Finding the right blankets for seniors can be difficult. Seniors, like others, can be very particular about their blankets.
Some enjoy having blankets that are heavier and warmer and some may want blankets that won’t get them too hot. Many of them aren’t ready to participate in the weighted blanket craze just yet!
You want to identify the blankets that offer the material makeup that could work well for the user. Certain materials will be effective for those who run warm and some will be optimal for those who run colder. There is also a matter of price and even size.
The key is understanding the preferences of whoever will be using it. That way, you can pinpoint the best blankets that would fit the bill.
Below, we will be going over several blankets that stand out in the marketplace. You should be able to find the perfect fit in this list no matter if your body runs warm or cold.
Top Lightweight Blankets For Elderly
Many elderly people want to stay warm and comfortable at home without being burdened by heavy blankets. The LL Bean Wicked Cozy Light Blanket is an excellent choice for seniors who are looking for a lighter, yet warm and cozy option.
First and foremost, the Wicked Cozy Light Blanket is made of 100% polyester Luster Loft™ fleece, which is exceptionally soft to the touch. Seniors with sensitive skin will appreciate the gentle feel of this fabric.
The blanket has a weight of 320 GSM, making it an ideal choice for year-round use. It provides enough warmth for colder months without being too heavy or stifling during the warmer seasons.
One aspect that sets this blanket apart is its non-shedding, non-pilling, and double-brushed fleece. This means that it maintains its softness and appearance even after multiple washes.
The ease of care is an added advantage for seniors, as the blanket can be machine washed in cold water and dried with no heat.
The Wicked Cozy Light Blanket is available in various sizes, including Twin, Full/Queen, King, and Extra-Large King, allowing seniors to choose the most suitable size for their bed, couch, or favorite recliner.
One potential drawback to note is that some users have reported the blanket being somewhat slippery on the bed.
REST Evercool Cooling Blanket
Evercool™ Cooling Comforter
The REST Evercool Cooling Comforter is an outstanding choice for elderly individuals seeking a lightweight blanket that won’t hinder their movement during sleep. This innovative comforter is designed with seniors in mind, offering exceptional comfort without the burden of a heavy blanket.
However, it’s not a great choice for cold-natured older adults because of it’s cooling properties. But, if you are an older adult who is also a sweaty sleeper, you’ll love this one!
The lightweight benefits of this comforter are significant, allowing for easy adjustments and enhanced freedom of movement while resting.
The ultra-thin fibers provide a cozy and breathable sleeping environment, ensuring elderly individuals can sleep soundly without feeling weighed down by a bulky comforter.
Having personally used the REST Evercool Cooling Comforter, I can attest to its lightweight nature. It is among the lightest weight blankets I’ve experienced, making it an ideal choice for seniors with mobility issues or those who simply prefer a more comfortable and manageable bedding solution.
For an in-depth look at the comforter’s features and benefits, I encourage you to read my full REST Evercool Cooling Comforter review.
The REST Evercool Cooling Comforter is a highly recommended option for elderly individuals seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and breathable blanket.
Its innovative design and weightlessness make it a valuable addition to any senior’s sleep setup, enhancing their overall quality of rest.
This blanket is going to be ideal for those who want a blanket that is on the thinner side of things. If you are someone who gets hot very easily, this thin blanket may be what you are looking for.
The blanket is thin enough to keep you cool on the warmer nights but it is also warm enough to double for extra layers during the colder seasons.
This blanket is made up of jersey fabric. The jersey fabric side can maximize breathability. Whereas, the other side is made up of a thicker material that is just as warm and comfortable as fleece. This ultimately makes it the perfect option for those who are hot sleepers.
This blanket offers something that a lot of blankets fail to deliver.
This is a very breathable blanket. Not only will it keep elderly people warm and comfortable, but it isn’t going to retain all of your body heat. Thus, it will allow for some heat to escape which can keep you from getting uncomfortably hot.
If you are a hot sleeper or someone who gets hot easily, this could be the ideal blanket for you.
Like the other blankets that are thinner, this blanket can be used in a multitude of ways making it one of the more versatile options in the marketplace.
Classy Pal Wheelchair Blanket with Embroidered Flower
Classy Pal Wheelchair Blanket with Pouch for Adults, Fleece Wrap for Airplane & Train, Packable...
This is a good option to consider if you are specifically looking for a blanket that is tailored for wheelchair usage. But, this blanket for wheelchair users is versatile enough to be used in a favorite recliner or while reading in a rocking chair.
can serve other purposes, it is primarily geared for those who are planning to use it primarily with their wheelchairs. The blanket is designed to fit the majority of chairs in the marketplace. It is also lightweight, soft, and comfortable.
This blanket features a lap pocket that can be used to keep your hands warm while you are out. This can be a very convenient feature to have when you are out using your wheelchair as you won’t have to be fumbling around putting your hands into your blanket all the time.
If you need a lightweight blanket for your wheelchair, this blanket comes with adjustable straps that can fasten to your wheelchair legs to avoid having your blanket get caught in the wheels. This is a problem a lot of blankets have and the straps completely solve it conveniently.
If you are a fan of embroidery, you will likely enjoy this embroidered design. It comes with a stylish design and that will look good for a long time.
This is another lightweight blanket worth considering. If you are shopping for a lightweight blanket that can be used in different ways, this textured cotton blanket may be your solution.
