Best Mattresses for Seniors
Mattress Nerd consulted Dr. Ravi Pandey, MD to ensure that this article met our editorial standards.
Written by Loren Bullock, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Are you struggling with restless nights and morning aches? For seniors aged 65 and older, the right mattress can make all the difference. According to the 2017 census, approximately 47 million seniors live in the U.S., and 40–70% of them experience chronic sleep problems. Many also suffer from chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, back, and hips. An old, low-quality mattress can worsen these symptoms, and it’s estimated that up to 50% of sleep disturbances go undiagnosed, meaning some may not realize their mattress is a contributing factor.
In this article, we’ll review the best mattresses for seniors that promote pain relief and improved sleep. We’ll also discuss key features to look for and the best mattress types for aging adults.
What’s the Best Mattress for Seniors?
The Puffy Lux Hybrid is suited to provide comfort and support to seniors better than most mattresses our experts have reviewed. It is easy to change positions on, ideal for combination sleepers, and offers pressure relief to seniors with back pain or arthritis.
The Best Mattresses for Seniors
- Puffy Lux Hybrid – Nerd’s Pick
- Nectar Original – Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors
- Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress for Senior Couples
- The WinkBed – Best Firm Mattress for Seniors
- Nolah Evolution – Best Hybrid Mattress for Seniors
- Saatva Original – Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors
- DreamCloud Original – Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best for Durability
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Active Seniors
- Birch Natural – Best Cooling Mattress for Seniors
Our Video Guide to The Best Mattress for Seniors
Compare Beds for Elderly Adults
| Puffy Lux Hybrid | Nectar Original | Helix Midnight Luxe | The WinkBed | Nolah Evolution | Saatva Classic | DreamCloud | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Bear Elite Hybrid | Birch Natural | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.0 ★★★★☆ | 4.0 ★★★★☆ | 3.8 ★★★★☆ | 4.5 ★★★★☆ | 4.8 ★★★★★ | 4.3 ★★★★☆ | 4.4 ★★★★★ | 4.8 ★★★★★ | 4.2 ★★★★☆ | 4.5 ★★★★☆ |
| Firmness | Medium-Soft (5/10) | Medium-Firm (6/10) | Medium-Firm (6/10) | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-Firm (6.5/10) | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-FIrm (6.5/10) |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | ✔ | – | — | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Limited Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Limited Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Limited Lifetime warranty | Limited Lifetime warranty | Limited Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free white-glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 101 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights |
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Joint Pain | Hot Sleepers, Couples |
Couples, Combo Sleepers |
Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Hot Sleepers, Pressure Relief | Hot Sleepers, Back Pain | Hot Sleepers, Couples | Combo Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Mattresses Tested by Experts and Advocates
Our team of mattress testers and certified sleep science coaches takes all kinds of shoppers into account when reviewing mattresses. For seniors, we know that some performance factors are more important than others; namely, good pressure relief, edge support, and responsiveness.
Pressure relief helps mitigate or prevent achiness in sensitive areas, edge support measures the strength of a bed’s perimeter to ensure that it won’t buckle under weight, and good responsiveness makes moving around on and getting in and out of bed a breeze. We measure these factors in order to determine whether or not a mattress will provide seniors with a comfortable, safe sleeping environment. For more information, check out our review process.
Best Mattresses for Seniors
Nerd’s Pick: Puffy Lux Hybrid
Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Puffy Lux is a hybrid mattress that combines 5” of comfort foam with 6” of springy, breathable support coils. The top layers of foam are particularly soft and doughy. Combined with the firmer coil system below, the mattress has a medium firmness that’s ideally suited to side sleepers of all body types and back sleepers under 230 lbs.
The pressure-relieving foam layers and responsive coils strike a therapeutic balance of cushioning and targeted support. In fact, during our testing, the Puffy Lux Hybrid earned a 5 out of 5 for pressure relief, so seniors won’t notice much pressure building up near their major curves (i.e., shoulders and hips).
