If you are living with mobility problems and find that you are sitting down for long periods whilst at home, a Riser Recliner Chair could help you.

Do you understand the different types?

Riser Recliners are separated into 2 main mechanical categories, single motor and dual motor.

A single motor chair uses one motor to raise the footrest and recline the backrest in one smooth motion this will then return users to the seated position and continue to raise them to their feet.

Dual Motor chairs have 2 motors, one which controls the seat recline and rise option and the other motor controls the footrest. This enables users to find the ideal position for their needs ensuring comfort and adaptability.

Which chair is better for me??

The design and style of the chair will depend on the user and mainly comes down to which one you feel more comfortable in.

What size chair do I need?

When you choose a Riser Recliner you must be measured for a chair that fits. This applies to all Riser Recliners, whether you choose to purchase second-hand or a new chair please ensure the chairs fit your needs as well as your budget. Some critical measurements should be considered to ensure your Riser Recliner helps you rather than cause other problems later down the line.

Seat Height:

It is important to consider the length of your lower leg to ensure when you rise or recline your calf is fully supported and your Achilles muscle in your ankle rests on the edge of the footrest.

To measure the correct seat height: When seated ensure your bottom is right at the back of the chair so it is fully supported and ensure you can put both feet flat on the floor. If you can’t reach the floor you will need a smaller chair.

Seat Depth:

Your upper legs are the main point of body contact when seated in a Chair so you must ensure they are also fully supported in the correct position.

With your bottom still at the back of the seat your knees should easily form a 90-degree angle, with your upper legs parallel to the floor. You should also have a 1-inch gap (enough space for 2 fingers) between the back of your knee and the edge of the chair

Seat Width:

As with the other measurements you need to ensure you have enough space in the seat without the ability to slouch to one side.

To measure the correct seat width: Continue to sit in the chair with your bottom well supported at the back and you should be able to fit both hands, either side of your body between yourself and the armrests.

Seat Back Height:

Your chair should fully support your spine and head ensuring you don’t slouch forward or tilt your neck backwards.

The backrest should be at least the same height as the top of your head.

See our post ‘Single vs Dual Motor Riser Recliner Chairs’.

See the NHS page about ‘Household gadgets and equipment to make life easier’.