Need to take a quick nap? Here are the best options:
Ashley Furniture Signature Design
Check priceGenerous, contemporary and smooth upholstery to have the greatest relaxing time ever. The back and footrest operate independently.
- Designed for big and tall people
ACME Ricardo Recliner with Power Lift
Check priceIdeal for anyone who needs some little help getting up from their recliner.
- Easy-to-use two-button tethered remote
Mcombo Electric Power Lift Massage Sofa Recliner
Check priceHis durable Upholstery and heating area provide comfort and wellness for everyone.
- Easy to assemble
If you — or a loved one — are over a certain age, it may be time to buy the best recliner for elderly people. Just to make your — or their — life easier. The right recliner can accommodate mobility limitations by helping you get up. It can help you take a nap comfortably. Or to relieve back pain and lower back pain. And it can even help you watch your favorite TV shows calmly.
Life doesn’t end when infirmity slows down a person. Above all, the right seat can help people continue to live as fully and comfortably as possible.
Senior citizens tend to spend more time sitting and usually suffer from various mobility issues. It is particularly important that they find the most comfortable chair there is. Their seat need to be adapted, so they can get up easily. With a minimum of fuss, of course.
Let’s talk about some of the reclining chair options for the elderly.
Best Reclining Chairs for Elderly – Reviews
Ashley Furniture Signature Design – Yandel Power Lift Recliner – Contemporary Reclining – Faux Leather Upholstery – Saddle – Our Best Pick
This beautiful brown reclining chair is designed for big and tall people. It is also available in black.
It features an attractive contemporary style, a spacious side pocket and an attached remote control. When fully reclined, it extends up to 69 inches in length. It has a bit more height and depth to accommodate the frame of taller people.
The side pocket expands the width of the side, giving it more space while minimizing the impact on the appearance. It is a great combination of convenience and stylish design.
Like all models listed here, this is an electric elevator model. Some customers report that it climbs much higher than the photos suggest, which makes it very easy to stand up.
The backrest and the footrest work independently. This means that you have additional options for positioning. You can sit with your feet raised or lie down with the footrest lowered.
Although not waterproof, the faux leather cover is easy to wipe clean. But feels better than vinyl. This provides an excellent combination of comfort and ease of cleaning.
Very sturdy, this recliner is recommended for big and tall people. If you need a little more space, this might be the chair for you.
- Independent footrest and backrest
- Roomy side pocket
- Tethered remote
- Generous size
- No cup holders
- Not waterproof
ACME Furniture 59405 Ricardo Recliner with Power Lift, Dark Gray PU – Best Big And Tall Recliner
This brown wall recliner is also available in black, cream, red and cashmere. It only needs 4 inches of headroom from the wall, allowing it to fit into virtually any room.
Although the measurements show 33 inches, the inflated armrests and side pockets give the chair an overall width of 36 inches. When fully reclined, you have 63 inches to stretch.
When you press the up arrow on the remote, it first lifts the footrest. If you stop just before fully raising the footrest, you will not engage your back. So even if the backrest and the footrest do not work exactly independently, you can sit with your feet raised. It is also an electric chairlift that allows you to get up easily.
Eco-friendly faux leather is easy to clean, making it low maintenance. The side pocket is the perfect place to store the attached remote control. Having the remote permanently attached prevents it from being inadvertently misplaced.
This is dedicated to happy nappers who need a little help getting back up out of their favorite chair.
- Easy-to-use two-button tethered remote
- Handy side pocket
- Lift chair to help you get up
- Wall hugger design
- Continuous footrest
- The footrest and backrest are not independently operated
RELATED: 5 Best Recliners with Remote Control
Mcombo Electric Power Lift Massage Sofa Recliner Heated Chair Lounge w/Remote Control USB Charging Ports, 7040 (Black) – Best Back Comfort Model
This black recliner features built-in heat and gentle massage to help soothe back discomfort. It is also available in four other colors to adapt this piece of furniture with the colors of your interior.
There are eight vibrating nodes on the chair. And a heating element near the lower back, to relieve your lower back. Nine modes and five intensity levels available to get the relaxation that’s right for you. Heat and vibration work separately, leaving you totally in control. In addition, the timer can be set for a maximum of 10, 20 or 30 minutes.
If you — or a loved relative — suffers from lower back pain, this can be the perfect chair. The combination of good design, heat and massage can help reduce back pain and allow you to relax effectively. Instead of uncomfortably changing positions every few minutes.
This chair includes a padded headrest, cup holders, and a generous side pocket. Very practical, these locations allow you to keep your essential items nearby, such as medicines or a glass of water for example. It’s even equipped with two USB ports to charge your smartphone or tablet, while enjoying your favorite TV shows all afternoon.
Of course, it also comes with an electric elevator model. It helps you get up or down as easily as possible, even with back problems or other medical issues. This function is operated with a two-button intuitive remote. It can be kept conveniently in the side pocket to make it easy to find.
Leatherette upholstery is a low maintenance choice. Unlike real leather, there is no need for fancy oils or waxes. Just wipe with a damp cloth to clean it.
What emerges from this test?
