5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (2024)

  • The best adjustable bed for seniors depends heavily on individual needs and preferences. Overall, we recommend the Saatva Adjustable Base Plus for its mobility-friendly features, affordable price range, and white glove delivery options.
  • Older adults seeking an adjustable base should prioritize features like easy-to-use adjustments, preset positions, varying leg heights, and lumbar support.
  • Adjustable beds typically cost between $300–$7,000, depending on the brand, size, and features. The adjustable beds we reviewed range from $899–$3,596.

1

Best overall for features and cost

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (1)

Impressive feature lineup

Best reputation

Price range: $1,045–$2,598

2

Most desired presets

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (2)

50-night trial

Most custom and preset positions

Price range: $1,399–$2,798

3

Best trial period

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (3)

101-night trial

Lifetime warranty

Price range: $1,199–$2,099

Most of us don’t require less sleep as we age, yet up to 34 percent of adults older than 60 have difficulty falling and staying asleep. Research says multiple factors influence our sleep, but medical conditions and decreased activity levels are among the most common with age. Many of these factors are within our control, like exercising during the daytime to regulate our circadian rhythm or changing our sleep position to alleviate pain or snoring. Simple changes can improve your sleep, and in turn, improve your physical and mental health. That’s because sleep plays an essential role in regulating pain, improving mood, and even reducing the risk for neurologic diseases (like dementia).

“Establishing healthy sleep habits to support our mental well-being is critical,” says Rachel Ragsdale, founder and owner of Braincode Centers and board-certified in neurofeedback. “This includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, practicing a relaxing bedtime routine, and creating a sleep-friendly environment.” For some, creating a better sleep environment could involve changing your sleeping surface with a new mattress, pillow, or adjustable base.

Our Handbook Team surveyed 600 adjustable bed owners and found that more than 90 percent of older adults slept better after purchasing an adjustable bed, regardless of their health status. After exploring what makes an adjustable bed beneficial, we listed our top five picks to help you sleep and feel better: Saatva is our “Best Overall”, but we recommend four other brands that may work for you.

Which best adjustable bed for older adults is right for you?

What you need to know about our adjustable bed research and testing

Here are the five most important things to know about adjustable beds for older adults.

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (4)Adjustable Beds for Seniors

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (5)The best adjustable bed brand for older adults is Saatva.

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (6)Easy adjustments, pre-programmed and custom presets, varying leg heights, and built-in lighting are the most important features.

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (7)Warranty, white glove delivery, and trial periods set brands apart.

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (8)Talk to your doctor before purchasing an adjustable bed for a medical condition.

Our testing experience

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (9)

1000+ hours

of research

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (11)

7 people

interviewed

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (12)

21 experts

consulted

The Handbook Team mystery shopped in showrooms and third-party retailers, testing each adjustable bed’s features and interacting with in-store clerks. We evaluated brands and models by recording our findings on a 36-question standardized testing form to identify standout features and services, document issues with each product, and describe our shopping experience. For example, we recorded:

  • Adjustment speed, noise, and feel.
  • Massage modes, intensities, and quality.
  • Customer service experience and general satisfaction.

We paid close attention to specific considerations that older adults seek, as identified by respondents in our survey of 600 adjustable bed owners. This included price, features, and discounts. We also interviewed real people to better understand what makes an adjustable bed a worthwhile investment.

According to our survey

According to our survey, about 93 percent of all respondents age 54 and older reported they sleep better with their adjustable base, and 55 percent noticed improved mental health.

As our testers evaluated each brand and its features, we considered why many older adults choose an adjustable bed in the first place. While about 47 percent shopped for an adjustable bed for general comfort, 53 percent required one for a specific medical issue. The most common were chronic pain, snoring, insomnia, and acid reflux. Remarkably, almost all adjustable bed owners with one of these conditions experienced improved sleep after purchase. We consulted sleep experts, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain specialists to understand what adjustable beds offer that make an overwhelmingly positive impact.

In order to focus on the adjustable bases themselves, we structured our test designs so they isolated the bases and judged them on criteria independent of the mattress. For example, we tested the capabilities of the adjustable bases, such as positioning options, that are the same no matter what mattress you use. It’s important to note that certain criteria like mattress firmness will have an impact on your comfort, but we strategically organized our test designs to focus on the comfort of the adjustable base regardless of what mattress you have.

