Best Mattress for Seniors in 2024

We receive free products to review and participate in affiliate programs, where we are compensated for items purchased through links from our site. See our disclosure page for more information.

When we reach retirement age, many of us will struggle with sleep issues such as insomnia, not to mention the physical health conditions that come with getting older. Luckily, finding the best mattress for seniors can make it easier for them to get healthy sleep. And while comfort is subjective and there’s never going to be a single best option for all elderly sleepers, there are beds that will work wonderfully for certain types of sleepers. We’ve considered more than 15 mattresses for this list, and below we’ve highlighted our picks for the eight best mattresses for seniors.

Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Seniors?

Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight as the best mattress for seniors due to its exceptional edge support (for ease of getting out of bed), cooling features, durability and comfort.

Best Mattresses for Seniors in 2024

Best Mattress for Seniors 2024: Video Review

Compare the Best Mattresses for Seniors

Helix Midnight Mattress WinkBed Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Titan Plus
Helix Midnight Mattress WinkBed Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Titan Plus
Rating
4.1
4.6
4.0
4.5
4.5
4.3
4.0
4.2
Firmness Medium-firm: 7/10 Multiple firmness options Firm: 7.5/10 Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Firm: 9/10
Material Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Innerspring Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling
Best For
Couples,
Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers,
Back Pain
Back Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers,
Seniors
Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers,
Hip Pain
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers,
Back Pain
Couples,
Back Sleepers,
Hip Pain
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers,
Back Pain

Our Testing Process

Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 600 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period and warranty. Our rigorous testing and reporting process has helped over 4,500 readers purchase the best mattress for their needs. For a more in-depth guide to the people and processes behind our mattress lab in Austin, TX, read our full testing methodology page.

brooklyn essential edge support
Testing edge support in our sleep lab

How We Choose the Best Mattresses for Seniors

When compiling a list of the best mattresses for the elderly, we focused specifically on certain factors, like responsiveness, pressure relief, and accessibility. All of these mattresses should be accessible to the elderly, but they range in design to offer more options. Here’s a bit more detail about some of those factors we zeroed in on, and what you can expect from the beds in this roundup:

Edge Support

People higher up in years may be more stuck in their routines, and if that routine includes sitting on the edge of your bed to tie your shoes, you’ll want a mattress with solid edge support. But that’s a fairly trivial factor compared to the added safety of a bed with robust edge support, minimizing your chances of actually careening off the edge, and making it easier to get in and out of bed — something pregnant people will also appreciate.

Pressure Relief

If you can feel the weather coming in your joints (something that may actually be backed by science), we’re willing to bet you’d like a bed with nice pressure relief. A bed with superior pressure relief ensures that you achy, sore joints don’t get too much pushback from the bed. Instead, you should feel cradled and cushioned. All of the beds in our roundup feature memory foam comfort layers, for added pressure relief, and we were sure to note however if a bed’s foam layers are more bouncy and firm, and less pressure relieving.

Pain Relief

On the topic of sore and achy joints, pressure relief is a good way to treat the symptom, however, other qualities in mattresses may even prevent pain entirely. The key quality to look for in a mattress is solid overall support, so that the spine stays aligned in its neutral S-curve. Our mattress testers found all of these beds to be above-average in terms of support, and noted when beds may not offer enough support for heavier weight sleepers.

Best Overall – Helix Midnight

Best Overall
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Helix
Helix Midnight
Medium-Firm Feel
Breathability
Motion Isolation
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The Helix Midnight is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$936-$1,748 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Brand Icon
Side Sleepers
Provides good pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Brand Icon 1
Back Sleepers
This mattress offers good support and body contouring for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Brand Icon 7
Couples
This bed absorbs motion well for a hybrid mattress, so couples shouldn’t notice their partner’s movements.
Pros of the Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight mattress is a fantastic choice for back and side sleepers. It’s a perfect medium-firm mattress that offers a lot of comfort from the foam at the top with supportive coils at the bottom.
This mattress shouldn’t trap too much heat thanks to the coils, which allow for airflow. You also have the option to add a specialized cooling cover.
Hybrid mattresses can be bouncy and disturb others who are in bed, but the Helix Midnight absorbs motion very well for this type of mattress.
Cons of the Helix Midnight Mattress
This mattress is too soft to support stomach sleepers. The hips will dip into this bed over time, which can cause strain on the lower back.
While this bed absorbs motion well, it’s still a hybrid. If you don’t want that bouncy, coil feeling to your mattress, you should look for an all-foam bed.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free shipping
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
100 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
10 years
Brand Icon 38
Returns
Free returns during the trial period

The Helix Midnight is Helix’s most popular model because of its medium-firmness and works well for back and side sleepers. The top layers of foam provide good pressure relief, but the coils offer a good amount of support. It won’t trap heat thanks to those coils, and you can even opt for a cooling cover. Be sure to watch our video review to learn more about the Helix Midnight.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: Helix Midnight

