Written by Lisa Bowman, Fortune Recommends Sleep Writer
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder in older adults (1), so finding a bed that allows you the best rest possible to keep you feeling young at heart is important. Our bodies change as we age, which is why a senior shopper will have different needs to a younger shopper when it comes to mattresses.
Our industry experts tested a multitude of the best mattresses, whittling them down to a list of eight, taking into account criteria like cost, value, and temperature regulation, as well as the specific needs of various types of seniors. For example, if you’re one of the 70% of older adults who currently experience some sort of joint pain (2), you may benefit from a bed that offers superior cushioning and pressure relief. Older shoppers with mobility issues may require a bed with sturdy edge support that helps you get in and out of bed and a responsive surface that allows you to move around with ease. We’ve also highlighted the companies that offer in-home setups for seniors who may struggle with installing a mattress themselves.
Best mattress for seniors overall
After much snoozing and deliberation, there was one clear winner regarding the best overall mattress for seniors. All hail the Helix Midnight—a medium-firm hybrid that should suit most senior sleepers, thanks to its strong support system and pressure-relieving foams. We think it’s one of the best value all-rounders out there.
Our picks for the best mattresses for seniors
- Best overall: Helix Midnight
- Best for seniors with arthritis: Saatva Classic
- Best for seniors with back pain: Nolah Evolution
- Best for seniors with hip pain: WinkBeds The WinkBed
- Best firm: DreamCloud Hybrid
- Best affordable: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
- Best for heavyweight seniors: Titan Plus
- Best for senior side sleepers: Nectar Premier
Compare mattresses for seniors
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| Helix Midnight | Saatva Classic | Nolah Evolution | WinkBeds The WinkBed | DreamCloud Hybrid | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Titan Plus | Nectar Premier | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Best for | Overall | Seniors with arthritis | Seniors with back pain | Seniors with hip pain | Firm | Affordable | Heavy weight seniors | Senior side sleepers |
| Price (Queen) | $1,332 | $2,095 | $2,499 | $1,799 | $1,483 | $1,332 | $1,249 | $2,233 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam |
| Trial period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights |
Best overall mattress for seniors: Helix Midnight
Key product features
What you should know
The Helix Midnight is a medium-firm hybrid with a blend of support and pressure relief that should suit most sleepers.
- Senior couples will likely appreciate the versatility of this bed, but motion transfer and edge support could be an issue.
- A well-priced mattress at $1,332, considering its versatility and durability.
- A great option for all sleeping positions and body weights.
- Good pressure relief, although people with severe joint pain may prefer a bed with deeper sinkage.
- A responsive surface makes it easy to move around on–great for combination sleepers and seniors with mobility issues.
Why we like Helix Midnight as best overall
The last thing you want as a senior is to be replacing your bed after only a few years of good slumber. Thankfully, the Helix Midnight is made with quality, durable materials that should last you for years to come.
That’s just one of the reasons why we think this hybrid is the best overall mattress for seniors. Our testers reported that its medium-firm feel and good support system lend itself well to most sleeping styles and body weights, making it a highly versatile mattress. This versatility is especially advantageous for senior couples seeking a mattress that suits both partners.
While the foams in this bed offer minimal contouring, we found that they still did a great job at relieving pressure around the joints. However, seniors with severe joint pain may find they prefer a bed with more plush layers that provide additional cushioning for sensitive areas.
Edge support is decent on this hybrid–we did experience some sinkage when sitting on the edge of the bed, but we don’t think this should affect most seniors too much when trying to get in and out of bed. However, those with impaired mobility may prefer something with a slightly sturdier perimeter. We also felt some sinkage when sleeping close to the edge, which may disadvantage couples who need to use the entire surface area.
Seniors will appreciate the responsive surface of this hybrid as it has a slight bounce that makes it easy to move around on; we never felt stuck when switching positions or trying to get out of bed. Unfortunately, this bed has pretty average motion isolation, which means you may feel disturbed by a partner or pet moving around.
This model comes with a breathable knit cover, which should be sufficient for most sleepers when it comes to cooling, as the coil unit allows air to circulate and cool the bed. However, there’s a layer of memory foam beneath the cover, a material known for trapping heat–seniors who experience night sweats may benefit from the GlacioTex™ cooling pillow top upgrade, which costs $299. Remember that this adds an extra comfort layer to the bed, changing the overall feel.
Elderly folk who might struggle with unboxing this heavy mattress may benefit from Helix’s in-home setup service, which is available at an extra cost and includes old mattress removal. This cost is calculated depending on your location, as it’s done through a partner freight company.
Overall, we think this hybrid mattress is a great value pick for seniors who don’t require additional cushioning or cooling tech. However, remember that Helix’s 100-night sleep trial is shorter than many competitors, so you have less time to exchange or refund if you find it’s not the bed of your dreams.
To learn more about this brand, check out our full Helix mattress review.
What customers are saying
Positive reviews about the Helix Midnight over on Reddit mention how comfortable it is, with one side-sleeping user (who has since deleted their account) writing, “We got a Helix Midnight and love it so far. It’s softer than I expected.”
However, a few negative reviews mention that support is lacking. “My first week using it felt awesome,” writes Redditor “Yumenio.” “I woke up every day feeling no pain whatsoever. It offered the right amount of support for both back and side sleeping without being too soft or firm. However, this changed after my first month with it. I started noticing that I sank way too much if I slept on my back, and began experiencing back pain consistently every morning.”