Lastly, we compared warranty lengths, trial periods, and white glove delivery (in-home delivery and setup) options. While most brands offer warranties, not all are comprehensive. And many brands on the market don’t have trial periods or free white glove delivery. This could be a deal-breaker if you’re nervous to invest in a healthier sleeping environment because you’re worried the bed won’t get set up properly or offer what you need.

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (13)Our Adjustable Bed Testing Process

1

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (14)Research adjustable beds online.

2

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (15)Interact with online customer service.

3

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (16)Browse flagship and partner retailers as mystery shoppers.

4

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (17)Test each model, remote, and feature.

5

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (18)Discuss models and services with in-store representatives.

6

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (19)Evaluate online and in-store experiences.

7

5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (20)Compare models, features, and customer service.

From our tester

“During our testing, we realized that a brand’s warranty, trial period, and white glove delivery options really show how devoted it is to the customer.”

Learn more about ouradjustable bed review methodology.

Compare the best adjustable beds for seniors of 2024

Price range $1,045–$2,598 $1,399–$2,798 $1,199–$2,099 $899–$1,798 $899–$4,798
Warranty (years) 15–25 3 Lifetime 25 25
Trial period? (nights) No 50 101 No No
White glove delivery? Yes, free Yes, $199** No Yes, free Yes, free

*Some sizes are not available in certain models

**The white glove delivery offer frequently changes, so check with customer service to make sure it’s available for your order

The best adjustable beds for older adults

1. Saatva: Best overall

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5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (27)

Free delivery, setup and mattress removal

Our verdict

The Saatva Adjustable Base Plus is the most reputable choice for seniors because it offers the most important considerations identified by our survey respondents, including price, white glove delivery, available discounts, and mobility-friendly features.

Features

  • Price range: $1,045–$2,598
  • Trial period:No.
  • Warranty:One-year full warranty followed by a nine-year limited warranty for the Adjustable Base, five-year full warranty followed by a 20-year limited for the Adjustable Base Plus.
  • Sizes:Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king, split California king, upper-flex queen, upper-flex king.
  • Weight capacity:850 pounds.
  • Standout:Offers a diverse range of sizes, styles, and features that assist bed mobility and address common sleep-impacting issues, like acid reflux or snoring.

Compare models

  • Adjustable Base: Head and foot adjustability, wireless remote with a built-in flashlight, removable legs, adjustable leg heights between 13–18 inches.
  • Adjustable Base Plus: Additional massage features, wall-aligning design, custom and pre-programmed presets, upper-flex options, under-bed lighting.

Insights from our tester

Saatva earned our “Best Overall” pick in ourbest adjustable bedsroundup, and the result is the same for older adults. No other brand we’ve tested consistently meets consumers’ needs, offering adjustable beds at a below-average price and at a significantdiscountfor people 65 and older.

This brand doesn’t skimp on sought-after features and services, like free white glove delivery.

According to our survey

According to our survey, most seniors consider price (budgeting between $1,500–$1,999), white glove delivery, discounts, brand reputation, and features. Saatva is the only brand that covers each one.

When we tested both Saatva models, the Adjustable Base Plus stood out as having the most practical features, especially for older adults with mobility issues. Here’s what we thought of each one:

  • Quiet head elevation: We could elevate the head of the bed to a fully seated position, which helped us pivot out of bed easily. The Plus’s whisper-quiet motor was barely noticeable during the adjustment, so if you’re sleeping with a partner, you won’t wake them when you need to get up.
  • Wall alignment: This advanced feature shifts the head of the bed closer to the wall as it elevates to improve nightstand accessibility. Beds without this feature positioned us farther away from the nightstand, which made it harder to reach bedside items. While the wall alignment allowed us to grab items on the nightstand with less effort, our shorter testers still had to reach behind them. It’ll only make a difference for people with a longer reach.
  • Adjustable leg height: Both Saatva models offer 13- to 18-inch leg heights to accommodate people who feel safer standing and sitting from a particular height. Many people with painful joints or leg weakness find it easier to stand from a higher surface, so we like that Saatva offers one of the tallest leg heights in the industry.
  • Built-in lighting: Our testers thought the under-bed lighting was bright enough to illuminate the bed’s immediate surroundings and reveal tripping hazards but dim enough not to wake a sleeping partner. If you get up throughout the night, we recommend you purchase movement-activated night lights along your walkway to maximize safety or take advantage of the remote’s built-in flashlight. And if you decide to place your adjustable base in a decorative bed frame, choose a thinner one that doesn’t block the bed’s lighting.