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.2
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Motion Transfer
4
Response
4.5
Durability
4.5
Trial Period
4
Warranty

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

What We Love About the Helix Midnight

  • Helix’s proprietary Memory Plus foam conforms to your body. Its slow-moving feel is a great fit for seniors in need of extra pain or pressure relief. 
  • Its reinforced individually-wrapped coils give the mattress excellent edge support, making it easy for seniors to get in and out of bed. We measured a 2.25″ drop on the bed’s edge under the weight of our heaviest tester (250 lbs), which is a solid measurement in comparison to a typical hybrid.
  • The mattress’s hybrid construction provides optimal comfort and support to back and side sleepers. You also get a nice amount of responsiveness (rated 4/5 by testers), making it easier to switch positions.
  • The bed has a highly cooling build, boasting a 4.5/5 cooling score from testers in recognition. Our heat gun test recorded a not-so-sizeable 3.4 degree F rise in temperature on the bed’s sleep surface after a tester rested there.

What to Keep in Mind About of the Helix Midnight

  • Its soft top comfort layer makes the Helix Midnight not the best match for stomach sleepers. We recommend opting for a slightly firmer mattress to support your hips and promote spinal alignment. 
  • During testing, we noticed a bit of creaking from the innerspring coils. However, it should not be loud enough to disrupt seniors from sleeping through the night. 

Other User Reviews

On the Helix website, the Helix Midnight mattress received over 6,300 reviews with an average rating of 4.5/5. Four and five-star customer reviews praised how the Helix Midnight was able to eliminate their back, hip and knee pain. Most users also found the bed to meet their expectations of medium firmness. A few reviews mentioned a chemical smell when first opening the box the mattress comes in, but this smell should dissipate after 48 hours.

Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses 2024 for more great options.

Best Mattress for Seniors with Back Pain – WinkBed

Best Mattress for Back Pain
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
WinkBeds
The WinkBed
Multiple Firmnesses
Zoned Support
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Holiday Sale
$300 off any mattress See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$1,149-$2,049 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Brand Icon
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Brand Icon 1
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Brand Icon 11
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
It has a bouncy, responsive feel. This is great for combination sleepers who benefit from a bed that makes it easy to change positions at night.
The WinkBed features zoned support. With firmer foam at the top and bottom and more cushioning foam in the middle, this bed has excellent lumbar support.
This bed sleeps cool. Thanks to the breathable coils and gel-infused memory foam, hot sleepers can expect a cool night’s rest.
Cons
This isn’t the best option for motion isolation.
The WinkBed doesn’t have a traditional “sink-in” memory foam feel.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free shipping
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
120 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Brand Icon 38
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.

The WinkBed is a versatile mattress that provides zoned support and cooling comfort for a fair price. This bed’s excellent responsiveness makes it a good fit for combination sleeper that want a bed that’s easy to move around on. For couples looking for motion isolation, though, this probably isn’t the best choice. Instead, check out the Nectar Premier Copper. Learn more in our video review.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: WinkBed

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Overall Rating
5
Support
5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
4.5
Response
3.5
Motion Transfer
4.5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

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

What We Love About the WinkBed

  • The WinkBed has a traditional innerspring feel. Innerspring mattresses are bouncy, responsive and easy to move around on. 
  • It comes with a breathable TENCEL™ cover that helps hot sleepers stay cool.
  • The Luxury Firm model delivers a balance of comfort and support for back sleepers. It does this because of the thin pillow top comfort layer and the zoned coils, which offer support for the lumbar area of your back. 

What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed

  • This bed is not supportive enough for sleepers who weigh over 300 lbs. These folks should opt for a firmer mattress to offer adequate pressure relief, or check out the WinkBed Plus, a bed designed for heavyweight sleepers. 
  • The WinkBed is not the best mattress for couples because of its poor motion isolation. During our testing, we noticed some motion disturbances that traveled from one side of the bed to the other. 

Other User Reviews

The WinkBed has an impressive 4.8/5 star rating from 8,419 reviews on the WinkBed website. Positive reviews agree that the Luxury Firm model is a very comfortable mattress that relieved user’s back pain from their first night of sleep. These reviews also mentioned how easy the mattress was to set up in their homes. A common complaint about the WinkBed was that the sleeper’s selected model was either too soft or too firm for their liking. Luckily, WinkBed offers free shipping and returns to ensure sleepers are satisfied with their mattresses. 