Another user who experienced this problem said they contacted Helix, were sent a firming mattress topper, and “love the bed now.” Multiple reviews mention how helpful and responsive Helix’s customer service is.
Some users also say that the bed is too warm, with Redditor “BrandonR_24” commenting,
“I’ve been having issues waking up multiple times a night sweating profusely. I love the comfort of it, but if I’m sweating in January, I can’t imagine what it’d be like in June.”
Specs
| Price (Queen) | $1,332 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 100 nights |
| Shipping | Free within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 100 lbs |
| Height | 11.5” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | Yes |
Best for seniors with arthritis: Saatva Classic
Key product features
What you should know
The Saatva Classic is a great choice for seniors with arthritis as it provides incredible support with soothing pressure relief in all sleeping positions, which should help alleviate aches and pains. Free in-home setup and old mattress removal means you won’t have to lift a finger.
- This hybrid has excellent edge support, which is ideal for seniors and those with mobility issues.
- Premium materials coupled with a lifetime warranty should make this a worthwhile investment.
- Three firmness options–the Luxury Firm model we tested is especially suited to average-weight individuals.
- This super responsive mattress should make moving around on the bed easy.
- Available in two height options, 11.5” or 14.5”.
Why we like Saatva Classic as best for seniors with arthritis
According to the CDC, arthritis affects 53.9% of U.S. adults aged 75 and over, and the Arthritis Foundation reports that 70% of people with osteoarthritis struggle with sleep disturbance due to their condition. (3) (4) Poor sleep can make it harder to deal with pain the next day, so finding a mattress that allows for good rest is important.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all regarding arthritis relief, we believe the Saatva Classic in Luxury Firm could be a great choice for sufferers as it has a medium-firm feel. While there’s minimal research on the best type of mattress for arthritis specifically, existing literature shows that a medium-firm mattress is generally recommended to help relieve chronic pain. (5) However, body weight affects how firm a mattress feels. Be aware that lighter sleepers may prefer the Plush Soft model, while some heavier individuals could find better support for the Firm model.
We found the Saatva Classic in Luxury Firm suitable for most sleeping positions, especially for combination sleepers with arthritis. Our testers reported that the bed is incredibly bouncy, thanks to the responsive recycled steel innerspring layer, which should allow sleepers to switch positions with ease. This pushback and strong edge support can also help older sleepers get in and out of bed more comfortably. High-density foam rails around the bed’s perimeter give this model some of the best edge support our testers have seen—there was minimal sinkage even when sitting on the side of the mattress. This makes it a secure sleeping surface for older people.
Our testers experienced great contouring around the joints, thanks to Saatva’s Lumbar Zone® technology that provides sturdier support in the center third of the bed, which helps to keep the spine in alignment. This should help alleviate aches and pains. Fantastic pressure relief was provided by the 3-inch Euro pillow top and memory foam pad, which should help soothe achy joints. The pillow top is enhanced with further Lumbar Zone® technology, adding to its support. The breezy innerspring unit and breathable organic cotton cover should help keep the sleeper cool. However, the cover doesn’t feel cool to the touch, which may be something to consider if you’re a particularly sweaty sleeper.
Another great thing about the Saatva Classic is that it offers two height options: 11.5 inches and 14.5 inches. Arthritis can affect mobility, so finding a mattress height that makes it easier to get in and out of bed is important. However, be aware that the 14.5-inch model cannot be used with an adjustable base.
As expected with such a bouncy bed, the Saatva Classic has a lot of motion transfer. If you’re a light sleeper who shares with a partner, you may find yourselves disturbed by their movements during the night.
An added bonus of the Saatva Classic is that it arrives full-size and comes with free white glove delivery, which means your new mattress will be delivered and set up in your room of choice. They’ll even remove your old mattress at no extra cost, so there’ll be absolutely no heavy lifting, which is perfect for seniors who might struggle with installation.
Overall, we think the Saatva Classic could be a great investment for seniors with arthritis as it offers plush pressure relief alongside sturdy support, which may help alleviate aches and pains, allowing for a good night’s sleep. While it’s not the most affordable mattress on our list, splashing a bit of extra cash on this luxury mattress will get you a high-quality bed with a lifetime warranty, which isn’t something to be sniffed out.
Check out our full Saatva mattress review or the best mattresses for arthritis to discover more options for you.
What customers are saying
Over on Reddit, positive reviews focus on the support and comfort offered by the Saatva Classic, with user “B1ackfyre” writing, “Feels relatively soft, yet extremely supportive…Feels comfortable in any sleep position. Sleeps cool. Loving the pillow top.”
Redditor “WhenTheFunStops89” also loves his Saatva Classic Luxury Firm, mentioning how it’s firm enough to support his 240-pound frame but also comfortable enough for his smaller girlfriend. However, like many other users, he complains about the height of the 14.5-inch model, saying it’s far too tall on their existing bed frames. User “Johnsankatana” adds: “My Saatva was pretty high, but I never found sheets to cover it totally. Still would recommend and love my Saatva.” The Saatva Classic is also available in an 11.5-inch model, so ensure you measure up before placing your order.
There are a number of reviews saying how the mattress starts to sag after a few years. Redditor “madglee” writes, ”The edges are still supportive and nice, but most of the rest of the bed is boggy. There’s no resistance at all. It causes me to toss and turn all night and wake up with lower back pain.”
