As we get older, we learn to put up with life’s little aches and pains. Even if we have avoided major injuries and chronic health conditions, we probably feel a little stiff from time to time. “It’s ok,” we think to ourselves, “that’s just a part of aging.”
The problem with this perspective is that it often prevents us from taking the necessary steps that could help us to improve our well-being after 60. This is especially true when it comes to our sleep.
For example, because of the way that the aging process is portrayed in movies and on TV, many of us have the false belief that disturbed sleep is “normal” for older adults. We may even think that we don’t need as much sleep as we used to. After all, if we still needed 7-8 hours of sleep, why would we wake up at 4:30 am?
The truth is that poor sleep is not an inevitable part of getting older. In my other sleep articles, I have discussed the dietary and environmental changes that you can make to sleep better. Now, I’d like to talk about the single most important piece of furniture in your house – your mattress.
Keep reading to discover the different types of mattresses available and which ones are the best in each category.
There is no doubt that managing your budget is difficult after 60. This is especially true for those of us who are living on a pension or working part-time. As a result, our purchasing patterns tend to shift away from “luxuries” and towards “necessities.”
This approach is perfectly rational. The only challenge comes when we mix up the two categories. For example, I know people my age who insist on having a car, even though they rarely use it. Many of these people insist that they don’t have money for a new mattress, even though they are suffering from lower back pain and wake up feeling miserable.
I’m not saying that you should sell your car and buy a new mattress. I’m simply saying that good sleep is not a luxury. As a result, you may want to reprioritize the most important item of furniture in your house – your mattress.
That said, how do you know if you even need a new mattress? The best answer to this question is that you need to listen to your body. Do you wake up stiff and sore? Does your lower back feel worse in the morning than in the evening? Is your mattress 10+ years old? If so, it may be worth considering a new mattress.
Finding the right mattress might feel harder than it needs to be. Let’s take a look at what really matters when choosing a mattress.
We have split the mattresses into five categories:
Here are our top 10 mattresses for seniors:
Innerspring mattresses are one of the most popular types of mattresses. They’ve been around for ages, and there are tons of options to choose from. Getting an extremely high-end innerspring mattress, with an abundance of coils, won’t necessarily give you a better night’s sleep than a mid-range mattress.
That said, if you are sleeping on an old innerspring mattress, it may not have enough coils to support your weight evenly.
The Lux Estate mattress is designed with IntelliCoil® HD that provides perfect support for your body, and the HD memory foam creates a responsive feel that’s easy to melt into.
The mattress comes in three different firmness levels: Firm, Plush or Ultra Firm with the same options offered in an optional pillow top.
Marketed to fit seamlessly into a perfectly designed bedroom, it includes all the extra touches you deserve – velvet inset handles, embroidery, and copper air vents.
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Cons
The Wink Bed is a premium hybrid mattress designed for exceptional comfort and support. It combines innerspring coils with foam layers to offer a balanced sleep experience. Known for its durability, it comes in multiple firmness options and features a cooling Tencel cover, making it a popular choice for a restful night’s sleep.
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The Saatva Classic Mattress is a luxury hybrid innerspring mattress that combines the durability and support of coils with the comfort of memory foam. It features a dual coil system with individually wrapped coils for superior support and a Euro pillow top for added comfort. The Saatva Classic is available in three firmness levels: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm, making it suitable for various sleep preferences.
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Memory foam mattresses have become increasingly popular in recent years. They have many features that appeal to those of us in our 60s.
For starters, they tend to do a good job of evenly distributing your weight. This helps to reduce pressure points and may prevent you from disturbing your partner – and vice-versa.
On the other hand, memory foam mattresses can be a bit on the warm side. So, if like many women in our community, you still suffer from night sweats, they may not be the best option.
A premium memory foam mattress the 5-lb memory foam and high-density foam layers contour to your body to relieve pressure points while offering stable support. Ultra breathable gel-infused foam keeps you cool throughout the night while providing extra support for your lower back.
