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Best Mattresses for Seniors – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Written by Tuck Staff

Quick Overview

Choosing the right mattress is an important decision for any adult, particularly seniors aged 65 and older. This population typically experiences more chronic and frequent pain in their neck, shoulders, back, hips, and other sensitive areas of the body. Some mattresses conform closely to help align the spine and alleviate pain and pressure points in sleepers, but others offer little to no conforming and may lead to more aches and discomfort.

Many seniors also prefer mattresses that absorb minimal body heat and sleep fairly cool. And because a good night’s rest is so important to seniors, a bed that isolates motion transfer and has low noise potential will be a good option for cutting down on nighttime sleep disruptions.

Read on to see our choices for the best mattresses for seniors available today. Our picks are based on verified customer and owner experiences, as well as intensive product research and analysis. Then, explore our Buyer’s Guide to get insider mattress buying tips for seniors, and discover what to look for when buying a mattress for an older adult.

Best Mattresses for Seniors
First Time Buying a Mattress for a Senior?

Hop down to our Buyer’s Guide for a crash course on finding the best mattress for seniors.

 

The Best Mattresses for Seniors - Reviewed

Best OverallLoom & Leaf Mattress

Best Overall – Loom & Leaf Mattress

Highlights

  • Multiple firmness options (5.5, 8)
  • 365-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Sleeps cooler than other foam beds
  • Free White Glove delivery
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Best OverallLoom & Leaf Mattress

loomandleaf.com

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The Loom & Leaf by Saatva is a memory foam mattress. Thick comfort layers of gel memory foam and standard memory foam hug the sleeper’s body without absorbing too much body heat or sagging excessively, making it a good choice for seniors living with chronic pain.

Plus, the Loom & Leaf is offered in two firmness options – ‘Medium’ (5.5) and ‘Firm’ (8) – to accommodate different types of sleepers in terms of body weight and sleep position.

All-foam beds tend to sleep hot, but the Loom & Leaf offers good temperature neutrality due in part to its organic cotton cover and gel memory foam layer. This allows seniors to enjoy the superior pressure relief of an all-foam bed, while minimizing the potential for sleeping hot. The mattress also offers above-average support; two base layers of high-density polyfoam ensure an even, long-lasting surface.

The Loom & Leaf absorbs motion to a noticeable extent and is virtually silent when bearing weight; as a result, the mattress is highly suitable for older couples who awaken easily due to movement or noise during the night.

Like other Saatva models, the Loom & Leaf is available with free White Glove delivery in the contiguous U.S. It is backed by a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty, both of which are longer than average.

The Bottom Line.

The Loom & Leaf is a well-made mattress designed to alleviate many of the particular sleep concerns that affect seniors. This bed relieves aches and pains, sleeps cool, and stays still, even if a sleep partner gets up or changes positions during the night.

  • Side and back sleepers. Comfort layers of memory foam cushion and relieve pressure points, while the high-density polyfoam layers prevent sleepers from sinking too deeply.
  • Seniors in all weight groups (light, average, heavy). The ‘Medium’ is best for lightweight sleepers, while the ‘Firm’ is better for heavier adults or those who prefer a firmer sleep surface.
  • Back pain sufferers. Memory foam beds are prized for their premium pressure relief, and the Loom & Leaf is no different. Thick comfort layers — one of convoluted gel memory foam and another with a higher concentration of gel in the center — provide targeted relief for seniors with chronic pain.
  • Those who tend to sleep hot. The Loom & Leaf sleeps fairly cool for an all-foam bed, thanks to an organic cotton cover and the gel infusion in the comfort layers.

Not Recommended for:

  • Stomach sleepers. The all-foam construction of the Loom & Leaf may allow these sleepers to sink too deeply into the mattress surface, which can lead to increased pressure and spinal misalignment.
  • Seniors who need strong edge support. Like many all-foam models, the edge support of the Loom & Leaf is average at best. Seniors may experience roll-off when sitting on or sleeping close to the edges of the bed.

Best ValueNectar Mattress

Best Value – Nectar Mattress

Highlights

  • 'Medium Firm' (6)
  • 365-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Close conforming and pressure relief
  • Sleeps cooler than most foam models
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Best ValueNectar Mattress

nectarsleep.com

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Nectar Sleep’s flagship mattress is built with three foam layers on a 2-inch profile. The mattress a solid pick for value seekers due to its low price-point, which is substantially lower than that of the average memory foam mattress model.

The memory foam comfort layer conforms to the sleeper’s body for targeted pressure relief and improved spinal alignment. However, the Nectar is ‘Medium Firm’ (6) and will not sag excessively or hug too closely.

The Nectar also contains two layers of polyfoam for added support, while a cover made of lyocell and cotton ensures good temperature neutrality despite the foam components. The bed also isolates motion well and produces no noise; both of these factors can be beneficial for senior couples. The mattress is also exceptionally lightweight and easy to move, so it’s easier for seniors or caregivers to make the bed.