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The Saatva Adjustable Base Plus can elevate the head to a near-seated position.

Many people in our survey didn’t have any particular issues to address when they bought their adjustable base. They were just looking for a comfortable bed that promotes better sleep, prioritizing presets to conveniently change positions as needed. The Plus model offers one customizable preset button and fourpreprogrammed positions(zero gravity, anti-snore, flat, and head up), but if you’re looking for more, you should check outNectar.

From our tester

“I liked that the remote has backlit buttons, so you can see what you’re pressing at night. You can actually see what you’re doing.”

Best overall

2. Nectar: Most desired presets

Most desired presets

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5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (31)

Our verdict

The Nectar Premier has the most presets of any model, making it a convenient choice for people who spend time reading and lounging in bed.

Features

  • Price range: $1,399–$2,798
  • Trial period:50 nights.
  • Warranty:Three-year limited, can extend to 10-year full coverage at checkout.
  • Sizes:Twin XL, full, queen, split king.
  • Weight capacity:750 pounds.
  • Standout:Includes the most sought-after pre-programmed presets, including TV and reading modes, and a custom preset for convenient positioning.

Compare models

  • Nectar Premier Adjustable Frame:Head and foot adjustability, remote or app controls, zero gravity, anti-snore, TV recline position, reading position, massage, USB-A ports, built-in remote flashlight, removable legs, adjustable leg heights between 3–8 inches with 2-inch extenders.

Insights from our tester

Older adults in our survey prioritized presets when buying an adjustable bed for convenient one-touch positioning without fussing with pillows. The Nectar Adjustable Frame offers the most comprehensive lineup of presets, including TV and reading settings (which are more uncommon) that elevate the head of the bed.

Your Nectar Adjustable Frame will come with the following positions:

  • Zero gravity: Elevates your head and feet into a cradled position.
  • Anti-snore: Raises the head to alleviate snoring or acid reflux for many people.
  • TV: Elevates the head of the bed to a near-seated position for watching television.
  • Reading: Adjusts you to a chaise lounge position ideal for reading.
  • Flat: Returns you to a fully flat position.
  • Custom: Allows you to set your own favorite position.

According to our survey

The top three most frequently used presets among seniors in our survey were, in order, TV/reading, custom, and anti-snore. However, the TV/reading preset was uncommon during our testing, and Nectar is the only brand that separates TV and reading into their own positions.

Despite Nectar’s number of presets, the remote design is uncrowded and easy to decipher. We also like that every preset is one touch, meaning you can press the button once for an adjustment. Some brands’ models, like theBedTech BTX5, required us to hold the button down during the entire adjustment, which we think defeated the purpose of a preset.

Our team also deems Nectar as a good option for older adults who receive caregiver assistance because the various one-touch presets make transfers and position adjustments easier. However, for those at risk of pressure injuries (like bedsores) and who require more assistance, a hospital bed would offer more adjustability and may be covered byMedicare.

From our tester

“I spoke to customer service representatives about their features and services several times during my research over the last few weeks, and their white glove delivery seemed to be inconsistent across base sizes. If you’re buying from Nectar, double-check that you can opt-in to this service before ordering your particular bed.”

3. Puffy: Best trial period

Best trial period

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5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (34)

101-night trial period

Our verdict

Puffy offers a 101-night trial period while many other brands we’ve tested are final sale, making this base the least risky option for those who are nervous to commit.

Features

  • Price range: $1,199–$2,099
  • Trial period:101 nights.
  • Warranty:Limited lifetime.
  • Sizes:Twin XL, full, queen, split king.
  • Weight capacity:800 pounds.
  • Standout:Offers a generous 101-night trial period.

Compare models

  • Puffy Serenity Adjustable Base:Head and foot adjustability, two-zone massage, 10–20 minute massage timer, zero-gravity preset, USB-A charging, under-bed lighting, built-in remote flashlight, removable legs, adjustable leg height between 5.75–15 inches.

Insights from our tester

ThePuffy Serenity Adjustable Basestood out to our team because the brand lets you try your adjustable bed at home for 101 nights while many other brands we’ve tested don’t offer a trial period at all. We also liked that most sizes fell within the $1,500–$1,999 budget of many older adults in our survey, and frequent promotions lower costs by up to $300.

