Boomers' sleep quality can improve

06 Sep '08

3 min read

Whoever said that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" should take notice.

According to a 1800mattress.com survey of 5,000 callers nationally during the first half of August, 31 percent of consumers from the "Baby Boomer Generation" are sleeping and feeling better since trading in their old innerspring mattresses for new, non-traditional surfaces like memory foam, latex or organic.

1800mattress.com is looking to spread the message by inviting consumers to celebrate "Grandparent's Day," Sept. 7, by visiting one of the company's 46 retail locations to get a sleep makeover and take a nap on a specialty sleep surface.

"I've have had my mattress for as long as I can remember. I also can remember that the first time I woke up without feeling sore was the morning after I got my new latex mattress," said Sally Goldberg from Teaneck, N.J.

"When I last bought a mattress, there were only coil mattresses to choose from. Now, there are so many options. After I tried them all out, I quickly realized I am a coil-man no more," said Jeremy Orthmann of Staten Island, N.Y.

"While the specialty sleep category isn't new, it is to those consumers that have not bought a mattress in 15 years or more," said Dale Read, president of the Specialty Sleep Association.

"Innovations such as memory foam, latex foam rubber and organic or natural mattresses provide an entirely different level of comfort and support."

As Baby Boomers age, they are experiencing a change in their physical needs and this is directly affecting their sleep and health.

According to About.com, a study of adults over 65 found that 13 percent of men and 36 percent of women take more than 30 minutes to fall asleep. Older adults also wake up more often at night than younger adults.

"Over the years, our maturing customers have shown us that they are embracing the new innovations in bedding," said John O'Connell executive vice president of retail and merchandising.

"Many are overwhelmed at the options, so they stick with what they know. On 'Grandparent's Day,' our staff will help consumers find the perfect mattress for improved sleep."

How to know if it's time for a new mattress? 1800mattress.com says you may need a mattress if:
- You wake up sore or stiff
- You have back pain in the morning but it eases through the day
- You wake up numerous times during the night to shift positions
- There is sagging across the middle third of the mattress or along the sides
- The mattress makes excessive creaking noises
- You sleep better when you are sleeping away from home.

1800mattress.com

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