The chair does not recline to a completely flat position. It tilts up to 140 degrees which is comfortable but won’t be the best nap option for some people. Perfectly recommended if you want built-in heat and a gentle massage. In addition, it is great for relieving back pain.
- Includes cup holders
- Has built-in USB ports
- It comes with a massage and heat function
- Easy to assemble
What cons did we manage to find?
- It does not lay flat. Max 140 degree angle.
RELATED: Top 8 Comfortable Massage Reclining Chairs for Elderly — but not only
Catnapper Burns Power Lift Recliner Chair
Every power lift chair has its own pros and cons based on the angle to which it bends or how its mechanism works to help seniors get rid of the back pain they are in.
One such sofa that is there to serve for the same purpose is Catnapper Burns Power Lift Chair. Its ash color may not look good enough while being in the living room but its classy look as well as the comfort level is what matters the most.
What makes it special?
- It can extend to an almost flat position and the motors available help to get out of it easily also.
- It is comfortable for people of average height and has adjustable footrests also.
- It can bear a weight of almost 400 pounds and has quite less weight.
What could be better, if really needed?
- It is made of textile that may not last long enough if used by kids.
- People more than 6 feet height cannot comfortably use the headrest.
Customer’s Reviews
Both elderly as well as young people were interested to buy this chair since it offers them the position even a bed can’t offer. Apart from that, the back and forth movement is quite smooth that doesn’t let the elders feel any back pain.
The only thing that didn’t work well enough was the material with which it is made since a slight mishap can cause it to fall prey to cut.
CANMOV Power Lift Recliner Chair for Elderly- Heavy Duty and Safety Motion Reclining Mechanism-Antiskid Fabric Sofa Living Room Chair with Overstuffed Design, Chocolate – Best Overstuffed Design
This pretty upholstered chair in chocolate color is designed for maximum comfort. It is made with non-slip padding material for added safety and is also available in cream color.
Nevertheless, it is a basic model, without grandpa geek accessories. There are no cup holders, USB ports, heaters or massage motors. It’s just a simple, beautiful chair designed to be comfortable.
Some people prefer to keep it simple to minimize distractions and complications. If you think “less is more” this chair may be for you. The best is sometimes the enemy of the good. Although it is padded to the extreme, this recliner has beautiful clean lines. And will fit into a modern or contemporary decor.
The maximum weight capacity is 300 pounds. It is an average-sized chair that should fit most people reasonably well. Of course, it is a power lift model — this is what this website is talking about. And has a side pocket. The remote control is elegantly simple for ease of use.
It tilts far enough back, but not completely flat. Based on customer feedback, users can easily sleep in it. The backrest and the footrest are not operated independently. This may limit the variety of positions available.
Why is it a good recliner for senior citizens?
Recommended for people looking for simple, straightforward comfort in the form of additional cushioning. Not recommended if you are looking for a chair with all the features.
- Super simple remote control
- Overstuffed and extra cushy
- Less is more
What is missing here?
- It does not lay fully flat
- Footrest and back are not independently operated
RELATED: Top 5 Push-Back Recliners
Rhomtree Power Lift Chair for Elderly Reclining Chair (Beige) – Best Ladies Model
This light colored model has clean lines and looks a bit smaller than average. This may be the perfect solution for a person of 1.60m for example.
This is a lift model with a weight limit of 330 pounds. And a side pocket, as well as a remote control. The upholstery is an easy-to-clean faux leather to minimize the hassle of spills. That’s a nice feature for such a light-colored piece of furniture. It’s also great for anyone wanting to minimize cleanup.
It’s just a basic model. There are no cup holders, USB ports or other extras. If you want to keep it simple, this can be the perfect chair. If you want some of these extras, go back to the top of this page and check out the top 3 products.
Why did it make our list?
Recommended for small to average people who want a basic chair with clean lines. Not recommended if you are looking for extras, like heat or massage.
- Ergonomic shape
- Clean lines and light colors
- Suitable for small and average-sized people
What are the flaws?
- No cup holders or USB ports
- Not heat or massage features
Irene House Modern Transitional Detachable Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair with Soft Breathable Fabric (Sage) – Best Easy CleanUp Model
This lovely pale sage chair comes with multiple detachable mats for the best combination of ease of cleanup and good looks. Because they come with the model, they are designed to match. Giving a better look than purchasing such protective covers separately.
There can be many reasons why this matters. People with motor control issues may not need things extra clean. But may just have a lot more spills than average.
Breathable fabric can be more comfortable in hot weather. But does not clean as easily as imitation leather. Headrest mat, armrest mat and chair mat give you the best.
It’s also a power lift model with a 300 pound capacity. For ease of use for people who are mobility impaired. If your joints aren’t as young as they used to be, this can be a tremendous boon to your quality of life.
There is a side pocket for easy storage of the remote control. But it’s a basic chair with no extras like cup holders, USB ports, massage elements, or heating elements.
Why did we considered it?
Recommended for the cleanliness advantage provided by the detachable mats.
- Space-saving
- Matching detachable mats included for ease of cleanup
- Convenient side pocket
- Tethered remote with a long cord
What is not ideal about this furniture?