Many focus group participants expressed how it took several months to commit to an adjustable bed—despite doctor recommendations and ongoing medical issues—because they were nervous about the cost and adapting to the change. Finding an affordable adjustable base with financing options, a long trial period, and a money-back guarantee could have encouraged them to make the purchase sooner. Waiting so long to commit to a new bed was a regret across the board.

Our team spotlights brands with trial periods because it’s important to address poor sleep patterns as soon as possible. Otherwise, it can result in worsening physical and mental health. Long-termsleep deprivationcan increase inflammation, leaving you more vulnerable to age-related conditions like heart disease, osteoporosis, or dementia.

As you search for solutions like adjustable beds, start addressing other factors that are within your control now.Sean Ormond, an interventional pain management doctor at Atlas Pain Specialists, recommends sticking to a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, creating a cool and dark sleeping environment, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and getting regular exercise during the day.

Sleep is crucial for cognitive function and emotional well-being, and chronic disruptions can have profound impacts. For example, over the long term, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to a higher risk of dementia, depression, and anxiety.

Geoffrey B. Trenkle, an otolaryngologist and CEO at the Los Angeles Center for Ear, Nose, Throat, and Allergies

Puffy’s long trial period and low price aren’t the brand’s only appealing factors. Our testers liked that this base offers two custom preset buttons on the clearly labeled remote to set more of your favorite positions versus some other brands offering just one custom preset or none at all. We also noticed that Puffy has one of the quietest motors of all the adjustable bases tested, including Saatva, which is important for smooth adjustments that don’t wake your partner.

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Despite lacking a TV/reading mode, Puffy can adjust to a near-seated position, similar to Nectar and Saatva.

But we don’t like that Puffy doesn’t offer white glove delivery. Unless you or a friend are comfortable lifting Puffy’s heavy platform (135 pounds for a queen), you’ll need to hire someone else to do the job.

If that’s a deal-breaker, you can consider Nectar’s 50-night trial period and white glove delivery. Unfortunately, Nectar’s white glove delivery options change often, so you’ll need to confirm the service at checkout.

From our tester

“One of the customer representatives highly recommended I hire someone to move the base into my home and set it up for me. The base looked really bulky in person.”

4. Sealy: Most affordable

Most affordable

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5 Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors in 2024 (38)

Budget-friendly option

Our verdict

The Sealy Ease adjustable bed is the most budget-friendly option for people who need free in-home setup and simple adjustability without extra features that increase the price.

Features

  • Price range: $899–$1,798
  • Trial period:None.
  • Warranty:25-year limited.
  • Sizes:Twin, twin long, full, queen, king, split king, California king, split California king.
  • Weight capacity:650 pounds.
  • Standout:Queen sizes (and smaller) cost under $1,000, which is well below most people’s budget of $1,500–$1,999.

Compare models

  • Sealy Ease:Head and foot adjustment, wireless remotes, zero-gravity preset, removable legs, adjustable leg height between 3–12 inches.

Insights from our tester

We chose Sealy as the most affordable adjustable bed because it starts at $899, which is about $150–$500 below the other beds on our list. This brand also includes in-home setup while many other brands charge for this service or don’t include it at all, like Puffy. According to seniors in our survey, not having white glove delivery could be a deal-breaker because adjustable bases are heavy to carry.

The Tempur-Pedic Ease model is the exact same model as the Sealy Ease starting at $899, but rebranded.

Our team likes how Sealy’s base offers no-nonsense features and an uncomplicated remote. The Ease was one of the easiest adjustable bases to test because of its user-friendly controls, large buttons, and smooth adjustments.

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The Ease’s hand-size remote has easy-to-use buttons, featuring head and foot adjustability, a one-touch flat button, and zero-gravity mode.

This base is best for people who just require basic head and foot adjustability to get comfortable or address a specific medical issue, like acid reflux, snoring, or low back pain.
We noticed that the head of the bed doesn’t rise to a near-seated position like Nectar, but you still get up to 57 degrees of head adjustability, which is more than enough to ease breathing and alleviate snoring orheartburn.

First, I bought a foam wedge pillow to see if it would help with the reflux. I really loved it, so I decided to just go with the adjustable bed because some nights I wanted to be propped up more or less.