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 Cooling Mattress for Seniors – DreamCloud Original

Best Cooling Mattress
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original
Firm Feel
Responsive
Affordable
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Weekend Extended
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 7.5/10. This makes the mattress firmer than average.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$839-$2,178 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Brand Icon 1
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Brand Icon 7
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Brand Icon 11
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the DreamCloud
It is a good option for back sleepers. While it is a bit firmer than average, its balance of comfort and support will keep the spine in neutral alignment.
You shouldn’t be sleeping too hot on this mattress. The breathable cover, gel-infused foam, and airflow-promoting coils should prevent the mattress from trapping heat.
You should never feel stuck in this mattress. The DreamCloud is bouncy and responsive, so you will have no trouble moving around and changing positions.
The DreamCloud is a good value option. Hybrid mattresses can be quite pricey, but the DreamCloud is surprisingly affordable.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Side sleepers will want to find a softer mattress to give them the pressure relief they need.
Fans of the slow-moving memory foam feel won’t get that feeling on the DreamCloud.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free shipping
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
365 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Brand Icon 38
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.

The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress that offers great support for back sleepers and nice cooling for hot sleepers. Its mix of foam and coils ensures you get the right amount of support, while its breathable materials ensure you don’t sleep too hot. It is a bouncier mattress, and if you prefer more of a memory foam feel, consider the Nectar mattress. Learn more in our video review.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: DreamCloud Original

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
4
Cooling
3
Motion Isolation
4.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Our Expert’s Take

Falling asleep feeling clammy and trapped in heat can turn a night of sweet dreams into nightmares. The DreamCloud Original hybrid mattress specializes in producing a breathable and crisp sleeping surface to help keep you dry and help you fall asleep feeling cool. The hybrid construction uses individually wrapped coils to retain and stimulate airflow at the bed’s foundation combined with a breathable gel-infused memory foam and a cashmere-blend cover top that helps to disperse body heat while maintaining a sleep-friendly, cool surface.

Furthermore, back sleepers or people struggling with back pain who avoid all-foam beds due to their lack of support can appreciate Dreamcloud’s firm feel (7.5/10). This level of firmness has a reputation for helping to promote lumbar support and restorative sleep for your spine, while the bed’s foam components can help ease pressure on your back. However, heavier sleepers should note that our testers found this may not apply to heavier sleepers (230 lbs and up), who may experience posture-disrupting sinkage into the foam layers when resting.

Overall, our testers found the DreamCloud to stand out when testing its temperature-regulating capabilities, giving it a near-perfect 4/5 for its cooling features. And for those who love the feel of memory foam but are concerned about falling asleep feeling sweaty and uncomfortable, the DreamCloud could be an excellent option.

What the testers say:When I slept on the DreamCloud, I felt quite cool because the mattress features a few temperature-regulating materials. Overall, the DreamCloud is a good option for hot sleepers.Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the DreamCloud

  • The luxurious cashmere-blend top is super cozy and breathable.
  • DreamCloud offers a confident and generous 365-day free trial, with a full refund for unhappy customers who are not satisfied after the first year of use.
  • Dreamcloud’s design offers a quality combination of support and pressure relief for average-weight (under 230 lb) back sleepers and individuals struggling with back pain.

What to Keep in Mind About the DreamCloud

  • Our testers found the DreamCloud to slack a bit on edge support, which may make it a less desirable choice for people struggling to get in and out of bed.
  • Testers found that the DreamCloud had mediocre motion isolation, which may become an issue for couples who move around in their sleep.

Other User Reviews

DreamCloud has over 5000 customer reviews on its website, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5. Many reviews mentioned its superior temperature regulation, with one happy customer stating, “From the very first night, I knew I made the right mattress choice. I immediately slept hard all evening long. I wake in the morning without back aches or covered in sweat- and it’s summertime in FL, which is a different kind of heat!”.

Read our DreamCloud Original mattress review. Or for other options, check out our recommendations for the Best Cooling Mattresses.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution

Best Mattress for Side Sleeping Seniors
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Nolah
Nolah Evolution
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling
Motion Isolation
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The Nolah Evolution is a hybrid mattress, which means it has coils at the bottom and memory foam on top.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$1,499-$3,198 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Brand Icon 1
Back Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid offers great lumbar support for most back sleepers under 300 lb.
Brand Icon 11
Hot Sleepers
This bed has graphite-infused foam, which helps dissipate body heat. It also has coils that promote airflow.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
It has great cooling features, such as graphite-infused foam and airflow-promoting coils.
Even though it has coils, it isolates motion well. This makes it a great mattress for couples.
It’s available in three firmness levels, so it works for a variety of people.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
It lacks a slow-moving feel.
It’s not supportive enough for most people who weigh more than 300 lb.
Because it’s a luxurious mattress, it might be too pricey for some people.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free shipping
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
120 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Brand Icon 38
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.

The Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress is available in three firmness levels. The Luxury Firm model works well for many back and side sleepers. This mattress has many cooling features, and it isolates motion well. It’s not a great option for most people who weigh over 300 lb, though. If you fall in this category, you may need more lumbar support. Watch our Nolah Evolution mattress review video to learn more.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: Nolah Evolution

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
5
Cooling
4
Response
4
Motion Transfer
5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Our Expert’s Take

If you’re older, you may be more susceptible to aches and pains, so it’s important that you select a mattress firmness that best matches your sleeping style and body type to mitigate these issues. Thankfully, the Nolah Evolution provides seniors with options, as it comes in multiple firmnesses. 