What our testers say: “The Puffy Lux Hybrid is a top choice for side and back sleepers who want a plush, cloud-like sleep, but it’s less-than-ideal for stomach sleepers, who will experience too much sinking in the hips. The mattress also strikes a hard-to-find balance between softness and cooling comfort.” – Rachael Harris, Editor & Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Puffy Lux Hybrid
- Sleepers with arthritis – Individually-wrapped coils help maintain optimal alignment.
- Side sleepers – The Puffy Lux Hybrid’s spongy layers cradle all your pressure points.
Who Might Not Like the Puffy Lux Hybrid
- Those on a budget – If you’re sold on a Puffy, try the Puffy Cloud and save around $400.
- Stomach sleepers – Stomach sleepers will probably prefer a firmer mattress.
What Reddit Says about the Puffy Luxe Hybrid
- Positive: “Feels so plush—I hardly feel my partner move.”
- Negative: “Great at first, but softened more than I expected over time.”
Read our full Puffy Lux Hybrid mattress review to learn more.
Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors: Nectar Original
Nectar Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Nectar is a medium-firm, all-foam mattress that is an excellent choice for seniors on a budget. At a 6.5/10 on the firmness scale, the Nectar’s thick foam layers provide support and prevent sinkage. It’s also important to note the Nectar has good edge support, especially for an all-foam mattress, which should make it much easier to get up and out of bed. Its softer upper layers offer a plush feel, and this is ideal for both pressure and pain relief.
Budget-savvy shoppers will also appreciate the affordability of the Nectar. It’s a quality mattress that comes at full price of $1,298, but this is before any sales and discounts. With coupons and special sales, the Nectar often totals under $1,000.
What our testers say: “Nectar prides itself on creating mattresses that offer pressure relief for your body’s sensitive joints: a great feature for back sleepers and side sleepers.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Nectar Original
- Couples – The Nectar Originals motion isolation cuts down on movement from partners and pets.
Who Might Not Like the Nectar Original
- Heavy sleepers – Average or heavyweight stomach sleepers may run into issues with hip support.
- Edge sleepers – Those who sleep on the edge of their bed might not get the support they need. Try the Helix Dawn for better support around the edges.
What Reddit Says about the Nectar Original
- Positive: “Best budget foam bed; my back pain went away fast.”
- Negative: “Sleeps a bit hot for me, even with the cooling cover.”
Read our full Nectar mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Nectar mattress, check out our list of the best affordable mattresses for more great options.
Best Mattress for Senior Couples: Helix Midnight Luxe
Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is considered to be a luxury mattress with a medium-firm feel. Because of the firmer construction, the Midnight Luxe provides quality edge support for seniors who sit on the edges of their mattress or have a difficult time getting in and out of their bed.
The comfort layers of the Midnight Luxe consist of pressure-relieving foam and responsive coils that work together to provide pressure relief (5 out of 5) and contour around the body. At the same time, they’re still bouncy and responsive enough for sleepers to change positions. The supportive coils and sturdy construction are great for seniors who may share their bed with a partner.
What our testers say: “The Helix Midnight Luxe is one of the most popular models in the Luxe collection because it won’t feel too soft or too firm for many sleepers. This quality, in combination with its memory foam comfort layer, helps it appeal to a variety of preferences and provides support for all sleeping positions.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Helix Midnight Luxe
- Couples – The Helix Midnight Luxe has great motion isolation.
- Lightweight combination sleepers
Who Might Not Like the Helix Midnight Luxe
- Heavyweight stomach or back sleepers – The mattress firmness may not be able to accommodate heavier sleepers. Try the Helix Twilight instead.
- Hot sleepers
What Reddit Says about the Helix Midnight Luxe
- Positive: “Perfect for me and my husband—no more shaking the bed.”
- Negative: “A bit pricier than I hoped, but still worth the cost.”
Read our full Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress, check out our list of the best luxury mattresses for more great options.
Best Firm Mattress for Seniors: The WinkBed
WinkBed Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The WinkBed is a hefty, sturdy mattress made with an 8” layer of coils and multiple layers of foam. This bed-in-a-box mattress is built to last, and is backed by a lifetime warranty and a 120-day sleep trial, making it great for consumers who value customer-centric policies.
