How to Measure for a Riser Recliner Chair: A Simple Guide to Postural Comfort at Home

Why Proper Chair Fit Is Essential for Comfort and Safety

Choosing the right riser recliner chair can transform daily life, improving comfort, boosting independence, and making it easier to rest, sit, or stand. But getting the right size and fit is crucial. An ill-fitting recliner can lead to discomfort, poor posture, and reduced mobility.Whether you’re recovering from surgery, living with reduced mobility, or simply want a more supportive recliner chair for your home, this guide will help you measure correctly and choose a model that provides essential support and unrivalled comfort.

What Is a Riser Recliner Chair?

A riser recliner chair is a specialist piece of furniture designed to assist people in standing up or sitting down safely. Using one or two electric motors, it gently tilts forward to help the user rise and reclines backwards for relaxation or rest.

These chairs are popular in home care environments and are often ergonomically designed with postural support, deep cushioning, and lumbar support to help alleviate pain and improve general well-being.

Single Motor vs Dual Motor Riser Recliner

One key feature to consider is whether you need a single motor or dual motor recliner chair:

• Single motor recliners: The backrest and footrest move together in a fixed motion.
• Dual motor riser recliners: Allow you to move the backrest and footrest independently, giving you complete control over your seating position.

For example, if you want to sit upright while keeping your feet raised, a dual motor chair is the ideal solution. It offers better flexibility and is particularly useful for people with poor circulation or joint pain.

Why Measuring for the Right Chair Matters

A good fit isn’t just about comfort; it impacts health, mobility, and ease of use. A chair that’s too large or too small can lead to:

• Back, hip, or shoulder pain
• Poor posture and circulation issues
• Difficulty standing or reclining safely
• Pressure points or slipping in the seat

That’s why it’s important to measure carefully before hiring or buying your new chair.

B. Seat Depth

Measure from the back of the user’s buttocks to just behind the knees.

• There should be a small gap behind the knees to promote blood flow.
• Too deep, and the user may slump forward; too shallow, and their thighs won’t be supported.

Correct depth promotes proper posture and prevents fatigue.

C. Seat Height

Measure from the floor to the back of the user’s knee when standing or sitting on a firm surface.

• The user’s feet should rest flat on the floor.
• Knees should be at a 90° angle for stability and comfort.

This makes standing easier and reduces strain on the knees and hips.

D. Lumbar Support

In a normal spine a lumbar support would be measured from
the seat crease behind the knee vertically to the mid-lumbar
curve.

E. Backrest Height

Measure from the seat base to the top of the shoulders, or higher if the user needs head and neck support.

• The backrest should provide excellent support throughout the spine.
• For users with neck instability or reduced upper body strength, head support is vital.

F. Armrest Height

It should allow the arms to rest comfortably without the shoulders hunching.

Additional Measurements and Considerations

• Overall Chair Size: Ensure the chair fits in the intended room without blocking doorways or movement.
• Footprint When Reclined: Recline chairs extend back, ensure there’s enough space behind.
• Style & Fabric: Consider whether you want a leather-look recliner or soft fabric in a neutral tone.
• Additional Features: Some chairs offer built-in heat, massage, or USB ports, which are great for added comfort and relaxation.

How Our Dual Motor Recliner Chair Adapts to Fit

At Home Care Hire, we rent the Repose Lynton Dual Motor Riser Recliner. This chair is:

• Fully adjustable for seat height, width, and depth
  
• Available in three sizes:
  
  • Small: 46 cm wide (18″)
    
  • Medium/Large: 51 cm wide (20″)
    
• Adjustable seat height using riser legs (2.5–5 cm or 1–2 inches)
  
• Customisable seat depth with adjustable backrest position
  
• Finished in soft, durable fabric that blends into the home

It’s ideal for those needing custom support, mobility assistance, and deep cushioning for rest and recovery.

Common Mistakes When Measuring a Recline Chair

1. Guessing or estimating instead of using a measuring tape
   
2. Measuring while sitting on a soft sofa or chair
   
3. Not wearing normal indoor clothing or footwear
   
4. Ignoring postural aids (like cushions) that the user regularly uses
   
5. Forgetting to allow space for the footrest or recline mechanism

Why a Properly Fitted Chair Makes Life Easier

A correctly sized motor riser recliner makes everyday living simpler:

• Easier standing and sitting
• Less career strain when assisting movement
• Better lumbar support and spine alignment
• Reduced pressure injuries and aches
• Greater independence and confidence at home

It’s about more than comfort; it’s about dignity, mobility, and general well-being.

VAT Relief and Recliner Chair Hire

If the chair is being used due to a medical condition or disability, you may qualify for VAT relief. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure everything is clearly explained when you enquire.

Hiring a riser recliner rather than purchasing it outright also helps reduce costs and allows you to try the chair before committing to the long term.

Get the Right Chair, First Time

Measuring accurately helps you find the right chair for comfort, safety, and daily life. Whether you’re watching TV, recovering after surgery, or simply staying comfortable in your own home, the right recliner makes all the difference.

Choose a model that suits your space, body, and needs, and if in doubt, speak to the experts at Home Care Hire.

Enquire About Riser Recliner Chair Hire Today