Written by Riley Otis, Editorial Intern
Sometimes, sleeping flat just isn’t cutting it. If you find yourself using multiple pillows to prop your head up or stuffing pillows under your legs and lower back, you may want to consider an adjustable base for your mattress. These bases allow you to elevate your head and legs with just the click of a button. Whether it’s elevating your upper body to prevent snoring, elevating your lower body to reduce back pain, or sitting up to read/watch TV, an adjustable bed frame can help you get there.
In this guide, we’re focusing specifically on seniors, who tend to have more aches and pains than younger folks. We’ll introduce our top picks for the best adjustable beds for seniors and go over who might benefit the most from them and who might want to avoid them. We’ll also cover what real customers are loving about these beds. Finally, we’ll wrap up with a quick guide to picking the perfect adjustable base for you and share some of our expert tips.
Our Top Pick For Adjustable Beds For Seniors
We chose the Helix Adjustable Base as our top pick because it has all the classic features you’ll want from an adjustable base. We think this is a good choice for anyone seeking a simple adjustable base that is easy to set up and use.
The Best Adjustable Bed For Seniors
- Helix Adjustable Base – Best Overall
- Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame – Most Comfortable
- Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage – Best Massaging
- Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base – Most Affordable
- Saatva Adjustable Base – Best for Couples
- WinkBed Adjustable WinkBase 2.0 – Best Safety Features
- Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base – Best for Back Pain
- Sealy Ease Power Base – Best Value
- Purple Ascent Adjustable Base – Best Design
Helix Adjustable Base – Best Overall
Helix Adjustable Base
The Helix Adjustable Base is a budget-friendly option that offers a variety of features, from massages to a zero gravity preset.
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The Helix Adjustable Base is our top pick for seniors because of its classic features. This base lets you use the wireless remote to customize both your head and foot elevation to find the perfect angle for you. Once you find a position you like, you can use the remote to make it a preset position, so you can quickly return to it with just the press of a button. You can set up to three memory presets, which is great if there are multiple angles you enjoy.
The remote also comes with two already set positions: flat and zero gravity. You can easily return the base back to its original position with one button. The zero gravity button puts you in a neutral 120-degree position that simulates weightlessness. This base also has a massage function with three intensity levels. Lastly, it comes with two USB ports, which are perfect for easy access to your chargers.
What reviews say: Customers seem to really dig the easy and self-explanatory nature of this base, particularly noting how the wireless remote is easy to navigate and use.
Who the Helix Adjustable Base is Best for
- People who snore: This base lets you elevate your head and shoulders, which can reduce snoring by giving you an angle that promotes unrestricted airflow.
- People with spinal pressure: This base has a zero gravity setting, which should give you a weightless feel that can take pressure off your spine and other sensitive areas.
- People with stiffness: This base comes with three massage intensities, which can be great for those with muscle stiffness.
Who Should Avoid the Helix Adjustable Base
- People who want a headboard: This base is not compatible with headboard attachments, which could be a dealbreaker for those wanting a headboard for comfort or aesthetic purposes.
Sold on the Helix Adjustable base? Click here for our best deal.
Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame – Most Comfortable
Nectar Adjustable Base
If you like to sit up in bed or are in search of various features, like an anti-snore position or massaging, then the Nectar Adjustable Bed could be for you.
Sleepopolis Score
4.70 / 5
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Expert Opinion
The Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame allows you to elevate your head and feet with either a wireless remote or their mobile app. It comes with three preset settings: zero gravity, anti-snore, and TV recline. You can also program it to remember your favorite positions. In addition to adjusting the head and feet, the Nectar Adjustable base is a massaging bed frame with two distinct zones and three levels of intensity.
The height of this base is also adjustable. You can either use the 8-inch legs or the 3-inch legs, both of which are included with the base. The base also comes with 2-inch extenders for some additional height. Another great feature is the addition of four USB ports built into the base, which gives you easy access to your chargers.