Specs
| Price (Queen) | $2,095 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm (Luxury Firm option) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 365 nights |
| Shipping | Free white glove delivery within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 110 lbs (11.5”) or 120 lbs (14.5”) |
| Height | 11.5” or 14.5” |
| Made in the U.S. | Yes |
Best for seniors with back pain: Nolah Evolution
Key product features
What you should know
The 15-inch Nolah Evolution hybrid provides plush pressure relief, targeted support, and responsive layers that should help seniors with back pain rest more comfortably.
- Bouncy coils and foam allow for easy movement on the bed’s surface.
- Premium design, materials, and a lifetime warranty justify the higher price of $2,499.
- The Luxury Firm model is best suited to light to average-weight sleepers.
- Zoned support helps to keep the spine in healthy alignment.
- Cooling technology does a great job of regulating body temperature.
Why we like Nolah Evolution as best for seniors with back pain
Studies show that mattress firmness can greatly affect sleep quality for those experiencing back pain. A common misconception used to be that you should sleep on a very firm mattress if you have a sore back, but experts now agree that a medium-firm bed is the best way of reducing pain while sleeping. (6) The Nolah Evolution comes with a choice of three firmness options–Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm–and we tested the medium-firm Luxury Firm, which could make it a great choice for those with back issues.
Support is key in back pain, as poor spinal alignment while sleeping can worsen symptoms. (7) Our testers experienced great alignment on the Luxury Firm model of the Nolah Evolution in all sleeping positions, with the zoned foam and innerspring layers doing a great job at providing extra support for heavier areas. However, they did note that heavyweight stomach sleepers may require the Firm version to feel adequately supported in the hip area. The thicker coils around the perimeter of the bed provide fantastic edge support, which creates a secure surface for those who need a bit of extra support getting in and out of bed.
Seniors with back pain should seek a bed with great pressure relief to soothe aching joints. We found that this mattress’s thick foam layers greatly relieved pressure on the hips and lower back. However, we did experience slight discomfort at the shoulders when side sleeping, so be aware if you’re a dedicated side sleeper.
Thanks to 8-inch coils and layers of adaptive foam, we found this hybrid to be incredibly responsive, making it easy to move around on. This benefits seniors with impaired mobility as you shouldn’t feel stuck. It’s also a bonus for those with joint pain, as studies suggest that people with back pain change sleeping positions more frequently at night. (7)
You’d expect a bed with a high bounce to also have high motion transfer, but we were pleasantly surprised at how well the Nolah Evolution absorbs the motion. We think all but the lightest of sleepers should sleep soundly on this mattress, even with a restless partner or pet.
As we age, changes in our bodies can affect temperature regulation. (8) Mattress foam layers are known to trap heat, but the Nolah Evolution combats this with its 4-inch AirBreath™ gusset, which allows air to circulate and heat to escape. The 2-inch Euro pillow top contains breathable, temperature-regulating foam and a cooling, organic cotton cover. We were impressed with this mattress’s cooling abilities.
Seniors should know that this is an incredibly heavy mattress at 115 lbs for a queen, making it difficult to move. White glove delivery is not included as standard, but you can pay an additional cost for mattress set-up and/or old mattress removal, starting at $125. At 15 inches deep, this mattress is also on the taller end of the scale, which may not be a suitable height for some people when it comes to safely getting in and out of bed. It can also mean shelling out for new bedding if your current bed sheets aren’t big enough to accommodate such a deep mattress.
This was the most expensive mattress we tested at $2,499 for a Queen, but don’t let the price tag put you off. Our testers were impressed with the premium materials of this bed, describing it as “hotel quality,” so it should last you for years, especially as it comes with a lifetime warranty. Plus, if you don’t require the 120-night sleep trial, you can remove it and save up to $150. Overall, it’s a great mattress for back sleepers and seniors with back pain.
If this mattress isn’t the right pick for you, see the best mattresses for back pain for more great options.
What customers are saying
There’s much discussion on Reddit about the Nolah Evolution, with many reviewers saying it’s soft yet supportive. User “Cyriouslyslick” writes, “I’m a bigger guy, 350lb 6′ tall and a predominantly side sleeper. At my size, I find it very plush, but it is still supportive. The top layers of the mattress do a good job of ‘cradling’ me in one position for most of the night.”
“Nolah is an awesome bed, zero regrets! I have multiple past injuries, so a supportive but soft bed is ideal for me. Side sleeper, back sleeper, and occasional stomach sleeper. All are very comfortable.”
“Ribbitfan”, Redditor
A number of users also comment on the efficiency of the bed’s cooling tech, while a common complaint is that the mattress starts sagging after a few years. Redditor “Wide_Background4570” writes, “We have HATED our Nolah Evolution 15. Broke down within two years, leaving us with horrible deep spots on the mattress and back/hip pain. I have been so incredibly disappointed to pay that much [money] for a mattress that broke down so quickly.”
Reviewer “jkmcf” also warns about the depth of the mattress, which is taller than most. He writes, “The 15″ measurement is only for the edge height, so the pups have a harder time jumping up into bed. The extra thickness would be a great mattress for a low-profile bed frame. You will also need a much deeper pocket for fitted sheets.”
Specs
| Price | $2,499 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm (Luxury Firm option) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free delivery within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 115 lbs |
| Height | 15” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | Yes |
Best mattress for seniors with hip pain: WinkBeds The WinkBed
Key product features
What you should know
WinkBeds The WinkBed comes in four firmness options, and we think the Luxury Firm is a great pick for many seniors with hip pain, thanks to its sturdy support and gel-infused Euro-pillow top that provides soothing pressure relief.
