Convenient furniture at senior homes is key to a safe ergonomic living environment. One of the top-notch pieces of furniture that will make your elderly parent feel cozy is a comfortable recliner. The proper reclining chair can provide comfort, reduce discomfort, and even enhance the general well-being of elderly people. This article guides how to choose the right recliner for your elderly parents to fit their requirements.
Assessing Your Senior Parent’s Needs
Before going out shopping for a recliner, evaluate the needs of your elderly family member. Think about their level of activity and whether or not they have any physical disabilities. Some seniors may suffer from arthritis, and this will limit them from operating some chair’s mechanisms. Others may have balance problems, meaning that they need a more stable recliner.
You should be aware of the medical conditions of your senior to find the best match. For example, people with circulation issues will benefit from a recliner with an adjustable footrest. Patients with back pain may require additional support in the lumbar area. Take measurements of the room in which the reclining chair will be positioned. It shouldn’t be placed in such a way to obstruct the walkways.
Recliner Styles and Types
Traditional reclining chairs offer familiar comfort and are often more budget-friendly. Wall hugger recliners are just great for smaller spaces as they can be positioned closer to the wall.
For the elderly who experience challenges in mobility, lift chairs from Marc’s Mobility are ideal. These recliners feature an automated lifting system that angles the chair forward. It’s crafted to make it easier for a person to get up. Rocker recliners are equipped with a rocking mechanism, which many elderly individuals find soothing and relaxing due to the gentle rocking motion.
Zero-gravity recliners are designed in such a way that the body is positioned in a manner that minimizes pressure on the spine and enhances blood circulation. This can be especially helpful for senior adults who experience back pain or circulatory issues.
Important Characteristics to Consider in a Reclining Chair for Senior Citizens
The chair’s reclining mechanism must be comfortable and simple to operate. Lever-operated recliners are often preferred by seniors over those that require much pushing.
The durability of the structure is important in terms of safety. The recliner should not have a tendency to swivel or move back and forth when in use. Consider the height and depth of the recliner’s seat. The user should be able to sit comfortably and stand up without much effort. Proper lumbar support is essential in maintaining the right posture and preventing back strain.
Soft armrests will go a long way in making the chair more comfortable. They should be of the right height and width in order to support the arms without putting pressure on the shoulders. Another important aspect is the footrest design. It must be simple to use and provide sufficient support for the legs.
Materials and Upholstery Options
The choice of materials used for constructing and upholstering the recliner can significantly affect how comfortable it is. Sturdiness and washability are critical characteristics, particularly when the patient is a bed wetter. Choose materials that do not absorb stains, e.g., opt for leather that can be easily cleaned with a mild wipe.
Another important factor is breathability. Ventilated materials can minimize the issue of overheating and sweating, which is crucial for seniors as they have poor thermoregulation. It should feel soft to the touch and not scratchy against the skin.
Common fabrics for recliner covers include microfiber and leather. Microfiber is quite comfortable and can be cleaned easily. Leather endures for extended periods and maintains its attractiveness as it ages. Some elders like leather because of its appearance, while others like microfiber because it’s soft.
Additional Features for Senior Consideration
Modern power recliners are equipped with features that make the experience more enjoyable. Heat and massage functions can help those with sore muscles and joints. Some chair models come with USB ports for charging devices. You can also locate cup holders for conveniently placing your beverage.
Shelves or cabinets are useful for storing toys, books, remote controls, or any other frequently used items. Swivel base options enable the user to swivel the chair flawlessly. This may prove handy for seniors who struggle to twist their bodies.
Safety Considerations
Comfort and safety are paramount when picking a recliner for the elderly. Choose models that come with stability mechanisms. They will help prevent tip-over accidents. Look for any potential points of entrapment in the mechanism and make sure they are protected.
Non-slip upholstery is useful in preventing slippage, especially when one is in the process of getting in or out of the chair. Other safety features include the use of fire-resistant material, especially for elderly people. Because they are more susceptible to accidents caused by cigarettes or other sources of fire.
Senior Budget and Value
There is a wide variety of recliners designed specifically for elderly individuals that can be found in the market. They differ in price, starting from affordable models to expensive luxurious chairs. While it’s important to stay within your budget, investing in a solid recliner can pay off in terms of comfort and durability.
Consider the equilibrium between cost and performance/features. A more costly recliner with better back support and more straightforward controls might be worth the money for your aging parent who requires frequent use of the recliner. Make sure to understand both the warranty and the return policy. A good warranty offers confidence and security to an investment.
Where to Shop and How to Test the Recliner
People prefer buying furniture online, but a recliner for senior parents should be bought physically in the furniture store. This enables your elderly to sit on different models and determine their level of comfort. There are many furniture stores that are specifically aimed at seniors. Such stores are able to provide expert advice and accessible assistance.
When trying out recliners, make sure your parent spends at least 10-15 minutes in each chair. They should test all the positions and features in order to assess their level of comfort. Check how comfortable they find it to control the reclining mechanism and to get in and out of the chair.
Conclusion
Selecting an appropriate recliner for your elderly loved one is a crucial decision that may positively affect their overall comfort. Take into account their needs, focus on the most important features, and try various models to choose a comfortable reclining chair.
So, the best recliner is the one that will suit the needs of your elderly parent. It is also important to engage them in the decision-making process. The proper recliner will grant your senior parent solid support and independence for many years.