Best Mattresses For Seniors

Best Mattresses For Seniors UK (2024)

Last updated: 13.03.2024 Reading time: 13 Min. Liked by: 10

As we age, our sleep and needs change.

Unfortunately, many seniors face difficulties sleeping and may be plagued by back or joint pain. 🧓

Our top picks for the best mattresses for elderly people provide excellent support and pressure relief to ensure a better night’s sleep.

Let’s get into it. 👇

best mattress for seniors

Our top picks for the best mattress for the elderly UK

Best For Side Sleepers

Simba Hybrid

The Simba Hybrid mattress is a high-quality pocket-sprung mattress with multiple layers of foam. With 10 year guarantee.
  • Simbatex & Aerocoil springs
  • 25 cm (10 inches)
  • Medium-firm 

Tell me more about the Simba Hybrid

The Simba Hybrid is an award-winning hybrid pocket sprung foam mattress by Simba Sleep. 

This is a medium-firm mattress that's an excellent choice for a wide range of sleepers but is particularly suited to side sleepers. 

The Simba mattress is supportive enough to prevent a build-up of tension but also soft enough to allow your body to sink in where necessary.

This allows for optimal spinal alignment. 

The Simba Hybrid mattress comes with an antibacterial hypoallergenic cover, which is removable and machine-washable.

The Simba comes with free delivery, a 200-day risk-free trial period, and a 10-year guarantee. 

Reasons to buy

200-night sleep trial

10-year guarantee 

Excellent support for side sleepers 

Washable cover 

Reasons to avoid

May be too soft for larger builds

Best For Back Sleepers

Emma Original Hybrid

The Emma Original Hybrid has replaced the flagship Emma Original, bringing a new hybrid design for advanced comfort, support, and temperature regulation.
  • Airflow foam, support foam, and pocket sprung base
  • 22 cm (8.5 inches)
  • Medium-firm 

Tell me more about the Emma Original Hybrid

The Emma Original Hybrid has replaced the flagship Emma Original mattress. 

It is made up of two different layes of foam and a pocket sprung base.

It offers great orthopaedic support, making it a good choice for people prone to back pain.

The Emma Original Hybrid has a medium-firm feel, ideal for back sleepers. 

Conveniently, the mattress comes with a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed at up to 60℃.

Reasons to buy

200-night trial period 

10-year guarantee

Machine-washable cover

Reasons to avoid

Pocket sprung base isn't ideal for all

EXTRA 5% OFF WITH
SLEEPHEROUK5Click to copy code

BUY EMMA ORIGINAL HYBRID£ 339

Best Trial Period

DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid

The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress is a 5-layered premium mattress.
  • Memory foam & pocket springs
  • 28 cm (11 inches)
  • Medium-firm

Tell me more about the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid

The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid is a premium mattress from the same company that makes the Nectar memory foam mattress.

It combines high-quality memory foam with full-size pocket springs (called ActiveEdge coils), each measuring 15 cm (5.9 inches).

This is an orthopaedically designed mattress with medium-firm support to help eliminate back, neck, and shoulder pains.

The mattress offers enhanced breathability to help keep you cool and refreshed all night long. 

It also has low motion transfer and great edge support, making it an excellent choice for couples.

Reasons to buy

365-day trial period

Lifetime warranty

Excellent motion isolation for couples

Reasons to avoid

Extra deep sheets required 

Too firm for lightweight side sleepers

The cover is not removable 

Memory Foam Comfort

Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

The Nectar is a luxurious memory foam mattress suitable for most people and sleeping positions.
  • Memory foam & cold foam 
  • 25 cm (10 inches)
  • 365-day trial period
  • Made in the UK

Tell me more about the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

The Nectar memory foam mattress is one of our favourite mattresses.

It features 3 layers of high-quality, high-density memory foam for optimal spinal alignment, pressure relief, and comfort.

The base layer also has 7 contour zones to enhance its ergonomic design and keep your body in a healthy sleeping position. 

The Nectar mattress features a breathable, cooling cover, but it isn't machine-washable.

We'd suggest using a mattress protector to safeguard your mattress against stains, spills, and bacteria.

The Nectar mattress comes with free delivery & returns, a revolutionary 365-day trial period, and a "forever warranty". 

Reasons to buy

Lifetime warranty

Exceptional comfort for average-weight & lighter sleepers

Free 3-day shipping 

Reasons to avoid

The cover is not washable 

May be too warm for hot sleepers 

Best Orthopaedic Support

Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus Mattress

The Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus Mattress has a firm feel and a unique open coil core, ideal for back sleepers.