The WinkBed also delivers exceptional edge support thanks to its “Extra-Edge” coils. Seniors with mobility issues will appreciate the WinkBed’s advanced edge support and 13.5” high profile.
What our testers say: “The firmer WinkBed is a great choice for stomach sleepers who need to keep their hips elevated.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester
Who Might Like The WinkBed
- Sleepers looking for a firmer mattress that suits all sizes.
- Hot sleepers – The WinkBed uses gel-infused foam and innerspring coils for cooling. This bed earned a 4 out of 5 during our cooling tests.
Who Might Not Like The WinkBed
- Light sleepers
- Couples – There isn’t as much motion isolation with The WinkBed. The WinkBed GravityLux is the better option for couples.
What Reddit Says about The WinkBed
- Positive: “Super supportive edges—easy to get in and out of bed.”
- Negative: “Firmness felt too rigid for my shoulders at times.”
Read our full WinkBed mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the WinkBed mattress, check out our list of the best firm mattresses for more great options.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Seniors: Nolah Evolution
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Here at Mattress Nerd we love a great hybrid mattress. The Nolah Evolution scored a four out of five or higher on all of our performance tests, so we’d say it definitely qualifies as a great hybrid mattress.
Do you suffer from hip or shoulder pain? The Nolah Evolution’s pressure relieving abilities can help with that, and it even earned a 5 out of 5 for pressure relief and support during testing.. Do you overheat in your sleep? With its high temperature regulation score, the Nolah Evolution can mitigate this problem. Have trouble getting in and out of bed? The sturdy perimeter of the Nolah Evolution allows you to sit comfortably on the edge of the bed with less fear of slipping. This mattress has something for everyone, especially seniors.
What our testers say: “The coils add extra support, which is better for heavyweight sleepers. “ – Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Nolah Evolution
- Hot sleepers – The Nolah Evolution uses a heat-dissipating Euro topper, and graphite-infused AirFoamICE™ for premuim cooling.
- Those who need a firmer mattress
Who Might Not Like the Nolah Evolution
- Sleepers on a tight budget. Try the Nolah Signature for cost savings and quality.
What Reddit Says about the Nolah Evolution
- Positive: “AirFoam really does stay cool; less sweaty nights.”
- Negative: “More bounce would help with changing positions.”
Read our full Nolah Evolution review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Nolah Evolution mattress, Check out our best hybrid mattresses for more great options.
Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors: Saatva Classic
Saatva Classic
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Saatva Classic is a hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. Mattress firmness can be an important consideration for seniors, particularly those concerned about comfort related to chronic pain. The Saatva is also offered in two heights—11.5″ and 14.5″—which is another important consideration for older adults who frequently climb in and out of bed.
The Saatva is constructed with a top layer of quilted organic cotton foam for pressure relief on the joints, as well as a layer of gel memory foam to regulate body heat. A layer of individually wrapped coils creates the supportive base of the Saatva (helping it earn a 5 out of 5 for support). These coils circulate air, reduce motion transfer, and support the spine, making the bed a great option for all sleeping positions.
Additionally, Saatva mattresses come with complimentary white glove delivery and free old mattress removal, so you don’t need to worry about transporting or setting up your new bed. If your chosen Saatva mattress is not the right fit, Saatva gives their customers a 180-night trial period and easy returns/exchanges.
What our testers say: “The two layers of lumbar support make the Saatva Classic a great mattress for people with back pain. With three firmness options, it can accommodate almost every sleeping position and body type, too.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Saatva Classic
- Hot sleepers – The Saatva Classic’s dual-coil layers facilitate generous airflow.
- Sleepers with back pain- The Saatva Classic features reinforced lumbar support.
Who Might Not Like the Saatva Classic
- Budget mattress shoppers
- Couples – The Saatva Classic’s motion isolation is not as great as other mattresses
What Reddit Says about the Saatva Classic
- Positive: “Feels luxurious—like a five-star hotel bed.”