- Zoned layers offer support and pressure relief where needed most.
- This bed offers great value for the cost of $1,799, featuring cooling technology, zoned support, comfy pressure relief, and a lifetime warranty.
- We think this could be a great choice for average to heavyweight back sleepers.
- WinkBeds lets you exchange the mattress for a different firmness level during the 120-night trial.
Why we like The WinkBed as best for seniors with hip pain
The WinkBed has four firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus. We tested Luxury Firm, which is the most popular option. We found its firm surface incredibly comfortable for back sleeping as the firm feel of the mattress and targeted lumbar support in the coil unit kept our hips lifted and spine in alignment. This is great news for seniors with hip pain, as experts say that sleeping on your back can reduce hip discomfort as it distributes body weight more evenly. (9)
Despite its firm support, The WinkBed also provided comfort thanks to the gel-infused foam in the Euro-pillow top. We experienced good pressure relief when we slept on our backs. However, this is definitely not a super plush, contouring bed, so side and stomach sleepers might prefer something with a bit more cushioning to avoid joint pain. We also think lightweight sleepers might find this bed too firm and prefer the Softer model.
As The WinkBed leaves you feeling more on top of the bed than stuck in it, it could be a good choice for seniors who need a bed they can move around on easily. However, be aware that while it’s responsive, it’s not hugely bouncy–some shoppers with mobility issues may prefer a bouncier bed for ease of movement.
While the breathable TENCEL™ cover doesn’t feel cool to the touch, we found the bed did pretty well overall at temperature regulation as it features cooling gel foam and a coil unit that allows air to circulate. Exceptionally hot sleepers or couples who overheat when sharing a bed might prefer a mattress with more cooling technology, but we think most people should feel comfortable on The WinkBed.
One thing to note is that edge support is a little lacking, which could be an issue for some seniors. Despite WinkBeds’ Extra-Edge™ enhanced edge support system, we felt like we would fall out of the bed when lying near the edge. However, we did feel secure when sitting on the edge of the bed, although there was more sinkage when sitting at the corners.
Your WinkBed arrives compressed in a box via free ground shipping. However, this does not include installation, and WinkBed doesn’t offer a white glove delivery service–some seniors may require assistance carrying and installing their new mattress.
To learn more, visit our complete guide on the best mattresses for hip pain or our WinkBed mattress review.
What customers are saying
A huge topic of discussion about The WinkBed on Reddit is that it can take a while to get used to. User “General_Frame_1912” advises: “In case this is helpful to others: As soon as I tried it out, I worried that my WinkBed Luxury Firm was too soft – [I] immediately planned to return it. Luckily I calmed down and gave it a couple of months, and 1.5 years later love the thing. My husband has back pain and normally prefers a firm mattress, so we were surprised by how well this worked for us.”
However, some shoppers have had the opposite problem, experiencing problems with the bed further down the line. Redditor “TreeTopper84” writes: “The first couple days after I got it was a little rough, getting used to it, but then I loved it after that! My morning back and hip pain were gone! Fast forward one month and my pains are back. I love how the bed feels for the first hour at night while I’m lying on my back reading. But when I wake up in the morning, I’m laying in a little trough with all kinds of hip and back pain.”
With four firmness options to choose from, a common issue seems to be that people buy the wrong one for their body type. However, with a 120-night trial, you can exchange your mattress for a different firmness. User “Anonmeplox” did this and raved about WinkBeds’ customer service, saying, “The company itself was wonderful to work with. I had zero issues with communication.”
Specs
| Price (Queen) | $1,799 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Firm (Luxury Firm option) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free delivery within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 135 lbs |
| Height | 13.5” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | Yes |
Best firm mattress for seniors: DreamCloud Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
The DreamCloud Hybrid offers a firm feel with a hybrid design that marries comfort with support and cooling technology.
- This seven-layer hybrid offers a gentle cradle and responsive surface, allowing you to easily move around the bed.
- This bed packs a punch with cooling features, responsive layers, and gel-infused foam, all at an affordable price of $1,483.
- We think average to heavyweight stomach and back sleepers will make the most of this bed.
- Couples will appreciate the great motion isolation.
- An in-home set up can be purchased for $199, including the removal of your old mattress.
Why we like DreamCloud Hybrid as best firm
If you’re a senior who loves a firm bed, we may have just the mattress for you. While DreamCloud says its DreamCloud Hybrid is medium-firm, we definitely found it to have more of a firm feel. This firm support may feel too hard for lightweight sleepers, but we think many average to heavyweight people could experience the right amount of comfort and support on this hybrid.
We felt well-supported on the DreamCloud thanks to its supportive coils and dense foam layers that keep heavier areas like the hips lifted. This allows the spine to sit in its correct alignment, reducing the risk of waking up with niggling aches and pains.
Firm mattresses are sometimes lacking in the comfort department, but we experienced good pressure relief in the upper and lower back thanks to multiple layers of gel-infused foam. However, this may not be sufficient for some side sleepers, who could find pressure build-up in the shoulders and hips and may prefer a plusher mattress that offers deeper sinkage and enhanced cushioning.
Despite featuring reinforced coils around the perimeter, we found that edge support was lacking when sitting on the side of the mattress. This could make it harder for some seniors to get in and out of bed. However, we felt secure when sleeping close to the perimeter, which means that couples can spread out and make the most of the surface area. The innerspring unit and responsive foam layers make for a pretty buoyant surface that most seniors can easily move around on.