What our tester says: “Both the head and foot of the base raise in a way that’s designed to optimize weight distribution, enhance blood flow, and provide this feeling of floating on top of the mattress. Personally, I found this position to offer the most pressure relief for my lower back.” – Sarah Riccio, former Sleepopolis senior writer and bedding expert
Who the Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame is Best for
- Couples: This adjustable base is offered in a split king option, which is great for couples with different sleeping preferences.
- People who like relaxing in bed: People who like sitting up in bed to watch TV or read may appreciate the preset “TV recline” button.
- People unsure if they want an adjustable base: The Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame comes with a 50-night home trial period, which is perfect for those who want to try out an adjustable base before fully committing.
Who Should Avoid the Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame
- Budget shoppers: This bed frame is one of the more expensive ones on this list, which may not be affordable for some shoppers on a budget.
To learn more about this base, check out our full review for the Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame. Or if you’re ready to commit, click here to get our best deal.
Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage – Best Massaging
Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage
The Nolah Adjustable Base with Massage has four noise-free engines that offer a vibrating full-body massage with three intensity levels. Reinforced steel adds stability to this base.
Sleepopolis Score
4.90 / 5
Expert Opinion
The Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage is a good option for anyone seeking a high-tech base. With four noise-free massage engines, this base offers a vibrating full-body massage in three intensity levels. It can be controlled via the wireless remote or mobile app, and it even follows voice controls. This adjustable base has additional convenient features, like the built-in USB ports, the under-bed night light, and reinforced steel for stability.
What reviews say: Across the board, customers praise how easy this bed is to use. From the simple setup to the convenient USB features, the reviews claim that this base makes life easy.
Who the Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage is Best for
- People in pain: The vibrating massage can be great for relieving pain from head to toe.
- People needing pressure relief: The remote comes with a zero-gravity preset, which simulates weightlessness and can help relieve pressure.
- Heavier sleepers: The reinforced steel undercarriage makes this a super sturdy and durable bed frame that can support up to 750 pounds, including the mattress and sleepers.
Who Should Avoid the Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage
- People seeking simplicity: This bed comes with a lot of bells and whistles, which may not be for everyone. If you want a base that just elevates the head and feet, this may not be for you.
Think the Nolah Adjustable Base With Massage is the best option for you? Get our best deal here.
Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base – Most Affordable
Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base
The Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Power Base comes with head-to-foot tilt adjustments, plus zero gravity and anti-aging posture presets. There are two USB ports and a built-in power-down battery box that is a self-sufficient and energy-efficient source of power.
Sleepopolis Score
4.80 / 5
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Expert Opinion
The Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Power Base is a great base if you’re prioritizing quality materials and affordable pricing. It comes with the basic head-to-foot tilt adjustments but also comes with several presets, including zero gravity and an anti-aging posture. The base’s frame has a built-in power-down battery box that is a self-sufficient and energy-efficient source of power. This base also includes two USB ports, a wireless remote with flashlight, and can support up to 850 pounds.
What reviews say: Reviews for this product compliment the high quality and sturdy construction of this base. Customers also seem to agree that their pain has significantly decreased since sleeping with the Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base.
Who the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base is Best for
- Heavier sleepers: This adjustable base can support up to 850 pounds, including the mattress.
- Couples: This base is sold in a split king option, which is ideal for partners with different sleep preferences.
- People needing pressure relief: The zero gravity and anti-aging postures should be beneficial to those who need a weightless feeling.
Who Should Avoid the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power Base
- People with aesthetic preferences: This adjustable base is sold in one color and design, which may not fit your aesthetic preferences. However, it can fit into an additional slatless frame if needed.
Get our best deal on the Brooklyn Bedding Ascension Luxe Adjustable Power base here.
Saatva Adjustable Base – Best for Couples
Saatva Adjustable Base
The Saatva Adjustable base has a zero-clearance design that allows it to be used within other frames. Along with head and foot elevation, it has adjustable legs that can be adjusted from 13 to 18 inches.