Shipping is free for Nectar customers in the contiguous U.S., and White Glove delivery is available for an extra charge. The mattress is backed by a lifetime warranty and 365-night sleep trial, which is one of the longest trial periods offered among beds sold today.

The Bottom Line.

For value-seeking seniors, the Nectar Mattress offers an extremely good deal. The bed features a quality construction that provides excellent support and pressure relief, sleeps cool and quiet, and comes backed by some of the longest sleep trials and warranties you’ll find today.

 

  • Seniors in average and heavy weight groups. The Nectar Mattress has a ‘Medium Firm’ feel that’s optimally supportive for seniors who weigh 130 pounds or more.
  • Couples. Due to its all-foam construction, the Nectar Mattress is virtually silent when bearing weight, reducing disruptions from a sleep partner moving or getting out of bed during the night.
  • Those who normally sleep hot on foam beds. The Nectar Mattress offers above-average temperature neutrality for an all-foam bed, thanks to the breathable cover and gel-infused comfort layers.

Not Recommended for:

  • Seniors who weigh less than 130 pounds. The ‘Medium Firm’ feel may feel too firm for lighter seniors.
  • Seniors who want to be able to return their mattress quickly if they don’t love it. The 365-night sleep trial includes a mandatory 30-night break-in period.

Best LuxuryLuxury Firm WinkBed

Best Luxury – Luxury Firm WinkBed

Highlights

  • 'Medium Firm' (6)
  • 120-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Above-average responsiveness
  • Good pain and pressure relief
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Best LuxuryLuxury Firm WinkBed

winkbeds.com

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The Luxury Firm WinkBed is a great luxury mattress pick for seniors. This hybrid mattress conforms closely to the sleeper’s body and helps align the spine in order to reduce pressure points.

The bed has a thick comfort system with a gel polyfoam-quilted Euro-top and a dense polyfoam transitional layer. These layers rest over a support core made from zoned pocketed coils.

As a result, the Luxury Firm WinkBed provides better conforming and more pressure relief for seniors than most competing models with coil-based support. The mattress also sleeps very cool, largely due to good air circulation throughout the coil layer.

The Luxury Firm WinkBed’s medium firm (6) feel is best suited for back and stomach-sleeping seniors who weigh up to 230 pounds. This model is a good option for couples, as well, because it isolates a significant amount of motion transfer and produces minimal noise.

WinkBeds offers free shipping to customers anywhere in the contiguous U.S. The mattress is also backed by a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty, both of which are longer than average.

The Bottom Line.

The Luxury Firm WinkBed’s high-quality construction is built to relieve chronic pain and provide maximum comfort — two things every senior needs in their mattress. The medium firm (6) feel should be comfortable for most seniors who sleep on their backs or stomachs.

  • Back and stomach sleepers. The Luxury Firm WinkBed’s hybrid design and medium firm feel are best suited to back and stomach sleepers, relieving pressure while promoting healthy spinal alignment.
  • Seniors who weigh up to 230 pounds. The mattress’ medium firm (6) should prevent most sleepers from sinking too deeply, while offering enough cushion to relieve pressure.
  • Back and hip pain sufferers. The Luxury Firm WinkBed’s zoned support core provides targeted pressure relief for seniors living with chronic pain.
  • Couples. The Luxury Firm WinkBed reduces motion transfer to a significant extent, thanks to its thick comfort system, so sleepers are less likely to notice movement from their partner shifting positions or getting out of bed.

Not Recommended for:

  • Very lightweight side sleepers. Seniors who weigh less than 130 pounds and sleep on their side may notice increased pressure when sleeping on the Luxury Firm WinkBed.
  • Seniors who prefer a traditional memory foam feel. The Luxury Firm WinkBed conforms closely to the body, but it does not cradle the body quite like an all-foam bed.

Best for Lightweight SleepersLayla Mattress

Best for Lightweight Sleepers – Layla Mattress

Highlights

  • Flippable with dual firmness (4, 7)
  • 120-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Great motion isolation
  • Close conforming and pressure relief
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Best for Lightweight SleepersLayla Mattress

laylasleep.com

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The Layla Mattress offers a flippable design. One side is ‘Medium Soft’ (4) and the other is ‘Firm’ (7). This softer side is ideal for lightweight seniors who weigh 130 pounds or less, especially for those who sleep on their back or side.

Both sides of the mattress feature memory foam comfort layers infused with copper. This material conforms closely to improve spinal alignment and alleviate pressure points; the copper also accelerates blood flow in sleepers, making the Layla a good choice for seniors with poor circulation.

The softer side also has an additional layer of convoluted polyfoam for extra padding, while the shared high-density polyfoam support core helps the mattress maintain a comfortable surface with minimal sagging.

Many seniors have fluctuating firmness preferences and may want to purchase a mattress that offers more than one feel. The Layla Mattress is also an ideal option for these sleepers. To adjust the firmness, you simply flip over the mattress. The bed is lightweight even by memory foam standards, making it easy for most seniors to lift and rotate (although those with chronic pain should seek assistance before flipping).

Free shipping is offered to all Layla customers in the contiguous U.S. The mattress is backed by a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.