We gave the Nolah Evolution on our durability test, which means it’s a great value purchase. If properly cared for, we estimate this mattress can last for upwards of ten years. Not only is this great bang for your buck, but it also means that you should experience less sagging on the Nolah Evolution, which is also good for mitigating aches and pains. 

What the testers say: “When combined with its bouncy eco support coils, the Nolah Evolution’s plush pillow top creates a balanced hybrid feel. It’s easy to move around on, and sleepers shouldn’t feel like they are sinking too far into the mattress. Because of these features, we named it one of the most comfortable mattresses.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Nolah Evolution

  • The Nolah Evolution has a high-quality construction that ensures good longevity. Earning a perfect score on our durability test, this mattress can last upwards of ten years if it is taken care of. 
  • We also gave the Nolah Evolution a perfect score on our cooling test. The layer of coils towards the bottom of the mattress help promote breathability, and a gusset at the top of the mattress allows heat to escape from the dense foam layers. 

What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Evolution

  • The perimeter of the Nolah Evolution isn’t as strong as we expected it to be. The edges sagged quite a bit under our weight, prompting us to give it an edge support score of 3.5 out of 5. If you rely on sturdy mattress edges to get in and out of bed you may want to find something with a stronger perimeter. We’d recommend the WinkBed.

Other User Reviews

This mattress has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5, based on 895 customer reviews on the Nolah website. The vast majority of users are overwhelmingly happy with the product, however, one reviewer said that his Nolah Evolution began to sag in the middle after only three months.   

Read our full Nolah Evolution mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers for more great options.

Best Hybrid Mattress for Seniors – Bear Elite Hybrid

Best Hybrid Mattress
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid
Medium-Firm Feel
Lifetime Warranty
Sturdy Edges
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$1,893-$3,920 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Brand Icon
Side Sleepers
Brand Icon 1
Back Sleepers
Brand Icon 11
Hot Sleepers
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
This mattress offers great value. It’s made with high-quality materials and backed by a lifetime warranty, but available at a relatively affordable price point.
It comes with excellent edge support. The Bear Elite Hybrid’s sturdy perimeter is helpful if you need a stable surface to get in and out of bed.
The bed’s cover and foam layers contain cooling materials to help regulate your body temperature. Its coil layer also promotes plenty of airflow to keep you cool.
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Doesn’t do the best job of isolating motion.
Likely not supportive enough for sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free shipping
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
120 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Brand Icon 38
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.

The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear’s most high-end mattress. It offers luxury features, like zoned support and extra height, while still offering the temperature regulation Bear mattresses are known for. Based on our testing results, we’d recommend this mattress to average-weight side and back sleepers, as well as hot sleepers. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, check out the Bear Star Hybrid. Learn more in our video review.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: Bear Elite Hybrid

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Overall Rating
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
3.5
Motion Transfer
4
Response
4.5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Our Expert’s Take

The Bear Elite Hybrid is a durable, well-constructed hybrid mattress that provides good support and pressure relief. We tested the Medium version of the mattress, which is wonderful for back sleepers, but it’s also available in Soft and Firm versions. 

Seniors who rely on the perimeter of the mattress to support themselves, or even those who sleep towards the edge of the bed, will appreciate the edge support of the Bear Elite Hybrid. We scored it a 4.5 out of 5, as it barely sagged under our weight when we sat and rested on the edges of the mattress. 

What the testers say: “The Bear Elite Hybrid mattress has a zoned support system, which means it feels firmer toward the center and softer near the head and foot. I really noticed the supportive middle section whenever I rested on my back. The mattress supported my spine, but I still felt a good amount of pressure relief along my hips.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Bear Elite Hybrid

  • The cover of the Bear Elite Hybrid is made with something called phase change material, which, put simply, draws excess heat away from your body so you can sleep more comfortably at night. It may sound like a gimmick, but when we tested this mattress it actually felt cool to the touch.
  • The Bear Elite Hybrid is available in three different firmnesses: Soft, Medium, and Firm. We tested the Medium version of the Bear Elite Hybrid, which we highly recommend for back sleepers, most side sleepers, and all people under 130 lbs. 

What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid

  • One of the most important things for couples to consider when shopping for a mattress is motion isolation. If a mattress has poor motion isolation then you’ll likely feel all of your partner’s movements on your side of the bed, which can be an issue for light sleepers. Unfortunately, the Bear Elite Hybrid is one such mattress with poor motion isolation. If you sleep with a partner, we’d recommend the Nectar instead. 