This double-sided mattress also features edge-to-edge support and tufting, making it a highly durable and long-lasting choice.

Manufactured in the UK, the Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus is a firm-feeling mattress.

The PostureTech Core Support spring system is unique in that its coils are engineered to respond to pressure, becoming firmer in places the body requires enhanced support. 👍

It is also fitted with what Sealy calls 'PowerPack' comfort, an area of more densely packed springs in the centre of the mattress designed to enhance lumbar support.

The spring core and firm feel make the Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus Mattress well-suited to back sleepers

Sealy Mellbreak ortho plus mattress
While the Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus Mattress offers the right support for back sleepers, it is too firm for most side sleepers.

The tufted surface, double-sided design, and EdgeGuard technology, which promotes edge-to-edge support, work together to create a firmer feeling and more durable product.

If you are concerned about the environment, you'll be pleased to know that the mattress is 100% recyclable.

While the majority of Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus reviews praise its accurate description and value for money, a few customers have reported premature sagging. ⚖️

Thankfully, such issues are rare and are covered under the mattress guarantee.

The Sealy Mellbreak mattress has a 60-night trial and a 5-year guarantee, both ensuring peace of mind, critical for buying online.

BUY SEALY MELLBREAK ORTHO PLUS£ 309.95

  Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus Mattress
Composition: PostureTech Core Support open coil springs, PowerPack centre, tufted top
Firmness level: Firm
Height: 28 cm (11 inches)
Trial period: 60 nights
Guarantee: 5 years
What makes this mattress special? The densely packed and uniquely designed spring system offers a firm and highly supportive feel, ideal for back sleepers.
Great For Hot Sleepers

Otty Hybrid

The Otty Hybrid is a four-layer hybrid mattress that combines the unique qualities of a pure spring mattress with a top layer of memory foam.
  • Pocket springs & memory foam
  • 25 cm (10 inches)
  • Medium-firm

Tell me more about the Otty Original Hybrid

The Otty Hybrid is a four-layer hybrid mattress that combines 16 cm pocket springs with Cool Blue Gel memory foam for superior comfort, body-hugging support, and stability. 

While classified as a medium-firm mattress, it actually rates much firmer than other hybrid models, making it great for anyone looking for extra support and back pain relief. 

The Otty Hybrid features firm side support panels for superior edge support, making this a great choice for couples or anyone who enjoys sitting on the side of the bed. 

This mattress is available in a wide range of European and British mattress sizes and is one of the very few bed-in-a-box mattresses available in the emperor bed size. 👑

Reasons to buy

Excellent back support

100-day trial period

10-year guarantee

Reasons to avoid

May be too firm for lighter-weight sleepers

How to choose the best mattress for elderly people

As we age, our requirements for support, comfort, and ease of use can change, making the choice of mattress more critical than ever. 🤔

So, how can you choose a mattress for an elderly person?

We say it’s all about finding the perfect balance between catering to your evolving needs and satisfying your personal preferences.

Let’s take a closer look at how to buy a mattress for elderly people. 🔎

Is it better to shop online or in-store for a mattress for elderly people?

There’s no right or wrong when it comes to shopping online or in-store for a mattress.

However, each choice comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Let’s examine the pros and cons to see which is best for you. 👇

Shopping Method

Pros

Cons

Shopping Online

  • Shopping online is convenient, allowing you to choose your new mattress from the comfort of your home.
  • Online brands are often less expensive than in-store options.
  • You’ll have access to a wider selection of mattresses.
  • Many online brands offer premium delivery services, delivering the mattress directly to your room of choice.
  • You cannot test the mattress before purchase.
  • White Glove delivery services, which include delivery to the room of choice, may incur an additional fee.

Shopping In-Store

  • Sales staff can assist and answer questions, making choosing a new mattress less daunting.
  • You can physically test out floor models to see how they feel.
  • You’ll need to visit within the store's (sometimes limited) business hours.
  • Typically, in-store mattresses are more expensive due to higher overhead costs.
  • While you can test mattresses in-store, they may feel different at home after extended use.

Overall, shopping online offers the most convenience, choices, and lower prices.

However, some people feel more comfortable with the personal assistance and ability to try mattresses that shopping in-store allows.

Ultimately, the best shopping method depends on your personal preferences and priorities.

Support and comfort

Selecting the best mattress for the elderly hinges on finding the right balance between support and comfort.

A mattress with excellent support ensures optimal spinal alignment. ✅

It should allow heavier parts of the body to sink into the mattress without sinking in too far, especially in the mid-section.

optimal spinal alignment

For comfort, look for mattresses that contour to the body, alleviating pressure points.