- No massage or heat elements
RELATED: Our Top 5 comfortable Toddlers Recliners with Extended Leg Rest
Things to consider in order to make a good purchase
Seniors will have the same concerns as anyone who buys a good recliner. But they will also have their own special interests. While these interests are not exclusive to the elderly, you should think about them when purchasing a recliner for yourself or a loved one who is aging.
Keep This In Mind before Buying a Reclining Chair for Senior
Seniors were born before all this cutting edge technology came along, like sophisticated remote control chairs with electric lifting technology. While some have kept pace and know more about the technology than their adult children, others find it intimidating. Or challenging. They may also experience issues that make it difficult to try to learn new things and to adapt.
If a recliner is for relaxation first, the last thing you want is to misplace the remote control. Or find it difficult to use. Look for recliners that are intuitive, with an easy-to-use remote. And consider purchasing a chair with a remote attached so it can always be easily found.
If you’re buying for a relative who isn’t tech-savvy, consider taking the time to respectfully answer questions, demonstrate, and explain a few things. It is not necessary to make their introduction to new technologies a negative experience. Tell them the pros. And be kind and patient when explaining things.
Mobility of Reclining Chairs for Elderly
One of the most common problems in old age is various forms of mobility issues. You may have noticed that all the chairs reviewed above are power lift chairs.
An electric lift chair can help an elderly person preserve some of their independence to go about their business without needing the help of another person. This can help them stay active longer and reduce the extent to which their life is limited by their physical limitations.
It may also be more important to find a chair of the appropriate size. Mobility issues can make an oversized chair a terrible challenge to get in and out of a short person or can help make a chair that’s too small impossible to fit comfortably.
Some scientific research show that getting up regularly can help lessen the negative health effects of sitting too long. Helping an older person stand up independently can help them stay healthy longer.
Convenience is King
Think about the specific needs. Is it for yourself and other people ? Will you spend a lot of time in this chair? How will they use it? What features are mandatory? Many other questions should be asked, to finds what you really need:
- Do you want some cup holders?
- Are USB ports importants, to load smartphones or tablets?
- Is a side pocket an essential feature?
- Should it be easy to clean?
- Will you use it with your husband or your wife? Then consider you need a Double Recliner.
You may not be able to get everything you want, but make sure you get the most important details.
The Footrest
You may want to consider purchasing a model with a rest. Where there is no space between the seat of the chair and the footrest. You may also want to make sure that the footrest and backrest work independently to maximize the positioning options.
It’s not just for added comfort. Thanks to gravity and the design of the circulatory system, circulation problems first affect the feet and lower legs. Poor support can make these problems worse. Worsening circulatory problems can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Elevating the legs and getting up regularly for walking are two good practices for dealing with poor circulation in the feet. The right chair can help make such choices easier.
Cleanliness Matters
If the chair is purchased for an elderly person living alone, they may need furnitures to be easy to clean. So that they can handle it on their own. Faux leather or detachable covers can help reduce chair maintenance.
They may also have neurological disorders, such as motor control problems. Especially when paired with reduced mobility, it can lead to frequent spills. The easier it is to wash, the better it is.
Fit Matters
Anyone looking to buy a recliner is concerned about the fit, but it’s even more important for people with joint issues, limited strength, or similar issues. A good fit is therefore one less mobility problem.
Keep in mind that young people may find an oversized chair just boring. An older person may have difficulty entering and standing up from an oversized recliner.
So make sure you know the height, weight and possibly girth of the intended user. Then check the measurements of the chair. If you still need more information, you can try measuring their current preferred seat to give you an idea of the accuracy and importance of this data.
FAQ
Are Massage Chairs and Recliners Safe For The Elderly?
If you have back pain, or lower back problems, it is best to see your family doctor first. This will surely direct you to a specialist colleague, such as an osteopath, or a physiotherapist. By consulting a therapist, you will be able to work on specific areas that a massage chair could not stimulate easily. A massaging recliner perfectly complements the work of a therapist. So do not think buying this kind of recliner as a healing tool. This is more dedicated to comfort.
Be careful: if you had surgery less than three months ago, then your body may not be quite ready. Your body and back may not be completely healed. In this type of situation, too much massage and back stimulation may slow down your healing. Simply wait before resuming your massages. Three months isn’t that long after all.
If you have no medical pethology, consider this last tip: try to limit yourself to a maximum of 15 minutes of massage per day. Mainly to avoid muscle discomfort. And start gradually; start with light massages to get your body used to it. Then increase the intensity. If the massage seems too strong to you and you cannot adjust it, you just need to put a towel or a small cushion on your back, to avoid direct contact.
Our Final Verdict
Our favorite choice is the Ashley Furniture Signature Design – Yandel Power Lift Recliner – Contemporary Reclining – Faux Leather Upholstery – Saddle. We primarily like the space-saving wall, the cozy design and ergonomics of this seat.
James KenwoodJames is a professional in furniture sphere. He has 5 years of experience in working with all types of recliners. And now he shares his knowledge with people, who don't have time for research and who want to make the right choice for the future piece of furniture. More about writers