- Negative: “It’s tall, so I needed new sheets and a lower frame.”
Read our full Saatva mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Saatva mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses of 2025 for more great options.
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: DreamCloud Original
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Switching positions on a doughy, sagging mattress can be very challenging, especially if you have hip or joint pain. The DreamCloud Original received a perfect score on our ease of movement test, which makes shifting from one sleeping position to another a breeze. Along with its top-tier edge support, the DreamCloud Original makes getting in and out of bed easy for seniors.
This mattress has a medium-firmness level, making it a good match for most back and side sleepers. If you are a combination sleeper that goes between the two positions, the DreamCloud Original is worth checking out.
What our testers say: “The DreamCloud is a responsive mattress, thanks to its base layer of pocketed coils. That means you’ll be able to move around on the mattress without feeling like you’re sinking into a pit of quicksand.” – Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the DreamCloud Original
- Couples – DreamCloud Original has excellent motion transfer and ease of movement.
- Hot sleepers – The DreamCloud Original’s coils allow for more airflow to help keep you cool, which helped this bed get a 4 out of 5 during our cooling tests.
Who Might Not Like the DreamCloud Original
- Budget shoppers – This mattress is on the more expensive side.
- Lightweight side sleepers – Side sleepers who are lighter may want more pressure relief. Try the DreamCloud Premier Rest instead if you fall into this group.
What Reddit Says about the DreamCloud Original
- Positive: “Balanced feel: not too soft, not too firm.”
- Negative: “Edge support could be stronger for sitting.”
Read our full DreamCloud mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the DreamCloud mattress, Check out our Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers for more great options.
Best Durable Mattress for Seniors: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
If you hope to have your next mattress last for many, many years, then you’ll want to look for one with high durability. Generally, you find this quality in hybrid mattresses; like, for example, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. We love this mattress because quality options help support seniors’ spinal alignment throughout the night. And while the Signature Hybrid is indeed durable, it’s also set at a value price.
Constructed with high-density support foam, a pocketed coil system, a layer of transition foam and one two-inch of comfort foam, the Signature Hybrid is one sturdy mattress. These layers make for a product that is at once comfortable, supportive, and durable. Seniors can rest easy on their Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid knowing that it will be there for them for years to come.
What our testers say: “Overall, we’d say the Brooklyn Bedding mattress is a relatively durable, supportive bed. We think it’ll last for six or seven years before showing any significant signs of wear.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Most sleeping positions – The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has three different firmness options (Soft, Medium, Firm), and we tested the Medium in our mattress lab.
- Those wanting a long-lasting mattress – In addition to its durable construction, Brooklyn Bedding offers a 10-year warranty and a 120-night sleep trial.
- Combination sleepers – The transition layer and springy coils provide a buoyant feel that makes it easy to switch sleeping positions. This helped it get a 5 out of 5 for bounce.
Who Might Not Like the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Luxury shoppers – The Signature Hybrid doesn’t have an overly complex construction, so if you’re looking for extra features, you won’t find it in this simpler bed. Try the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite if you’re looking for more.
- Heavyweight stomach sleepers – The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid may not be supportive enough for heavier stomach sleepers, even with the Firm option
What Reddit Says about the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Positive: “Holds up well—still comfy after a year of use.”
- Negative: “Some minor sagging at the edges by month six.”
Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review to learn more.
Best for Active Seniors: Bear Elite Hybrid
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Bear Elite Hybrid was made for athletes. It has multiple cooling features, including a cover made from Phase Change Material. This material helps regulate body temperature for anyone who sleeps hot, especially folks who work out later at night. Perhaps its most impressive feature, the Elite Hybrid’s optional Celliant cover purportedly assists with both blood circulation and recovery. Plus, with all of these features, it received a 4.5 out of 5 in cooling
We think active seniors should really love the level of pressure relief the Elite Hybrid has, which can assist with joint pain. There are also three different firmness options, so customers can pinpoint their comfort. However, we’d recommend seniors watch out for the edge support. It wasn’t or favorite, so if you have a difficult time getting off and on the bed, you might want an option with stronger edges.
