Finding a chair for the elderly can be daunting, with so many options available
As we age, we spend more of our daily lives sitting in our chairs, as our mobility and energy levels decline, and therefore the chairs that we sit in become very important for our health and long-term comfort. Lifelong Mobility, the mobility aids department within Phelans Pharmacy, offers a full range of supportive seating options both in-store and online for this:
This article is part one of a three-part series designed to help you choose the right mobility chair with confidence.
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Part 1 (this guide): Understanding the types of chairs available and what might suit your needs.
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Part 2: How to measure yourself and your space to ensure the correct chair fit.
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Part 3: Your entitlements — VAT relief, health insurance reimbursement and how to make a claim.
Whether you’re buying for yourself or helping a loved one, this series gives you clear, practical information to help you make the right decision.
Why You Might Need a Mobility Chair
A specialised mobility chair can make a world of difference to someone in need, making life easier in a number of different ways:
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Independence: Easier, safer standing from a seated position means that you or your loved one is less reliant on assistance moving about the home
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Comfort: Better support if you spend long periods sitting, ensuring that pressure related discomfort is minimised
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Safety: Stable armrests and a firm base for transfers means that the risk of falls is reduced
Types of Chairs We Offer at Phelans
1. Static Armchairs (Fireside Chairs)
Static ‘fireside chairs’ are ideal when you don’t need power-assisted standing but want easier means of getting in and out of your chair.
Our static range includes the popular Orwell, Avon, Casey and Oakham chairs. All provide high supportive backs with lumbar support, soft but firm cushioning, and raised armrests that make it easier to sit down and stand up. These chairs offer comfortable, unobtrusive seating support for everyday use.
2. Electric Rise & Recline Chairs (Riser Recliners)
Electric riser recliner chairs are best for those who need a little extra support, lifting you to standing and lowering you to sit at the touch of a button.
We stock the premium CosiChair range of riser recliner chairs, all manufactured to the highest standards in the UK. Each chair comes in a range of colour options to suit everyone, and has a 5-year warranty as standard.
Our CosiChair Riser-Recliner Range
The Tilmore – Accessible Dual Motor
Independent control of the back and legs with a split footrest that gives longer leg support. The adjustable back cushions help with head and lumbar comfort. Includes a USB handset, side pockets and a quick “Home” reset button.
Good for: users wanting advanced comfort at an accessible price.
The Ambassador – Dual Motor with Tilt-in-Space
An independent dual motor chair with the added Tilt-in-Space, which keeps your body aligned and your legs elevated as you recline for better pressure relief, as well as an adjustable Variable Angle Lift (VAL) for customised support when standing. Features a pocket-sprung seat base and classic styling with arm covers included.
Good for: anyone who sits for long periods and needs increased leg support and movement assistance.
The Fenlake – Premium Quad Motor
A modern-looking, premium chair with four independent motors allowing for separate control of the back, legs, headrest and lumbar support. The split ottoman footrest gives extended leg support, and the handset includes a USB port and a useful Home reset button.
Good for: users who need more personalised positioning and premium comfort in a modern-looking chair.
The Iconic – Advanced Quad Motor with Zero Gravity
Our top chair combines full Quad Motor control with ‘zero gravity’ Tilt-in-Space, powered headrest and lumbar, and the longest leg support in the range. Variable Angle Lift offers additional customisable support when you stand, and the automatic backrest adjusts to make standing more serene.
Good for: those wanting the most supportive, adjustable and comfortable rise-and-recline chair available.
If you’re unsure which chair is right, the Tilmore suits more budget-conscious users, the Ambassador adds advanced leg support and pressure relief, the Fenlake offers increased back adjustability, and the Iconic gives the highest level of support across the board.
Try Before You Buy
If you’re looking to try one of our chairs, you can visit us in person at Phelans Stillorgan or Phelans Kinsale Road. Our expert team will be happy to help you choose the right size, fit and model. Call ahead to ensure that we have the chair you are interested in available to try out.
