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The Best Beds And Mattresses For Older Adults

As we age, a good night’s sleep becomes more important but more challenging. Stiff joints, back pain and mobility issues can all impact sleep quality. This guide will help you find the best bed and mattresses for older adults, helping you ease pain, support mobility and promote restorative sleep.

Signs that you need a new mattress

If you wake up sore or stiff, your current mattress might not meet your needs. Here are some key signs it’s time to get a new mattress:

  • Increased back, neck or joint pain
  • Sleep disturbances due to pressure points
  • Visible sagging or uneven areas in the mattress
  • Trouble getting in or out of bed
  • Mattresses aged 7+ years

Read more about the signs of sleeping on a bad mattress, or learn more about replacing your mattress every 8 years.

What mattress types are best for older people?

1. Orthopaedic mattresses

2. Memory foam mattresses

3. Pocket sprung mattresses

4. Hybrid mattresses

5. Adjustable mattress

What type of mattress is best for seniors with arthritis?

Older adults who struggle with arthritis need a mattress which cushions inflamed joints while maintaining body support. Look for options with zone support to cushion the shoulders and hips. The best mattresses for arthritis are:

  • Memory foam mattresses offer deep pressure relief.
  • Orthopaedic mattresses provide extra firmness and support.
  • Hybrid mattresses combine a soft foam layer with stable spring bases, offering a balance of both cushion and support.

What mattress firmness is best for older people?

A medium mattress is popular for adults, even those 60 and older. It offers enough comfort to relieve pressure but is firm enough to maintain spinal alignment.

However, firmness needs vary based on weight, sleeping positions and medical conditions. Soft mattresses may be better for side sleepers, while firm mattresses are more suitable for heavier users or those with back issues. If you have severe back problems, why not consider a very firm mattress instead?

What is the best mattress height for seniors?

Ideally, mattresses should be 20-25 inches from the floor, which allows older adults to sit on the bed with their feet flat on the ground and knees at an angle. This makes getting in and out of bed safer and easier.

What is the best bed height for an elderly person?

Like mattress height, the ideal bed height for older adults is about 20-23 inches from the ground. Beds that are too high can be challenging to climb into, and beds that are too low may cause strain on the knees and hips.

What’s the best beds for older adults?

1. Adjustable beds

2. Divan beds

3. Ottoman Beds

Are platform beds good for seniors?

Platform beds can be good for seniors if they offer appropriate height and support. Some are too low to the ground, which can strain joints. A platform bed is suitable for seniors if it has a slatted base for airflow, a comfortable mattress type, and legs with a height of 20-25 inches.

What bed and mattress is best for older people with mobility issues?

An adjustable bed and mattress are the best options for seniors with mobility issues. As covered before, these allow you to elevate your head or feet at the touch of a button. This makes it easier to get in and out of bed, and it’s excellent for improving circulation, reducing joint swelling, and providing pressure relief for hips, backs, and shoulders.

How can an elderly person get out of bed easier?

  • Choose an adjustable bed to raise the head or foot of the bed for easier positioning.
  • Consider installing grab rails or side rails to add stability and aid with getting in and out.
  • Place non-slip bed steps to assist with climbing in or out of bed, or if you have a high bed frame.
  • You may benefit from firm edge support to prevent sliding off soft mattress edges.

The best beds and mattresses for seniors

To summarise, here’s a quick comparison of the best beds and mattresses for older adults:

Bed/Mattress Type Best For
Adjustable bed and mattress Mobility or circulation issues
Divan bed base Built-in storage and height
Ottoman bed frame Built-in storage and accessibility
Platform bed Stable and flat sleeping surface
Orthopaedic mattress Back pain and spinal support
Memory foam mattress Arthritis and pressure relief
Pocket spring mattress Responsive support for couples
Hybrid mattress Balanced comfort and support
Soft mattresses Lighter individuals
Medium mattresses Joint pain and pressure sensitivity
Firm mattresses Heavier individuals or severe back pain

Bed and mattresses for older adults at Dreams

Visit your nearest Dreams store and try before buying. Our experts will be on hand to answer all your questions and solve your sleep concerns.

For more, why not take our Sleepmatch quiz to find the best mattress for you? No matter what mattresses you choose, we offer a 100-Night Comfort Guarantee. If you’re not satisfied after 100 nights, we’ll offer you an exchange. We want you to find the best sleep possible, so we’re here to help regardless of your age.

How to choose a mattress and bed for the elderly?

Whether you’re shopping for your needs or for an older adult, you should consider:

  • Health conditions such as back pain, arthritis or mobility
  • Preferred sleep position and weight
  • Ease of access and bed height
  • Support level and pressure relief of mattresses

Read our bed buying guide to help you decide on the best bed for you, or our personal comfort guide for the right mattress.