As a son or daughter you may now have taken on a new role in the family to support your parents in daily tasks from picking up prescriptions or helping them with larger decisions such as managing for overall health.
“Studies on the sleep habits of older Americans show an increase in the time it takes to fall asleep , an overall decline in REM sleep, and an increase in waking up during the night with age," according to the National Sleep Foundation.
Taking time to evaluate your aging loved one's sleep health is an important factor to make sure they are comfortable when their bodies don't function the same way they used to.
Mattress Firm recommends you talk through the following questions together to determine if a new bed can enhance their sleep health.
- Is there an area that hurts while lying on your mattress?
- Is this pain impairing your sleep?
- Do you wake up stiff and sore?
- Is it easy to get in and out of your bed?
- What is the purchase date on your mattress label?
One's mattress should not be the root of discomfort. Let's take a closer look at what's new in beds that a senior would find appealing.
Adjustable Support
The rigid, small twin mattresses Lucy and Ricky slept on are a thing of the past. Thankfully, today there are mattresses that a couple can both enjoy with two different firmness levels that are self-adjustable.
Additionally, you may want to consider adjustable bed frames, which provide a way to raise the bed up and down for someone with back pain or in need of high support. These beds also make nighttime reading or watching TV in bed more enjoyable than stuffing pillows behind the head to sit up straight in bed.
Comfort from the Ground Up
As aging occurs, skin, muscles and joints get thinner, making aches and pain more prevalent as an aging adult goes through the day.
Take time to consider bed frames that are low to the ground such as a loft style or a higher mattress based on your parent's needs of getting in and out of bed. These also allow you to make the most out of your space by providing extra storage under the bed.
As with any large purchase decision, there are many options out there—from memory foam mattresses to pillow toppers and more—that can provide both support and comfort for older sleepers. It's all about taking the time to test them out to discover what's best for each sleeper. It doesn't have to be overwhelming, we are here to help. Visit any of the Mattress Firm locations near you to review all of the options available for your loved one with a Mattress Firm employee that is happy to help.
Replace Every 8
Don't forget to periodically review the label of all your mattresses to make sure it hasn't been eight years since the purchase date. Allergens such as dust mites and dirt on a bed can cause unwanted health issues and sleep discomfort overtime.
And don't worry, Mattress Firm offers a variety of mattresses that meet everyone's budget.
As life changes, all of our requirements when it comes to mattresses and sleep change too. Make the most of this time with the aging adult in your life to help them get a restful night sleep.