This bed comes with free bed-in-a-box delivery, but if you think you’ll struggle to install the bed yourself, you can pay $199 for in-home setup and optional old mattress removal.
We think DreamCloud comes at a great price considering its premium features and materials, offering affordable luxury.
For additional options, check out our full list of the best firm mattresses. Or, visit our complete DreamCloud mattress review for more insights.
What customers are saying
The DreamCloud Hybrid has a rating of 4.2 stars on Amazon, based on 1,799 reviews. Positive reviews mention how fast delivery was and how quick and easy the mattress is to set up, though people do warn about how incredibly heavy it is, which may be an issue for some seniors.
Many positive reviews mention how comfortable the mattress is.
“Absolutely incredible mattress. It’s by far the most comfortable, supportive, and spine-relieving mattress I’ve ever felt.”
Julie Countiss, verified Amazon reviewer
Amazon shopper “YimYorn” raves about the balance of comfort and support, writing, “The bed feels firm, but the pillow top adds that ‘plush’ but without the sinking feel.” They, like many other shoppers, also praise the cooling features, saying that they usually sweat in their sleep but don’t feel hot on the DreamCloud Hybrid.
Reviewer Ali also loves their bed but bemoans the poor edge support: “The only thing I didn’t like is that the edges have no support, which makes sitting on the bed to get dressed, for example, very uncomfortable.”
Specs
| Price (Queen) | $1,483 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Firm |
| Warranty | Forever Warranty™ |
| Trial | 365 nights |
| Shipping | Free within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 78 lbs |
| Height | 12” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | No |
Best affordable mattress for seniors: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
For seniors looking for a modest-priced, quality bed without loads of fancy features, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a great choice.
- A super bouncy bed that offers good support and pressure relief for many sleepers.
- At $1,332, this is a great value bed if you don’t need a mattress that has all the bells and whistles.
- Average-weight back sleepers should find the right amount of contouring and support.
- Strong edge support should help seniors get in and out of bed.
- With minimal cooling technology, this may not be suitable for hot sleepers or those in warmer climates.
Why we like Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as best affordable
If you’re looking for a quality bed for seniors that’s also affordable, we think the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid could be a great pick.
This hybrid comes in three firmness options—Soft, Medium, and Firm—and we tested the versatile Medium, which feels like a true medium-firm. While we think this bed is a great choice for some back and stomach sleepers, we didn’t feel it offered enough contouring for side sleepers as the comfort layers weren’t plush enough to offer pressure relief at the hips and shoulders in this position. Cushioning is especially important for senior side sleepers who experience joint pain—not enough cushioning, and you’ll likely wake up feeling sore. However, we thought the four inches of foam (including a 1.5-inch quilted pillow top) offered the right amount of sinkage for average-weight back and stomach sleepers. Lightweight sleepers will likely find the Medium model too firm and may be better off trying the Soft.
Seniors with mobility issues will appreciate the super bouncy surface of the bed—it almost felt like a trampoline. This should make it easier to move around and get in and out of bed, as should the great edge support. Our testers found little sinkage when sitting and lying on the side of the bed. Unfortunately, as expected, the springy surface meant there was a lot of motion transfer, which is something to be aware of if you share your bed with a partner or pet. You may find yourself disturbed by their movements during the night.
The cooling features in this model are minimal. The coil unit naturally allows air to flow through, but the foam layers have no cooling technology. While this should be sufficient for the average sleeper, we definitely wouldn’t recommend this bed for seniors who tend to sleep hot, although you can upgrade to a cooling GlacioTex™ pillow top, starting at $200.
This bed is delivered to your door compressed in a box, which you have to take to your bedroom and install yourself, which may be difficult for some seniors to do. Be aware that Brooklyn Bedding doesn’t offer a white glove delivery service.
All in all, this affordable mattress might be fairly basic, but it’s made with high-quality materials, and we think it could be a solid choice for seniors who are looking to save a bit of money.
Explore more of the best affordable mattresses to see additional options for you. Or, see our Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid review for more insights on this brand.
What customers are saying
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has a rating of 4.3 stars on Amazon, based on 143 reviews. Positive reviews mention comfort and quality.
“I got the medium firmness twin, and it’s perfect for me at 5’8″ and 150 lbs. Nice and soft but still supportive more pain in my back, neck, and shoulders when waking up. Overall, this mattress is well worth the money for the improved comfort.”
Dan, verified Amazon reviewer
Like many others, Amazon buyer “Nitty’s Mom” thinks the bed is great value considering its high quality, but struggled to install the heavy mattress without the option of white glove delivery. She writes: “My daughter recently moved to a condo and wanted to graduate to a larger bed than her twin. This queen is perfect, paired with a platform frame with a headboard. Again, getting it up three flights of stairs is another story. She reports the mattress is very comfortable (medium firmness ordered), yet not squishy soft.”
Some reviewers report that the bed softens over time, with a few mentioning that it’s started sagging. “Bookwyrm” writes: “At first, this mattress was excellent to sleep on and provided comfortable and firm support. However, in time, it developed a sunken area in the middle that I rolled into and found very hot and uncomfortable.”
Specs
| Price | $1,332 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm (Medium option) |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free across the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 105 lbs |
| Height | 12.25” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | Yes |
Best mattress for heavyweight seniors: Titan Plus
Key product features
What you should know
The Titan Plus is a sturdy and durable firm hybrid that could be a great choice for plus-size seniors.
- This mattress provides strong support and gentle contouring for individuals weighing over 250 pounds.
