A power recliner offers elderly adults comfort, support, and relaxation. The electric motors enable effortless adjustment between upright, partially reclined, or fully laid-back positions. When choosing a power lift recliner, important considerations include ergonomic comfort, control functionality, safety, aesthetics, and budget. This comprehensive guide reveals the most suitable features to consider when choosing a power recliner for senior users.
Where to Look for an Electric Recliner for Seniors?
There are numerous choices available when it comes to buying power lift recliners. Marc’s Mobility, a medical equipment retailer, offers a diverse range of options that cater to specific mobility requirements. Their knowledgeable staff can provide valuable assistance in selecting the most suitable models and features. Their walk-in showroom in Lakeland, Florida, allows customers to test the products firsthand before making a purchase decision. Their recommended item is the Viva Lift Power Recliner by the well-known Pride Mobility that you can check here: https://marcsmobility.com/pride-mobility-ultra-plr-4955-vivalift-power-recliner-new.html
Big retail stores such as Walmart or Costco offer budget-friendly power recliners that come with limited customization options. Due to the constant change in inventory, customers may have to settle for floor models that are readily available instead of being able to order their specific preferences. Returns or exchanges can be inconvenient when it comes to transporting bulky furniture.
Online retailers such as Amazon or Wayfair often offer discounts on premium brands, passing on wholesale savings to consumers. While it may not be possible to test products in person, customer reviews play a crucial role in evaluating quality and suitability. Certain e-commerce platforms provide extended return periods for customers to assess items in their homes. Ensure that home delivery service and setup are included when purchasing large recliners online.
Used recliners can also be found on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace at considerably lower prices. However, buyers need to be aware that they may not have product warranties, and there could be concerns about maintenance and hygiene from previous owners. Opting for new units may be a bit more expensive initially, but it provides greater peace of mind in the long run.
Essential Things to Consider When Choosing a Recliner
Maximizing Comfort
Support and adjustability have a direct impact on comfort. Thick cushions with resilient yet dense padding conform to the body's shape and alleviate pressure points without sagging over time. Lumbar support aids in maintaining the natural "S" curve of the lower spine. Upholstery should provide breathability; while leather and vinyl may become overly warm, mesh fabrics allow for better airflow.
The reclining mechanism should function smoothly to prevent sudden motion shifts. Owners can personalize and program their desired recline and leg rest angles for optimal comfort. Additional relaxation features, such as targeted heating pads and multi-mode massage settings, can provide relief for arthritis, sore muscles, or chronic back pain. The contoured memory foam layering gradually conforms to the user's body over time, ensuring long-term comfort and support.
Conducting firsthand tests of recliners is the most reliable way to assess long-term comfort. The distribution of weight within the cushioning greatly affects the overall feel and level of support. It is recommended to spend a minimum of 20-30 minutes evaluating the recliners in both fully upright and reclined positions to get the most accurate sense of their performance. Individuals who are recovering from surgery or have limited mobility may need recliners that are specifically designed to cater to their unique requirements.
Increased Functionality
The functionality of a power recliner should be tailored to the user's strength, dexterity, and line of sight requirements. Keyless remotes offer effortless adjustments without the need to twist and reach for side levers. Backlit controllers with large buttons make adjustments easier for individuals with arthritis or visual impairments. Battery-powered models provide flexibility in placement, while recliners powered by outlets should be positioned near AC sources to function properly.
Additional convenience features enhance the quality of life, such as ambient floor lighting that helps with nighttime repositioning and charging ports to keep devices powered. Integrated cupholders prevent spills when adjusting. Modern recliners even offer USB ports and tablet mounts for hands-free reading or streaming content. When selecting appropriate features, consider anticipated usage patterns or hobbies. Booklights and tablet arms may be preferred by those who read extensively, while frequent nappers may not require such additional features.
Assessing Safety
The structural stability of a recliner is crucial in ensuring safety, particularly for the elderly, as it determines weight limits and tipping risks. To validate the quality of components and construction, check certifications from reputable testing bodies such as UL or Intertek. Specification sheets should be consulted to determine the total load capacity, taking into account the user's size and any additional layers like blankets or lap trays that may add bulk over the frame. Additionally, the presence of devices that prevent recline activation unless upright can significantly enhance safety.
Pay attention to potential snagging or pinching risks from mechanical parts in motion. The footrests extend significantly outward when reclining, so sufficient clearance around furniture is essential. Minimize tripping hazards by concealing or affixing power cords tightly along baseboards. Battery-powered models again allow flexible placement sans cords. Testing motors, lifting capacity, and intuitive controls prevents malfunctions down the line so units recline smoothly for years.
Home Integration
The design of power recliners varies greatly, from traditional styles to contemporary fabrics, giving consumers the freedom to choose options that align with their home décor. Neutral colors like gray or brown blend seamlessly with any surroundings, while bold patterns make a statement. To ensure a proper fit, measure both the available space and the dimensions of the recliner, allowing enough clearance to fully recline without scraping against walls or windows. Standard sizing is suitable for average builds, but oversized models provide taller seniors with ample room to stretch out comfortably.
When selecting an upholstery color, consider the ambient room lighting. Lighter hues tend to show stains easily, while darker colors can conceal wear for longer periods. Ensure that the chair's proportions align well with the user's body size. Opting for seat depths that accommodate shorter legs can help reduce uncomfortable pressure behind the knees. Choosing arm widths similar to the shoulder span can enhance support during transfers in and out of the seat. Test recliners in person to avoid mismatches in scale or height that may occur when purchasing online without seeing the product firsthand.
Economics and Final Purchase
Investing more initially in power recliners typically guarantees long-lasting and comfortable usage for years, with minimal mechanical issues. Cheaper, budget-friendly options tend to have shorter lifespans due to inferior materials and construction. Consider the anticipated years of reliable use when determining a reasonable price range, and don't forget to factor in potential repair or replacement costs associated with lower-quality products.
Extensive warranties provide assurance by covering defects for a period of up to 5 years. While online retailers may offer discounted prices and a wider range of options, note their inability to test products before purchase. Ensuring transaction security and reasonable return policies is crucial when making online purchases. For in-store transactions, consider arranging home delivery and professional assembly to avoid any damage that may occur during the transportation of large furniture items. Taking proper care of power recliners can significantly extend their lifespan. Investing a little more upfront often results in long-term cost savings and increased customer satisfaction.
No comments yet