Other User Reviews

The Bear Elite Hybrid has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on 3,734 reviews from the company website. Many happy customers praised the mattress for helping alleviate pain. Of the negative reviews, many of them revolve around the Bear Elite Hybrid sagging after some time. 

Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Hybrid Mattresses for more great options.

Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors – Saatva

Best Luxury Mattress
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Multiplem Firmnesses
Durable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$1,295-$2,790 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Brand Icon 2
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Brand Icon 1
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 300 lbs.
Brand Icon 11
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The Saatva mattress is a great option for combination sleepers. It is available in multiple firmness options, but the Luxury Firm model works well for multiple sleeping positions.
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva will work well for most back sleepers. Its balance of comfort and support and zoned construction ensure you’ll sleep in good neutral alignment.
Shoppers looking for a long-lasting mattress will love the Saatva. It feature high-density foam and durable coils that should ensure it lasts for over 10 years.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, you’re not going to love the feel of the Saatva.
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the best pressure relief, even on the softest Saatva model.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
365 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Brand Icon 38
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.

The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: Saatva

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall rating
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
3
Motion Transfer
4.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Our Expert’s Take

If you’re after a hotel-quality mattress that will provide comfort and support for years to come then we recommend you consider the Saatva mattress. The materials used in the Saatva are impressive—organic cotton, high-density foam, and high-grade coils come together to create a product that is truly luxurious. 

Seniors should appreciate the responsiveness of the Saatva, as it will make it easier for them to move around on the mattress and get in and out of bed. Plus, the free white glove delivery means that a worker will not only drop off your mattress, but also set it up for you and remove your old mattress. 

What the testers say: “When back sleeping on the Saatva mattress, I experienced an excellent balance of comfort and support. My hips sank into the pillow top the perfect amount, and I felt plenty of lumbar support from the coil layers. Because of this, it’s one of the best mattresses for lower back pain and sciatica.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Saatva

  • Purchase of the Saatva comes with a generous lifetime warranty. 
  • We gave the Saatva a 4.5 out of 5 on our cooling test. The hybrid construction helps keep warm air from becoming trapped in the foam layers.
  • This mattress is very supportive. Even our heavyweight tester felt great testing the Saatva, as it didn’t sag under his weight. 

What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva

  • This might not be the best option for couples. We gave it a 3 out of 5 on our motion isolation test, as when we laid on the mattress, we could very easily feel one another’s small movements. If you’re a light sleeper and are worried about your partner waking you up, we recommend the Nectar

Other User Reviews

The Saatva has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 3,363 reviews on the company website. Over 3,000 of those reviews gave the mattress a perfect score, and customers seem happy with how the Saatva has helped alleviate pain. There are some unhappy customers, however, who were disappointed with the service that Saatva provided.

Read our full Saatva mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Luxury Mattresses for more great options.

Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Best Affordable Mattress
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Multiple Firmnesses
Affordable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
120-night trial period
Free shipping
Use code GIFT25 for 25% off sitewide See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$665-$1,599 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, king, short king, Olympic queen, California king, split California king, RV king
Brand Icon 1
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Brand Icon 7
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a budget-friendly mattress. It’s a good fit for shoppers looking for an affordable, versatile bed.
Combination sleepers will find it easy to change positions on this bed. Thanks to its bouncy coil construction, the Signature offers a very responsive surface.
Back and side sleepers under 230 lbs can expect great pressure relief and support on this bed.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
This bed doesn’t provide much motion isolation.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature isn’t a luxury mattress.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free shipping
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
120 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
10-year warranty
Brand Icon 38
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is an affordable, no-frills bed with a medium-firm feel that should work for a wide variety of sleepers. While it’s made with durable materials and should last up to 10 years, it isn’t the most luxurious option. If you’re looking for a premium bed, check out the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. Learn more in our video review.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.1
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Cooling
4
Edge Support
3
Motion Transfer
4.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
4
Warranty

Our Expert’s Take

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a reliable mattress that performs well pretty much across the board. However, we think the biggest selling point for the Signature Hybrid is its price. Costing under $1,500 for a queen—and often under $1,000 after sales—this mattress provides great bang for your buck. 

We awarded the Signature Hybrid a 4 out of 5 on many of our tests, including cooling, edge support, durability, and support. Clearly it has a lot going for it. Plus, the multiple firmness options allow you to pick the version of the mattress that best accommodates your preferences. 

What the testers say: “The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress is a great budget-friendly option for many back and side sleepers. It has a responsive feel, making it easy to move around on top of the bed. It’s also available in three firmness levels, so it should work for a variety of sleepers.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Signature Hybrid

  • The Signature Hybrid is one of several mattresses on this list that comes in multiple firmnesses. Our recommendation is that side sleepers choose the Soft version. The Medium version will likely work best for back sleepers, lightweight and average-weight people. For stomach sleepers and heavyweight people, we suggest the Firm version. 
  • For an affordable mattress, the Signature Hybrid performs quite well in many fields. Cooling is one area where we were especially impressed with the mattress. The hybrid construction makes it breathable, and the quilted top layer helps wick away moisture. 