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The Saatva adjustable base comes in a variety of sizes, including twin XL, full, queen, king, and even California king. It has adjustable legs that go up in half-inch increments of height options, from 13 to 18 inches. It’s designed to be “zero-clearance,” meaning you can take off the legs and use it on other platform bases. Its slim design lets it fit into other frames and keeps the quiet motor out of sight.
What reviews say: Customers are thoroughly impressed with how easy Saatva makes it to buy an adjustable base. Not only are customers finding friendly and helpful customer service, but they love how Saatva has free delivery and setup.
Who the Saatva Adjustable Base is Best for
- People seeking a simple base: This base has all the basic features of an adjustable bed frame. If you want to keep it simple, this could be a good option.
- People wishing to re-use their current bed frame: You can remove the legs from this base and place it in a platform base, so your current bed frame won’t go to waste.
- People wanting height: The base can be 18 inches tall at its maximum height, thanks to the adjustable legs.
Who Should Avoid the Saatva Adjustable Base
- People wanting additional features: If you want features like presets or head-to-toe massaging, you won’t find them here.
Interested in the Saatva Adjustable base? Get our best deal here.
WinkBed The Adjustable WinkBase 2.0 – Best Safety Features
Adjustable Winkbase 2.0™
The Adjustable WinkBase 2.0 comes with a wireless remote, requires no tools to assemble, and has four present positions.
Expert Opinion
WinkBed goes above and beyond with its adjustable WinkBase 2.0. When it comes to safety, they have you covered with a child lock function, free-fall design, and emergency lowering function. With the child lock function, the settings can be locked. Seniors won’t have to worry about accidentally pressing a button and potentially getting hurt. It also comes with four presets: flat, anti-snore, zero gravity, and lounge. You can also adjust the head and foot elevation with the wireless remote.
What reviews say: Customers love the WinkBed brand overall and really appreciate their customer support system. While shopping for an adjustable base can be hard, WinkBed makes it easy by being available through multiple channels and responding quickly.
Who the Adjustable WinkBase 2.0 is Best for
- People who like lounging in bed: The lounge preset puts you in a great position for sitting up in bed to watch TV or read.
- Snorers: The anti-snore preset may be a solution for those who snore or have sleep apnea.
- People with children: The child lock function keeps this bed safe if you co-sleep with your children or want to keep kids from playing with the base
Who Should Avoid the Adjustable WinkBase 2.0
- People unsure if they want an adjustable bed: The WinkBase 2.0 is non-refundable nor exchangeable, and there is no home trial period.
Get our best deal on the Adjustable WinkBase 2.0 here.
Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base – Best For Back Pain
Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base
The Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base is offered in a variety of sizes and has customizable head and foot elevation. It also comes with additional lumbar support.
Sleepopolis Score
4.50 / 5
Expert Opinion
The Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base comes in standard sizes, plus a few extras! It’s offered in a twin, twin long, full, queen, king, split king, California king, and split California king. It has the customizable head and foot elevation that you expect from an adjustable base and also has added support for the lower back. It has an added feature that raises up to six inches for extra lumbar support. This base can also automatically sense snoring and adjust accordingly.
What reviews say: Snorers rejoice! Customers who struggle with sleep apnea and snoring report a decrease due to the smart snoring feature.
Who the Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base is Best for
- People who snore: The automatic snore sensor is perfect for adjusting in the middle of the night without waking up.
- People with non-traditional mattress sizes: Not many adjustable bases are offered in sizes like the California king or California split king, but the Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base is offered in both.
- People with spinal pressure: Adjusting the leg elevation and utilizing the lower back adjustment may help relieve some of this pressure.
Who Should Avoid the Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base
- People wanting premium features: The Ease Power Base is Tempur-Pedic’s most basic adjustable base model. People seeking additional features, such as massaging abilities or presets, may find a better fit elsewhere.