- We think this is a great value product at $1,249 for such a high-quality, sturdy bed.
- A solid choice for senior plus-size sleepers who love a firm sleeping surface.
- Edge support is great when sitting but slightly lacking when sleeping near the edge.
- Decent cooling, but hot sleepers can upgrade to a GlacioTex™ cooling cover starting at $150.
Why we like Titan Plus as best for heavyweight seniors
The Titan Plus is specially designed for people who weigh over 250 pounds, and it can hold up to 1,000 pounds in body weight, thanks to a sturdy support system of 100% steel TitanCore coils and high-density foam.
Our testers found it incredibly supportive with a firm feel, although the heavier you are, the softer the mattress will feel to you. We think it does a great job of supporting plus-size folks in all sleeping positions, which helps keep the spine in alignment. This is especially crucial for senior sleepers who experience joint pain, as poor posture can exacerbate it. (7) You also need the right amount of cushioning to relieve pressure on joints. While the Titan Plus certainly isn’t plush, we think its gel foam pillow top could provide the right balance of support and pressure relief for most heavyweight back and stomach sleepers. However, plus-size side sleepers weighing closer to 250 pounds might find this mattress too firm as they likely won’t be heavy enough to activate the comfort layers, which could lead to pain over time.
Seniors may need a little extra support when getting in and out of bed, and the Titan Plus offers that with great edge support from the high-density foams. Unfortunately, these foams didn’t hold up so well for us when laying near the edge, and we experienced some sinkage here. This is something to remember if you share your bed and need to use the entire sleep surface.
While this isn’t a super bouncy bed, we found it responsive enough to allow us to change sleeping positions easily, which should benefit senior combination sleepers. The mattress does have quite high motion transfer, which could be an issue for couples who might feel disturbed by a restless partner. We also wouldn’t recommend this for couples where only one person is plus-size, as the lighter individual will most likely find the mattress way too hard to be comfortable. A good option in this case could be the Titan Plus Luxe, which is the same bed but with an extra layer of responsive foam.
With its gel-infused foam and breathable coil unit, this bed should be sufficient for most regarding cooling. However, if you’re a super-hot sleeper, you might prefer something with a bit more cooling technology. Alternatively, you can choose to upgrade to the GlacioTex™ cooling cover, which costs from $100.
Seniors should be aware that this is a heavy mattress, delivered compressed in a box, with no option for in-home set up. If you think you’ll struggle with installation, make sure you have someone to help you.
Overall, we think the Titan Plus is a great and affordable mattress for heavy people, and especially for plus-size seniors, although some side sleepers in this category may wish to check out the Titan Plus Luxe, which offers more cushioning.
Check out our complete Titan mattress review or the best mattresses for heavy people for more great options.
What customers are saying
There’s a lot of discussion about Titan Plus on Reddit, including the r/Mattress subreddit. Some reviewers complain that the mattress feels too firm on the shoulders and legs, leaving them bottoming out at the hips.
Redditor “Same_Relation_2798” writes: “ I’m between 260 and 270, 5’11. It didn’t work out for me at all. I’m not sure if I had a bad bed or wasn’t heavy enough for it. The middle of my body would sink, but my shoulders and legs wouldn’t. So, no matter what position I slept in, I’d feel like a banana. Especially bad when you sleep on your stomach or side. Had to get rid of it. If you’re 300-plus [pounds] or if your weight is more distributed and not mostly in the midsection, it might work out for you.”
However, many others say it’s just right, with reviewer “Shuiner” commenting, “I was worried after hearing others say it’s too firm, but honestly, it is far from the firmest mattress I’ve been on. I don’t have a topper, but I find it comfortable. It certainly isn’t a mattress you sink into, but I was pleasantly surprised by how soft it was compared to the reviews. I love mine. I’m kinda in between being a side and stomach sleeper. I’m 320 [pounds]. It’s held up fine so far.”
Many positive reviewers like how supportive it is for heavier sleepers, with Redditor “123acam123” saying, “I did a lot of research, and Brooklyn Bedding Titan is made with dense foams that should hold up better than most. I ended up getting the Titan and love it. Great support.”
Specs
| Price | $1,249 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Firm |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free delivery within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 100 lbs |
| Height | 11” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | Yes |
Best mattress for senior side sleepers: Nectar Premier
Key product features
What you should know
The Nectar Premier is a medium-firm memory foam model that offers a good balance of pressure relief and support for senior side sleepers.
- The foams in this bed offer a gentle contour rather than a traditional deep memory foam hug.
- Durable materials, a 365-night trial, and a lifetime warranty add to the value of this bed.
- Great for senior side and back sleepers who don’t sleep too hot.
- Excellent motion isolation, good edge support, and a responsive surface could make this a good choice for senior couples.
- Despite being billed as a ‘cooling’ bed, we don’t think it lives up to the claims.
Why we like Nectar Premier as best for senior side sleepers
This Nectar Premier is a memory foam mattress that’s also available as a hybrid. However, we think the foam model is a better choice for senior side sleepers as the memory foam offers fantastic pressure relief, which is much-needed when sleeping on your side.
Side sleeping can put a lot of pressure on the hip and shoulders. Still, this bed has a layer of therapeutic memory foam and a layer of dynamic response foam that offers cushioning in this position for most body weights. Having said this, while we think it’s a great pick for the majority of side sleepers, those with chronic joint pain may require something with thicker layers of memory foam.
