A Consideration List for Choosing the Best Pillow for Seniors

While most people are led to believe that pillows are solely for comfort and relaxation, they are designed to offer support to the neck, shoulders, spine, and head when sleeping. Apart from support, the best pillow for seniors should enhance their sleeping patterns. Here is a comprehensive guide on what to consider when choosing pillows for aging folks.  

Look at the Breathability

A breathable pillow allows air to flow through seamlessly and achieves better thermal regulation. The best pillow for older adults should be super breathable to ensure uninterrupted sleep. Pillows with poor ventilation tend to trap heat resulting in increased temperatures and profuse sweating.

To choose a breathable pillow, you need to check out the pillow filling. If it has dense filling then it is bound to be less breathable. The outer construction material or fabric also matters. A pillow that features shredded foam or polyester material promotes better airflow.

Consider the Firmness of the Pillow

Pillows have a different degree of firmness depending on how they are constructed. They could either be soft or medium soft. Similarly, it could be firm or very firm. The firmness of the pillow dictates the amount of shoulder and neck support provided which most older adults require for restful sleep. Feather pillows tend to be extra soft hence yielding better collapsibility and flexibility as well.

You should consider going for a memory foam pillow if you are looking for more support for the shoulder and neck areas. It is important to go for a model that is firm but not stiff. It should also feature a consistent thickness and shape.

Focus on the Pillow Size

Bigger is not always better when it comes to pillows. Instead, you should choose a pillow that complements your bed size. In this manner, the pillow will not only look amazing but also offer the right amount of support for your aging relative. You have the kind, queen, and standard pillow sizes to choose from.

Mind the Pillow Filling

The pillow filling is another vital attribute to consider when choosing an ideal pillow for older adults. Of course, pillows incorporate a wide range of fillings. While some include memory foals, others come with wool, feathers, and polyester among other materials. Essentially, the type of fillings in the pillow determines the amount of support or comfort it can provide. Likewise, the filling has an impact on the durability of the model. You should select pillow fillings that will offer ample support and comfort for your aging family member.

Be Mindful of their Sleeping Position

It is essential to consider the preferred sleeping position of an elder before choosing a suitable pillow for them. The sleeping position has a significant effect on the maximum comfort and support that the pillow will provide. If your older relative is predominantly a back sleeper then he or she will require minimal neck or head support.

Such a person will need a contour pillow with medium or low density. A pillow with excessive density will exert too much pressure on the neck and head areas. On the other hand, side sleepers require pillows with medium density to keep the head and neck in proper alignment with the body. 

Time to Pick a Proper Pillow for Older Adults

Choosing the best pillow for your aging relative should be easier with our guide. Even so, it is important to remember that every older adult has unique pillow requirements for a quality and uninterrupted sleep pattern. You should keep that in mind when making your choice.