Focus group participant

One of our focus group participants said that simple adjustable bases are important to consider but often hard to find, stating that the “bells and whistles” are attractive at first but don’t always address the primary reason you need an adjustable bed. They shared that finding a simple bed within their budget and with free white glove delivery was extremely challenging, taking up to nine months to finally find and commit to the right option. If you can relate, Sealy may be your best choice

From our tester

“This base only has basic features, but they all work as expected. It’s a simple base, but it’s sturdy and good quality. And the 25-year warranty tells me that the brand stands behind its product.”

5. Tempur-Pedic: Best for chronic conditions

Best for chronic conditions

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Sleep tracking for improved sleep quality over time

Our verdict

The TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base offers more features that address pain, snoring, and overall sleep quality than any other adjustable bed on the market. But this model comes at a higher price range than other brands ($1,899–$3,798).

Features

  • Price range: $899–$4,798
  • Trial period:No.
  • Warranty:25-year limited.
  • Sizes:Twin long (XL), queen, king, split king, California king, split California king.
  • Weight capacity:650–850 pounds.
  • Standout:Lumbar support provides additional adjustability at the lower back, and sleep tracking helps identify settings or daily factors that impact sleep quality over time.

Compare models

  • Ease Power Base:Head and foot adjustment, wireless remotes, zero-gravity preset, removable legs, adjustable leg height between 3–12 inches. Same model as Sealy.
  • TEMPUR-Ergo Power Base:Additional lumbar support adjustment, QuietMode anti-snore position, massage, under-bed lighting, USB-A and USB-C ports.
  • TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base:All of the above plus Snore Response, sleep coaching, and smart alarm.
  • TEMPUR-Ergo ProSmart Base:Additional SoundScape Mode and WindDown Programs.

Insights from our tester

More than80 percentof older adults in the United States have at least one chronic disease, like cardiovascular issues, respiratory conditions, and dementia. While chronic diseases negatively affect sleep, poor sleep quality can alsoacceleratetheir progression, creating a vicious cycle. If you have a chronic condition, it’s important to work with your doctor and find a way to prevent the onset or worsening of certain medical issues. Sometimes, a new sleeping surface can help, like aTempur-Pedicadjustable bed.

Of the seniors with chronic medical issues in our survey (including pain and sleep apnea), 100 percent agreed that they slept better after purchasing an adjustable bed, and Tempur-Pedic was the most popular choice. Our team recommends the TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base because it’s the best-equipped adjustable bed to accommodate chronic medical conditions, like low back pain, and improve sleep quality over time.

Medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, sleep apnea, and even congestive heart failure can make it extremely uncomfortable to sleep flat. Elevating the head or legs can offer some sort of support and comfort for individuals, but each need is different.

John Gallucci, physical therapist and CEO at JAG Physical Therapy

Survey respondents with chronic conditions identified the following features as most important: Adjustable lumbar support, preset positions, adjustable leg height, custom presets, and low noise level during use.The TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base checks off each one, and here’s what our testers documented:

  • Adjustable lumbar support: This base has an adjustable bar situated toward the upper third of the platform, which raises up to 6 inches for extra reinforcement at the low back. This is ideal for people with low back pain who feel relief when the spine’s natural curvature is supported. But you don’t have to elevate it fully to feel the support. One of our testers has a smaller build and felt most comfortable when the bar was set lower, but larger builds may need higher settings to feel a difference.
  • Preset positions: Rivalling Nectar’s preset selection, the TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base offers zero-gravity, anti-snore, TV, and flat positions. Transitions between adjustments felt smooth, and we liked that full head elevation took less than 20 seconds. This is conveniently quick for those who use head elevation as a mobility aid while getting out of bed. We also like the Partner Snore feature, which activates your or your partner’s anti-snore preset when the bed’s sensors detect snore-related vibrations.
  • Adjustable leg height: When you set up your Tempur-Pedic bed, you can choose between 3–12 inch leg heights or completely remove them to place the base on an existing frame. While we appreciate the range of heights, it can still be hard for taller individuals who have difficulty standing from low surfaces.
  • Custom presets: Similar to Puffy, the TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base has two custom preset buttons to assign your most comfortable positions. We like that this base has two custom buttons for chronic conditions, because 59 percent of survey respondents frequently use custom preset positions to find relief. Our testers used preset positions as a starting point, but the most comfortable positions were the ones we set ourselves.
  • Noise level: If you’re getting an adjustable bed to help you sleep and feel better, you don’t want your partner’s adjustments to wake you as you slumber. Our team barely detected this base’s motor during testing.

