I became a first-time mom a little while ago and that’s when a comfortable and cozy recliner chair was introduced to my life as well. Before that, recliners were just some weird bulky chair I would see from time to time in someone else’s living room, catching too much attention and taking too much space. So why would someone need something like that in their already crowded living room? Well, it turned out I was wrong and a recliner is a must-have item in any living room. And if you are a senior who enjoys being home, watching TV, or reading a good book comfortably while sipping a nice coffee or tea, chances are that it may be time to buy the best TV recliner chair you can get to make your life better.
And the good news is: there are many options for recliner chairs nowadays and not all of them are huge, ugly or bulky! Or if what you are looking for is something even more compact, you can always get a wedge pillow that might be just as you need!
And you can also look for a new massage chair pad that can be used on your old sofa, a simple solution that you can check in our post “Great Massage Chair Pads to Bring More Comfort For Seniors”.
How Many Hours on Average Do Seniors Spend in Front of the TV?
According to the Quartz website, in 2017, the average American over 65 spent about four hours and 20 minutes watching TV every day. This is an increase of almost 30 minutes since 2003, the first year the government started collecting statistics on TV watching. And it’s also more than twice as much daily TV time as 15-34-year-olds, who spend less time watching TV now than they did in the early 2000s.
You may think, why is this relevant? Well, if seniors over 65 in the United States are spending almost 1/4 of their day in front of the TV and chances are they spend even more time sitting in front of the same TV (with the TV off), reading, drinking a coffee, or a tea, whatever activities they do, it’s a lot of time sitting on the same place.
So it’s a no-brainer that a good chair should be essential for them. It’s especially important that they find the chair comfortable and also have the support they need for getting up regularly with a minimum of hassle.
Why Get a Recliner Chair?
A good reclining chair with ergonomic features allows you to sit for long without causing body strain. In addition, it can help you watch TV comfortably, adjusting to the exact best position for you to see the screen.
Besides, a good recliner can even help you nap more comfortably. Some have a fully reclining feature, which can make them even more comfortable than a bed!
Last but not least, if you have some mobility limitations the right recliner can even help you get up after having sat down for a while. Life doesn’t stop as infirmity creeps up on a person, but it does slow down. And the right accommodation can definitely help a person continue to live as fully and comfortably as possible.
How to Choose a Recliner Chair?
1. Choose a size
Keep in mind how much physical space you have allotted for a new recliner. Consider not only the space available in your living room but also the size of the recliner that will fit your shape as well. And be aware that recliners with attached ottomans will never fit the exact shape and size (they will always require an extra space). Likewise, a bulky recliner might be perceived as an elephant in the room. So keep this in mind.
2. Seek comfort
Choose a chair that when you recline, takes the pressure off your knees, ensuring a more comfortable position. The better a chair fits you, the more comfortable you will be in it. Keep in mind that finding the proper fit will mean more comfort.
3. Consider longevity
While you may be inclined to purchase a less expensive model, you want to ensure your investment is worth the cost of the recliner down the road. Be sure to consider the quality of fabrics, leathers, woods, and metals from which each recliner is composed, as well as the comfort of the piece.
And while quality recliners may cost more upfront, the right recliner will provide years of comfort and support. People say that the average recliner lasts about 10 years with regular use. Stressless recliners are built to last between 20 and 25 years.
4. Narrow down your style preferences.
For many, the idea of choosing a bulky recliner to complement existing décor may seem impossible. But recliners now come in a variety of designs and materials. There are even some very compact and stylish recliners.
5. Make a list of must-have features
Recliners now offer a variety of features, so keep in mind the features you desire the most. New recliners sometimes offer added comfort features such as an articulating headrest, which cradles the head and neck in the reclining position. In addition, recliners may also offer a sleep function to fully recline, and a dual support base, ensuring that the base of the recliner will provide even support whether you’re sitting, or in the full reclining position.
Best TV Recliners for Seniors to Watch TV More Comfortably
Chairs that are specifically designed for watching TV (and other activities) come in various shapes and sizes. Read on as we bring you a shortlist of the best recliner chairs for watching TV.
1. Great Value: Recliner Chair for Living Room Winback Single Sofa Massage Recliner
The Winback Single Sofa Massage TV Recliner is expertly crafted for style, so having this chair can be the perfect accent for your living room. After all, this recliner is everything you should be looking for: it’s sleek, modern, and sophisticated.