To get our best deal on the Tempur-Pedic Ease Power Base, click here.
Sealy Ease Power Base – Best Value
Sealy Ease Power Base
The Sealy Ease Power Base comes with stackable legs for adjustable height and customizable head and foot elevation.
Sleepopolis Score
4.70 / 5
Expert Opinion
The Sealy Ease Power Base is a good adjustable base for anyone wanting a few premium features but nothing too fancy. The head can be raised to a maximum angle of 57 degrees and the feet can be raised 46 degrees max. The wireless remote makes it easy to adjust the frame with the flat preset and zero gravity button. It comes with stackable legs for those who prefer a bed with a bit of height.
What reviews say: Customers seem to really love the ease-of-use this base offers and the simplicity of the wireless remote. The durability and support from the base are also a hit with customers.
Who the Sealy Ease Power Base is Best for
- People who want a tall frame: This base comes with stackable legs which can add additional height to your bed.
- Couples: This base is offered in a split king and split California king, so couples with different sleep preferences can both enjoy it.
- People with aches and pains: The zero gravity present is meant to relieve pressure and simulate weightlessness, which can benefit people in pain.
Who Should Avoid the Sealy Ease Power Base
- People who are unsure about an adjustable base: The Sealy Ease Power Base is unable to be returned, so you won’t be able to return it if it’s not a good fit.
Think this is the adjustable base for you? Get our best deal here.
Purple Ascent Adjustable Base – Best Design
Purple Ascent Adjustable Base
The Purple Ascent Adjustable Base is designed for fully customizable comfort plus many desirable extras.
Sleepopolis Score
4.40 / 5
Read Full Review
Expert Opinion
The Purple Ascent adjustable base is designed to be stylish and comfortable. Like most adjustable bases, it comes with customizable head and foot elevation. However, it also comes with a zero gravity preset, flat preset, and anti-snoring mode. It has built-in USB ports for charging convenience and can be controlled with the wireless remote.
What our tester says: “The Purple Ascent Adjustable Base is a well-rounded, multi-functional, adjustable bed base built for the sleeper who is looking to get a little more out of their bed frame.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
Who the Purple Ascent Adjustable Base is Best for
- People wanting a unique look: The wooden legs on this frame give it a stylish look that’s different than the metal used in other bases. It can also fit in other bed frames if there’s another style you prefer. While most adjustable bases have metal or plastic legs, the wooden design really elevates the overall look of the bed.
- People who snore: This base comes with an anti-snoring mode, which can be helpful for those with sleep apnea or who generally snore at night.
- Heavier sleepers: This is a supportive frame that is able to withstand 750 pounds, including the mattress, so it should provide adequate support to heavier folks.
Who Should Avoid the Purple Ascent Adjustable Base
- People seeking a simple base: If you want a simple adjustable base that only goes up and down, you may not like or need the additional features that this base offers.
Interested in this base? Get our best deal here or check out our full review of the Purple Ascent Adjustable Base.
What to Look for In An Adjustable Bed for Seniors
When you begin your search for the perfect adjustable base, it’s important to consider multiple factors. While you may have a general idea of what you’re looking for, no two adjustable bases are the same and you may find yourself stuck on which to choose.
In addition, seniors have different sleep needs than younger sleepers, which can influence which base is best for them. Luckily, we’ve broken down the essentials in this buying guide to help you be as informed as possible during your adjustable base search.
Mattress Compatibility
Consider the brand and model of your current mattress. Every mattress is different, which means some may not be compatible with adjustable bases. The best mattresses for adjustable bases are typically made from foam, which is flexible and can conform to the changing angles of the base. Innerspring mattresses tend to be harder to use on adjustable bases because the springs prevent them from bending. However, many hybrids are compatible.
Split or Single Base
Are you shopping for yourself or for you and a partner? If you and your partner have different sleeping preferences, you may want to consider a split base, which gives you separate control of each side of the bed. For example, you can still be completely flat while your partner has their head and legs elevated. Keep in mind that a split base will also require a split mattress, if you don’t already have one.