What to Keep in Mind About the Signature Hybrid

  • One of the tradeoffs with purchasing an affordable mattress is that you likely won’t get the same bells and whistles that you will with a luxury mattress. By bells and whistles, we mean things like a reinforced perimeter, cooling infusions, or a pillow top. If you’re interested in higher end features like these consider a mattress like the Saatva.

Other User Reviews

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on 10,879 reviews on the company website. Over 8,000 customers gave the mattress a perfect 5 out of 5, and only ten customers gave it a 1 out of 5. A couple of those negative reviews claim that the mattress caused aches and pains. 

Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Affordable Mattresses for more great options.

Best Mattress for Heavier Seniors – Titan Plus

Best Mattress for Heavy People
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Brooklyn Bedding
Titan Plus
Firm Feel
Supportive
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Use code GIFT25 for 25% off sitewide See Details
Brand Icon 31
Material
The Titan Plus is a hybrid mattress. This means it has coils at the bottom and foam on top.
Brand Icon 14
Firmness
The Titan Plus mattress is very firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 9/10.
Brand Icon 42
Price
$699-$1,499 (before any discounts)
Brand Icon 13
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Brand Icon 10
Heavyweight sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Brand Icon 2
Stomach Sleepers
It offers lots of hip support, which can help stomach sleepers maintain the correct spinal alignment.
Brand Icon 7
Couples
This mattress has good edge support and motion isolation.
Pros of the Titan Plus
It works well for people who weigh 230 – 500 lb, thanks to its supportive feel.
This mattress has great edge support.
The Titan Plus mattress is breathable and cool, so it works well for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Titan Plus
Lightweight people likely won’t get enough pressure relief on this mattress.
It’s too firm for many side sleepers, who will likely need more cushioning along their shoulders and hips.
Brand Icon 39
Shipping
Free shipping
Brand Icon 40
Trial Period
120 nights
Brand Icon 41
Warranty
10-year warranty
Brand Icon 38
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.

The Titan Plus mattress works well for many heavyweight back and stomach sleepers. It’s quite firm, coming in at 9/10 on our firmness scale. This means that many side sleepers won’t get the pressure relief they need along their shoulders and hips. Watch our Titan Plus mattress review video to learn more.

Mattress Clarity Test Results: Titan Plus

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.2
Overall Rating
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
3
Motion Transfer
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
4
Warranty

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 lbs 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

What We Love About the Titan Plus

  • As a mattress designed for heavyweight sleepers, it is designed with heavy-duty coils and highly durable memory foam layers. This mattress can support up to 1,000 lbs.
  • Heavyweight sleepers will receive support and pressure relief to promote spinal alignment. 
  • Its construction promotes airflow throughout the mattress to prevent hot sleeping. Brooklyn Bedding also offers an optional cooling cover to aid hot sleepers. 

What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus

  • There is not much “give” in this mattress. It does not have a bouncy feel or offer much body contouring. 
  • Lightweight and average weight sleepers will certainly find this bed too firm. This is one of the most firm mattresses we have ever reviewed. We found it to be a 9 out of 10 on our firmness scale. 

Other User Reviews

The Titan Plus mattress earned a 4.7/5 star rating from 2,473 reviews on the Brooklyn Bedding website. Several positive reviews mention how durable and sturdy the Titan Plus mattress is. Reviews from heavier sleepers rave how supportive and comfortable they sleep on their new mattress. A few reviewers thought the mattress was too firm to sleep comfortably on. 

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.

Why Seniors Need a Great Mattress

Sleep is important for everyone at every stage of their life, and that includes seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults between the ages of 61 and 64 should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night, while adults over the age of 65 should slumber for approximately 7 to 8 hours every night.

Even though sleep remains critical as we age, many seniors struggle to obtain quality sleep on a regular basis. Some of them deal with pain-related issues such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and/or back pain, making it harder to fall and stay asleep. Additionally, certain pain medications can act as stimulants and make it even more difficult to get enough shut-eye.

Even seniors who don’t deal with pain might struggle to obtain quality sleep, because sleep itself changes as we age. A long-term study of 9,000 people over the age of 65 found that, compared to younger adults, elderly adults have more fragmented sleep and spend less time in deeper sleep stages. There’s also evidence that circadian rhythms might shift as we age, prompting our bodies to wake up earlier and shortchanging sleep.

So how does this relate to a mattress? Well, mattresses play a huge role in determining whether we feel comfortable (or not) when we lie down to sleep. An uncomfortable or unsupportive mattress can exacerbate pain and make it harder to fall asleep and sleep soundly through the night. A high-quality mattress that feels good and helps mitigate pain can facilitate restful sleep.

