10 Common mistakes to avoid when choosing riser recliner chairs

When everyday movements start to feel more difficult, having the right support can make a big difference. A riser recliner chair can provide valuable support, comfort and independence. But with so many options available, choosing the right riser recliner chair isn’t always straightforward.

Read on as we explore the most common mistakes when buying a riser recliner chair and how to avoid them, helping you find the best riser recliner chair that supports you.

1. Not checking riser recliner chair measurements

When you’re choosing a rise and recline chair, it’s easy to get caught up in finding the right style, colour and features. But before you decide to buy, it’s important to check the measurements. A riser recliner isn’t a one-size-fits-all purchase, and choosing the wrong size could leave you feeling uncomfortable, unsupported or unable to use the chair properly.

Research examining different chair designs found that factors including seat height, backrest recline, seat tilt, seat compressibility and armrest placement can affect the difficulty of rising from a chair, particularly among older adults¹.

If you’re wondering how to measure for a riser recliner chair, here are some of the key measurements and features to consider:

Seat height

Research has found that seat height can significantly affect sit-to-stand performance, particularly in older adults. NHS guidance recommends that your hips and knees should be positioned at around a 90-degree angle, with your feet resting comfortably on the floor. If the seat is too high, your feet may not sit flat. If the seat is too low, you may find it more difficult to stand comfortably ².

Seat depth

The depth of the seat can also affect your sitting posture and comfort. Research into seating for older adults found that chairs that were too deep could make it difficult for users to place their feet comfortably on the floor and could contribute to slumped sitting ³.

If you suffer from back pain, you may find that a seat that is too deep leaves you leaning back or struggling to maintain a comfortable posture. NHS guidance recommends being able to sit comfortably against the backrest without the seat pressing into the backs of your knees ⁴.

Seat width

The seat should provide enough room to sit comfortably while keeping you well supported. A seat that is too wide may make it harder to maintain a supported sitting position and use the armrests effectively, while one that is too narrow can feel restrictive. Ideally, you should be able to sit comfortably with your arms supported by the armrests without feeling cramped ⁵.

Backrest and headrest support

The measurements of a riser recliner aren’t just about the seat. The position of the backrest and headrest can also affect your comfort and support. A well-positioned backrest should support your body comfortably, while a suitable headrest can help support your head and neck when you are relaxing in a reclined position, these placements can also influence how easily you move from sitting to standing.

Taking the time to get the right measurements before purchasing a riser recliner can make a significant difference to your comfort and overall experience. Rather than simply choosing a chair based on how it looks or feels for a few minutes, consider whether its dimensions and support are right for your individual needs.

At Charterhouse Mobility, every riser recliner chair is made bespoke to your individual measurements and requirements.

2. Forgetting to measure your space

It’s not just your own measurements that matter when choosing riser recliner chairs. You also need to consider the space where the chair will be positioned.

Before purchasing, measure the room as well as the space where the chair will sit. Remember that a riser recliner may require additional clearance when the backrest and footrest are fully extended and the chair is fully reclined.

Consider the chair’s position in relation to walls, windows, furniture and walkways, leaving enough clearance to use the riser and recline functions comfortably. This will also help you decide on your preferred motor mechanism and which is best suited to the space and the chair type. Some mobility chairs, such as The Exeter offer perfect space saving models.

3. Not considering which riser chair motor is right for you

When choosing an electric recliner chair, the motor system can make a big difference to how you use it every day. A common mistake is choosing a single-motor or dual-motor chair without considering which option best suits your needs. Research has found that riser recliner chair functions can help to reduce the demands placed on the knee and hip joints during sit-to-stand and back-to-sit movements, which may be particularly helpful for older adults who find these movements physically challenging ⁶.

Understanding how each motor works and the level of control it provides can help you find a chair that offers the comfort, flexibility and support you need.

A single-motor riser recliner operates the backrest and leg rest together, providing a simple, straightforward movement without the need for multiple adjustments.

A dual-motor riser recliner allows the backrest and leg rest to be adjusted independently. This gives you greater flexibility, allowing you to recline your back while keeping your legs down, or raise your legs while remaining more upright.

4. Choosing a riser recliner chair based on looks alone

A riser recliner chair is likely to become an important part of your everyday life, so it’s understandable that you’ll want one that suits your home.

However, choosing a mobility chair based purely on its appearance can mean overlooking the features that matter most, your comfort and mobility support.

While you want your chair to suit the aesthetic of your home, be sure to make sure you think about how frequently your chair will be used and whether the fabric needs to withstand everyday wear. Consider factors such as cleaning, warmth, pets, and your lifestyle when choosing your chair upholstery.

At Charterhouse Mobility, we know everyone’s needs and styles are different, which is why with Charterhouse riser recliner chairs, you can choose from thousands of high-quality fabrics and finishes, so your chair can reflect your style and complement your home while still making it possible to find a chair that provides the support you need.

5. Not thinking about how you use your chair daily

Another common mistake is not considering how you’ll actually use your mobility chair throughout the day. Your chair is likely to become part of your daily routine, so it is important to think about what you need it to help you with, and which features could make everyday use easier.