The mattress comes in two different firmness levels:
Relaxed Firm offers an ideal balance of plush comfort and contouring support and is particularly ideal for couples with different comfort preferences and sleep styles
Firm is ideal for stomach sleepers or back sleepers who prefer a firmer feel.
Saatva offers a 180-night home trial period, free white glove delivery, and it comes with a 15-year non-prorated warranty.
Pros
Cons
The Layla Memory Foam mattress is made with copper gel that reacts to increased pressure with a firming response. It stays soft and huggy overall, but provides ample support around deep compression areas where you need it most.
This mattress comes in two firmness levels, soft or firm – and you get both in one mattress! Just flip the mattress over to the side that best suits your sleeping requirements.
What’s more, the copper particles that make up the copper gel in the memory foam are superconductive. This conductivity helps carry heat away from your body faster which results in a much cooler sleep experience than you get with old-timey conventional memory foams.
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The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud is a popular memory foam mattress known for its adaptive support and pressure-relieving comfort. It features Tempur-Pedic’s proprietary TEMPUR material that conforms to your body’s shape, providing personalized comfort. The TEMPUR-Cloud is designed to reduce motion transfer, making it an excellent choice for couples.
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If your health professional has told you to try a firmer mattress, a latex mattress may be a good option. These mattresses have many of the properties of memory foam mattresses, but they tend to be a bit firmer. If you suffer from back pain and are worried about overheating at night, a latex mattress may be the best way to go.
The Avocado Latex Mattress provides gentle, stable, cool, motion-isolating support with just a touch of gentle give.
Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association it helps keep your spine aligned and reduces pressure points in your shoulder and hips.
It comes in just one firmness level (rated 7.5 on a scale of 1-10) with seven sizes to choose from.
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The Pure Green Natural Latex mattress is made of natural latex that provides a simple but high quality mattress. It is comfortable, durable, and has a good price point.
Each point of the natural latex foam absorbs pressure instantly with minimal distribution to the rest of the surface area. This allows the foam to contour smoothly around the body and enables movement without resistance or disturbance.
With two firmness levels to choose from, customers can pick either the medium or firm mattress in six different sizes.
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The Nolah Natural 11″ is an eco-friendly latex mattress made from natural Talalay latex. It offers a responsive, buoyant feel with excellent pressure relief and spinal alignment. The mattress is naturally cooling and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for those with allergies or who tend to sleep hot.
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Do you and your partner have very different mattress needs? Then you may want to consider an air mattress. These mattresses use inflatable chambers and can provide very different conditions for each partner.
If you choose an air mattress, make sure that it’s firm enough. Otherwise, you may inadvertently make your back pain worse!
The Air Pedic 800 offers pressure reducing innovation for the ultimate in plush comfort. The gel responsive surface layering gives you a more reactive and lower-temperature comfort all night long.
With dual side control and two hand held remotes to allow you to easily adjust the firmness level, this is an ideal mattress if you and your partner both want something different!
If your body type generates extra heat or you just want to sleep cooler, you have the option of adding on the Airflow Transfer System which provides up to 100 times more breathability for a more temperature consistent sleeping environment.
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The 360 p6 Smart Bed provides adjustable comfort and firmness on each side (your Sleep Number setting) and responds to your movements and automatically adjusts firmness if required individually to each side.
It does all this through the SleepIQ Sleep Tracker – a smart app that accurately measures your biometrics – average heart, breathing rates and movements – throughout the night, then automatically adjusts the mattress to your individual needs. You’ll see a daily snapshot of factors on the app that can dramatically affect your sleep quality and track these over time.
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Adjustable beds are a good option if you can’t get comfortable lying flat. Most of the women in our community don’t have trouble getting out of bed yet, but this is something that may happen as we get a little older. If you suffer from sleep apnea or acid reflux, talk to your doctor about whether an adjustable bed might help.
