Riser chairs (also known as riser recliner chairs and electric armchairs) are becoming increasingly popular in the UK and, thanks to advances in technology and manufacturing processes, they are more stylish than ever before.
Riser recliner chairs come in various shapes and sizes to complement all home interiors, many options have matching couches, and they are available in a veritable rainbow of colours. But do you need one, or will you benefit from one?
In this complete guide, we’ll help you spot the signs that you or a loved one needs a riser chair and explain the many benefits that come with a highly supportive, multiple-position armchair.
7 Signs That You Need A Riser Recliner Chair
Ageing comes to us all and, while many of us stay fit and mobile throughout our senior years, others need extra support to retain independence at home. There are many options available, from adjustable beds to professional live-in care, but a riser recliner chair could be the perfect place to start. Here are the top seven signs that you should look out for when considering if a riser armchair is right for you:
1. Difficulty Getting Up Out Of A Chair
Do you ever have problems getting up out of your armchair? We’ve all experienced tight muscles and joints after many hours in a chair watching a good movie or TV, but if you find that it is happening more often than not, a riser recliner chair could be beneficial. Equipped with electric motors, it will gently lift you to a standing position without putting extra pressure on your legs, hips, and back, so you can stand with ease and go about your everyday life at the touch of a button.
2. Difficulty Sitting Down
Do you find sitting down uncomfortable or even painful? Common conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can make simple movements very painful. If transferring from standing to sitting (or vice-versa) is causing you pain, a reclining armchair could help. It elevates to provide much-needed support to the back of the legs and lowers gently, allowing you to sit without putting any additional stress on bones and joints.
3. Putting Off Everyday Tasks
Do you ever notice yourself (or a loved one) putting off everyday tasks such as getting up to make a cup of tea, going to the bathroom, or taking things upstairs? It could be a sign that you are not as mobile as you used to be and that you could do with a little extra support. Adjustable chairs and beds provide this additional support while allowing you to remain independent at home, so consider the options available – it could change your life for the better.
4. Sitting For Long Periods
The pandemic has forced many of us to spend more time at home and, if you are spending more time in your armchair than ever before, a riser chair could be of benefit to you. They are more comfortable than regular armchairs, they provide extra hip, back, and neck support, and you can even customise them with modern technology to give you a massage as you watch TV. If you sit for several hours in the same chair each day, a riser recliner could be a smart investment. You’ll be able to kick up your feet with the flick of a switch and stand and sit with ease.
5. Changing Sitting Position Regularly
Do you find yourself continuously changing position in your armchair, trying to get comfortable? If so, a riser chair could help. They allow multiple seating adjustments, with dual-motor chairs allowing you to adjust the backrest and footrest independently, and most models have additional padding for an extra layer of comfort
6. Doctor’s Advice
If you have a medical condition that requires you to elevate your legs, such as varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), your doctor may recommend that you buy a riser recliner chair. They can provide instant relief for such conditions and, as the footrest is built-in to the chair, you don’t have to worry about using a separate footstool, which could be a trip hazard.
7. Napping In The Afternoon
Do you like to take a nap in the afternoon? Many of us do and, a riser recliner chair provides the perfect platform. Many electric armchairs recline into an almost-flat position, so you don’t have to worry about going up to bed. You can recline your chair and snooze whenever you like.
The benefits of riser recliner chairs are well-documented and, if any of the above points apply to you, it could be the perfect investment for your living room. They come in numerous colours, styles, and designs to suit every taste, and you can personalise them with additional features such as massage therapy to create an armchair that meets your specific needs.