Will you spend several hours sitting in your chair? Do you want to recline and put your feet up? Would you benefit from extra support when moving from sitting to standing? Thinking about how you will use your chair can help you decide which size, motor system and features are genuinely important to you.

6. Paying for features you don’t need

Modern riser recliner chairs can include everything from massage functions and padded headrests to USB charging points. While these can add comfort and convenience, more features don’t necessarily mean a better chair.

Instead, focus on the features that fit naturally into your everyday routine. For example, if you spend a lot of time reading, an integrated reading light could be useful. If relaxation is a priority, heat or massage functions may be worth considering.

The aim isn’t to choose the chair with the longest list of features, but to find one that offers the right combination of support, comfort and functionality for you.

7. Choosing price over quality

When comparing riser recliner chairs, it can be tempting to simply choose the cheapest option. However, price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider.

A riser recliner is likely to become an integral part of your day, so it’s important to look beyond the initial price. Comfort, build quality and durability all play a role in how well your chair performs over time. Consider the chair’s construction, motor system, upholstery, warranty and expected durability alongside your budget to ensure you’re choosing a chair that can provide lasting comfort and support.

8. Only thinking about your current needs

Your mobility needs may change over time, so consider whether the chair you choose will continue to work for you in the future.

For example, if you are recovering from an injury, you may initially need a different level of support than if you are looking for a long-term mobility solution for yourself or for a loved one. Think about how you expect to use your mobility chair now, but also whether your needs could change over the coming years.

Thinking ahead can help you choose a chair that remains comfortable and useful in years to come, potentially avoiding the need for an unnecessary replacement.

9. Skipping the opportunity to try a riser recliner before you buy

It can be difficult to judge whether a riser recliner is right for you from photographs or product descriptions alone. If possible, trying the chair before making your decision can give you a much better idea of how comfortable and practical it will be.

Sit in the chair in both an upright and reclined position and test the motor functions. When choosing a riser recliner, consider whether your feet rest comfortably on the floor, whether you feel properly supported and whether the controls are easy for you to operate. A study exploring the needs of older people when selecting seating found that armrests were the most frequently discussed chair feature and were considered essential for supporting ease of entry and exit, highlighting the importance of checking the position and accessibility of the armrests when choosing a mobility chair ⁷.

At Charterhouse Mobility, we offer a free, no-obligation home demonstration which allows you to experience a range of British-made riser recliner chairs within your own surroundings. Trained demonstrators take detailed measurements, assess posture, and discuss any aches, pains, or specific mobility challenges, ensuring your furniture is made just for you.

10. Not seeking professional advice

With so many different sizes, motor options and features available, it can be difficult to know which riser recliner chair is right for you.

Professional guidance can help you decide how to choose a riser recliner chair and decide which options are likely to suit your individual requirements and ensure that the chair you choose provides the right combination of comfort, support and independence.

At Charterhouse Mobility, we have over 30 years of experience creating British-made mobility furniture. Our experts can help you find a riser recliner chair designed around your individual needs.

How to choose the best riser recliner

The right riser recliner should do more than simply look comfortable. It should support your body, make everyday movement easier, fit naturally into your lifestyle and work within your home. By considering your measurements, mobility needs, motor options, available space and desired features, you can feel more confident in your choice.

At Charterhouse Mobility, we combine over 30 years of experience with British-made craftsmanship to create bespoke mobility furniture designed around you. If you’re looking for the right riser recliner chair, our expert team can help you find a solution that provides the comfort, support and independence you deserve.

References:

1.      Kuo, Y.L. (2013) ‘The influence of chair seat height on the performance of community-dwelling older adults’ 30-second chair stand test’, Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, 25(3), pp. 305–309. doi: 10.1007/s40520-013-0041-x. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23740582/

2.      Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (2024) Seating and ergonomics. Available at: https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/patient-information/seating-and-ergonomics/ 

3.      Blackler, A., Brophy, C., O’Reilly, M. and Chamorro-Koc, M. (2018) ‘Seating in aged care: Physical fit, independence and comfort’, SAGE Open Medicine, 6, pp. 1–13. doi: 10.1177/2050312117744925. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5758957/

4.      East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust (n.d.) Back injury: aftercare advice. Available at: https://leaflets.ekhuft.nhs.uk/back-injury-aftercare-advice/html/

5.      UCLA Health (n.d.) Chair setup. Available at: https://www.uclahealth.org/safety/ergonomics/office-ergonomics/chair-setup

6.      Miller, S.K., Aberegg, L., Blasiole, K., Parker, M. and Fulton, J. (2014) ‘A prospective assessment of sacral pressures in healthy volunteers seated upright and reclined with legs elevated in a recliner’, Ostomy Wound Management, 60(9), pp. 52–59. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25211607/

7.      Blackler, A., Brophy, C., O’Reilly, M. and Chamorro-Koc, M. (2018) ‘Seating in aged care: Physical fit, independence and comfort’, SAGE Open Medicine, 6, pp. 1–17. doi: 10.1177/2050312117744925. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8636577/