Chairs come in many shapes and sizes. However, some are better suited to community life than others. In addition, consider how you plan to use the chair. For example, you may want to sit upright when snacking or right after a meal. Or you may wish to recline during the afternoon when watching TV or reading devotions. Finally, think about what types of guests you plan to entertain in your assisted living apartment — fellow residents or family members with small children.
The distinctive feature of these cozy seats is a high back with flared edges or wings. These wings offer a soft place to rest your head while thinking (or napping) and help block drafts. Wingback chairs also have upholstered armrests, offering a handy spot for elbows and making it easier to stand.
A rocking motion can be just as calming for adults as for young children. Rocking chairs come in a wide range of styles, from upholstered gliders to traditional wooden rockers. When choosing a rocker, make sure you have enough space to accommodate movement and that the bottom rockers aren’t sticking out and in your way.
Padded armchairs offer the most variety in comfortable seating, from sizes and patterns to colors and design styles. However, the most important quality a chair needs is to fit you — so make sure to test-drive a few before deciding.
While not as comfortable as other options, straight-back chairs take up much less room, making them great for guest seating. They’re also helpful if you want to set up a small area for dining. You can select from several back styles, including slat, solid and ladder designs. In addition, look for captain-style chairs with armrests to help when rising and chair pads for added comfort.
Recliners are the gold standard of comfortable chair seating, offering a variety of seating options, from lifted legs to fully prone positions. Furthermore, recliners save space compared to a chair and an ottoman, leaving fewer items to maneuver around in your room.
When choosing your recliner, consider these options.
Lift chairs have an electric motor that lets them raise the sitter to a standing posture. Lift chairs are beneficial if you have difficulty rising from a seated position.
You can order lift chairs from a medical supply company, pharmacy or furniture store in the Monument, Colorado, area. Medicare may pay a portion of the costs of the electric motor if you have a medical need for a lift chair. Some insurance providers may also help with lift chair costs.
If you’re ordering a lift chair, you can usually specify color, fabric type and special features, like extra pillows, cupholders, massage or heat. Lift chairs require electricity, and you’ll want to make sure the attached transformer and electrical cords are out of the way of traffic.
Regardless of the type of chair you select, you’ll want it to be attractive, comfortable and easy to keep clean.
Everyone’s taste in decor is slightly different. Look for a chair that makes you feel welcome and able to relax and that matches the rest of your furniture.
Above all, a chair must fit your body. You want your feet to touch the floor, and the seat should support your hips and thighs. You should be able to lean against the backrest without slouching. Try sitting and standing several times to ensure you can stand easily. If the chair is wooden, add pads to the seat and backrest.
You can usually request a stain-resistant coating or material when buying a chair. And if you’re repurposing a used chair, slipcovers help update the look while protecting the original fabric. Finally, if you’re concerned about incontinence issues, try waterproof, absorbent chair pads. These seat protectors are available in a range of attractive colors, making them discreet and practical.
Because falls are always a concern, make sure your chair is easily accessible from all directions and follow these fall prevention tips.