This combination promotes restful sleep by supporting the spine and providing tailored cushioning.

If you’re looking for a soft and supremely comfortable mattress, the Emma Luxe Cooling mattress is a good option.

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-40% EMMA LUXE COOLING

Sleeping position

Your sleeping position significantly influences your mattress choice

Side sleepers benefit from softer mattresses, ensuring hips and shoulders can comfortably sink in without sacrificing support for the mid-section. 😶‍🌫️

firmness according to sleeping position

For back sleepers, medium-firm mattresses are the top mattresses for seniors, providing balanced support and comfort.

Stomach sleepers should opt for a firmer mattress to prevent the mid-section from dipping.

However, it should be noted that this position is generally less advised due to potential aches and pains.

Firmness

There isn't a one-size-fits-all firmness level in mattresses for the elderly.

What works best varies from person to person. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

For instance, the best mattress for the elderly with arthritis is usually a softer mattress that cushions the joints and offers gentle support.

degrees of comfort

On the other hand, individuals suffering from back pain or other aches are better suited to orthopaedic beds for elderly people.

These tend to be firmer and provide more support to the back, joints, and overall body.

If you’re struggling with back pain, you may want to check out our article on the UK’s best mattresses for back pain.

Edge support

When looking for the best mattress for the elderly, edge support is crucial, particularly for those experiencing physical difficulty getting out of bed.

But what does edge support mean? 🤷

It refers to the mattress's ability to maintain its firmness and support all the way to its edges, preventing excessive sinking when you roll towards or sit on the bed's perimeter.

Mattresses for elderly people with robust edge support make it easier to get into and out of bed.

edge support

Moreover, good edge support ensures that sleepers can use the full surface without feeling like they might roll off. 👏

You’ll usually find spring, latex, and hybrid mattresses offer better edge support than foam.

The Simba Hybrid offers excellent edge support for those who need a helping hand to get in and out of bed.

FREE PILLOW - SIMBA HYBRID£ 599

Ease of movement

Many of the best mattresses for seniors have a firmer and more stable core.

A sturdy feel makes it easier to change positions and get up. 🤸

In particular, orthopaedic beds for elderly people tend to be firmer, preventing excess sinking and allowing you to move without difficulty.

The Sealy Mellbreak Ortho is a firmer mattress, ideal for older adults.

BUY SEALY MELLBREAK ORTHO PLUS£ 309.95

Materials

Mattresses are made from various materials.

Some of the most popular materials used in many of the best mattresses for seniors include:

We’ll discuss more on these materials in the section “What type of mattress is best for elderly people?”. 👇

Mattress height

The height of a mattress has a bigger impact than you may think in the challenge of finding the best mattress for elderly people.

Generally, a lower-profile mattress is preferable for ease of access. 📏

A lower height makes climbing into bed easier for those with physical difficulties.

measuring mattresses
The best mattress for seniors shouldn’t be too thick or thin, making getting out of bed a piece of cake.

However, the ideal bed height for elderly people also depends on the height of the person and the bed frame.

For individuals with shorter bed frames, opting for a taller mattress can make the bed more accessible.

Conversely, you’ll want a slimmer mattress if you have a taller bed frame. 👍

Temperature regulation

Temperature regulation is an essential factor when selecting a mattress.

Studies show that our body temperature changes in relation to our circadian rhythm [1], dropping when our body prepares for sleep.

Unfortunately, overheating can make falling and staying asleep more challenging. 🌡️

Some individuals naturally sleep cooler, while others tend to run hot.

Generally, memory foam options are known for trapping heat, making them suitable for those who sleep cool.

couples with different temperatures
People have different temperatures, meaning they’ll sleep better on certain materials.

On the other hand, hot sleepers need something more breathable that keeps them cool and comfortable. ❄️

Spring or hybrid options are some of the top mattresses for seniors who run hot.

The Otty hybrid is ideal for people over 60 who tend to feel warmer.

BUY OTTY HYBRID£ 449.99

Budget

Price plays a crucial role when it comes to choosing a mattress, regardless of age. 🛌

It's wise to steer clear of super cheap options if you want the best mattress for older adults in the UK.

But don’t worry; you can still find affordable, high-quality mattresses tailored to seniors.

The average price range for a UK mattress falls between £200 and £700 [2].

price-performance ratio

If you’re on a limited budget, we suggest keeping an eye out for mattress sales, where you can snag a premium mattress for less.