If you’re a single sleeper, you’re likely fine with a single base that moves uniformly.
Features
Adjustable bases typically have head and foot elevation, but some come with additional features. A feature you may find is preset options on the remote. These presets will allow you to move the base to a desired position with just the press of a button. Some common presets are flat, zero gravity, anti-snore, and lounge. Many will also let you create your own preset for whatever position you like.
What Is Zero Gravity?
You may have noticed many adjustable beds come with a zero gravity features. Basically, it’s a position that puts your head and legs at very specific angles to simulate a feeling of weightlessness, hence the name “zero gravity.”
This position was invented by NASA to ease stress on astronaut’s bodies, and it’s now a common preset for adjustable beds. The raised legs and tilted head is meant to support the heart, spine and nervous system to make it easy wind down and sleep.
Another feature that may be offered is massaging motors, which can help with aches and pains. You may also see USB ports, under-bed lighting, and adjustable legs on some beds.
Assembly
How much time and energy are you willing to invest in the assembly of your adjustable base? Some of these bases are easier to assemble than others. You may need an extra set of hands to help with setup. Some companies prioritize easy setup that takes less than 15 minutes with no tools required. Check the company policy, because some brands will send movers to set up the base for you while others you’ll have to assemble yourself.
Weight and Size
Think about the room your adjustable base will reside in. Adjustable bases can be bulky and take up space, so it’s important to keep this in mind when choosing one. Some are marketed as “slim” and are meant to not take up additional space. Adjustable bases can also be heavy and difficult to move, which is another thing to consider if you’re someone who moves frequently.
It may also be a good idea to decide now if you want the adjustable base to stand alone or if you want to put it in an existing frame. Some bases can slide into a slatless frame, while others can only stand alone.
Support
Some sleepers need more support than others. For example, senior sleepers may do best on a base that is ultra-supportive and durable. Heavier sleepers, who weigh 250 pounds or more, may also want to consider how much weight each adjustable base can support.
Price
Adjustable bases can range in price depending on the brand, features, and warranty. The prices in this roundup range from $699 to $1,499 for a queen size at full retail. The average price of all these adjustable bases is about $1,115 for a queen size.
Remember, most of these brands have frequent sales and discounts offered on their adjustable bases. Check out our guide on the best time to buy for more information on getting the best deal possible.
Cost ≠ Value
It’s important to keep in mind that the price of an adjustable base can sometimes correlate to its value as a whole. For example, if an adjustable base is made of high-quality materials, has a great warranty, and is reasonably priced, then we can conclude that you’re getting your money’s worth for the product. Similarly, a cheap adjustable base that lacks durability and support may not be the greatest “bang for your buck.”
Trial and Warranty
Most companies offer a warranty on their adjustable bases. This means the company will replace it if the base is faulty or it breaks naturally. A longer warranty can also be a good indication of quality, as it means the company believes its product will hold up for a long time.
Some companies will also offer a trial period on adjustable bases. You pay for the base and sleep on it for a period of time, but you can exchange it or return it for a full refund if you don’t love it. However, many bases do not come with a trial period and are final sale with no returns or exchanges offered. Be sure to read the fine print when making your purchase.
Health Benefits of Head or Leg Elevation
There’s a reason why adjustable bases are so popular for seniors. When it comes to head and leg elevation, there are multiple benefits that you might find, especially if you have pre-existing issues.
Head Elevation
The main benefit of sleeping with your head elevated is increased airflow. When you elevate your head, your airway opens up and allows for better breathing. This is why many snorers and people with sleep apnea prefer to sleep with their upper body propped up — it lets them breathe easier. The elevation can also reduce neck and shoulder pain by taking some pressure off them.