What our testers say: “The Bear Elite is a bed made especially for athletes, and pain relief is key to rest and recovery. That said, this mattress offers great pain relief, but it isn’t anything out of the ordinary. While the Bear Elite keeps your muscles supported and relaxed with its copper-infused memory foam, it won’t be a fix for preexisting pains or injuries.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Back sleepers – The Bear Elite Hybrid’s Medium model has a balance of comfort and support that tested really well in our lab for back sleepers.
- Hot sleepers – With a breathable coil base and layer of copper-infused foam, the Bear Hybrid is excellent for those who sweat during sleep.
- Luxury shoppers – Anyone wanting extra bells and whistles, as well as a luxurious look and feel, should find it all in the Elite Hybrid.
Who Might Not Like the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Heavyweight stomach sleepers – Even the Firm version may not be enough to support the spinal alignment of stomach sleepers over 230 pounds.
- Budget shoppers – As a luxury mattress, the Elite Hybrid is priced as such and may not appeal to those wanting to save on a mattress. Try the Bear Original for a more friendly price-point.
What Reddit Says about the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Positive: “My sore muscles recover better on this bed.”
- Negative: “A bit firmer than advertised at first.”
Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review to learn more.
Best Cooling Mattress for Seniors: Birch Natural
Birch Natural Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
The Birch natural mattress is an all-natural, organic medium-firm hybrid mattress. Featuring a cushioning layer of organic New Zealand wool on top, the mattress cradles your pressure points, and wicks away moisture to keep heat out. Seniors who tend to sleep hot will find this mattress combines everything they are looking for as far as comfort and support.
The Talalay latex furthers the pressure-relieving qualities, cradling your hips, shoulders, and other pressure points so that you don’t wake up feeling sore. Latex inherently holds less heat than memory foam, and Birch has perforated the latex to keep air moving even more, meaning you can rest well and recover without waking up hot and tossing and turning.
What our testers say: “The Birch Natural features both wool and aerated latex in its comfort layers, which balance temperature and wick away moisture from sleepers’ bodies throughout the night. These materials, along with the bed’s pocketed coil support core, provide steady airflow throughout the night, helping the Birch Mattress sleep even cooler than most hybrids.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester
Who Might Like the Birch Natural
- Hot sleepers – The Birch Natural has several cooling features in place to keep sweaty sleepers comfortable. It earned a 4.5 out of 5 in cooling.
- Back sleepers – Considered one of the best mattresses for back sleepers, the Birch Natural has a firmness level that should help prevent sinking.
Who Might Not Like the Birch Natural
- Side sleepers – Lightweight side sleepers may struggle the the firmness of this mattress.
- Couples – The surface of the Birch Natural is responsive and may cause noticeable movement from partners.
What Reddit Says about the Birch Natural
- Positive: “Latex bounce makes moving around a breeze.”
- Negative: “Slight rubbery odor at first—faded in about a week.”
To learn more about Birch, check out the Birch Natural mattress review. For more cooling mattress options, check out our best cooling mattresses for hot sleepers page.
Compare Mattress Nerd’s Scores for Mattresses for Seniors
| Model | Mattress Nerd Score |
| Puffy Lux Hybrid | 4 out of 5 |
| Nectar Original | 4 out of 5 |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 3.8 out of 5 |
| The WinkBed | 4.5 out of 5 |
| Nolah Evolution | 4.8 out of 5 |
| Saatva Original | 4.3 out of 5 |
| DreamCloud Original | 4.3 out of 5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | 4.8 out of 5 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 4.2 out of 5 |
| Birch Natural | 4.5 out of 5 |
Considerations for Seniors Looking For a Mattress
Firmness & Support
Older adults generally benefit from a medium to medium-firm mattress that encourages proper spinal alignment without creating pressure points. Still, individual preferences—such as weight, sleep position, and pain concerns—play a significant role in choosing the right firmness.
Pressure Relief
Age-related aches and pains often focus around shoulders, hips, and back. A quality comfort layer, like memory foam or latex, can cushion these areas. Hybrid mattresses combine foam and coils for both pressure relief and added support.