This blanket, while expensive, offers a sleek aesthetic and versatility. The blanket can be used as an extra layer during the colder months and it can be used as a primary blanket during the warmer months.
If you want a blanket that is sleek, stylish, and comfortable, you will be able to choose from 4 different colors with this option. A lot of the blankets that prioritize style fall short in the performance department. This blanket lives up to its price tag and offers a premium wearing experience.
As mentioned, this blanket is made to feel and look premium. It is made up of 100% cotton. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about allergies to synthetic material or anything else.
Granny Jo Lightweight Wheelchair Blanket
Granny Jo Products Lightweight Wheelchair Blanket, Warm Fleece, with Pockets (Merlot)
While this is a blanket that is designed to work seamlessly with wheelchair users, it also can be paired with a recliner or your favorite couch. This blanket is perfect for any season as it is both soft and comfortable. It is made up of lightweight, warm, and soft fabric.
Best of all, there are specific features geared towards making it the perfect wheelchair accessory.
For those who spend time in wheelchairs, finding a blanket that can offer comfort and convenience can be difficult. This blanket is meant to solve a lot of problems with most blankets.
It comes with hooks and loop straps that you can use to ensure your blanket isn’t constantly falling and getting caught in your wheels.
The kangaroo pocket solves the problem of not keeping your hands warm. Seniors can become increasingly sensitive to cold temperatures. This is due to a variety of factors including but not limited to low blood pressure, thinning fat layers, and more [2].
Regardless of the reason, extremities are one of the first things to get cold. Unfortunately, a lot of blankets will keep your body warm, but they don’t offer the same convenient and easy warmth for your hands.
This blanket features a kangaroo pocket that will solve all of that and allow you to maintain the ability to use your hands when you need them by removing them from the pocket.
When buying a blanket for anyone, you want to ensure it will be easy to clean and maintain. This blanket is especially easy to clean for those who are looking for something that is low maintenance as it can be thrown into the machine on a cold wash.
Boll and Branch Waffle Bed Blanket
Waffle Organic Cotton Blanket
This blanket is a good option for those who want a versatile blanket. Some seniors find themselves getting hot and cold depending on the time of year or even the time of day. After all, body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day and night.
This blanket is versatile enough to be able to be used in both summertime and the winter. For summer, you may want to pair it with a sheet. For winter, it can be paired with a quilt or a duvet for added warmth.
This blanket is made up of high quality 100% organic cotton. This means you will be getting cotton that is ethically produced and cotton that isn’t going to irritate.
For seniors, this can be a big benefit.
A lot of seniors have allergies to synthetic materials like polyester. This is known as “textile dermatitis” and it can cause a lot of irritation including rashes, tenderness, and more [1].
Finally, the texture of this blanket features a waffle weave. This texture is said to get even more spongey and springier after you wash it. This means you won’t have to worry about your blanket piling and getting less and less comfortable the more you use it and wash it.
This product is much more of a scarf and it is made up of ultra-soft Cashmere-like acrylic. Therefore, you are getting a high-end material that is both soft and warm.
This is one of the most stylish blankets you will find. It looks fantastic and it comes in a variety of colors that you can choose from.
It can be used in a variety of ways including as a traditional scarf, blanket, or even as an evening wrap.
Choosing a Lightweight Blanket for an Elderly Person
- Material: Elderly people should choose lightweight blankets made from breathable and moisture-wicking materials, such as cotton, bamboo, or linen. These materials can help regulate body temperature, provide adequate warmth, and ensure a comfortable sleeping experience without feeling too heavy or restrictive.
- Warmth and insulation: Lightweight blankets can still provide adequate warmth by utilizing thermal insulation properties, such as microfiber or down alternative fillings. Elderly people should look for blankets with a good warmth-to-weight ratio, ensuring that they stay warm without the blanket being too heavy.
- Safety and ease of use: Elderly individuals should consider blankets with non-slip features, such as textured or grippy surfaces, to minimize the risk of the blanket slipping off during sleep. Additionally, the blanket should be easy to maintain, with simple washing and drying instructions, as this will ensure it remains hygienic and comfortable to use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lightweight Blankets:
What is the softest material for a blanket?
The softest material for a blanket is typically synthetic materials such as sherpa.
What is the lightest warmest blanket?
For a lighter and warmer blanket, you may want to opt for 100% cotton. It is lightweight and breathable, but it is also warm.
What are thin blankets called?
A thin blanket is typically referred to as a quilt, a coverlet, or even a throw blanket.
What is the difference between a throw and a blanket?
A throw is meant to be smaller than a traditional blanket. It is also not meant to be the primary blanket on a bed. Instead, it is meant to be added to an existing blanket or duvet.
What kind of blankets do hospitals use?
Hospitals typically use 100% cotton blankets. A lot of them use thermal blankets covered by a sheet to help retain the most body heat.
Summary
There are a lot of different blankets in the marketplace to choose from. Finding the right one comes down to personal preference.
Figure out whether your body runs cold or hot. If you are someone who gets hot at night, you will likely want to stick with a thinner blanket. If you prioritize softness and warmth over everything and you don’t have allergies to synthetic material, you may prefer fleece.
You cannot go wrong with any of the blankets on this list. If you didn’t find what you are looking for, check out my other guides to blankets for seniors here.
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