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Our team noticed that Tempur-Pedic’s under-bed lighting was bright, which can help you walk safely through your room at night.

We think one of the most valuable features Tempur-Pedic’s smart base has to offer is its sleep-tracking system. This base has built-in sensors that detect your heart rate, breathing rate, snoring frequency, and movement throughout the night. You can see all your sleep data on theSleeptracker-AI app, which displays your patterns in a dashboard on your mobile phone. We appreciated the level of detail the app provided, although the amount of information felt overwhelming at first.

This advanced feature can also be a tool for you and your doctor. “Sleep tracking helps understand sleep patterns, identify potential disruptions, and gauge the effectiveness of interventions,” says Dr. Trenkle. But don’t forget to keep an eye on daytime patterns and behaviors, like your mood or what you eat, to see if there are correlations to how you sleep and feel the next day.

From our tester

The Sleep Coaching section of the app is easy to overlook, but it’s a cool feature. The customer representative showed me how the app detects patterns from sleep data and suggests ways to improve it. It doesn’t beat a doctor’s recommendation but is a great jumping-off point.

We don’t like that Tempur-Pedic doesn’t offer a trial period, so purchasing this base can feel risky. If you’re unsure if it’ll help, our team recommends testing different positions at home first. Elevate your head or feet with pillows or wedges, or mimic the lumbar support by using a small rolled towel under your back. If you notice relief and an adjustable base fits in your doctor’s treatment plan, it’s likely a safe investment.

Handbook Team Tip #1

You can find many adjustable bases at third-party retailers, like Mattress Firm, but we discovered that these retailers replace warranties and trial periods with their own. For example, if you purchase a Tempur-Pedic base at a Mattress Firm, your 25-year warranty is replaced with the retailer’s five- to 10-year warranty. It’s better to shop from the brand directly.

Pros and cons of adjustable beds for older adults

What we like

  • Plenty of options to address your needs: The adjustable bed industry offers many brands and models with a plethora of features that improve sleep, mobility, brain health, and emotional wellness. Many brands offer different sizes of adjustable beds to best fit your needs, from twin to split king.
  • Customers truly benefit: Regardless of health status, about 93 percent of seniors in our survey reported improved sleep after purchasing an adjustable base. More than half reported improved mental health as a result.

What we don’t like

  • It’s an overwhelming industry: Focus group participants agreed that shopping for an adjustable bed is confusing and frustrating because there are too many options. Which features do you actually need? Who can you trust to give you the best answer? The Handbook Team is here to help, but your doctor can provide more specific recommendations when you’re unsure what to look for.
  • Few brands offer trial periods: Other than price, fear is a big obstacle when considering an adjustable bed. It’s usually a final-sale purchase, which means you can’t return it if you’re not benefitting from your thousand-dollar investment. Our team includes many brands with trial periods in our reviews because we believe beds are a big commitment, and you should feel confident in a life-changing purchase.

Cost of adjustable beds

Handbook Team Tip #2

Unfortunately, insurance is unlikely to cover the cost of an adjustable bed. Medicare Part B might cover an adjustable bed if it’s medically necessary as deemed by your doctor, but it needs to qualify as a pressure-reducing surface or hospital bed.

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Adjustable beds cost between $300–$7,000 depending on the brand, size, and features. This review recommends brands with models that start below $2,000 to fit most people’s budgets.

Saatva is the only brand that discounts adults 65 and older, but don’t forget to look into other savings opportunities. If you’re a military veteran, you qualify for discounts with Saatva and Nectar. And if you’re not yet retired, first responder, health care professional, and educator discounts are also available. The best place to look for discounts on a brand’s website is by scrolling all the way to the bottom.

Also, remember that online prices fluctuate. Brands have frequent promotions, especially around holidays, that reduce costs by a few hundred dollars.

Most brands offer at least one financing option. Sometimes, it’s through a third-party lender, like Klarna or Affirm. You can prequalify on most brands’ online product pages or wait to qualify at checkout. Be aware that third-party lenders can charge up to 35 percent interest based on your credit history.