For the latest deals, check out our discounts page. 💸

Delivery

Considering mattress delivery options may not seem like the most important factor, but it can make all the difference to your experience.

Mattresses can be surprisingly heavy. 🏋️

Unfortunately, the best mattress for frail elderly people in the UK is not always the lightest.

This poses a challenge for older individuals or those with limited strength to move them into their homes.

All of our recommendations come with the option of room-of-choice delivery. 🚚

two-man delivery
Premium, white glove delivery services ensure you don’t have to worry about lifting your mattress.

Although this service may incur an additional fee, it ensures that the delivery team will carefully place your new mattress directly into your bedroom (usually up to the second or third floor).

Trials and guarantees

Trials and guarantees are important for anyone shopping for a new mattress.

A guarantee ensures that if your mattress develops any faults, you can have it repaired or replaced for free.

Meanwhile, a good trial allows you to sleep on your mattress at home and return or exchange it if you don’t love it. 😀

trial period

Trials are vital since, as we get older, we tend to have more difficulty sleeping.

It can be more challenging to find a mattress that is supportive, comfortable, and caters to changing needs.

So those looking for mattresses for elderly people should be particularly careful to choose a mattress that offers a fair trial and a good warranty. 💗

We’d recommend the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid if you like a firmer feel and want an outstanding trial and guarantee.

It is one of our top picks for the best mattress for seniors and comes with a 1-year trial and a lifetime warranty.

BUY DREAMCLOUD£ 499

What is the best mattress for senior couples?

If you’re shopping for the best mattress for elderly couples, you’ll need to consider a few additional factors.

Most couples prefer mattresses with low-motion transfer.

Mattresses with low-motion transfer ensure you won’t be woken up or disturbed if your partner changes positions or gets out of bed.

Senior couples may also want to consider choosing single beds for elderly people.

Opting for 2 single beds allows you and your partner to get a mattress that fits both your needs perfectly.

It is also a great idea if you have (or are considering buying) an adjustable bed for elderly people since this will allow you to move each side of the bed separately.

Those with an electric bed may want to consider a supportive all-foam mattress like the Simbatex Foam mattress or the more affordable Emma Original.

What type of mattress is best for elderly people?

There’s no one type of mattress that is best for older people.

However, your personal preferences will mean some types of mattresses are a better fit.

Let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of different mattresses. 🕵️

Which type of mattress is the best mattress for older adults UK

Pros

Cons

Hybrid Mattresses

• Suitable for most sleeping positions and body weights

• Cushions body, offering tailored support and good pressure relief

• Has a stable core

• Often heavy

• Tend to be more expensive

• Want body-hugging feel (like memory foam)

Memory Foam Mattresses

• Excellent body contouring and pressure relief

• Great for people with aches and pains and some of the best mattresses for seniors with arthritis

• Best motion isolation (so you won't feel your partner moving)

• Sleeps hot

• Body-hugging feel can make changing positions and getting out of bed harder

Pocket Spring Mattresses

• Great tailored support

• Allows for more airflow, so it’s good for hot sleepers

• Has a stable base

• Great for heavier-weight individuals

• Tend to be more expensive

• Heavier and harder to move

Open Coil Spring Mattresses

• Often, one of the cheapest options

• Sturdy and durable, and some of the best orthopaedic beds for elderly individuals

• Good option for people who weigh more

• Doesn't tend to offer the best pressure relief

• Generally can't contour to body

• Has high motion transfer, so you'll feel when your partner moves

Latex Mattresses

• Body contouring but more bouncy than foam (great if you prefer the feeling of sleeping on, not in a mattress)

• Sleeps cooler

• Often a great eco-friendly option

• More expensive

• Not suitable for those with latex allergies

An alternative option is an air mattress for elderly people.

These can be particularly beneficial as the firmness level can be precisely adjusted by adding or removing air. 🌬️

While some consider these to be the best beds for an elderly person in the UK, it's worth noting that they are harder to find and often come with a higher price tag.

Best mattress for elderly UK:

What changes about your sleep as you get older?

As we journey through life, our sleep patterns change.

This presents new challenges in our quest for a rejuvenating night's rest. 🌜

Now more than ever, the cornerstone of quality sleep relies on finding the best mattress for elderly people.

Let’s see how our sleep changes as we age.

Circadian rhythm

One significant shift is the alteration of our circadian rhythm [3] as we age.

cortisol vs melatonin
Typically, your body should produce more melatonin just before and in the first part of your sleep.

Our body's production of melatonin dwindles [4], and without this crucial sleep-regulating hormone, sleep becomes increasingly elusive as we get older. 🛌

Non-REM sleep

Older adults also tend to spend less time in the third stage of non-REM sleep.