The Bottom Line.

With its ‘Medium Soft’ feel and extra polyfoam layer, the soft side of the Layla Mattress offers plush comfort for lightweight seniors — all the more so for those with chronic pain, poor circulation, or anyone who could benefit from enhanced pressure relief.

  • Side and back sleepers. The ‘Medium Soft’ side of the Layla allows lightweight seniors to sink deep enough into the mattress to relieve their pressure points, while ensuring optimal support and healthy spinal alignment.
  • Those with shifting firmness preferences. The comfort needs of seniors can change for a variety of reasons, whether due to a physical injury, rehabilitation, or personal preference. The Layla accommodates these changes with its flippable design.
  • Seniors with poor circulation. The copper-infused comfort layer may increase blood flow in sleepers, while also helping neutralize the mattress surface temperature.
  • Couples. The Layla’s all-foam construction provides excellent motion isolation and noise reduction, ensuring a quiet and still sleep surface throughout the night.

Not Recommended for:

  • Couples where one partner weighs 230 pounds or more. Even the ‘Firm’ side of the Layla Mattress may not provide sufficient support for sleepers in this weight group.
  • Seniors looking for strong edge support. As with most all-foam beds, sinkage may develop around the edges of the bed if seniors spend a lot of time sitting or lying near the mattress perimeter.

Best for Average Weight SleepersSaatva Classic

Best for Average Weight Sleepers – Saatva Classic

Highlights

  • Multiple firmness options (4, 6, 7.5)
  • 365-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Strong, durable support
  • Good conforming and pressure relief
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Best for Average Weight SleepersSaatva Classic

saatva.com

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The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress that provides close conforming and above-average pressure relief compared to other coil-based models. It is constructed with thick comfort layers of memory foam, polyfoam, and pocketed minicoils, which absorb motion transfer and keep the bed fairly quiet.

The Saatva Classic features an impressive construction, but that’s not the only reason it earned a spot on our list of the best mattresses for seniors. The bed is available in three firmness options – ‘Medium Soft’ (4), ‘Medium Firm’ (6), and ‘Firm’ (7.5). Any one of these can be comfortable for a senior of average weight (between 130 and 230 pounds), depending on their sleep position and comfort preferences.

Temperature neutrality is another key strength of the Saatva Classic, which circulates air in the bonnell coil support core and keeps the bed feeling cool and comfortable. The bed is also available in 11.5- and 14.5-inch profiles, the latter of which may be most suitable for larger individuals.

Despite its luxury construction, the Saatva Classic has a lower-than-average price-point, making it a good pick for mattress shoppers on a budget. The bed is backed by a 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty.

Saatva also offers free White Glove delivery – including in-home mattress assembly and old mattress removal – for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Most competing manufacturers that offer this service will charge an extra fee of at least $100. This is an attractive feature for seniors who live alone or would like help setting up their new mattress.

The Bottom Line.

With the Saatva mattress, seniors of any size can enjoy an ideal mix of plush pressure relief with durable support. However, seniors of average weight find this mattress particularly comfortable, since the three firmness settings all hover around the center of the firmness scale.

  • Every type of sleeper (side, back, stomach, combination). The ‘Medium Firm’ model is most popular among back and side sleepers of average weight, although side sleepers who prefer a plusher feel can find it with the ‘Medium Soft’ setting, and stomach sleepers may enjoy better support with the ‘Firm’ model.
  • Back pain sufferers. The unique coil-on-coil design of the Saatva provides enhanced support for sleepers with back pain, while allowing the mattress to conform more closely than a traditional innerspring bed.
  • Seniors who tend to sleep hot. Like most innerspring beds, the Saatva sleeps very cool thanks to good air circulation throughout the support layer and its breathable cotton cover.
  • Value seekers. The Saatva is a luxury-quality mattress with a very affordable price-point. Perks like free White Glove Delivery further enhance the value of this mattress.

Not Recommended for:

  • Seniors who prefer a traditional memory foam feel. While the Saatva offers excellent support and better pressure relief than other innerspring beds, it does not provide the pressure-relieving hug of an all-foam bed.
  • Couples where either partner is a light sleeper. The Saatva has below-average motion isolation, and may produce some noise when bearing weight.

Best for Heavyweight SleepersBear Star Hybrid

Best for Heavyweight Sleepers – Bear Star Hybrid

Highlights

  • 'Medium Firm' (6)
  • 120-night trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Innovative Celliant cover
  • Great airflow and temperature neutrality

Best for Heavyweight SleepersBear Star Hybrid

bearmattress.com

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People who weigh more than 230 pounds typically prefer firmer, thicker beds. The added firmness ensures they won’t sink excessively and develop aches and pains in their neck, back, and other sensitive areas, while a higher profile eases the process of getting in and out of bed.

An excellent mattress pick for heavyweight seniors is the Bear Star Hybrid, which offers a ‘Medium Firm’ (6) feel and a thicker-than-average profile. These settings make the mattress suitable for most heavyweight seniors regardless of their sleep position.

