5 Things to Consider When Buying a Specialist Chair for an Older Relative

As our parents grow older we need to think carefully about how we can help them to stay mobile, independent and comfortable in their own home.

One huge consideration is getting the right furniture within the home, and in particular, chairs used in the lounge. It need to be comfortable, yet provide support for when sitting for long periods of time. It also need to be easily accessible.

This is why many families opt for a specialist recliner chair for their elderly relative. Below we explore how to get specialist chairs for elderly relatives for use at home and what you need to know.

>> For more information about the type of chairs and features we offer, make sure to read our comprehensive guide on Chairs for seniors.

1. Use a specialist furniture company

One of the easiest ways to get specialist chairs for elderly relatives is by using a reputable and trusted specialist furniture company. Not only will they have a wide selection of the very best chairs for the elderly, but they can also offer you expert advice on what would best suit the needs of your loved one.

This is a much better option than purchasing from an unknown company, especially when wanting an armchair with an electric motor.

2. Have an assessment carried out

Specialist recliner chairs for the elderly come in a range of different sizes, styles and feature different user functions. Before looking for a specialist chair, it’s a good idea to have a professional mobility assessment carried out to ensure that you get the right type of chair to suit your loved one’s needs. This assessment will focus on how the elderly person moves, their range of movement and if they need any pressure area care.

3. Match the chair to the environment

It is important to match the type of specialist mobility chair to the chosen room. When choosing specialist recliner chairs for elderly relatives for use in the living room, then you need to consider how much room it will take up, and if it can be placed against a wall or near a door. If it has an electric motor, then it will need to be placed next to an electrical socket.

Once again, discuss all these requirements with the specialist dealer as they can help to advise you on the best makes and models.

And don’t forget to consider the style of your room! Today, it’s very easy to find stylish, modern looking specialist chairs to match your interior, or even your sofa.

4. Choose the right support and functions

You will need to know the level of support required from your specialist chair and what functions will make it easier to use. So, for example, a recliner chair with a removable padded seat cushion and electric motor to raise the foot and headrest will be useful for an elderly relative who will be spending a lot of time in the chair and who needs to repeatedly re-position the chair.

Rise and recline chairs are another option for those individuals who find it difficult to lower themselves down onto the seat, or to stand from a sitting position.

5. A chair with or without wheels

Many specialist chairs for seniors are now made with wheels. This enables them to easily move the chair from one area to another, which is useful for those who are less mobile. Wheeled chairs are also recommended for when you need to use a hoist. These types of chairs also help to reduce isolation, as they can be moved from room to room, and to a dining table.

A specialist furniture company will stock specialist chairs with wheels.

To find out more about how you can get specialist chairs for elderly relatives that are simple and easy to use, then please do browse the Mobility Furniture Company website today and get in touch with us if you have any questions.