. Especially on the soft side, I saw almost no disturbance. The thick memory foam did a great job of absorbing motion, so this should be a good option for couples.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Layla
- A copper infusion helps the Layla sleep cool
- Excels at isolating motion
- Has a flippable hybrid option
Cons of the Layla
- Heavy people should consider one of the best hybrid mattresses
- The soft side is not as responsive
Read our full Layla mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Couples for more great options.
Best for Hot Sleepers: DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
DreamCloud Original Mattress
The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
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
Hybrid mattresses tend to be a wonderful match for hot sleepers because the coils promote airflow through the bed and keep it from trapping too much heat.
The DreamCloud — one of our favorite hybrid mattresses — has individually wrapped coils, gel-infused cooling foam, and a breathable cashmere-blend cover.
What the testers say: “Based on my experience, the DreamCloud is an effective cooling mattress. The cover, foams, and coils all kept the mattress nice and breathable, so that it shouldn’t make you overheat at night.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the DreamCloud
- An excellent fit for elderly combination sleepers
- Has solid edge support
- An affordable mattress
Cons of the DreamCloud
- Not the best for heavy people
- Too firm for side sleeping
- Doesn’t provide a slow-moving memory foam feel
Read our full DreamCloud mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cooling Mattresses for more great options.
Jump To
How to Find the Best Mattress for the Elderly | Choosing an Accessible Mattress | How to Make a Bedroom More Accessible | What Type of Mattress Is Best for Seniors? | Why Seniors Need a Great Mattress | Sleep Tips for Seniors | Overall | FAQ
How to Find the Best Mattress for the Elderly
Whether seniors go with one of our recommended mattresses or decide to keep looking, here are some factors they should consider.
- Make sure the mattress is responsive: 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.
- Find a mattress that relieves pressure: 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.
- Look for a medium-firm mattress: 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!
- Choose a mattress that doesn’t sleep too hot: 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.
- Decide whether the mattress will need to work with an adjustable base: Many elderly sleepers employ an adjustable base to keep them propped up and to reduce pain and discomfort. If that applies to you, make sure your new bed is compatible with such an accessory.
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.
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.
What Type of Mattress Is Best for Seniors?
| Construction | What is it made out of? | Pros | Cons |
| Innerspring |
Uses coils with a thinner comfort layer |
Durable, cooling, firm, supportive |
Poor motion isolation, not as pressure-relieving, some may not like its bouncy feel |
| Memory Foam |
Uses viscoelastic polyurethane foam |
Contouring, pressure-relieving, helps with joint pain, |
May not support heavy sleepers or stomach sleepers, some may not like its slow-moving feel |
| Latex |
Uses Dunlop or Talalay latex derived from a rubber tree |
Eco-friendly, durable, provides ease of movement |
Poor motion isolation, more expensive, some may not like its responsive feel |
| Hybrid |
Uses a combination of pressure-relieving foam and sturdy coils |
Cooling, good for back pain, good for a wide range of sleepers |
Can be pricey, heavy in weight |
| Airbed |
Uses adjustable air chambers |
Ideal for couples, good for pain relief, adjustable | Unique feel, can be expensive, a little noisy |
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.
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.
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.
Does Medicare Cover Mattresses for Seniors?
As durable medical equipment (DME), some mattresses may be covered by Medicare under Medicare Part B. Whether or not Medicare will cover a mattress for seniors depends on what that person is using it for. Medicare may cover a mattress, but you must have a sickness or injury requiring the usage of a mattress for medical reasons. We recommend purchasing a mattress from Medicare-approved retailers, so that you get the best deal possible.
Summary
| Mattress | Superlative |
| Helix | Best Overall |
| WinkBeds | Best Mattress for Back Pain |
| Nectar | Best Adjustable Bed |
| Loom & Leaf | Best Mattress for Pain Relief for Seniors |
| Titan Plus | Best Mattress for Heavier Seniors |
| Layla | Best Mattress for Couples |
| DreamCloud | Best Mattress for Seniors Who Sleep Hot |
Best Mattress for Seniors FAQs
Do you need a softer mattress as you get older?
This does depend on a person’s 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.
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.
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.
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.
