Best Mattresses For Seniors & Elderly UK | 2024 (2024)

Nicky Peters

Editor & Certified Sleep Therapist

Best For Side Sleepers

Best For Back Sleepers

Best Trial Period

Memory Foam Comfort

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.

BUY SEALY MELLBREAK ORTHO PLUS£ 309.95

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 areengineered to respond to pressure, becoming firmer in places the body requires enhanced support.👍

It is also fitted with what Sealy calls 'PowerPack' comfort, anarea 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.

The tufted surface, double-sided design, and EdgeGuard technology, which promotesedge-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.

BUY SEALY MELLBREAK ORTHO PLUS£ 309.95

Great For Hot Sleepers

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. 🔎

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.

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.

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. 😶‍🌫️

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.

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.

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.

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.

BUY SIMBA HYBRID£ 659

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:

• Pocket springs
• Memory foam
• Latex

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.

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.

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.

UP TO 40% OFF OTTY HYBRID£ 399.99

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].

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. 🚚

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. 😀

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.

£540 OFF DREAMCLOUD + FREE BEDDING SET£ 409

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. 🕵️

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:

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.

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. 💤

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. 🌟

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.

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). 💦

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£ 40

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.

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

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:

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:

Our top picks for the best mattress for the elderly UK

How to choose the best mattress for elderly people

What type of mattress is best for elderly people?

What changes about your sleep as you get older?

How to make your bed more comfortable

Should you buy the best mattress for seniors?

• What is the best mattress for the elderly with arthritis?

  People living with arthritis need a mattress that cushions their joints yet supports their body.

  Generally, memory foam mattresses are considered an ideal mattress for the elderly with arthritis.

  They offer outstanding body-contouring support and pressure relief.

  The Nectar memory foam mattress and Emma Original (for those on a tighter budget) are two of the best mattresses for seniors with arthritis in the UK.

  Just be warned that memory foam mattresses don’t offer the best edge support, which can make getting into and out of bed more challenging.

  For other people with arthritis, a firmer hybrid or orthopaedic mattress is preferable.

  The Simba Hybrid, with its balanced medium-firm feel, or the firmer Sealy Mellbreak Ortho Plus, can help promote spinal alignment and reduce pain.

  As well as your mattress, it may be worth considering an adjustable bed.

  These can further enhance sleep comfort by allowing you to raise your feet and head, achieving a zero-gravity position that some find helps reduce arthritis-associated pains.

• When should you replace your mattress?

  The general guideline suggests changing your mattress every 7 to 10 years, but the true test lies in its performance and condition.

  You should keep an eye out for signs of mattress deterioration.

  If you sleep poorly, feel uncomfortable, or notice that your mattress is lumpy or sagging, it's time to consider upgrading to an excellent mattress for elderly people.

  The best mattresses available for seniors prioritise support, comfort, and suitability for health conditions to ensure a restful night's sleep and improved daytime function.

• Is a memory foam mattress good for elderly people?

  When answering, 'What are the best mattresses for seniors?', memory foam often ranks high for its superior comfort and support.

  Ideal for alleviating pressure and supporting sensitive joints, memory foam is often the best mattress for old people suffering from back or joint pain.

  Various firmness levels are available, ensuring it’s easy to find a “bed for an old person” that actually works for you.

  However, it’s worth noting that memory foam mattresses don’t offer the best edge support.

  So, memory foam may not be the best mattress for over 60’s who have difficulty getting into or out of bed.

  These people, and those who generally prefer a bit of bounce, may find hybrid or latex mattresses a better choice.

  Ultimately, you cannot underestimate the importance of personal needs and preferences if you’re wondering, "What is a good mattress for seniors?”.

• What mattress firmness is best for elderly people?

  According to studies, a medium-firm or firm mattress ^[11] would be the best mattress for over 60’s (and everyone else).

  The firm DreamClould Luxury Hybrid and medium-feel Simba Hybrid are both excellent options.

  However, those who weigh less or sleep on their side may find they fair better on a softer mattress (so long as this allows you to sleep with a straight back).

  Similarly, those looking for the “Best mattress for elderly UK” who suffer from arthritis or other joint pain may fare better on a softer memory foam mattress like the Emma Original.

  Ultimately, there is no singular best bed for an elderly person UK regarding firmness or material.

  It’s always important to consider your individual needs and preferences.

• Are adjustable beds for seniors worth it?

  Adjustable beds for the elderly stand out as a transformative solution for improving sleep and comfort for seniors with various health and mobility concerns.

  Often considered the best beds for disabled adults, electric beds offer unparalleled flexibility and support.

  They allow users to raise and lower areas like the head and foot of the bed to find a more comfortable, supportive, and pain-relieving position.

  With special designs, such as adjustable foot and bed back support for elderly people and easy-to-use controls, the best adjustable beds for seniors UK are game-changers.

  If you’re looking for a good bed for an older person, why not check out our article on the best adjustable beds in the UK?

  Some of our favourite picks for the “best bed for the elderly with mobility issues” include the Dreams Lucia Sleepmotion Adjustable bed and Dreams Sleepmotion 200u&i Adjustable Split Platform bed.

  Adjustable beds like these can help improve sleep and life quality, particularly for people with mobility difficulties or chronic health concerns.

• References

  • ¹ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/b9780444639127000205?via%3dihub
  • ² Average Cost of a Mattress 2021 | NimbleFins
  • ³ Circadian Rhythms
  • ⁴ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc8172874/
  • ⁵ Arthritis - NHS
  • ⁶ https://semanticscholar.org/paper/dff6261df9ae184bb8fc69e3871c5db69afa0261
  • ⁷ Alzheimer's disease - NHS
  • ⁸ https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/sleep%2c-circadian-rhythms%2c-and-the-pathogenesis-of-musiek-xiong/747da8b212cbae374876a9f440c9c2d55370d095
  • ⁹ Urinary incontinence - NHS
  • ¹⁰ Waterproof Mattresses | Bed & Chair Protection | Age Co Incontinence | AgeUKIncontinence.co.uk