A comfortable chair for someone elderly should provide adequate back support and make it easier for them to get in and out of the chair.
Such types of chairs are typically referred to as orthopaedic chairs. They include firm and supportive cushioning, a higher than usual seat, a tall back, and armrests.
In this guide, we recommend the best chairs for seniors in the UK, and give you tips on how to choose a comfortable orthopaedic chair for yourself or a loved one.
What To Consider When Choosing a Chair for an Elderly
Seat Height
The most important aspect to consider is the seating height of the chair.
Normal chairs tend to sit a bit low, with most measuring around 15 to 17 inches from the floor to the top of the cushion. That’s too low for most elderly persons and can make it difficult and even unsafe to sit and stand.
A higher seating height requires less effort to sit down and stand up, and allows independent use by elderly users.
The standard seating height on orthopaedic chairs is 21 inches. For seniors who still have a lot of strength and mobility, as well as those with a shorter stature, you can go down to about 18 inches. But 21 inches is the best for most older seniors and those with hip or joint problems.
Seat Width
The typical seat width of an orthopaedic chair is between 18 and 21 inches.
The ideal width depends on the body of the user. If they have a bigger body or wide hips, make sure you get a chair that’s adequately wide. We recommend a 20 or 21 inch wide chair.
A too narrow chair will cause a lot of discomfort.
Firmness
To ensure good support, the chair should have a medium to firm cushion. You may think that a soft plush cushion is more comfortable, but it can cause back and hip problems because of poor support.
A plush chair can make it harder to sit and stand up.
Build Quality
It’s better to spend more on a high quality, well built chair than go with a cheap one that doesn’t hold up well to daily use.
The frame is especially important. The best chairs have a hardwood frame that doesn’t get wobbly over time.
Also check the upholstery. It should be durable with good quality stitching.
Ease of Cleaning
Our favourite chairs for the elderly have easy-to-clean upholstery to ensure hygiene and safety. Others use waterproof fabrics (important for those with incontinence).
Assembly
Finally, check what kind of assembly the chair requires. It should be easy to put together with no tools or just basic tools.
With most chairs, you only need to attach the legs.
Best Chairs for Elderly: Top 5 Reviews
1. EURODIVANI Orthopaedic high seat chair
If you are looking for a chair that’s supportive and comfortable while also being stylish, this 21” high EURODIVANI orthopaedic chair is a great choice.
It’s 18 inches deep, ensuring good thigh and knee support. Width is 18 inches, which is a bit too snug for those with a wider body. We recommend the EURODIVANI for seniors with an average body build.
The chair features silver coloured upholstery and 9” curved legs.
The high back provides plenty of back support, while the upholstered armrests provide support when getting in and out of the chair.
The chair has a firm cushion that adequately supports even heavier users.
Hard wearing fabric keeps the chair looking good evenw ith daily use. It doesn’t fade or tear.
Assembly is pretty easy. The only thing you need to do is attach the legs. Note that the chair is quite heavy and bulky. Make sure there’s someone around to help get it into the house and set it up.
What we like about it:
- Stylish – goes great with most types of home decor.
- 21 inch sitting height.
- Supportive firm cushion.
- Built to last.
2. Mawcare Deepdale Orthopaedic High Seat Chair
If you prefer a modern style, we recommend the Mawcare Deepdale orthopaedic chair. It features an upholstered seat and back and exposed wooden armrests.
While the armrests are contoured for comfort, some seniors may find cushioned armrests to be better. If that’s the case with your loved one, get another chair.
The upholstery is available in several colours including dove, graphite, sky, and steel.
The chair’s frame is made from hardwood, so you can be sure it’ll last a long time. The fabric is hardwearing and has an anti-microbial coating for improved hygiene and health.
The entire chair has a Crib 5 fire rating. This means it is highly fire resistant, providing a layer of protection in case of a tragedy.
The Mawcare Deepdale orthopaedic chair has a seating height of 21 inches – that’s from the floor to the top of the cushion. With help from the armrests, it should be easy for elderly users to sit and rise from the chair on their own.
