I had back surgery and slept on an air mattress for awhile because
I could make it softer or firmer as needed at night.

I then went back to a regular mattress which felt as hard as a rock
and I couldn't get any sleep, tossed and turned all night trying to get comfortable.

I cannot sleep on regular mattresses now.

Loved the air mattress so much I eventually bought an air mattress type mattress.

Just tired of air beds since in my experience they have to be replaced too often and they are especially hard on mom at her age. Hi IrishDem!

The mattresses are comfortable and inexpensive.

Get a frame at a place like a thrift store.

Often used plywood as the underlay. Often places like Lowe's will do up to two cuts for free. So if you know the measurements, they can but it to size.

Was wondering about them. Thanks! The store is about 10 miles away.

if you are truly unable to do that.

I have done that in the past by showing up when they open on a Saturday morning. They have a one-cut rule but I've found they don't mind doing multiples if no other customers are waiting and the boss isn't in yet.

They never get saggy because they are on the floor. Much cheaper than western beds and very good for my back. Plus you get exercise getting out of bed every morning.

Be sure to get a real Japanese futon and not a folding couch type western version.

https://jlifeinternational.com

Many churches have free mattress and bedding programs. St. Vincent de Paul or Salvation Army are good for a start.

In the city where I live (tho it's too far to be of help for you) one of our area churches runs the "Sleep in Heavenly Peace" program that builds and delivers wooden twin beds and mattresses for those in need. Local charities work in conjunction with them to provide pillows and bedding. These, too, can be found online or call local churches to see if they can help. You don't have to be a member of the congregation.