For more information, check out our article on Sleep Changes Seniors Should Know.

Choosing the Best Mattress for Seniors

Whether seniors go with one of our recommended mattresses or decide to keep looking, here are some factors they should consider.

  • Bounce: When people reach an older age, they may struggle with serious mobility issues. This makes it more difficult to get in and out of bed and change positions. They want to ensure that their mattress doesn’t sag and make things worse, causing them to feel trapped. So, it’s a good idea to find a mattress that is more responsive and contains coils, bouncier foams, or even latex.
  • Pressure relief: Many elderly sleepers might have a condition such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, or they could just be dealing with joint pain. A softer mattress that contains pressure-relieving memory foam should cushion those trouble areas and relieve built-up pressure. Take a look at our list of the best mattresses for hip pain.
  • Firmness: Although comfort is subjective, medium firmness lends a balance of comfort and support. This is important for cushioning joints and maintaining spinal alignment. Is your current mattress too soft? Here’s our latest resource on how to make a mattress firmer!
  • Cooling: As our bodies age, they’re not as effective at regulating our temperature. That’s why it’s a good idea to choose a mattress that will stay cool. Try to find a bed with coils that allow for good airflow, or foam that has additional cooling features.
  • Edge support: Seniors will want to ensure that their mattress has great edge support, meaning that they need a mattress that ensures they won’t roll off and become injured from sleeping too close to the edge of their bed.

What Type of Mattress Is Best for Seniors?

There are more types of mattresses on the market than ever before, from classic innerspring models to beds made from memory foam and latex. Here’s an overview of some of the mattress types that might appeal to senior sleepers.

Innerspring Mattresses

As the name suggests, innerspring mattresses include springs (otherwise known as coils) in their construction. There’s a lot of variety under the innerspring umbrella; some innerspring beds are made with pocketed or individually wrapped coils while others stack multiple layers of coils on top of each other, and so on.

Pros of innerspring mattresses for seniors:

  • They tend to be supportive, helping maintain spinal alignment and reduce back pain.
  • They have strong edge support, so it’s easier to climb in and out of bed.
  • They work well for hot sleepers since the spaces between the coils allow for plenty of airflow.
  • They often suit back and stomach sleepers, who need plenty of support for proper spinal alignment.

Cons to innerspring mattresses for seniors:

  • Some innerspring beds might feel too firm and won’t offer enough cushioning for achy joints.
  • They might not be well-suited to side sleepers, who need plenty of pressure relief around the shoulder and hips.
  • A coil construction can sometimes add height to a bed, making it harder to climb in and out.
  • Some innerspring mattresses don’t do a great job of minimizing motion transfer, which might wake up elderly couples if they shift around during the night.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam mattresses are made from (that’s right!) memory foam, a material that’s known for being soft and pressure-relieving. Memory foam also tends to contour the body and have a slow response to pressure.

Pros of memory foam mattresses for seniors:

  • Memory foam tends to be pressure-relieving, so it can help cushion achy joints.
  • Because it contours the body, foam can be a great choice for side sleepers looking to find comfort around the shoulder and hips.
  • It’s easy to find thinner memory foam mattresses, which can be useful for folks who have a hard time climbing in and out of a tall bed.
  • Memory foam tends to be silent and does a great job of absorbing motion. This is crucial for senior couples who don’t want to disturb each other during the night.

Cons to memory foam mattresses for seniors:

  • Memory foam mattresses on the softer side might not provide enough spinal support.
  • Some memory foam mattresses have poor edge support, making it harder to climb in and out of bed.
  • Because of their slow response to pressure, it can be hard to move around on top of memory foam beds.
  • As a general rule, memory foam mattresses trap heat and might not be a great choice for hot sleepers.
Marten testing a memory foam mattress in our sleep lab
Testing a memory foam mattress in our sleep lab

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.
A cross-section shot of a hybrid mattress
Testing the inside of a hybrid mattress in our sleep lab

Airbeds

Not to be confused with air mattresses, airbeds are luxurious mattresses made from adjustable air chambers. Sleepers can customize the firmness of the mattress to their preferences on a nightly basis, and some airbeds allow couples to customize their respective sides of the bed.

Pros of airbed mattresses for seniors:

  • Seniors who deal with fluctuating levels of aches, back pain, or mobility can customize the mattress to their needs on a nightly basis.
  • Senior couples who have different sleep preferences might be able to customize each side of the mattress to their respective taste.
  • Airbeds are almost immune to sagging, so they should support healthy spinal alignment for the full life of the mattress.

Cons to airbed mattresses for seniors:

  • Airbeds tend to be pricey.
  • Adjusting the airbed might involve some noise from the pump.
  • Airbeds might not offer enough cushioning for folks who really want to sink in the bed.

How to Make a Bedroom More Accessible for the Elderly

While choosing an accessible mattress is crucial if you have mobility issues, it’s just as important to consider your entire sleeping environment.