Hospital bed vs adjustable bed

Seniors debating between hospital beds and adjustable beds may find one or the other meets their needs more effectively. Adjustable beds make it easy to customize a sleep position, but hospital beds are likely a better option for older adults who are receiving regular care. Hosptial beds offer additional features, such as handrails and specialized mattresses designed to evenly distribute pressure to minimize the potential for bedsores.

Hospital beds also have wheels, which make them easier to move around. They qualify as durable medical equipment, so they may be eligible for insurance coverage. One drawback to hospital beds is the limited size options. While adjustable beds come in a range of sizes, hospital beds are generally only available in a twin.

Key features to look for in adjustable beds

Below are the most important features to consider when looking for an adjustable bed. These are based on survey results, focus group responses, tester insights, and expert recommendations.

We acknowledge that not all older adults have the same needs, so we encourage you to create your own list based on these suggestions and your unique circ*mstances.

Easy-to-use adjustments

Our team found that the best adjustable beds do basic functions well. Always prioritize:

  • Straightforward remote controls that are clearly labeled.
  • Smooth adjustments with a one- to two-second response lag to avoid jerking movements.
  • Whisper-quiet motors that won’t wake a partner in the middle of the night.
  • Quick adjustment times that only take 20–30 seconds to reach maximum elevations.

Preset positions

Presets are factory-set remote buttons that adjust your position in one press. These are the most popular features among seniors in our survey because they’re convenient, especially for people with dexterity issues or arthritis of the hand and fingers. The most common presets include:

  • Flat: Returns you to a flat sleeping position.
  • Zero gravity: Elevates the head and legs so the legs are above the heart, placing your body in a cradled position that can help relieve pressure and that some may find relaxing.
  • Anti-snore: Elevates the head of the bed around 10–20 degrees (depending on the brand) to alleviate snoring by opening the airway and offloading gravity’s pressure on the chest, particularly for those with sleep apnea or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  • Reading or TV: Raises the head of the bed 60 degrees or higher to a near-sitting position.
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Handbook Team Tip #3

According to Dr. Trenkle, you can also alleviate snoring or mild sleep apnea by sleeping on your side, losing weight, or avoiding alcohol before bed. However, those with obstructive sleep apnea may benefit from a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device to better alleviate symptoms, so it’s important to consult your doctor. Untreated breathing-related sleep disorders can affect how you think and function, leading to serious conditions like dementia.

Varying leg heights

Most beds offer different leg heights, but you need to select the height during setup. Selecting the right leg height is especially important for older adults with leg weakness, joint pain, or balance issues. Some people need:

  • Higher leg heights to reduce effort when getting out of bed.
  • Lower leg heights to reduce the risk of falls from a tall surface.

Don’t forget to account for the mattress height and base thickness when you’re setting up your base. You may want to try standing from different surfaces around the house to see what feels most comfortable before committing to a height setting.

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Custom presets

Custom or memory presets are unprogrammed buttons that you can set to your favorite positions. Our team noticed that the most comfortable positions were the ones we set ourselves since everyone has unique preferences. Many older adults in our survey agreed, listing it as the fourth-most important feature to consider.

Under-bed lighting and built-in remote flashlight

Most people don’t think of built-in lighting when shopping for an adjustable bed, but it’s critical when it comes to safe nighttime mobility. Research shows that most falls resulting in an emergency room visit occur in the bedroom, but you can prevent this by improving bedroom lighting and decluttering your space.

The Handbook Team highly recommends older adults prioritize beds with under-bed lighting and a flashlight function in the remote to illuminate obstacles in your bedroom. If the bed’s lighting isn’t enough, you may also want to buy motion-activated night lights along your walkways.

Handbook Team Tip #4

Our team found that thick bed frames can block under-bed lighting almost completely. Opt for a thinner build if you’d like to use a decorative bed frame with your adjustable base.

If you find yourself visiting the bathroom frequently through the night, we recommend talking to your doctor. Overactive bladders and prostate issues are more common with age, but they’re treatable, so you can sleep soundly and reduce your nighttime trips to the bathroom.

Optional features to look for in adjustable beds

Lumbar support

Many older adults in our survey identified lumbar support as a primary feature, opting for Tempur-Pedic or Sleep Number beds with adjustable components to reinforce the lower back. While adjustable lumbar support could be a great feature for people with chronic back pain, it also comes at a premium of at least a few hundred dollars. Our testers learned that this support should primarily come from your mattress instead.

