Change, they say, is the only constant. And with time, not only your preferences but your needs change too, and you need to accommodate these changes in order to ensure a healthier and happier life. A mattress that you fell in love with ten years ago and fell soundly asleep on night after night may not be suitable for you anymore. And the reason may not only be the wear and tear, but also the changes in your body and sleeping patterns as you age.

There are plenty of things that need to be considered when purchasing a mattress, especially if you would be sharing it with a partner who is going through similar body changes or health issues. Make sure that you take your partner with you when you go shopping and test the mattress for about 15 minutes before making up your mind. There is no one type of right mattress for the seniors. Experts advise to go mattress shopping later in the day when you are relatively tired and less agreeable to settle. The right mattress criteria differs based on health issues, sleeping patterns and above all personal and partner’s preferences.  

Health and Sleeping Conditions

Health and sleeping conditions are one of the primary factors that need to be considered when purchasing a mattress for seniors. If a senior is experiencing problems like blood circulatory leg problems then an adjustable mattress and bed will be ideal as it will help relax muscles and improve blood circulation.

On the other hand, an individual suffering from lower back pain would require a firmer mattress like an adjustable air mattress. For seniors with upper back and neck pains, plusher bedding will allow the head and thoracic area to settle well on the bed and help support the cervical area. It is a good idea to speak to your doctor about your sleeping needs and requirements to get a better idea of what to look for when shopping for a mattress.

Selecting the Right Mattress

Once you have a good idea about your body and health needs, it is time to find a mattress that will not only meet those requirements but will also offer comfort and durability.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses are quite popular among seniors because of their ability to shape according to your body weight. This helps eliminate pressure points and offer a soothing effect to aching joints and muscles. These mattresses are also ideal for warmer climates as they respond to body heat and in turn provide a floating sensation.

Breathable Mattresses

Breathable mattresses have an open cell structure and are equally popular among seniors. This type of mattress allows air to flow freely inside the mattress which results in reduced muscle tension, especially during winters.  

Each type of mattress comes in different levels of firmness, material used and other features like plush, pillow tops etc. So make sure that you spend the time in testing all before you find one that is most suitable to your needs.

Circulation

As we age, circulation becomes a bigger issue. The typical spring or coil mattress will only add to a lack of blood flow as the pressure from the coils contributes to constricted circulation. At Nest Bedding, we try to avoid mattresses with coils for that very reason. All latex or all memory foam construction is best for support and encourages circulation, which is specifically an issue senior should consider when shopping.

Warranty

I hear it all the time when I have seniors in the store, "Warranty doesn't matter, I am not going to be around that long." I tell them you made it this far! A good warranty, unfortunately, doesn't have much to do with the quality of the mattress. You want to have at least a 10 year warranty, but don't focus on the warranty as the benchmark of quality. Focus on the materials used and the reviews of others who have the mattress.

At Nest Bedding, we are committed to helping folks just like you get the sleep they deserve. Come see why we are Doctor Recommended and Customer Loved.