Everyday activities like sitting down, standing up or finding a comfortable resting position can become much more difficult when we get older. Power recliners, also known as lift chairs, have become popular home mobility solutions for seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer convenience, comfort and therapeutic benefit. Beyond comfort, however, power recliners can actually help manage a wide variety of ailments and health concerns.
Arthritis and joint pain.
Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions among older adults. Its symptoms include stiffness, inflammation and joint pain. Naturally, these issues can make movement extremely difficult. “Arthritis also makes it harder to bend the joint or get the full range of motion you used to have,” notes MyHealth.Alberta.ca, “The symptoms may be mild to severe.”
Power recliners are especially helpful because they allow users to change positions with minimal effort. Instead of bearing weight through painful joints when lowering into or rising from a traditional chair, the lift mechanism gradually moves the user to a standing position. It also gently assists them back into a seated one.
As well, the ability to fine-tune positions helps reduce pressure on the hips, knees and back. Elevating the legs can reduce swelling, while reclining at specific angles can relieve joint strain. Many people with arthritis report significantly improved comfort when they can adjust their chairs with the touch of a button rather than relying on physical strength.
Chronic back pain and spinal conditions.
Lower back pain, sciatic nerve pain, spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease are all conditions that can make sitting and standing painful. Power recliners offer customizable support that allows users to find their ideal “zero-gravity” or near-zero-gravity position. This is the one that distributes body weight evenly, reduces spinal compression and encourages relaxation of back muscles.
The lumbar support built into many models further helps maintain healthy spinal alignment. For individuals with chronic pain, the ability to shift between positions throughout the day without strain can make a dramatic difference in comfort levels and overall mobility.
“Maintaining a proper sitting posture can prevent back pain,” points out Dr. Scott Wilson for Physiomed, “Keep your feet flat, support your back, and adjust your chair and desk for alignment. Consider ergonomic chairs with lumbar support and place your monitor at eye level to avoid neck and back strain. You should also change your position as needed for reduced discomfort.”
Poor circulation and swelling.
Swelling in the legs and feet can be uncomfortable and even painful. Such a condition is often caused by poor circulation, heart conditions, diabetes or prolonged sitting. “Poor circulation occurs when the circulatory system cannot pump blood effectively to all parts of the body,” informs Lana Barhum for Medical News Today, “This causes a drop in blood, oxygen, and nutrient delivery to affected areas.”
A power recliner with a full leg elevation feature can position the legs above heart level. This is an effective way to promote blood flow and reduce swelling. By allowing users to elevate their legs several times a day with minimal effort, power recliners help manage symptoms of venous insufficiency, lymphedema and post-surgical swelling.
Consistency is key. Because the user doesn’t need physical assistance to adjust positions, it becomes easier to follow swelling-management routines independently.
COPD, asthma and breathing difficulties.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and other respiratory conditions often worsen when a person lies completely flat. “Asthma affects more than 4.6 million people in Canada, including 900,000 children under the age of 19,” informs Asthma Canada, “In Canada, asthma is the third-most common chronic disease. Every day, over 317 people are diagnosed with asthma in Canada, and tragically every year an estimated 300 people living in Canada die from an asthma attack.”
Power recliners can be adjusted to a semi-upright position, making it easier to breathe comfortably. Many people sleep in their power recliners for this reason. A slightly elevated position can help reduce shortness of breath, keep the airway open and minimize nighttime coughing.
This is also beneficial for individuals recovering from pneumonia or other respiratory infections. Power recliners also help those with seasonal allergies who experience difficulty sleeping when congested.
Acid reflux and Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
People with acid reflux or GERD are often advised to sleep with their upper body elevated to prevent stomach acid from flowing upward. “When you lie down, gravity no longer helps keep stomach contents where they belong, making nighttime particularly problematic for acid reflux,” explains Dr. Gurkarminder Sandhu for Baylor Scott & White Health, “This creates a cycle where GERD symptoms worsen sleep quality, and poor sleep can increase GERD symptoms by affecting hormone levels and stress responses.”
A power recliner makes achieving an upright position simple and stable. Unlike pillows that shift during the night, a recliner can be adjusted to maintain the perfect angle. Sleeping or resting in a slightly upright position can reduce reflux episodes, nighttime discomfort and associated coughing or throat irritation. Many clients find that lift chairs become comfortable alternatives to their beds when flare-ups occur.
The benefits of a power recliner go far beyond comfort.
A great power recliner is all about comfort. The perfect chair to reduce pain, to help you relax after a hectic day and best of all, help you get that perfect nap you’ve been longing for. A power lift chair recliner lets you find your most comfortable position with just the touch of a button. It becomes a tool that restores confidence, supports daily routines and reduces the risk of falls or strain.
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we’ve helped countless clients in Calgary and the surrounding areas find the perfect recliners for their needs, always considering their health conditions and personal preferences. Power recliners come in a wide range of styles, sizes, materials and support features. If you believe a power recliner could improve your comfort, mobility or independence, our team would be happy to help you explore your options.
Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
