riser recliner chairs for the elderly

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According to the American Chiropractic Association, sitting in a recliner is good for your back as long as the chair provides proper support. Recliners can help reduce stress on the spine by taking pressure off the discs, which can become compressed after hours of sitting in a traditional chair. Recliners may provide a comfortable alternative to a chair or bed, and can prevent additional health complications.

picture or recliner- riser recliner chairs for the elderly

What is a Riser Recliner?

The elderly often experience a decline in mobility, strength, and flexibility. This can make it difficult to get up from a seated position or move around the house. A recliner chair assists the seated person to a standing position and lessens the amount of effort needed to rise on one’s own. These are usually used in the living room and are used as the primary comfortable chair in the living space. If you have a family member with an electric riser recliner chair, you have probably tested it out yourself at some point

. Finding the right chair is important, since there are a few variations between brands. It’s also something to test out since the ease of use may vary, and your loved one who will be using the chair may have a preference over which one to ultimately purchase. Some rise recliner chairs also sit up or may be elevated more than others– so there are differences. They can be operated with a remote control most often, and sometimes the chairs offer extra features such as a massage function or lumbar support. If you are thinking of investing in one of these, read on for 6 benefits of using a recliner chair for the elderly.

Improve mobility

People can experience a decline in mobility and joint function as they age. This can make it difficult to get around and participate in activities they enjoy. One solution for elderly individuals who want to stay active and mobile is using a riser recliner chair. These chairs support the body and allow the individual some assistance with standing — this may be difficult when seated for a long time or a lot of time during the day. Keep in mind, testing out the chair with someone nearby and having the chair assist to the right angle is important for safety.

riser recliner chairs for the elderly- photo of man in wheelchair looking at phone with family nearby

Benefit compared to regular chairs and seating

Recliner chairs offer a variety of benefits for elderly individuals. For those with arthritis, reclining in a chair can help to reduce pain compared to a traditional chair. Recliners that assist to a standing position can make it easier for people to get up and move around, especially if the individual is using two or three steps to get up out of a chair, such as sliding to the edge or moving to the side of the chair to try to stand up. Additionally, recliners provide a comfortable place for seniors to nap or watch television. Ultimately, using a recliner chair can offer your elderly relative more options for relaxing.

Improve sleep quality

A recliner chair can provide many benefits for elderly individuals, including improved sleep quality. Some individuals that have difficulty sleeping flat, especially for napping, may find they feel better sitting in a recliner, leading to better sleep. For elderly individuals who have difficulty getting around, a recliner can provide a comfortable place to relax and rest.

Promote good posture

If you find you need multiple pillows to promote comfort in bed, a recliner may be a more supportive option. Recliners are often made with cushions and a backrest that can be reclined by pressing a button or pulling on a lever. This makes it easier to find a comfortable position. A good recliner will keep your spine in its natural alignment, rather than bent over or slouched. This can help to prevent back pain and help maintain a proper body posture. This is another reason to choose the right electric recliner chair for you. If you’ve tried a recliner made for a much taller person, you will quickly notice the pillows and neck rests are in the wrong place! It can actually push your head forward awkwardly. Test out the recliner first. Look for one designed for the proper height and build of the person buying it, to help support correct posture.

Time Friendly

Recliners can also provide a comfortable place to sit and allow caregivers to assist the elderly person into. (Compared to assisting to sit at a dining char, regular chair or sofa.) Sofas and traditional living room furniture may be closer to the ground, which can make transfers more difficult. They can make it easier for someone to stand up or sit down. Recliners can save caregivers time and energy, which are precious when caring for elderly relatives.

It’s important to consult your healthcare provider on which options may be a good (and safe) option if your loved one has medical issues.

Conclusion

A recliner chair may be the perfect option if you’re looking for a chair with many options. These chairs can be adjusted to sit, stand, or recline, allowing you to find the perfect position for your comfort. Best of all, many recliner chairs feature a push-button control. This can make it easy to adjust the chair to your desired position. Recliner chairs can be adjusted to fit different body sizes and recline to provide more comfort. They are also usually smaller than traditional chairs, making them a good option for small spaces.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant for health advice. Please consult a knowledgeable healthcare provider to decide on purchasing any assistive furniture. Thanks for reading!