Furthermore, the fabric cover not only gives you a modern look but also makes this recliner very soft and comfortable, aside from it being considered as one of the most breathable chairs available on the market.
Besides, this chair for the living room features a dual-function foot extension and a reclining back that will surely help you to unwind and de-stress.
Material: fabric cover
Chair dimensions: 39.8 x 27 x 34 inches
Weight: 55 pounds
Maximum capacity: 250 lbs.
Power Recline:
- 8 functions of the recliner chair give you the best massage.
- 3 intensity of the Reclining Sofa gives you the best relaxation.
- 2 point massage of the Power Recliner on the waist.
Colors Available: Black, brown, grey, red, blue, beige
Price: $170
Check this item on Amazon.
2. Comfort: Pulaski Larson Theatre Recliner
If you love movies enough to have your own theater room, then you are going to want the right theater chair for that room. And the Pulaski Larson Theatre Recliner it’s the perfect TV recliner for that.
The Multi-function is right at your fingertips in the Larson home theater seating collection. In addition, the High-tech options include push-button storage in arms (along with a hidden storage and a cup holder in each arm).
It also comes with one outlet and two USB ports, hidden in-arm storage, and available at the push of a button for easy charging access. So you can easily charge your tablet or phone with the USB plug or use the outlet to power any other electronic device from the comfort of your seat.
The recliner also features a handy swiveling tray table that stashes in the arm storage area when not in use. The Swivel tray can attach to either arm for easy use and stows in arm storage when not in use. A swivel tray is perfect for use with a laptop or tablet when you need to work, or to hold your snacks during the show.
Material: The sophisticated faux Leather Blanche Black cover is breathable, extremely soft and durable, and easy to clean. The fabric content is 80% polyester and 20% polyurethane.
Chair dimensions: 38.0″ L x 39.5″ W x 43.0″ H | Seat dimensions – 24.41” W x 20.67” D x 20.08” H
Weight: 119 lbs.
Maximum capacity: 250 lbs.
Power Recline:
- Power Recline to infinite positions with the touch of a button. You can sit upright for an intense movie, recline to relax, or lay fully back to take a nap.
Colors Available: Black
Price: Around $600
Check this item on Amazon.
Other Pulaski Recliners:
| Pulaski Montreal Piedra Fabric Lift Chair | Pulaski Heat and Massage Lift Chair | Pulaski Leather Rocker Recliner | Pulaski Callan Power Recliner | |
| Chair Dimensions | 31.5″ L x 37.8″ W x 42.13″ H | 35.0″ L x 40.5″ W x 42.0″ H | 36.22″ L x 39.37″ W x 38.58″ H | 35.0″ L x 36.5″ W x 41.0″ H |
| Power Recline | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Colors Available | Beige, Coffee | Dark Brown Faux Leather | Top Grain Leather in Chocolate | Chocolate, Charcoal |
| Main Feature | Multiple recline position and storage pockets | State of the art heat and massage | Individually wrapped, drop-in pocketed coils prevent sagging | Infinite recline positions and USB port for charging |
| Price | Around $800 | Currently Unavailable | Currently Unavailable | Around $400 |
3. Flash Furniture Contemporary Multi-Position TV Recliner and Curved Ottoman with Swivel
The Recliner and Ottoman with Mahogany Wood Base will “cradle you in comfort.” And what’s best, the contemporary styling fits nicely in your living room, home theater, or wherever you might put them.
You can indulge yourself in the opulence that abounds in this multi-position lever recliner and ottoman set with a 360ᵒ degrees swivel. In addition, the set features plush arms, a padded seat, an integrated headrest, and a soft and durable leather soft upholstery. Moreover, both the chair and the ottoman feature a ball-bearing swiveling mahogany wood base, floor protector glides
Chair Dimmensions: Overall size – 34” to 44.5” D x 33” W x 41.25” H | Seat size – 22” D x 21” W x 17.5” H | Back size – 23.75” x 28” H | Arm height – 22.25” from floor / 4.5” from seat
Ottoman Dimensions: 18” D x 19.75” W x 16.25” H
Weight: 58 lbs.
Maximum capacity: 250 lbs.
Colors Available: Black
Price: Around $350
Check this item on Amazon.
4. JUMMICO TV Recliner Chair
This item is an amazing recliner for a low price! And it is also a great choice for living room and home theater. It’s a perfect recliner chair for relaxation during your rest time as well.
This TV recliner has a waist vibration massage function, a variety of massage modes, and a sleep mode to give you comfortable enjoyment. Furthermore, the recliner back can be adjusted from 90° – 165° to read books, watch TV, nap time. So you can freely adjust the angle of the footrest to your comfort.
Besides, the footrest features a steel frame design that leads to more stability.
Material: The Recliner is covered by high-quality breathable fabric with thick padding that provides better comfort
Chair dimensions: Seat Height: 17.7″ Seat Dimensions :19.8″ W x 20.5″ D | Back Dimensions: 20.9″ W x 29.1″ H | Open Dimensions:19.8” W x 62.6” D x 29.8” H | Closed Dimensions: 19.8” W x 28.8” D x 38.6” H
Maximum capacity: 265 lbs
Colors Available: Beige, Brown, Grey, Light Blue, and Red.
Price: Around $200
Check this item on Amazon.
Great Comfortable Wedge Pillows for Seniors to Watch TV
It turns out, there is a comfier way to watch TV while laying down, and it involves supportive wedge pillows. While most people have a recliner to watch TV more comfortably, the wedge pillow is becoming increasingly popular. If you’ve never considered one, perhaps you should?
Toss your regular old pillow aside and turn your bed or sofa into a real streaming oasis with one optimized to help you sit more upright. The best wedge pillows for seniors to watch TV, feature comfy foam support for your neck, back, and sometimes even your legs, so that you won’t have to strain yourself to find the right viewing angle.
1. Lunix LX5 4pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set
While other bed wedge pillows are way too firm & uncomfortable, and don’t relax in a pain-free position, the Lunix LX5 4pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set is made of premium 45D memory foam to quickly adapt to your body shape and height. The unique velcro strap on the head pillow stops it from sliding and provides hours of comfort.
You deserve painless and relaxing days! You want to get rid of lower back pain, muscle spasms or snoring and reduce acid reflux or gerd. Lunix has designed the most effective orthopedic wedge pillows! No matter if you want to watch TV, sleep, or read more comfortably, you will feel the wonders of a natural upright spine alignment on your tight neck, lower back or hips.
The thinned head pillow (2.9”) releases neck pressure and the higher knee rest allows for full-body relaxation. Forget about arthritis pain instantly: “These pillows are addicting!”
The 100% adjustable design is suitable for women & men of any height and the organic bamboo washable cover is very smooth on your skin. You can use it in the bed, on the couch and on the floor without sliding down. We include 2 vacuum bags to make storing hustle-free.
Get the Lunix LX5 4pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set on Amazon.
2. Lunix 3pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set
Lunix has designed the most effective orthopedic wedge pillows! So just like the previous pillow in this list, the Lunix 3pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set is set is made of premium 45D memory foam to quickly adapt to your body shape and height. The unique velcro strap on the head pillow stops it from sliding and provides hours of comfort.
Get the Lunix 3pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set on Amazon.
3. Avana 4pcs Set Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Wedge Pillow Comfort System
The Avana 4pcs Set Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Wedge Pillow Comfort System offers four pieces that work together in harmony to bolster and support your body while sitting upright. Ideal for those confined to bed for extended periods of time or for those who enjoy reading, watching TV, or relaxing while in bed.
Curved back wedge pillow follows natural curvature of spine for proper alignment and full upper body and back support. Slide the back scoop for adjustable lumbar support. If the lumbar support is too much, simply flip the back scoop upside down
Constructed from supportive medium density foam core layered with a one inch of premium 4LB Visco Memory Foam. Covers are crafted from luxuriously soft and breathable micro-velvet fabric (with microsuede on the sides).
Get the Avana 4pcs Set Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Wedge Pillow Comfort System on Amazon.
4. Bed Wedge Pillow Adjustable 9&12 Inch Folding Memory Foam
The Bed Wedge Pillow Adjustable 9&12 Inch Folding Memory Foam features a foldable design technology which can support usage for the head, back, or as the perfect leg wedge pillow. Measuring 22” wide and 12” deep, the wedge easily fits on any bed, providing additional comfort and support while sitting or sleeping.
This versatile bed wedge pillow can provide a 30° or 60° degree angle that supports a gradual, or steep slope which allows any head to get the right amount of pressure. An excellent choice for side sleepers.
Laying with a wedge pillow increases blood flow, promotes breathing, reduces snoring and heartburn. Can reduce the effects of knee pain, back pain, varicose veins, edema etc.
Most bed wedges or sleep wedges, usually have a strong smell of foam. With our extensive experience and knowledge in foam manufacturing our wedges are odor-free.
Easily removable, the zippered cover is made with a soft, breathable polyester material. Machine washable, the cover comes in a beautiful plush grey.
Get the Bed Wedge Pillow Adjustable 9&12 Inch Folding Memory Foam on Amazon.
5. Reading Pillow Bed Wedge Large Adult Backrest Lounge Cushion with Arms and Pockets
ComfortSpa reading pillows are made of shredded foam that conform perfectly to all body types for optimum alignment while relaxing upright. Featuring bonus storage located in the arms side pockets for your phone, glasses, book, tablet, or remote.
The ComfortSpa lounge cushion provides comfortable back support for sitting up in bed while reading a good book, watching TV, or surfing the internet. Features medical grade material for those on bedrest , suffering from GERD or heartburn. Use as a wedge to elevate your upper body to help you stay more comfortable while at rest or sleep .
ComfortSpa pillows feature a warm grey breathable velour cover that can easily be spot cleaned with a damp cloth. Featuring anti-clump shredded foam padding for a lifetime of soft comfort-ability. The attached fabric handle makes it easy to carry your pillow with you from room to room.
Get the Reading Pillow Bed Wedge Large Adult Backrest Lounge Cushion with Arms and Pockets on Amazon.
TV Recliners FAQ: 10 Questions You May Have
TV recliners are the most comfortable option for watching TV (they might not be the most beautiful piece of furniture and they are mostly kind of bulky, but they are still the best option). Here is the list of our Top 4 recliners:
1. Winback Single Sofa Massage TV Recliner
2. Pulaski Larson Theatre Recliner
3. Flash Furniture Contemporary Multi-Position TV Recliner and Curved Ottoman with Swivel
4. JUMMICO TV Recliner Chair
*Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to find them available on Amazon. If this is the case, Amazon offers a great list of similar items that might be just what you need!
Winback Single Sofa Massage TV Recliner. If you are looking for a great value recliner, this one might do the trick! For less than $200, you get 8 massage functions, with 3 intensity levels and 2 massage points located right on the waist. You just can’t get anything better for a couple of hundred bucks!
Pulaski Larson Theatre Recliner. All the Pulaski series are just amazingly comfortable. Furthermore, they usually have multi-functional high-tech options that include push-button storage in arms. Besides, they also feature Power Recline to infinite positions with the touch of a button. It’s just another level of comfort!
It’s important to clarify here that it’s not that recliners are bad for you, it’s just that you need a recliner that fits your body type. Therefore, choosing a recliner is like choosing a new shoe. Although you may be going for style and how it looks, if the shoe doesn’t fit your foot just right, it could lead to blisters, sore feet, and even potential back pain. So, just like shoes, an ill-fitting recliner could be the mysterious cause of your aches and pains.
It depends. A recliner can provide relief from back pain if you look for one that offers lumbar support to comfortably position your body and support your lower back without letting it sink too deeply into the cushion.
Otherwise, if you get a recliner that creates a gap between your lower back when you recline, this chair will cause you to slouch. Slouching will put a strain on the ligaments and muscles of your lower back and cause them to lengthen, tighten, and hurt.
Sleeping in a recliner is generally safe. In fact, people with sleep apnea, GERD, back pain, and similar issues, may even find they get a better night’s sleep in a recliner than a bed. Therefore, to make sure you get a comfortable night’s sleep in a recliner chair, try to use pillows to support your back and neck.
Recliners chairs offer amazing back and lumbar support, which is ideal if you have back problems. Besides, these chairs usually come with a variety of additional options that you can choose from. But it’s important to watch the final price because heaters and massagers will greatly increase the final cost of the chair.
If you are not sure about buying a traditional recliner, because you find them “tacky” or you think they will take too much space, you can get a TV chair instead. A TV chair can be much more efficient. And, what is more important, space-saving furniture, for enjoying your favorite shows and movies.
A recliner cost somewhere between $200 and $500. So through this range, you have a wide variety of options. You can find amazing reclining chairs with just about any features in this price range.
The short answer is yes, Medicare Part B perceives lift chair recliners as durable medical equipment and this means it covers them if there is proof you need them.
* After reading this post, we would appreciate you sharing your experience with us. You can also subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates, exclusive deals, and much more. We hope you enjoy it!
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