Edge Support
Beds with reinforced edges give seniors more stability while sitting or getting in and out of bed. Solid edge support can reduce the risk of slipping or falling.
Temperature Regulation
Some seniors experience hot flashes or night sweats. This can occur due to hormonal changes, menopause, or simply environment.
Cooling technology, gel infusions, breathable latex, and coil systems often work to prevent heat buildup. Look for terms like “cooling gel foam,” “open-cell structure,” or “breathable cover.” Explore cooling beds for more information.
Ease of Movement
As mobility may decline with age, a mattress that doesn’t trap or engulf sleepers in foam can be a big plus. Hybrids and latex beds typically provide an easier surface for repositioning, while softer foam mattresses can create a “sink-in” feeling.
Durability & Warranty
A durable mattress saves money in the long run. Look for high-quality materials, sturdy coil systems, and strong warranties. Seniors should be looking for beds that don’t sag, which support their spine alignment. Many mattresses now come with at least a 10-year warranty, with some offering up to a lifetime guarantee.
What Type of Mattress is Best for Seniors?
Hybrid Mattresses for Seniors
Hybrid mattresses are know for providing the pressure relief, comfort, and support that seniors need. They’re made by placing a foam layer on top of a bed of coils. This pairing is superb for seniors because its combines the body-conforming properties of foam with the lower back support of a coil base.
Latex Mattresses for Seniors
Latex mattresses have more elasticity than traditional foam mattresses, and are better able to hug and absorb the body without causing you to “sink” into the bed. They also circulate air better than traditional foam. This means added pressure point relief and increased cooling.
Memory Foam Mattresses for Seniors
Memory foam mattresses have become some of the most popular mattresses thanks to their characteristic cradling feel. For elderly people, memory foam can provide exceptional pressure relief and motion isolation. However, memory foam closely contours to the body, which can make mobility a little more difficult.
Innerspring Mattresses for Seniors
Innerspring mattresses are known for providing great support, and these days, the addition of soft pillow tops improves their overall comfort. They’re also very breathable, since the coil base promotes excellent airflow throughout the mattress. Head over to our best innerspring mattress roundup for some of our favorites.
Senior Sleep Posture & Alignment
- Neutral Spine: Aim for a straight line from head to hips while lying down.
- Supportive Pillow Choices: Select a pillow that complements your sleep position, whether side, back, or combination.
- Use Positioning Aids: Side sleepers can benefit from a small pillow between the knees; back sleepers might place one under the knees to support the lower back.
Conditions That Can Make Sleep Difficult For Seniors
Arthritis
One of the most common issues for seniors is arthritis. Arthritis is characterized by inflammation in the joints that can cause chronic pain in the limbs. Arthritis sufferers should look for a mattress that prioritizes pressure point. For our top picks, take a look at our list of best mattresses for arthritis.
Fibromyalgia
Similar to arthritis, fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder marked by overactive nerves that cause chronic, widespread pain. Again, for this condition it’s important to find a mattress that provides pressure relief to prevent further aggravation. For a deeper dive on the subject, read our guide on sleeping well with fibromyalgia and check out our Best Mattresses for Fibromyalgia page.
Back Pain
Another common complaint of seniors is back pain. Whether it’s caused by arthritis, scoliosis, or osteoporosis, make sure to choose a mattress that provides spinal alignment and firm support for the lower back.
Dementia
Dementia is a challenging condition that comes in many forms, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. While it’s more of a mental than physical ailment, it’s been linked to chronic sleep disturbances such as insomnia. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, look for a high-quality mattress that promotes the relaxation needed to induce sleep.
Prostate and Bladder Issues
Frequent nighttime urination is a common symptom among seniors. For that reason, look for a mattress that’s easy to get in and out of in the event of a sudden urge to use the restroom. We also recommend using a mattress protector to prevent damage from spills and accidents.
Sleep Apnea
As we age, we’re more likely to experience sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition in which your breathing randomly starts and stops throughout the night. It can be difficult to get a restful night’s sleep, since the change in your breathing often startles you awake.