Wall alignment

The Saatva Adjustable Base Plus offers wall alignment, which shifts the bed towards the wall as the head elevates. This keeps you close to your nightstand so you don’t have to reach as far, but our team found that this feature doesn’t make a difference for people with smaller builds. It’s a good feature to support safer mobility for people who can’t reach far without feeling unstable, but it’s not a groundbreaking innovation that helps everyone the same.

Skip the massage feature

Most adjustable beds offer massage settings that can help some people relax and unwind. However, older adults didn’t list massage as one of the most important features in our survey.

Our testers understand why. Rather than a kneading massage you’d expect from a massage chair, adjustable bed massages feel more like vibrations at different frequencies, which can sound loud and feel annoying.

Beds with lower massage frequencies and intensities were more enjoyable for us, like some BedTech and Mattress Firm models, but our testers agreed we would’ve skipped the feature if we were shopping for ourselves.

Sleep Number store representatives told our team they removed massage from their models completely because customers simply don’t use it.

Brand-specific services to consider

If you’re stuck choosing between multiple brands that offer the features you need, compare each brand’s warranty, trial period, and white glove delivery options.

  • Warranty: Most adjustable bed brands offer limited warranties ranging from three years to a lifetime. If you want a long warranty, consider brands with at least 20 years of coverage, like Saatva or Puffy. But if you want a comprehensive warranty that covers accidental damage from pets or movers, purchasing Nectar’s extended 10-year warranty is your only option.
  • White glove delivery: Also known as in-home setup, white glove delivery is the second-most important consideration when purchasing an adjustable bed. These heavy products are hard to haul into your bedroom and set up properly on your own. We love that Saatva and Tempur-Pedic offer this as a complimentary service, but other brands like Sleep Number charge up to $249.
  • Trial period: Our team favors brands with trial periods because an adjustable bed is a life-changing purchase, and you should feel confident that you’re investing well in your health. Unfortunately, the industry standard is to exclude trial periods. But some brands go above and beyond, allowing you to test your bed at home for up to 120 nights.
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Our final verdict

Our team agrees that Saatva is the best overall for older adults, providing an impressive lineup of features and free in-home setup to all customers. We think Nectar is a top-runner because it offers the most desired presets and a trial period, but its white glove delivery is inconsistently offered and costs an extra $199. If you’re uncertain about purchasing an adjustable bed, our team recommends Puffy to try at home for 101 nights. And if you’d prefer something more affordable, Sealy is a high-quality option starting below $1,000.

Tempur-Pedic is the best-equipped adjustable bed brand for chronic conditions, like low back pain and sleep apnea, but make sure to consult your doctor. Adjustable beds help many people sleep better, but it’s not the first line of treatment for every condition. Talk to a health care professional who can provide tailored recommendations unique to your circ*mstances so you can best protect your physical, cognitive, and mental health.

Frequently asked questions

Medicare Part B may cover an adjustable bed if it’s medically necessary as deemed by your doctor, but it needs to qualify as a pressure-reducing surface or hospital bed.

Our survey found that more than 90 percent of older adults who bought an adjustable bed reported improved sleep. While results depend on the person, we feel confident that adjustable beds meet most older adults’ needs.

If you’re an older adult who finds it difficult or painful to stand from low surfaces, Saatva offers 18-inch leg heights that raise the surface to make standing easier. However, there are instances where lower surfaces are safer. Some older adults with mobility issues are at risk for falls when getting out of bed, so a lower surface can protect them better than a high surface.

Adjustable beds are costly, and many brands don’t offer trial periods. While rare, people who don’t benefit from the adjustability might regret the extra expense over a regular bed.

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  3. Durable medical equipment (DME) coverage. (n.d.) Medicare. Link
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  7. Hospital beds. (n.d.) Medicare. Link
  8. Ioachimescu, O. C., & McNicholas, W. T. (2022). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease–obstructive sleep apnea overlap: More than a casual acquaintance. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 206(2), 139–141. Link
  9. Moreland, B. L., Kakara, R., Haddad, Y. K., Shakya, I., & Bergen, G. (2020). A descriptive analysis of location of older adult falls that resulted in emergency department visits in the United States, 2015. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 15(6), 590–597. Link
  10. National Institute on Aging. (2022). Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults. Link
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