The Purple Mattress features two inches of breathable GelFlex Grid to cradle pressure points like hips and shoulders while keeping the rest of your body fully aligned.
It is the perfect mattress to go with the Ascent Adjustable Base which, designed to help improve your sleep quality and daily comfort, provides premium, customizable support for your mattress.
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The Saatva Solaire mattress offers individual controls and lets you set the firmness level that’s right for you. The air chambers adjust firmness incrementally, and the hidden pump operates quietly.
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The Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame paired with the Nectar Mattress offers a highly customizable sleep experience. The Nectar Mattress is a medium-firm memory foam mattress that provides excellent pressure relief and contouring. The adjustable bed frame allows you to elevate your head and feet, making it ideal for those with sleep apnea, acid reflux, or other conditions that benefit from an elevated sleep position.
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At the end of the day, there is no “best” mattress for older adults and seniors. Each of our bodies is different. Once you have an idea of the types of mattress that may be good for you, it’s time to venture out to your local mattress store. Here are a few tips to help you get the most from your visit.
If you haven’t already, start a sleep diary. This can help you to get in touch with your sleep patterns. Are there specific parts of your body that hurt in the morning? Are you suffering from any specific medical conditions?
Have you talked to your doctor about what kind of bed might work best for you? Write down the answers to these questions to make your shopping experience easier.
While it is important to get a high-quality mattress, spending more will not always guarantee better results. As WebMD points out, “Salespeople may try to sell you on the idea that more coils mean more comfort, but that’s not necessarily true.”
Many stores have monthly payment plans that can make the purchase of the mattress you want a little more accessible if you don’t have the full amount on hand. Don’t hesitate to ask, but make sure that you can afford the future monthly payments.
If you can, avoid shopping for a mattress on the weekend. Go during a quiet time when you can try out each bed without too much pressure. When you lie down on a bed, get into multiple sleeping positions.
Don’t feel like you need to hop up after a few minutes. This may be the most important purchasing decision that you will make all year.
Broken sleep is not normal after 60. At the same time, as we get a little older, sleeping peacefully requires a proactive approach. We may need to deal with the medical complaints that are keeping us up at night.
We may also need to make small adjustments to our diet or sleep environment. If you sleep on an old mattress, or wake up stiff and sore, it may be time for a change!
To make your mattress last longer and maintain its comfort and support, consider the following tips.
A mattress protector acts as a barrier against spills, stains, dust mites, and allergens. It helps keep your mattress clean and can prevent damage from moisture, which can degrade the materials over time. Choose a waterproof and breathable protector for optimal results.
Depending on the type of mattress you have, rotating it every 3-6 months can help distribute wear evenly across the surface, preventing sagging and indentations. If your mattress is flippable, turning it over every few months can also help maintain its shape and prolong its lifespan.
The foundation or bed frame you use is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your mattress. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for support, as some mattresses require a box spring, while others need a solid platform or slatted base. Using the right foundation prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
Regular cleaning is essential for prolonging the life of your mattress. Vacuum the surface every few months to remove dust, dirt, and allergens. For stains, spot-clean with a mild detergent and water, but avoid soaking the mattress. Allow it to dry completely before putting the bedding back on.
Humidity and temperature fluctuations can affect your mattress. Keep your bedroom well-ventilated and avoid exposing the mattress to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can degrade the materials. Consider using a dehumidifier if you live in a particularly humid area.
When moving or transporting your mattress, do so with care. Avoid bending or folding the mattress, as this can damage the internal structure. Use handles if your mattress has them, and always move it with two people to avoid strain and potential damage.
By following these steps, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your mattress, ensuring that it remains comfortable and supportive for many years.
Insomnia is one of the most frequent sleep disturbances in older adults, often triggered by stress, medical conditions, or changes in the body’s internal clock. Seniors may find it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night, leading to daytime fatigue and cognitive difficulties.
Mattress Solution: A mattress that promotes relaxation and comfort can be helpful for insomnia sufferers. Memory foam mattresses, like the Saatva Loom & Leaf, are designed to cradle the body, providing pressure relief and helping to reduce tossing and turning. Pairing this with a weighted blanket or cooling mattress topper can create a calming environment that promotes deeper sleep.
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing temporarily stops during sleep, often leading to snoring, choking, or frequent waking. This can be especially dangerous for seniors, contributing to daytime sleepiness, memory problems, and even an increased risk of cardiovascular issues.
Mattress Solution: Adjustable beds, such as the Saatva Solaire or the Purple Mattress with Ascent Adjustable Base, are ideal for people with sleep apnea. These beds allow you to elevate your head slightly, which can open up the airway and reduce apnea episodes. This elevation can also help alleviate snoring and improve overall breathing during sleep.
Arthritis, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions are common among seniors and can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. Stiffness and discomfort in the hips, shoulders, and knees often result in poor sleep quality.
Mattress Solution: Memory foam and latex mattresses provide excellent pressure relief for people with arthritis by contouring to the body and cushioning sensitive areas. The Stearns & Foster Lux Estate Collection or the Avocado Latex Mattress are both great options for reducing joint pressure and promoting spinal alignment. For those who need more flexibility, an adjustable bed can help seniors find the most comfortable position for their joints.
Many seniors experience chronic back pain, which can worsen overnight if they sleep on an unsupportive or sagging mattress. A good mattress should provide balanced support to maintain the natural curve of the spine and relieve tension in the lower back.
Mattress Solution: A mattress with medium to firm support, like the WinkBed Hybrid or the Air Pedic 800, can help alleviate back pain by offering a combination of pressure relief and sturdy support. These mattresses prevent the body from sinking too deeply while still cradling the back in a comfortable position. For those with severe back pain, adjustable mattresses offer the ability to change sleeping positions and reduce pressure on the spine.
As we age, our body’s ability to regulate temperature can decrease, leading to frequent night sweats or feeling cold during the night. Some mattresses trap heat, making it difficult for seniors to stay comfortable throughout the night.
Mattress Solution: Seniors who struggle with temperature regulation should look for cooling mattresses that dissipate heat and allow for better airflow. The Air Pedic 800 is designed with a cooling layer that helps regulate body temperature, making it a great choice for those prone to overheating. Also, memory foam mattresses infused with cooling gel, such as the Layla Memory Foam Mattress, provide a cooler surface while maintaining the comfort of traditional foam.
Restless Leg Syndrome is another condition that can affect seniors, causing uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them during the night. This often disrupts sleep and can lead to significant sleep deprivation.
Mattress Solution: A mattress that minimizes motion transfer, such as a memory foam mattress, can be highly beneficial for people with RLS. The Saatva Loom & Leaf mattress, for example, absorbs movement so that leg twitching won’t disturb the rest of the body. An adjustable bed can also help by providing more flexibility in positioning the legs for greater comfort.
In addition to choosing the right mattress, there are various accessories that can enhance your sleep experience, offering additional comfort, support, and health benefits. Mattress accessories, such as toppers, cooling pads, and weighted blankets, can be especially helpful for older adults looking to improve their sleep environment without investing in an entirely new mattress.
Mattress toppers are an affordable and versatile way to modify the comfort and support of your existing mattress. They add an extra layer of cushioning or firmness, which can help alleviate pressure points and enhance overall sleep quality. Toppers are available in various materials, each offering unique benefits:
Memory Foam Toppers: Memory foam toppers conform to your body, providing excellent pressure relief and support for people with joint or back pain. They can also help distribute body weight more evenly, reducing pressure on sensitive areas like hips and shoulders. A memory foam topper can rejuvenate an older mattress and add a plush feel without sacrificing support.
Latex Toppers: Latex toppers are firmer than memory foam and provide great support while still being comfortable. They are a good choice for people who need extra support due to back pain or who sleep hot, as latex tends to have better airflow than memory foam, helping with temperature regulation. Natural latex is also hypoallergenic, making it a good option for seniors with allergies.