Hip Pain
Hip pain in seniors can have a variety of sources—arthritis, fractures from accidents, tendinitis, or even just an active lifestyle. It’s important that seniors suffering from hip pain find a mattress that relieves pressure. Mattresses with full body contouring are a great place to start. Also, consider looking through our best mattresses for hip pain.
Sleep Tips for Seniors
- A nightly goal of seven to nine hours of sleep is ideal for seniors.
- Maintain a routine. Go to sleep at the same time every night to help train the body toward regular sleep cycles.
- Take a warm bath or shower prior to sleep. When you get out of the bath or shower, the drop in body temperature is likely to induce tiredness.
- Schedule unwind time before bed. When you are about an hour away from your desired bedtime, consider turning off the TV and other electronic devices. Reading or listening to soothing music are good ways to relax.
- Keep the bedroom for sleep only. When you avoid using your bedroom for other daytime activities, it will train the mind to think of it as a “sleep zone,” which may make it easier to fall asleep when the time comes.
- Avoid daytime naps. Napping during the day will disturb your evening sleep routine.
- Drink fewer fluids in the evening. This will reduce nighttime trips to the bathroom and the possibility that you may not be able to get back to sleep. Speaking of fluids, be sure to avoid stimulants or alcohol before bed, which can also disturb your sleep cycle.
Sleep Accessories for Seniors
- Nightlight: This will help you avoid injuries or falls should you need to get up in the middle of the night.
- Invest in an adjustable base: An adjustable base allows you to change the posture of your mattress with the click of a button. Not only does this improve mobility on your mattress, it can also improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Common adjustments include inclining the upper body, inclining the upper and lower body, and settings designed to reduce snoring. Read our guide on the best adjustable beds for our top recommendations.
- Find a knee pillow: For added support, a knee wedge pillow can help keep your spine aligned, which minimizes back pain.
Best Beds for Seniors FAQs
Is a soft or firm mattress better for seniors?
It depends on the body type and sleeping style of the person in question, but generally seniors will do well with a medium firmness. Too soft and you risk your mattress not providing adequate support and pressure relief to areas of the body that are prone to achiness. Too firm and the mattress may not be comfortable enough for you to feel cozy. Something right in the middle is a great place to start for any senior on their mattress buying journey.
What is the best mattress material for arthritis?
The mattress material probably most closely associated with discomfort/pain relief is memory foam, and we can confirm that it does a wonderful job of mitigating and preventing pain, particularly in the hip and shoulder areas. That said, a good hybrid mattress with substantial comfort layers can also do a wonderful job of providing support and pain relief.
Recap: Top Rated Mattresses for Seniors
| Mattress | Award |
| Puffy Lux Hybrid | Nerd’s Pick |
| Nectar Original | Best Affordable Mattress for Seniors |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Best Mattress for Senior Couples |
| The WinkBed | Best Firm Mattress for Seniors |
| Nolah Evolution | Best Hybrid Mattress for Seniors |
| Saatva | Best Luxury Mattress for Seniors |
| DreamCloud Original | Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Best for Durability |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Best Mattress for Active Seniors |
| Birch Natural | Best Cooling Mattress for Seniors |
Final Thoughts
The best mattress for senior sleepers should check all the boxes for comfort, support, and durability. Based on our testing and experience, we believe these 10 mattresses can suit a wide range of senior needs.
Loren Bullock
Certified Sleep Science Coach
About Author
Loren is the Lead Mattress Reviewer at Mattress Nerd. She has prioritized sleeping for as long as she can remember, rarely deviating from seven to nine hours each night. As an editor on Mattress Nerd and a Certified Sleep Science Coach, Loren aims to help people achieve optimal sleep health and pick the best sleep accessories for their needs. You can find her testing mattresses, exploring the best sleep hacks, and telling you about her findings on Mattress Nerd’s YouTube channel and on TikTok.
Combination Sleeper
Education & Credentials
- Certified Sleep Science Coach