  • Purchase an adjustable bed.
  • Utilize bed rails and/or grab bars.
  • Rid the bedroom of unnecessary clutter.
  • Visualize the pathway to your bed and come up with a plan of how to best clear it. Keep in mind furniture placement, space on each side of the bed, doorway width, and loose rugs.

Choosing an Accessible Mattress for Seniors

As we age, it’s common for mobility and flexibility to decline. That means it’s important to think about accessibility while shopping for a mattress for elderly folks.

  • Look for a shorter mattress: Tall mattresses can look elegant, but they aren’t practical. As a general rule, many elderly folks need a shorter mattress so it’s easier to climb in and out of bed.
  • Prioritize edge support: Edge support refers to how comfortable a sleeper feels while sitting or lying down near the edge of a mattress. The edge support is strong when a person feels secure in these positions; it’s poor if the person feels like they’re going to tip off or out of the bed.

Sleep Tips for Seniors

As we’ve noted, quality sleep is essential for seniors, but it’s hard to come by. Here are some tips that increase the odds of seniors enjoying sound sleep.

  • Create a bedroom environment that’s conducive to sleep: Good sleep hygiene involves keeping the bedroom cool, quiet, and dark, and eliminating electronic devices from the bedroom. Also, make sure to limit the activities on that mattress to sleep and sex so the brain doesn’t associate the bed with more stimulating activities.
  • Stay active: Engaging in physical exercise during the day makes it more likely that someone will feel sleepy at night.
  • Practice soothing bedtime rituals: Make a habit of winding down before bed with a comforting ritual such as taking a bath, reading a good book, or listening to calming music. Or maybe consider a combination of these activities. Avoid screens in the hour or two before bed, because the blue light they emit can interfere with the body’s circadian rhythm.
  • Sustain a consistent sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps train the body to start winding down at a consistent time each night.

Summary

MattressSuperlative
HelixBest Overall
WinkBedsBest Mattress for Back Pain
DreamCloudBest Cooling Mattress for Seniors
Nolah EvolutionBest Mattress for Side Sleepers
Bear Elite HybridBest Hybrid Mattress for Seniors
SaatvaBest Luxury Mattress for Seniors
Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridBest Affordable Mattress for Seniors
Titan PlusBest Mattress for Heavier Seniors

Best Mattress for Seniors FAQs

Do you need a softer mattress as you get older?

It depends on your specific situation, but a soft mattress can work for elderly sleepers who are dealing with issues such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, or joint pain. However, a firmer mattress might work better for elderly sleepers in need of more support. When buying a soft mattress, watch out that it’s not too soft. Seniors will likely want a mattress that is easy to move around on—beds with thick layers of memory foam can be hard to get in and out of.

What’s the best mattress for seniors with arthritis?

Seniors who deal with arthritis should choose a mattress that’s on the softer side, as it will relieve pressure in any trouble areas. We recommend the Nectar Luxe as our favorite mattress for arthritis. This bed has soft, cushioning foams that should help cradle and reduce pressure on sensitive joints.

What type of mattress is best for the elderly?

This depends on many factors, including pain issues and sleeping position. A person who has arthritis or fibromyalgia might want to choose a softer mattress with something like memory foam in the construction, but those who need more support might want to seek out a firmer mattress that contains coils or some other more supportive material. And mobility is also something to consider—a responsive mattress will make it easier to move around and get out of bed.

Is memory foam good for the elderly?

Memory foam can relieve pressure for those with joint pain issues and provide some excellent overall comfort. However, it can make it more difficult to move around on a mattress, which isn’t ideal for those with mobility issues. Also, memory foam is known to sleep hot and could cause some seniors to overheat at night. Overall, we recommend looking at a memory foam bed with cooling infusions or a hybrid memory foam bed; hybrids have coils which allow air to flow through the mattress.

Subscribe to Mattress Clarity!

Get special coupons, discounts, and giveaways!

Marten Carlson

Marten Carlson

Lead Mattress Reviewer

About Author

Marten has been writing about mattresses and sleep health for six years. He is the lead reviewer at Mattress Clarity where he tests mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories.

In his role here, Marten’s reviewed over 500 mattresses and 150 sleep accessories (so you can rest assured that if he recommends a product, it’s been put through the wringer in our Austin studio). In addition, he has written more than 400 articles reviewing the quality of sleep and sleep products as well as sleep health. He’s especially interested in the correlation between sleep and mental health.

Marten’s also got a personal stake in sleep health. After writing dozens of pieces on the dangers of sleep apnea, he decided to get tested for the condition. Realizing he did, in fact, suffer from sleep apnea, he immediately started using a CPAP machine. He knows all too well the importance of a healthy night’s sleep and is passionate about helping others get the healthy, restorative sleep they deserve.

He received his bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Denison University and his master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University.

Check out Marten in the Media: