Choosing Furniture for the Elderly 

Furniture for seniors should be chosen with special care. With age comes changes in the human body that can make it difficult to move, sit or stand up without assistance. Thus, to ensure the elderly maintain their independence and safety, the furniture they use must meet certain criteria. 

So whether you’re an interior designer employed by an assisted living facility or simply Christmas shopping for your grandparents, here are some tips to help you select the right furniture for elderly people.

Back Support

Back support is an important factor to consider when choosing furniture for elderly individuals. Look for chairs and sofas that provide a comfortable, supportive backrest. This will help them maintain good posture while seated and prevent neck or back pain from poor seating positions. For example, back-friendly features like lumbar support and ergonomic designs significantly reduce back pain.

Also, choose chairs with adjustable heights, tilt, and armrests for added comfort. 

Safety Features

When selecting furniture for elderly individuals, it is important to look for pieces that promote safety and stability. Choose chairs with wider seats and higher armrests so elderly people can easily get in and out of the chair without assistance. Also, choose items with non-slip surfaces to prevent falls, as well as chairs that have wheels so seniors can easily move them around the house.

Avoid furniture with sharp edges or corners that can be hazardous. 

Style

When it comes to style, choose furniture pieces that match the individual’s taste and lifestyle. Generally, look for pieces that are both comfortable and stylish. Consider items with classic design elements like tufted upholstery or curved lines that provide a timeless look. 

You can also look for furniture pieces with bright colors and patterns to add a cheerful touch to the room.

Maintenance

Elderly individuals typically spend more time in their living environment than younger people. Thus, when selecting furniture for seniors you want to choose pieces that are easy to maintain and clean. Look for items made with durable material like leather or cotton that can withstand regular use and cleaning. Avoid fabrics that may fade or shrink over time.

Also, selecting furniture that can be easily assembled or disassembled will make it easier to move pieces around the house and change up the decor.

Price

Of course, a budget is important when selecting furniture for elderly people. 

You should be able to find quality pieces at reasonable prices. Look for items on sale or discounts from local stores and online retailers. Also, check with thrift stores and consignment shops for unique finds that are more affordable. For example,  you might find an antique chair at a thrift store that is still in good condition, and you can use a slipcover to update its look.

Choosing the right furniture for the elderly can be tricky. By taking into consideration these factors, you can choose the right furniture for elderly people that provides comfort, safety, and style. This way seniors you care about can maintain their independence and enjoy living in their homes for years to come.