We found this mattress to be medium-firm, a versatile feel that suits a wide range of sleepers. We think this mattress is supportive enough for most body weights while sleeping on the side and back, but we found it too soft for all but the lightest of stomach sleepers. Stomach sleepers need a bit of extra lift to keep the hips in alignment with the spine, and the Nectar Premier’s foam layers didn’t quite cut it in that department for us.
Foam beds can sometimes have poor edge support compared to hybrids, as foam is less sturdy than coils. We were pleasantly surprised at how well the edges of the Nectar Premier held up, considering it’s an all-foam model. While edge support isn’t as impressive as some of the hybrids we tested, we still felt pretty secure when sitting and sleeping close to the edge, which is great for seniors who need stability when getting in and out of bed.
Those with mobility issues will appreciate the fairly responsive surface, allowing easy movement on the bed. This is thanks to three inches of dynamic response foam that stops you from feeling stuck in the bed. As expected from a memory foam model, motion isolation is excellent, which means you shouldn’t feel disturbed if a partner or pet is moving around at night.
Foam tends to retain heat, but Nectar attempts to combat this with a cooling polyethylene cover and gel-infused foam (gel helps disperse heat). Unfortunately, despite Nectar claiming that this bed has 60% more cooling fibers than the Nectar Classic, we still found it to sleep rather hot. While the cover does live up to its ‘cool to the touch’ claims, it’s not enough to regulate the temperature of the whole bed. This could be a blessing for seniors who run cold, but we wouldn’t recommend the Nectar Premier for those who overheat at night.
This is an all-foam mattress, so it’s lighter than most of the hybrids in this round-up, but some seniors may still struggle with unboxing and installation. If so, Nectar offers in-home setup and optional old mattress removal for an additional $199.
We highly recommend this for seniors seeking a high-quality, pressure-relieving memory foam bed, especially if they’re after a good mattress for side sleepers.
To learn more, see our full Nectar Premier mattress review or our guide on the best mattresses for side sleepers.
What customers are saying
Reviews about the Nectar Premier are mixed on Reddit, with those who love it absolutely raving about it and those who hate, well, absolutely hating it. Redditor “Shot_Welcome_758” says, “Have the Nectar Hybrid Premier and a $600 adjustable base. It’s a life changer. Love my Nectar.”
Negative reviews focus on the lack of support over time, with user “birdy1027” writing,
“I ended up returning my Nectar Premier. After about six months, it lost most of its support and was much too soft for us.” Others mention the poor customer service when trying to return or exchange their mattress.
Many users also mention that it has a “breaking in” period you need to push through before it feels comfortable, with “_BlankFace” writing, “First few nights were rough as it felt way too firm. But eventually, I got used to it, and I absolutely love it.”
As expected with memory foam, some people find it too hot. Redditor “gc9958” comments: “My two cents is the Nectar Premier was damn comfy, but I was sweating bullets in it every night even when I had the temp in my room under 65 degrees, and ended up returning it.”
Specs
| Price (Queen) | $2,233 |
| Material | Foam |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | Forever Warranty™ |
| Trial | 365 nights |
| Shipping | Free within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (Queen) | 90 lbs |
| Height | 13” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | No |
How we test mattresses
Here at Fortune Recommends, we take sleep very seriously. We know the pain of splashing your hard-earned cash on a product that doesn’t deliver, which is why our goal is to bring you the most comprehensive, honest reviews you can find on the web. Our testers are industry experts with years of experience behind them, so they know how to test a mattress to its limits. We’ve summarized the process below, but if you’re keen to read more, check out our full mattress testing methodology.
Performance (sleep experience)—30%
A high-quality mattress should feel like it’s designed to provide you with the best sleep of your life. They should also deliver on the promise of a great sleep experience. Our sleep science coaches assess various factors to reflect the functional aspects of the mattress as well as the user’s sleep experience. Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Temperature regulation
- Motion isolation
- Edge support
- Technology
Comfort and support—30%
Alongside the sleep experience, comfort and support are just as important for a healthy and restful sleep. A high-quality mattress should assist in providing relief with certain aches and pains a user may experience when sleeping. It should also help users wake up feeling energized and rested. Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Firmness
- Pressure relief
- Spinal alignment support
- Customization
Value—20%
Assessing value involves a meticulous examination of several key factors that contribute to a mattress’s worth. A mattress that is priced just within reach of its target audience, yet surpasses competitors in terms of materials, performance, and support, presents a compelling value proposition. However value is not solely determined by the lowest price point. We also determine it by finding the balance between cost and the tangible benefits a mattress provides.
Customer experience—10%
Sometimes, the mattress can be great, but if the overall shopping experience wasn’t, that could easily put a sour taste in a user’s mouth about the mattress they just purchased. We put in the hours to determine how well the entire process of buying a mattress matches users’ expectations and what options are available when something goes wrong.
- Shipping
- Warranty
- Customer service
- Sleep trial
Health and safety—10%
It’s important to understand that a mattress is more than just a sleeping surface—it’s an environment where you spend a significant portion of your life. We meticulously assess critical aspects of mattresses that may directly impact your well-being and peace of mind.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Hypoallergenic materials
- Off-gassing and chemical exposure
- Safety certifications
How to choose the best mattress for seniors
When buying a mattress, you must first figure out your priorities. Do you have mobility issues? If so, a bed with strong edge support and a responsive surface is a must, making it easier to get in and out of bed. Do you experience joint pain? The right balance of pressure-relieving materials and skeletal support is key to ensuring your joints are adequately cushioned, and your spine is in the correct alignment, as poor posture can worsen the pain. (7)
Do you tend to overheat while sleeping? Look for a mattress with cooling features, like breathable covers, foams infused with phase change materials like gel or copper, and coil units allowing airflow. Motion isolation may also be a key factor if you’re a light sleeper who shares a bed with a restless partner or pet. Generally, foam beds isolate motion better than hybrids and innerspring beds, but this isn’t always true.