Leg Elevation
Sleeping with elevated legs may help relieve some discomfort and pain in the body. There’s a reason why doctors say to keep injuries elevated — it can reduce swelling and fluid build-up. This can also improve your overall circulation and promote proper blood flow. Positioning your legs at a different angle can also help relieve back pain. As you raise your legs, the pressure placed on your lower back decreases, and you may experience pain relief.
Adjustable Beds vs Hospital Beds
By now, you may be noticing some similarities between adjustable beds and hospital beds. It’s true that the two share some common features, particularly the head and leg elevation. However, a hospital bed is designed for temporary or permanent healthcare purposes, and an adjustable bed is designed purely for relaxation and comfort.
Adjustable Beds
Unlike hospital beds, adjustable beds are designed for comfort and relaxation. With an adjustable bed, you’ll only really be in it while you’re asleep or lounging, while hospital beds are meant for those who spend more time in them. Adjustable beds are sold in a variety of sizes and styles, and most even have a split option so you and your partner can control your own sides of the bed.
Adjustable beds also come with features that you won’t find on hospital beds. For example, it’s rare that you’ll find a hospital bed with head-to-toe massaging features, but there are plenty of massaging adjustable beds. Adjustable beds are also meant to be stationary and only move locations if necessary. Some can fit in other bed frames, which hospital beds cannot do.
Hospital Beds
The main thing that sets hospital beds apart from adjustable beds is the time spent in the bed. With hospital beds, the patient is meant to spend the majority of their time in the bed. Therefore, it’s designed to accommodate any need they may have. Unlike adjustable beds, hospital beds can be raised and lowered to make the bed taller or shorter. This is so medical providers can work efficiently on their patients.
Hospital beds are more uniform than adjustable beds. While adjustable beds come in all shapes and sizes, hospital beds are typically only twin XL. Also, they’re not meant to be stationary and are equipped with wheels to quickly move throughout the hospital. There are additional features on hospital beds that you won’t find on adjustable beds, such as safety railings, IV hooks, and overbed tables.
FAQs
Are adjustable beds good for the elderly?
They can be! Adjustable beds have lots of features that could benefit seniors. These sleepers may find pain relief or overall stability by elevating their heads and/or legs.
Will Medicare pay for adjustable beds for seniors?
Medicare should offer partial coverage of an adjustable bed as part of Part B benefits. Part B covers durable medical equipment, and adjustable beds fall under this category. If you meet your Part B deductible, Medicare should cover 80 percent of the cost.
What is the best bed height for an elderly person?
It is recommended that the elderly sleep on beds with a lower height. It can be easier to get in and out of lower beds, and some people with mobility issues or chronic pain may struggle with beds that are too tall. Experts say somewhere between 20 and 23 inches is ideal. You can also check out our favorite mattresses for seniors for more information and bed choices.
What is the best bed for low mobility?
If you have low mobility, an adjustable bed could work for you. With an adjustable bed, you’ll be able to move your bed into a position that helps with stiff muscles and joints. In addition, the wireless remote or mobile app will make it easy to adjust positions with a simple button push.
As far as mattresses go, we recommend one that is soft yet sturdy. Finding one with enough cushion is important for cradling sensitive pressure points, but the mattress should be sturdy enough to keep you supported and promote proper spinal alignment. For more information, check out our guide on the best mattresses for seniors.
Sources
- Beds in Accessible Guest Rooms and Sleeping Rooms. 1 Jan. 2011, https://dredf.org/public-policy/dredfs-model-comments-on-the-doj-anprm/beds-accessible-guest-rooms-sleeping-rooms/.
- “Does Medicare Cover Adjustable Beds? | The Mair Agency.” The Mair Agency – NC Health Insurance, https://mairagency.com/does-medicare-cover-adjustable-beds/#:~:text=Yes!,met%20your%20Part%20B%20deductible.
- Kane, Esther C. and C.S.S. “What Is The Best Bed Height For Seniors?” Senior Safety Advice, https://seniorsafetyadvice.com/what-is-the-best-bed-height-for-seniors/