The Bear Star Hybrid features a cover made from Celliant fabric. This cutting-edge material promotes blood flow in sleepers with poor circulation and aids physical recovery. The mattress is also made with a thick comfort system consisting of copper-infused memory foam and polyfoam, along with a pocketed coil support core bolstered with high-density polyfoam.

As a result, the Bear Star Hybrid offers good temperature neutrality and pressure relief, making it a preferred choice for seniors who tend to sleep hot or suffer from chronic pain. It also has strong edge support and prevents sagging in the sleep surface.

The Bear Star Hybrid’s price-point is much lower than that of the average hybrid, making it a high-value pick. Bear offers free shipping within the contiguous U.S., and the mattress is backed by a 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty.

The Bottom Line.

The Bear Star Hybrid is an excellent mattress choice for seniors with above-average body weights. The ‘Medium Firm’ feel and thick construction ensure sufficient support, without sacrificing comfort or pressure relief.

  • Every type of sleeper (side, back, stomach, combination). Thick comfort layers cushion and relieve pressure points as needed for each sleep position, while the pocketed coil layer offers stabilizing support and additional contouring.
  • Couples. The Bear Star Hybrid boasts above-average motion isolation and a fairly quiet sleep surface, thanks to its thicker foam layers and pocket coil core.
  • Seniors who tend to sleep hot. The pocketed coil layer encourages airflow through the core of the mattress, while the Celliant fabric cover and gel-infused polyfoam layer help cool down the surface temperature.
  • Seniors with poor circulation. The Celliant fabric used in the mattress cover is engineered to convert the sleeper’s body heat into infrared energy, before transmitting it back into the sleeper’s skin to promote tissue oxygenation and physical recovery.

Not Recommended for:

  • Seniors who prefer a traditional memory foam feel. While the Bear Star Hybrid does contour to the body, it does not provide the pressure-relieving hug of an all-foam bed.

Mattress Buying Guide for Seniors

A good night’s rest is essential for people aged 65 and older, particularly those who live with chronic pain. According to recent polls, more than half of seniors living on their own experience persistent chronic pain, while 80% of seniors living in nursing homes also deal with chronic pain.

These individuals require a sleep surface that provides the support and comfort needed for healthy, restorative sleep. Some mattresses are designed to conform closely to the sleeper’s body, which can help align the spine and alleviate aches and pains in sensitive areas like the neck, shoulders, lower back, and hips. Other mattresses offer little to no conforming, and these models may exacerbate chronic pain symptoms.

This guide will look at key considerations for selecting a mattress for an older adult, including mattress type, features, and shopping tips for seniors. First, let’s look at the root causes behind some common sleep issues for seniors. Please note: for the purposes of this article, anyone aged 65 and older is considered a senior.

How Aging Affects Sleep

Insomnia is more common in seniors, according to recent polls. The causes vary; some experience insomnia due to health issues or anxiety about aging, while others have a hard time sleeping due to side effects of prescription medication.

Seniors are also more susceptible to certain sleep disorders. These include sleep apnea, or temporary loss of breath during sleep, and restless legs syndrome, which is characterized by painful itching and numbness in one’s legs when they are laying in bed.

Other conditions that affect sleep in seniors may include:

  • Arthritis, an inflammation of the joints that causes chronic pain in affected areas.
  • Fibromyalgia, a musculoskeletal disorder that causes widespread pain (or pain that occurs on both sides of the body), as well as isolated discomfort.
  • Scoliosis, a condition characterized by an unnatural C- or S-shaped curvature in the spine; scoliosis is associated with chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
  • Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other forms of dementia, which has been linked to higher rates of insomnia, sleep apnea, and other sleep disorders.
  • Diabetes, prostate problems, and other conditions that lead to frequent nighttime urination.
  • Delayed sleep phase syndrome, which causes one’s internal clock to reset, causing them to stay up late and rise early; sleep deprivation typically results from this condition.
  • Vitamin D deficiency, which occurs when people do not receive spend enough time in natural sunlight; the body’s circadian rhythm, which guides sleep cycles, relies on exposure to sunlight.
  • Heart failure, kidney disease, and other conditions that cause chronic discomfort, making it more difficult to fall and remain asleep.

Choosing the Best Mattress for Seniors: Qualities & Features to Look For

The following characteristics and functions of mattresses can significantly affect sleep quality in older people.

  • Support

    The term ‘mattress support’ refers to how even and stable the sleep surface is. A supportive mattress will keep the sleeper’s body level and flat throughout the night, which is instrumental in preventing and alleviating back pain.

    Unsupportive mattresses, on the other hand, tend to sag in the middle, creating an uneven sleep surface that can hinder spinal alignment and exacerbate existing aches and pains.

    Sagging of less than one and a half inches (1 1/2”) may lead to some discomfort, but the greatest amounts of pain and pressure are associated with sagging that measures more than one and a half inches (1 1/2”). This is key to evaluating mattress warranties (see our ‘Mattress Shopping FAQ for Seniors’ for more information).

  • Conforming and Pressure Relief

    Mattresses that conform closely will create a mold-like impression around the curves and contours of the sleeper’s body. This helps align the spine and alleviate pressure points, and also provides even support throughout the body.

    Some mattresses do not conform much, if at all. Others may conform closely in some areas but not others, creating an uneven sleep surface that can increase pressure in sensitive areas of the body.

    Mattresses that offer consistent levels of conforming, such as foam and hybrid models, can provide much needed relief for seniors suffering from chronic pain.

  • Firmness Options

    Mattress firmness is tied to support, and sleep surfaces that are either too soft or too firm will not provide adequate support for most sleepers. Your ideal mattress firmness depends on both your body weight and sleep position.

    Heavier individuals (more than 230 pounds) tend to experience the most support on mattresses that are ‘Medium Firm’ or ‘Firm’; softer mattresses tend to sink too deeply.

    Likewise, lighter individuals (less than 130 pounds) typically prefer ‘Soft,’ ‘Medium Soft,’ or ‘Medium’ mattresses because they conform more closely; firmer mattresses may not sink deeply enough, depriving the sleeper of close conforming and targeted pain relief.

    Preferred sleep position is also important for determining the proper firmness. The back sleeping position naturally aligns the spine; those who sleep on their backs require a mattress that will provide even, level support, particularly in areas where their weight is concentrated. A mattress with zoned support system, like The WinkBed, with a mid-level firmness settings can be ideal for these sleepers.

    Other sleep positions do not align the spine. Side sleeping puts most of the body’s weight on the shoulders, which can increase pressure in the head and neck, as well as the hips. These sleepers benefit from softer mattresses which can counteract this effect, allowing the shoulders and hips to sink deeper than other areas of the body, reducing pressure and promoting spinal alignment.

    Stomach sleepers are also at risk of spinal misalignment. Stomach sleeping often results in sagging at the sleeper’s midsection, where most of their weight is usually concentrated, and this causes the spine to dip. A ‘Firm’ or ‘Very Firm’ mattress is best for stomach sleepers, as it prevents sagging and enables them to lie flat on the mattress surface.

    The table below lists the optimal firmness for each weight group and sleep position, based on mattress owner feedback. Please note that these ratings are subjective; the best way to determine the proper mattress firmness for you is to try out different designs and models.

Weight Group Back Sleeping Side Sleeping Stomach Sleeping
Less than 130 lbs Medium Soft to Medium Soft to Medium Soft Medium Soft to Medium
130 to 230 lbs Medium Soft to Medium Firm Medium Soft to Medium Medium to Medium Firm
More than 230 lbs Medium Firm to Firm Medium to Medium Firm Medium Firm to Firm

Some mattress models are available in multiple firmness options to accommodate sleepers with different preferences. Additionally, dual-firmness designs are ideal for couples with different preferences, and flippable designs, as seen with the Layla Mattress, allow owners to adjust the firmness by simply rotating the sleep surface.

  • Durability

    The average mattress, regardless of design, will perform for six to seven years. Some mattress types, such as innersprings and polyfoam models, are associated with shorter lifespans, and may begin to sag and feel uncomfortable after as little as two to three years.

    Other types, such as latex or airbed models, may perform without issue for more than eight years. Airbeds are somewhat durable, but they are prone to breakdowns and malfunctions. Regardless of the mattress type, owners should plan to replace their mattress every seven to eight years, if not sooner.

    Understanding mattress durability is important to evaluating a mattress warranty. Some more expensive mattress models come with warranties that span 20 years or longer, and often tout this extended coverage as a selling point. However, a 10-year warranty will be sufficient for the vast majority of mattresses sold today.

  • Temperature Neutrality

    Many individuals naturally sleep hot, and some medications for seniors have side effects that can affect sleep temperature. A mattress that is temperature-neutral is neither too warm nor too cold, and will provide a comfortable surface for sleepers throughout the night.

    Mattresses with thick foam layers tend to sleep the warmest because solid foam absorbs and traps body heat. Mattresses may feature foam layers infused with cooling gels, but some owners claim these models sleep just as warm as those that do not contain gels. All of the foam mattresses we recommend for seniors include gel-infused foams to neutralize the mattress surface temperature, and sleep cooler than comparable all-foam beds as a result.

    However, seniors most concerned with temperature neutrality, including hot sleepers and women going through menopause, will enjoy a cooler night’s sleep with an innerspring or hybrid model. These mattresses feature coil layers in their support core, so they have better air circulation and sleep cooler.

    Of our picks, this includes the Saatva innerspring mattress (our Best Mattress for Average Weight Seniors), and the hybrid mattresses The WinkBed (our Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors) and Bear Hybrid (our Best Mattress for Heavy Weight Seniors).

  • Noise

    Squeaks and creaks from mattresses are a major source of nighttime sleep disruptions, particularly from people who share their bed with another person. Noise can occur whenever someone shifts positions, or gets out of bed. Seniors who share their bed with a partner who is prone to using the restroom during the night may benefit from a quieter mattress model.

    Innersprings and hybrids tend to be the loudest mattresses due to their steel components, and airbeds with electrical systems also tend to produce a fair amount of noise. Foam and latex mattresses, by comparison, are virtually silent when bearing weight.

  • Motion Isolation

    Like noise, motion transfer can cause nighttime sleep disruptions for couples. Motion transfer may occur when someone shifts positions, or gets out of or into bed. Mattresses that isolate motion will absorb the transfer and prevent it from spreading to other areas of the sleep surface. This can significantly decrease sleep disruptions.

    Foam mattresses tend to offer the best motion isolation, due to their all-foam construction. Hybrid and innerspring models, so long as they have thick comfort layers, can also minimize motion transfer to a significant extent.

  • Odor Potential

    Mattresses usually emit some light smells when they are new. These odors are known as ‘off-gassing.’ In most cases, these smells will dissipate after a couple of days, particularly in well-ventilated rooms.

    However, some mattress models — memory foam in particular — are associated with unpleasant, long-lasting odors that never fully go away. These models can cause sleep issues for people who are overly sensitive to bad smells.

  • Edge Support

    Mattresses may develop sinkage along the perimeter where people sit when they are getting into and out of bed. Over time, this sinkage can affect the shape of the sleep surface and undermine its supportive qualities. This can become an issue if a senior is prone to using the edges of the bed for support when getting into or out of bed, or if they tend to lie close to the edges when sleeping.

    Fortunately, some mattresses are reinforced along the edges to help reduce sinkage and maintain a flat, even surface. Seniors looking for strong edge support can find it with a hybrid or innerspring model, and may want to avoid all-foam models.

  • Ease of Movement

    Seniors who experience chronic pain may roll over in bed or adjust their sleep position throughout the night in order to stay comfortable. Some mattresses offer little resistance and are much easier to move on as a result, while those that sink deeply may disrupt position changes and cause discomfort.

  • Price

    A new mattress will be a major investment for most people. Shoppers should expect to pay at least $600 for a Queen-size memory foam or innerspring mattress, and price-points for other mattress types — such as latex and hybrid models — are more than double that amount.

    Mattress budget will vary by household, but many seniors live on a fixed income that may prevent them from purchasing a high-end mattress model. However, shoppers should note that the price-point of a mattress does not necessarily correlate to quality. Most people will be able to find a mattress of any type that meets their physical needs and preferences for $1,500 or less — in some cases, much less.

The Best Types of Mattresses for Seniors

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when buying a new mattress as a senior. Different mattress types will offer these qualities to varying extents, so it’s important to know what matters most to you.

The table below rates each of the five most common mattress types based on the criteria listed above. For more information on these mattress types, keep reading. We review each mattress type in detail below, with special attention to their suitability for senior sleepers.

Mattress Type Innerspring Foam Latex Hybrid Airbed
Construction Foam comfort layers
Steel coils in the support core
Polyfoam and/or memory foam layers in the comfort layer
Polyfoam layer(s) in the support core
Latex layer(s) in the comfort layer
Latex or polyfoam layers in the support core
At least 2″ of memory foam or latex in the comfort layer, as well as other components (such as polyfoam or minicoils)
Pocketed coils in the support core
Foam comfort layers or no comfort layer
Individualized adjustable air chambers in the support core
Support Fair to Good Fair to Good Good to Very Good Good to Very Good Good to Very Good
Conforming Poor to Fair Good to Very Good Fair to Good Fair to Good Fair to Good
Pain/Pressure Relief Poor to Fair Good to Very Good Good to Very Good Fair to Good Fair to Good
Durability Poor to Fair Fair to Good Good to Very Good Fair to Good Poor to Fair
Temperature Neutrality Good to Very Good Poor to Fair Fair to Good Good to Very Good Fair to Good
Noise Poor to Fair Good to Very Good Good to Very Good Fair to Good Poor to Fair
Motion Isolation Poor to Fair Good to Very Good Good to Very Good Fair to Good Fair to Good
Odor Potential Good to Very Good Poor to Fair Fair to Good Fair to Good Fair to Good
Edge Support Good to Very Good Poor to Fair Poor to Fair Good to Very Good Fair to Good
Ease of Movement Good to Very Good Poor to Fair Fair to Good Fair to Good Good to Very Good
Average Price (Queen) $700 to $1,1000 $700 to $1,200 $1,500 to $2,000 $1,400 to $1,800 More than $2,000

Best Innerspring Beds for Seniors

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Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses describe a very popular mattress model. These beds feature a uniform grid of innerspring coils in their support core, with comfort layers of foam on top.

Innerspring mattresses can be a good choice for seniors whose chief concern is temperature neutrality. Because these mattresses feature a coil-based support system, they have excellent airflow through the bulk of the mattress, and sleep very cool.

Innerspring mattresses offer good support, as well, but their conforming ability is fair at best, due to the uniform nature of the innerspring grid. As a result, these mattresses may not be the best option for seniors in need of serious pressure relief.

Best Foam Beds for Seniors

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Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses offer the opposite feel of innerspring beds, with their characteristic, pressure-relieving “hug.” Made entirely of foam, these beds provide superior pressure relief and offer high levels of conforming, making them a good fit for seniors with chronic pain, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.

However, the conforming of a foam mattress often comes at the cost of temperature neutrality. These beds conform closely to the sleeper’s body, and can trap their body heat in the process. This heat-trapping effect can be alleviated somewhat by the use of gels, graphite, and other cooling materials in the comfort layers.

Even so, seniors who tend to run hot or experience nocturnal hot flashes may find a cooler mattress type, like innersprings or hybrids, more comfortable.

Best Hybrid Beds for Seniors

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Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses combine the best features of innerspring and foam beds. These beds feature a coil-based support layer, with thick layers of memory foam, polyfoam, or latex foams on top. Additionally, the coil layer is surrounded by a perimeter of polyfoam, so these beds provide excellent edge support.

Instead of a uniform innerspring grid, hybrid mattresses use individually wrapped pocket coils. This significantly reduces the noise potential associated with coil-based support systems, while maintaining good airflow and enhancing the bed’s overall contouring abilities. Since the comfort layers are much thicker than on an innerspring bed, hybrid mattresses also offer improved conforming and pressure relief.

Due to their design, hybrid mattresses can be an ideal choice for seniors seeking pain and pressure relief, but without the heat potential of an all-foam bed. These mattresses do tend to run on the expensive side, though, thanks to their thicker construction.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses are made from latex foams. Typically, they’ll feature denser latex or polyfoam in the support layers, with softer latex in the comfort layers.

Latex mattresses are extremely durable, especially if they contain a higher ratio of organic latex foams. Latex beds made entirely of organic latex, known as “all-latex” models, also sleep very cool.

However, latex beds have a distinct feel that takes some getting used to, with minimal levels of conforming. More pertinent to seniors, though, is their high price tag. Latex mattresses tend to be one of the most expensive mattress types available, so they’re a less feasible option for seniors on a fixed income or with a limited budget.

Airbeds

Airbeds use air for their support system, with individual chambers that can be adjusted at any time by the sleeper using a hand crank or remote control.

The standout feature of airbeds is this customization. Sleepers can adjust the firmness of the bed, whenever they want, to their exact preference. This makes them a popular choice among sleepers with fluctuating firmness preferences, which can describe seniors undergoing physical rehabilitation or recovery from medical treatment.

Outside of that use case, however, airbeds are a less popular mattress option. They are very expensive, and they offer minimal levels of conforming, due to having very thin comfort layers (or none at all).

Now that we’ve discussed the most important mattress qualities for seniors, let’s look at some questions to keep in mind when evaluating and comparing different brands and models.

Mattress Shopping FAQ for Seniors

  • How Does a Senior’s Medical History Affect Mattress Selection?

    If a senior lives with arthritis or fibromyalgia, then they require a mattress that conforms closely and alleviates aches and pains. If he or she experiences conditions that cause frequent nighttime urination, then a mattress that produces little noise and isolates motion transfer may be the most suitable option.

    Shoppers should take their entire medical history into consideration when selecting a mattress in order to find one that accommodates their various needs and preferences.

  • Does the Mattress Offer Financing Options?

    Many seniors are on a fixed budget. Rather than covering the entire cost up-front, most mattress brands allow purchasers to follow a payment plan, which involves paying off the mattress in monthly installments.

    Another way to save money on your mattress purchase is by buying during a sale. Many mattresses go on sale during Presidents Day, the Fourth of July, Veterans Day, and Black Friday.

    Finally, some mattress companies offer veterans discounts, including the makers of the Saatva and Bear Hybrid mattresses, our top picks for seniors of average weight and heavier. Typically, shoppers will need to provide verification of their military service to the company’s customer service team, which will then provide them with a promo code to use at checkout.

  • How Does the Sleep Trial Work?

    Most mattress brands and retailers allow customers to test out a new mattress by participating in a sleep trial, which may last anywhere from 30 to 365 nights. If the buyer is not satisfied with the mattress by the end of the sleep trial, they may return their mattress for a full refund or, in some cases, exchange it for a model with a different size or firmness.

    A sleep trial can be highly beneficial for any mattress shopper who is unsure about which models and mattress types will best meet their needs. All of the best mattresses for seniors we’ve reviewed offer sleep trials of 100 nights or longer.

  • What’s Covered by the Mattress Warranty?

    Most mattress warranties span 10 years in length, and guarantee that the mattress manufacturer will repair or replace any defective mattress as long as the warranty is valid. Mattress warranties typically list sagging as a potential defect, and will define sagging using minimum depth requirements. Some warranties cover sagging that measures as little as a half-inch (1/2″), while others will not cover sagging that measures less than one and a half inches (1 1/2″).

    An important consideration with mattress warranties is the coverage type:

    • Nonprorated coverage means that the manufacturer will cover all mattress repair and replacement costs, with the possible exception of shipping and handling charges.
    • Prorated coverage means that the manufacturer will charge owners a certain percentage of the original mattress price if a replacement is needed. Prorated charges typically increase for each year of ownership. For instance, a 20-year mattress warranty may charge a 50% replacement cost after 10 years of ownership, 55% after 11 years, and so on until the warranty coverage period has ended.

    Most 10-year warranties are entirely nonprorated. Those that extend 15 years or longer are often nonprorated for 10 years, and prorated for the remainder of the coverage period. However, some mattress warranties offer as little as two to three years of nonprorated coverage, and will prorate the rest. Mattress warranties that are primarily prorated can lead to significant expenses for owners.

Pillows & Sleep Accessories for Seniors

In addition to their mattress selection, seniors can optimize the condition of their sleep surface by choosing the right pillows and toppers, as well as utilizing an adjustable bed.

Pillows

As with mattresses, support is an important consideration when shopping for new pillows as a senior. The best pillows provide adequate support to the sleeper’s head, neck, and shoulders, but pillows that are too thick or too thin can cause discomfort and pressure buildup.

Pillow ‘loft,’ or thickness, can be used to determine the best pillow size. ‘High-loft pillows’ are five inches (5″) thicker, and ‘low-loft’ pillows are three inches (3″) or thinner. Factors that affect loft choice include:

  • Head size: Seniors with heads that are larger than average usually prefer high-loft pillows because they provide more support. People with smaller than average heads tend to feel most comfortable on low-loft pillows.
  • Body weight: Generally speaking, people who weigh more require less loft. They typically prefer thinner pillows, while those who weigh less may feel more comfortable on thicker, higher-loft pillows.
  • Shoulder span: Seniors with broader shoulders often require high-loft pillows to feel sufficiently supported, while people with narrower shoulders usually feel more comfortable on low-loft pillows.
  • Mattress firmness: Softer mattresses usually pair best with low-loft pillows because the pillow creates less space between the sleeper’s body and the mattress surface. Alternatively, high-loft pillows may be most suitable for firmer mattresses because the sleeper will not sink as deeply into the mattress surface.

The table below features a detailed breakdown for choosing the best pillow loft.

Loft Thickness Optimal Head Size Optimal Weight Optimal Shoulder Width Optimal Mattress Firmness
Low Less than 3″ Small More than 230 lbs. Narrow Soft to Medium Soft
Medium 3″ to 5″ Average 130 to 230 lbs. Average Medium
High More than 5″ Large Less than 130 lbs. Broad Medium Firm to Firm

Another key consideration is the composition of the pillow. Certain pillow materials — such as buckwheat, latex, and memory foam — provide above-average support for sleepers and are fairly durable, but these models can be fairly expensive. Cheaper pillow types, such as down alternative and polyester, do not provide the same levels of support and tend to degrade quickly.

For more information, please check out our Best Pillows — Buying Guide and Information page.

Mattress Toppers

A mattress ‘topper’ is an individual layer of cushioning that can be placed on top of the mattress to adjust the firmness and comfort levels, and also optimize the supportiveness of the sleep surface. Most toppers make the mattress feel less firm, but some models can increase the firmness for softer sleep surfaces. Toppers may rest freely on the top surface or feature elastic corners that can be tucked over the mattress like a fitted sheet.

Mattress toppers can be a good choice for seniors who have different firmness preferences than their partner, as toppers can be sized to fit for one side of the bed. They’re also helpful solutions when a senior experiences a temporary change in their firmness preferences, such as from illness or treatment, but doesn’t want to purchase a whole new mattress.

Topper composition is usually the most important factor. Topper materials like latex, memory foam, and wool tend to be the most popular options because they perform for several years, maintain a full shape, and produce very little noise, but they are also the most expensive options.

Other topper materials, such as feathers and polyester, are available at a lower price — but these toppers are not as durable, tend to develop lumps, and can be loud.

For more information about mattress toppers, please visit our Best Mattress Toppers guide.

Adjustable Beds

Adjustable beds are a popular bedding accessory for seniors because they allow sleepers to customize the angle of the bed. In addition to a flat, standard sleep surface, adjustable beds can be raised or lowered at the head; some models allow users to raise or lower the feet, as well. Most adjustable beds today can be adjusted using remote controls or wireless apps, but some models feature manual controls.

The customizable firmness and support functions of adjustable beds can be quite beneficial for seniors with medical conditions that cause aches and pains, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, and restless legs syndrome.

Some models also come with ‘anti-snore presets,’ which elevate the area beneath the head; this can aid people with sleep apnea and others who are more prone to snoring. And because most adjustable beds support between 600 and 800 pounds of weight, they are considered suitable for most couples.

In addition to angle adjustment, today’s adjustable beds perform other functions as well. These may include:

  • Customizable height
  • Dual firmness adjustment (for couples)
  • Built-in massage
  • Silent, vibrating alarm
  • Lighting

Most adjustable beds cost between $1,000 and $3,000, but this investment can pay off substantially for seniors with chronic pain and pressure. For more information, please visit our Adjustable Bed Reviews page.

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