How to choose the right mattress for quality sleep as you age

October 25, 202310 min read

Jane Marie

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How to choose the right mattress for quality sleep as you age

How to Choose the Right Mattress for Quality Sleep as You Age

As we get older, our bodies and sleep needs change. Choosing the right mattress is crucial for getting quality, restorative sleep as you age. Here’s a helpful guide on what to look for when mattress shopping as a senior.

Key Factors to Consider

There are a few key factors to keep in mind when choosing a mattress in your golden years:

1. Support

Proper spinal alignment and support for your head, neck, shoulders, hips, and back are essential. Look for a mattress with reinforced edges that won’t compress too much when you sit on the bed, along with robust lumbar support. Memory foam, latex, or hybrid mattresses often provide exceptional support.

2. Pressure Relief

Aging bodies need ample cushioning and contouring to alleviate pressure points. Softer memory foams that mold to your body’s curves can help reduce discomfort in the shoulders, hips, and back.

3. Firmness Level

Medium to medium-firm mattresses are usually best for seniors. Softer mattresses provide more contouring, while firmer options offer enhanced support. The right firmness depends on your weight, sleep position, and health conditions.

4. Motion Isolation

If you sleep with a partner, choose a mattress that absorbs movement so you won’t disturb each other getting in and out of bed or tossing and turning. Memory foam excels at motion isolation.

5. Temperature Regulation

As we age, our bodies tend to sleep hotter. Look for cooling gels, phase change materials, airflow layers, and other technologies that help regulate temperature.

6. Ease of Movement

Mattresses that are too soft can make moving around difficult. Beds with firmer foams or innerspring coils allow you to switch positions easily.

7. Health Conditions

Those with arthritis, back pain, and other conditions may need specialized features for pain and pressure relief. Adjustable air beds can also aid certain health issues.

8. Adjustable Base Compatibility

If using an adjustable bed frame, make sure your mattress is flexible and works well at various inclines. Not all beds pair well with adjustments.

9. Trial Period

Buy from a company that offers at least a 90-night sleep trial so you can evaluate if the mattress is right for you. Returns should be free and convenient.

10. Warranty

Look for at least a 10-year warranty. Many companies offer “lifetime” warranties against defects. Non-prorated policies with full replacements are ideal.

Types of Mattresses

There are five main mattress types, each with their own pros and cons for seniors:

Memory Foam

Memory foam conforms closely to relieve pressure points but may retain heat. The dense foam also reduces motion transfer but can inhibit mobility.

Latex

Natural latex contours like memory foam but sleeps cooler. It’s responsive and bouncy for easier movement. Latex is naturally antimicrobial and dust-mite resistant.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses contain steel coils that provide bounce, breathability, and edge support. However, they may not alleviate pressure points as well as other mattress types.

Hybrid

Hybrids combine coils and foam or latex. This allows for pressure relief, breathability, bounce, edge support, and ease of movement. They are often heavy and expensive.

Adjustable Air Beds

Adjustable air beds use air chambers to modify firmness and elevation. They work well for certain health conditions but may be prone to air leaks.

Top Mattress Picks for Seniors

Based on extensive product research and testing, here are my top mattress recommendations for seniors:

Best Overall: Helix Midnight Luxe

The Helix Midnight Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid mattress with a pillow top for plushness. It strikes the perfect balance of comfort, support, and pressure relief. The coil base reinforces the edges and provides airflow while the foam comfort layers cushion pressure points.[Image of Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress]

Best Value: Nectar

For an affordable yet high-quality mattress, the all-foam Nectar is an excellent choice. It provides close contouring for pressure relief and isolates motion well. The medium firm feel suits most sleep positions and body types.[Image of Nectar Mattress]

Best for Back Pain: Saatva Classic

With its responsive coil-on-coil design and lumbar zone, the Saatva Classic excels at keeping the spine aligned. It’s available in three firmness levels and pairs well with adjustable bases. The durable construction ensures many years of support.[Image of Saatva Classic Mattress]

Best Cooling: Purple Hybrid Premier

The Purple Hybrid Premier sleeps incredibly cool thanks to its hyper-elastic polymer grid that allows airflow. The grid also provides pressure relief while the coil base reinforces edges and prevents sinking.[Image of Purple Hybrid Premier Mattress]

Best Adjustable: Sleep Number 360 i8

Fully customizable, the Sleep Number 360 i8 lets you fine-tune each side’s firmness, elevation, and more. The air chambers deliver tailored spinal alignment. It works flawlessly with Sleep Number’s adjustable bases.[Image of Sleep Number 360 i8 Mattress]

Best Eco-Friendly: Avocado Green

Made from natural and organic materials like latex, wool, and cotton, the Avocado Green Mattress is a sustainable choice. It’s breathable, antimicrobial, and available in plush or firm options.[Image of Avocado Green Mattress]

Best for Side Sleepers: Layla

With a medium soft feel and copper-infused foam that contours closely, the Layla cradles side sleepers’ curves to align the spine and alleviate pressure. It’s flippable with a firm side for versatility.[Image of Layla Mattress]

Best Luxury: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-breeze°

The TEMPUR-Breeze° uses pure TEMPUR material and a cooling cover to absorb heat. The conforming memory foam reduces motion transfer and pain points. It’s pricey but unparalleled for comfort.[Image of Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-breeze° Mattress]

Mattress Buying Tips for Seniors

Follow these handy tips when shopping for the perfect mattress in your golden years:

Try out mattresses in person at showrooms. Ask about comfort exchanges in case the initial feel changes at home.
If buying online, choose companies with free shipping, returns, and sleep trials of at least 90 nights.
Read mattress reviews and compare ratings on support, pressure relief, motion isolation, durability, and more.
Ask your doctor for specific recommendations based on your health conditions and sleep issues. Bring your prescription to stores.
Consider an adjustable base or mattress for customizable comfort and health benefits. Make sure they are compatible.
Choose a mattress with at least a 10-year warranty and a brand that has been time-tested. Many offer “lifetime” coverage.
Opt for the proper size mattress for your needs. Full or queen sizes often suffice for single seniors. Split king beds accommodate couples.
Don’t underestimate the importance of pillows, mattress toppers, and bedding. These accessories impact overall comfort.
Disinfect and protect your mattress with a waterproof cover. Allergies and incontinence are concerns for some seniors.
Ask about white glove delivery, old mattress removal, and bed frame set-up if needed. DIY options are also available.

The Importance of Quality Sleep for Seniors

As we age, getting restorative sleep becomes crucial but often more challenging. The right mattress helps seniors sleep more soundly and wake up feeling refreshed. Quality sleep provides many benefits:

Improves focus, memory, and cognitive function
Boosts mood and emotional health
Allows the body to repair itself overnight
Reduces pain and stiffness
Strengthens the immune system
Lessens risk for serious medical conditions
Increases energy and engagement during the day

Prioritizing sufficient sleep and choosing a comfortable, supportive mattress suited for your needs is one of the best investments you can make for your overall health and well-being as a senior. Follow the guidance above to find your perfect match!