Feather or Down Toppers: For those who prefer a soft, cloud-like sleeping surface, feather or down toppers are a luxurious choice. They provide extra cushioning, though they may not offer as much support as foam or latex toppers. Seniors with joint pain or arthritis may appreciate the softness, though those with back issues may need a firmer topper for proper spinal alignment.
Temperature regulation is a common issue for seniors, and overheating at night can lead to discomfort and disrupted sleep. Cooling pads and mattress protectors are designed to address this issue by helping to keep your bed cool and comfortable:
Cooling Pads: These are specialized pads that you place on top of your mattress to help regulate body temperature. Many cooling pads use advanced materials like gel-infused foam, breathable fabrics, or phase-change materials that absorb and dissipate heat. Some options, such as the ChiliPad, even offer active cooling technology that allows you to set a specific temperature for your bed, helping to combat night sweats or hot flashes.
Cooling Mattress Protectors: Mattress protectors not only shield your mattress from spills, allergens, and dust mites, but they can also help keep you cool. Many cooling protectors are made from moisture-wicking fabrics, like bamboo or Tencel, which help draw heat away from your body and keep you dry throughout the night.
Moisture-Wicking Sheets: In addition to cooling pads and protectors, moisture-wicking sheets can improve temperature regulation. These sheets are made from breathable, lightweight fabrics that help keep you dry and cool. Fabrics like bamboo, cotton, or linen are great options for creating a cooler sleep environment.
Weighted blankets have gained popularity for their ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. They use evenly distributed weight to create a sense of being gently hugged, which can increase the production of serotonin and melatonin, the hormones responsible for relaxation and sleep. This can be particularly beneficial for seniors who suffer from insomnia, restless leg syndrome, or anxiety:
An air mattress is a great choice for seniors. These mattresses use inflatable chambers and can provide very different conditions at the touch of a button to provide the perfect level of comfort and firmness. What’s more, most offer the option to create different firmness levels on either side, meaning you and your partner can both be comfortable.
Seniors often need a mattress with excellent pressure relief to help reduce pressure points in key areas like the shoulders, hips and back. Generally, a medium to medium firm mattress will provide this optimal level of support and help alleviate back and joint pain.
Some older adults may have no sleep disruptions, but others complain about getting less sleep and having worse sleep quality. Some common issues are a shifting sleep schedule, daytime napping, waking up at night and longer recovery times from changes in sleep schedule.
The National Institution on Aging considers this a myth. The National Sleep Foundation guidelines suggest that seniors should get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. This is particularly important as insufficient sleep in older adults has been shown to lead to a higher risk of falls and accidents.
Read 5 Organic Cotton Sleepwear Brands for Women Over 60.
Also, read 6 Comfortable Loungewear Brands for Women Over 50.
Have you recently purchased a new mattress? How did you make your decision? Have you found that your new mattress has helped you to sleep better at night? Please share your experience below!
Tags How to Sleep Better
I have been very happy with my decision and have noticed a significant improvement in the quality of my sleep. I would highly recommend these tips to anyone who is looking for a new mattress and is concerned about finding one that is suitable for their aging body.”
I am 67, female, very active and have chronic lumbar back issues and arthritis in my hips and back.
I spent months looking for and trying out numerous beds. The last bed I bought (and still have) was a Talaya and cost 2200.00! It’s killing me and the manufacturer states it’s not sagging enough to do anything about it-the sag is at 1 1/2 inches, bed is 2 years old, turned frequently!
I’m constantly shifting all night due to pain. I am now looking for another mattress. I’m 5′ 4″ and weigh 126 lbs. Any suggestions??
I’m an senior. I bought an icomfort 3000. I have worst pain than my old mattress. I’m going to have to find a different mattress. My body is not adjusting to it. I’ve had it over a month and almost everyday I can barely get out of bed with back pain which I did not have with older mattress. Very disappointed.