This stage of sleep is known for its restorative properties. 😃

When we sleep and spend less time in this stage of sleep, we often feel more tired the following day.

Napping

Older adults, for whom sleep is often more challenging, are more likely to feel tired during the day.

To cope with this tiredness, some elderly individuals like to nap. 💤

counting sheep

It’s best to take shorter naps, no longer than 30 minutes, once a day to ensure this daytime sleep doesn’t further disrupt your nightly sleep.

Other conditions which affect sleep in elderly people

Navigating sleep in our golden years can also be complicated by various health conditions or difficulties.

Common problems include:

  • Sleep apnoea: This condition disrupts breathing and leaves you feeling more tired.
  • Arthritis [5]: Pain from arthritis often negatively affects sleep [6], making falling and staying asleep tricky.
  • General aches and pains: Similar to arthritis, back pain, joint pain, and other body aches make it more challenging to sleep well.
  • Alzheimer’s [7]: This can cause more nocturnal disturbances [8].

The sleep challenges older people face make the quest for the best-rated mattresses for seniors worth the effort.

A mattress that effectively cradles and supports you can ease pains and help you get a good night’s sleep. 🌟

How to make your bed more comfortable

Once you’ve picked a good mattress, the next step is to kit it out.

So, let’s look at which sleep accessories you can add to improve your sleep and make your bed more comfortable.

What is the best bed for an elderly person in the UK?

The best beds for elderly people shouldn’t be too tall or short.

Your bed frame and mattress should create the perfect height, usually sitting just above the kneecap of the person sleeping in the bed. 🧓

This will ensure that getting into and out of bed is easy, even for those with physical difficulties.

It may also be worth considering an adjustable bed.

These electric models are among the most popular beds for seniors with mobility issues, as they can be adjusted in various ways to keep the user more comfortable.

Check out our review of the best electric adjustable beds for more information and recommendations.

Consider using waterproof bed sheets for the elderly

Ensuring a comfortable and hygienic sleeping environment is crucial regardless of age.

A waterproof mattress protector for elderly people is a simple yet effective measure that shields the mattress from sweat, spills, and bacteria (something everyone can benefit from). 💦

Waterproof mattress protector

For those dealing with incontinence [9], this is even more important.

While a waterproof mattress [10] for the elderly exists and might be considered the best mattress for the elderly with incontinence, opting for a waterproof protector is a more accessible and cost-effective solution.

It serves as an essential barrier, keeping the mattress pristine for longer. ✨

The Nectar mattress protector is an excellent option.

BUY NECTAR PROTECTOR£ 39

Duvets and pillows

The right duvet and pillow can help older adults feel even more comfortable.

A lightweight duvet for elderly people is a popular choice, as heavier duvets can leave people feeling trapped or “stuck” in their blankets. 💝

One of our favourite lightweight options is the 6.7 tog Emma Cloud duvet.

EXTRA 5% OFF WITH
SLEEPHEROUK5Click to copy code

-30% EMMA CLOUD DUVET

Regarding pillows for seniors, memory foam tends to be popular for the mouldable support it provides.

simba hybrid pillow composition
The Simba Hybrid pillow has shredded memory foam nanocubes, which can be removed for a slimmer loft.

The Simba Hybrid pillow is an excellent option for older individuals since it is easily adjustable and has a softer, more traditional feel than most memory foam pillows.

Add a mattress topper

While the best sleep will come from a good mattress, buying a new one might not be in the budget.

For many, a mattress topper for the elderly is the ideal solution. 🌙

It can enhance your comfort without the need to buy a brand-new mattress straight away.

Opting for a mattress topper that excels in pressure relief is key; it should be supportive yet not overly thick to ensure ease of movement throughout the night.

Best mattress topper for elderly people UK:

Should you buy the best mattress for seniors?

A good night's sleep can transform how we feel, and great mattresses help with that.

Whether you're struggling to sleep or it's time to replace your old mattress, buying one of the best mattresses for older adults is a great idea. 💡

It's vital to select a mattress that aligns with your personal preferences and adapts to your evolving needs as you age.

This will ensure you experience maximum comfort and support. 😴

Here's a quick recap of our favourites.

Best mattress for elderly UK:

Frequently asked questions

Nicky

Nicky

Editor & Certified Sleep Therapist

Nicky is an experienced writer and editor with numerous qualifications. As a certified sleep coach, her interests lie in understanding how sleep problems arise from hormonal and environmental issues, particularly as part of stress and anxiety management.

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