Finally, is cost an important factor? The good news is that lower cost doesn’t necessarily equate to lower quality these days, so you don’t have to sacrifice good slumber just because you’re on a restricted budget. There are many great mattresses under $1,000 that still provide great sleep at an affordable price.
How sleep changes as you age
Unfortunately, the likelihood of experiencing a sleep disorder increases as we enter our senior years, and there are many contributing factors, like changes in sleep habits, reduced exercise, poor mental health, and chronic physical illness. (10) It’s thought that up to 75% of older adults experience symptoms of insomnia, which is when they struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep. (11) Illnesses that can contribute to insomnia in the elderly include arthritis, gastroesophageal reflux disorder, and respiratory conditions like sleep apnea. (12)
Have you also noticed you’ve been waking up at a different time than when you were younger? This could be due to your circadian rhythm, which is our natural body clock that regulates many processes, including the sleep-wake cycle. As we get older, our circadian rhythm changes, which often leads to seniors naturally waking up earlier in the day and falling asleep earlier at night. (12)
Poor sleep in the elderly can lead to long-term health issues like weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, heart attack, and an increased risk of death. (13) This is why finding a mattress that gives you the best chance of getting plenty of quality shut-eye is important.
Sleep tips for seniors
If you’re a senior who feels like they’re not getting enough quality sleep and it’s not linked to a medical condition, then thankfully, there are a number of positive lifestyle changes you can make. MedlinePlus recommends the following advice for seniors looking to improve their slumber. (14)
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule, which means going to bed and waking up simultaneously each day.
- Stop drinking coffee, tea, or other caffeine drinks at least three to four hours before bed.
- Ensure you’ve digested your dinner before bedtime, as going to sleep with a full stomach can keep you awake. If you feel hungry late at night, have a light snack but nothing too heavy.
- Don’t use tobacco products, especially right before bedtime.
- Avoid napping during the day.
- Exercise every day, but don’t work out within three hours of going to bed.
- Only use your bed for sleeping or sex—don’t watch TV or use your phone or tablet in bed.
- Avoid sleeping pills, as you can quickly become dependent on them, which may worsen your sleep problems in the long run.
- Still can’t sleep? If you haven’t managed to fall asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed and do a quiet activity like reading until you start to feel sleepy.
Of course, if you’re concerned about your sleep, always speak to your healthcare provider.
FAQs
What type of mattress is best for an older person?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing a mattress for an older person; it all depends on your individual needs. Seniors with joint pain or arthritis should prioritize a mattress with sufficient cushioning layers to soothe aching joints and provide enough support to keep the spine in healthy alignment. Those with mobility issues may need a bed with sturdy edge support and a responsive surface that helps you get in and out of bed. Elderly sleepers who experience night sweats should look for a breathable mattress with cooling features.
Is a soft or hard mattress better for the elderly?
Different body types and sleeping positions require different levels of mattress firmness, regardless of age. The most important factor is finding a firmness that keeps your hips lifted in line with your spine while also providing enough pressure relief, which can help prevent aches and pains. However, for elderly sleepers with joint pain, experts generally recommend a medium-firm mattress for relieving symptoms. (6)
Is memory foam good for the elderly?
Memory foam can be a great choice for the elderly as it’s designed to cushion and relieve pressure on joints, which can help reduce pain in these areas. Memory foam is commonly used in the comfort layers of all-foam or hybrid beds. In all-foam beds, look for models with high-quality, high-density foams in the support layers, preventing the hips from sinking too deeply and help keep the spine in healthy alignment. Seniors should also be aware that memory foam has a tendency to trap heat, which can affect temperature regulation and disrupt sleep. If this is a concern, look for memory foam that features cooling technology.
Will Medicare pay for a mattress for seniors?
Mattresses come under ‘pressure-reducing support surfaces’ under durable medical equipment (DME), which is covered by Medicare Part B. (15) However, this only covers specialist medical mattresses that are prescribed by a doctor for a medical condition. For example, you won’t be able to claim a Saatva mattress just because you suffer from back pain. After your doctor has prescribed a mattress and your deductible has been met, you’ll need to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the rental or purchase of the mattress.
Our experts
Swathi Varanasi
Dr. Swathi Varanasi, or Dr. Swathi for short, is a pharmacist passionate about the intersection of personalized medicine and innovation. Dr. Swathi received her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) at the Medical University of South Carolina and Bachelor of Arts (BA) at Carleton College. She co-founded and was the first-ever healthcare professional in the US to complete postdoctoral residency training in integrative medicine and preventative health. She also completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Medical Affairs in biotech and has training in nutrition from Cornell University.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Lisa Bowman
Fortune Recommends Sleep Writer
About Author
Lisa is a sleep writer for Fortune Recommends, which combines two of her greatest passions – writing and sleeping. She can also be found writing about fitness, sustainability, and vegan food.
Her life revolves around her two rescue dogs (who she shares her bed with) and if she’s not running around after them, she’s likely doing yoga, buying new plants, or enjoying a sunset rum at the beach.