Amy writes:
Hello again,
I've finally circled back around to getting a mattress and just want to double check with you now that I've read much of your website and have a slightly better understanding of what my needs are.
To be clear (because I did not give you any details last I wrote):
I am 5'4" approx 200 lbs. My weight changes a lot (hopefully down soon but can't be sure).
Boyfriend is 5'11" aprrox 175 lbs. His weight rarely fluctuates more than a few pounds.
His problem is that he has a hard time falling asleep and then staying asleep for more than a couple of hours.
I have a host of medical problems and am in the bed quite a bit. Seriously. A LOT. I have daily migraines and autoimmune issues which leave me with achy joints and the pressure on my hips is uncomfortable (and pressure on areas of previous broken shoulders (left and right!) add to my discomfort. As if those medical issue aren't enough - I'm also in bed with depression sometimes too (pain can be debilitating). He, on the other hand is basically "normal." But he is a college sports coach and can get achy back, knees and joints sometimes too.
The plan is basically to compare the 2 mattresses listed below. And then also order the 2" Talalay Latex Topper - or whatever you specifically recommend for the topper for us.
1. Beautyrest Black Queen Ava Luxury Firm (now called Edenton at Macy's, correct? I want to lay on it before I place my order with you)
and
2. Beautyrest Black Queen Alexia Extra Firm (I'm hoping it's available to test at Raymour and Flanigans)
Please let me know whether we would do better with the Ava/Edenton or the Alexia. Or if you think there is something else I should consider. And exactly which Topper you feel might be best.
Finally, my sister is actually planning to order the Beautyrest Black Hope this week (she didn't follow my recommendation to contact you). I seem to recall that you are not as bullish on that mattress. She and her husband are short 5'1" and 5'6" respectively and over 200 lbs. Please let me know if this is a mattress I should be considering too. I seem to recall you saying somewhere in the blogs that the Hope is not the way to go. But I may be wrong. My sister has lots of joint and hip issues too.
Thank you again, and again. Your expertise, and kind suggestions and explanations make mattress shopping more manageable!
Thanks, Amy
Hi Amy,
The Simmons Beautyrest Black Kate model has an extra layer of coils, which are 1.5" thick.
It will have more give because of those coils. And given that your condition is at such a high degree of sensitivity, you might want to give it a try before deciding.
Normally, we don't recommend going to that expense, as few people have your compilation of physical issues.
But still, that mattress will require a 2" Topper of Soft Talalay Latex for it to keep its shape.
A 1.5" coil isn't very strong and the upholstery used in the mattress, (the poly and memory foams), will take body impressions in very short order.
Your sister will need a latex topper also, if she has any expectations of keeping that mattress for more than a few years.
I would only recommend the Hope for you, if after you tried it and your body reacted positively to it.
Otherwise, the Ava luxury firm is the way to go. The Alexia is much firmer...too firm to overcome with just a latex topper.
Your weight does not demand that you go to the Alexia.
While trying these at Macy's, each model has a different name...as you know.
Alexia = Oceanside
Ava = Edenton
Hope = Laralyn
Sears & R&F may not have all the models. Both have the same names as us.
Your boyfriend has an issue that is not solved with a mattress. Although, being comfortable, (with pressure points relieved, blood flowing freely and muscles relaxed), does help.
The sleep system you're getting does all those things.
Difficulty in falling asleep and staying asleep comes with age...as opposed to how easy it was to fall asleep as a child.
By "age", I don't mean old. As adults, we take on responsibilities that we don't have as children. His condition is mostly due to stress, or simply having too much on his mind.
As he ages, however, his brain will produce less Melatonin.
I'm 62 years old, and I have this same problem...an over active brain....mostly thinking about our website and how to make it more informative and easier for people to navigate.
I take a combination of Melatonin and Valerian Root. It helps quite a bit.
Here are links to the Black Line and to the Latex Toppers
http://themattressexpert.com/talalay-dunlop-latextoppers/
An Important Note:
Any kind of moisture, be it from spills, accidents or perspiration causes a mattress to wear prematurely.
Protect your investment with high quality, Waterproof Mattress and Pillow Protectors that sleep cool and won't shrink.
Thanks, Pete
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