The cushion is 20 inches wide, making it great for those with wider bodies. The back is high enough to accommodate even tall persons. In addition, the back has a special profile that provides better back support and contouring.
Maintaining the Mawcare Deepdale chair is easy. The fabric is waterproof, so any liquids will not penetrate. It’s easy to clean up messes using a microfiber cloth and cold water.
By the way, the chair arrives in one complete piece. You do not need to do any assembly.
What we like about it:
- Modern style.
- High sitting height.
- Supportive cushion and back.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
3. More4Homes Charlotte Pushback Recliner Armchair
Looking for a chair that can recline? The best one we found is this pushback recliner from More4Homes.
It’s called a pushback recliner because you push it with your back to get into a reclining position. There’s no button or lever to push, making it convenient for elderly users.
It does require a bit of a push to recline, but most seniors can manage. But if your loved one has reduced core and arm strength, you should probably just stick with a regular orthopaedic chair.
The More4Homes Charlotte recliner comes with a firm cushion on the bottom and back. Armrests have soft padding.
Sitting height is about 17 inches, which is a bit shorter than other orthopaedic chairs. We recommend this recliner chair for short and average height seniors.
The chair is also a bit narrow at 18 inches, making it suitable for slim and average build seniors.
In terms of style, we love the modern look of the pushback recliner. With upholstery everywhere, except the legs, it goes well with a sofa set.
You can get the More4Homes Charlotte recliner in two colours – grey and pumice. Note that the recliner has a weight capacity of 114kg or 18 stone.
What we like about it:
- Comfy recliner chair – great for those who like to snooze in the chair.
- Breathable linen fabric upholstery.
- Stylish design.
- Easy to operate recliner mechanism.
4. Mawcare Morecombe Orthopaedic High Seat Chair
If you need an extra-wide and tall chair that’s comfortable for a tall and heavy person, get the Mawcare Morecombe orthopaedic high seat chair.
The seat is 21 inches wide, providing plenty of space for those with a heavier body.
It’s 21 inches high from the floor to the top of the cushion, so your loved one should have an easier time getting in and out of the chair.
The back of the chair is extra high to cater to taller seniors.
The wooden frame of the chair is super sturdy and can handle plenty of weight. As far as we can tell, the Mawcare Morecombe chair doesn’t have a weight limit.
The entire chair, other than the legs, is upholstered with faux leather. This includes the firm cushion, the back and the armrests.
While the faux leather is not quite as comfortable and breathable as fabric, it’s super easy to clean. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all you need to clean up messes.
The cushion is removable for easier cleaning, and you can also reverse it.
You can get the chair in four colours: dark brown, cream, red, and purple.
What we like about it:
- Suitable for tall and heavy seniors.
- Crib 5 fire rating.
- Easy to clean faux leather upholstery.
- Beautiful modern design.
5. Chesterfield Style Leather High back Winged Fireside Armchair
If you love the classic style of Chesterfield sofas, you’ll also love this leather orthopedic armchair.
It has the signature rolled arms and tufted upholstery associated with Chesterfield chairs. The only difference is the back. Instead of the usual low back found on Chesterfield sofas, this armchair features a high back for lumbar support.
The seat is 20 inches wide, which is perfect for most body sizes. Seat height is a bit low at 17 inches, making the chair suitable for short and average height users, and those with good mobility.
The chair has a hardwood frame to ensure longevity. The upholstery is also high quality, so it should last a long time too with good care.
The seller doesn’t mention whether it’s real or faux leather, but at this price point, it’s likely faux leather. Most users who’ve been using the chair also say it is faux leather.
That’s not to mean it’s bad. It looks a lot like real leather and feels comfortable as well.
Assembly is easy; you only need to attach the legs.
What we like about it:
- Beautiful Chesterfield style.
- High quality leather-like upholstery.
- Easy to clean.
- Long lasting hardwood frame.
