A light grey riser recliner chair in a living room with cream carpet

Types of Recliner Chairs

riser recliner chair is designed to assist those who struggle with a regular armchair. Typically, these are the elderly, those with a disability or limited mobility, as riser recliners make it easier to stand up and sit down.

In today’s market, there are different types of recliner chairs to suit different requirements. In this article we’ll explore the main types of recliner chairs:

  •       Riser recliners
  •       Swivel recliners
  •       Manual recliners

We’ll also cover the key distinctions between single, dual and four-motor recliner chairs.  In doing so, you’ll be better placed knowing which type of recliner chair is best suited to you or your loved one’s needs.

If you’d like to be guided to the best chair, our team of experts are happy to help. Contact us today to get started.

What is a Recliner Chair, and What are they Used for?

As their name suggests, recliner chairs can recline for added comfort that you wouldn’t get in a regular chair. These chairs have a reclining backrest where it tilts backwards. They also have a footrest that can be extended outwards to support the lower legs.

Recliners are incredibly popular due to their comfort and versatility. They can be used for various purposes, such as watching TV, reading, relaxing, or even sleeping. They are especially helpful for people who suffer from back pain or mobility issues, as they provide a comfortable and supportive seating option.

Recliner chairs come in different styles, sizes, fabrics and have different features to suit your level of needs. If you’re looking to regain your comfort and independence or benefit from sitting in an elevated position, a recliner chair is a great investment.

The Different Types of Recliner Chairs

The main types of recliner chairs include riser recliners, swivel recliners, and manual recliners, with different features and customisation options available to suit individual needs.

Riser Recliner Chairs

Riser recliner chairs assist those who find it a challenge to get in and out of a traditional armchair. They are electrically powered with built-in motors that power the reclining features and lift mechanism.

A riser recliner chair has an elevated backrest which reclines to find a more comfortable position, ideal for supporting those with back pain. These chairs are designed to provide a comfortable and supporting solution to people who sit for longer periods, making them great chairs for the elderly and people with limited mobility. Furthermore, these chairs have an elevated leg rest section to give relief to the legs and feet. This helps those who may suffer from oedema or poor circulation.

A key difference to a riser recliner chair is the rise feature. The chair provides a rise and tilt motion which gently puts you in a near-standing position, making it much easier and safer to get in and out. If you or a loved one needs to rely on someone to help transfer in and out, a riser recliner is the perfect solution.

There are also several health benefits of a riser recliner chair, including improved posture, enhanced mobility and restored independence. At Opera Beds, our collection of riser recliner chairs makes life easier. The gentle rise-then-tilt motion enables you to get to your feet safely with our straining joints and muscles. Meanwhile, the tilt-in-space feature helps prevent shearing and keeps you comfortable for longer.

Overall, a riser recliner chair can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their comfort and enjoy proper support at home. 

A older female using a riser recliner chair which is at a near standing position

Swivel Recliner Chairs

There are several reasons why someone may choose to buy a swivel recliner chair. Firstly, it offers a great deal of flexibility in terms of movement and positioning. The swivel function allows the user to turn the chair in any direction, which can be particularly useful if they want to watch TV, have a conversation or simply move around the room without having to get up from the chair. Secondly, the reclining function of the chair provides added comfort and support, which can be especially helpful for people who suffer from back pain or other mobility issues.

Lastly, swivel recliner chairs come in various designs, styles, and fabrics, making them a great option for those who want a chair that suits their individual needs and preferences. They can be a stylish addition to any room and provide an extra level of comfort while also offering practical benefits. 

Manual Recliner Chairs

A manual recliner chair is a type of chair that doesn’t rely on an electric motor to recline. Instead, these chairs have a lever or handle that is pulled to control the chair and change the reclining angle.

This can make them difficult to use, particularly on hard floors like laminate. If you or a loved one have a weakness in your hands or mobility issues, an electric recliner chair may be a better solution. 

A brown leather manual recliner chair with the back and leg rest reclined

Single Motor, Dual Motor, and Four-Motor Recliners

As mentioned previously, an electric recliner chair is powered by a motor which controls the reclining features. Riser recliner chairs are operated by either a single, dual or four-motor.

Learn more about the differences between single and dual-motor riser recliners here.

Single motor – The chair has one single motor which operates the backrest and legrest at the same time. This provides less choice of positions.

Dual motor – The chair has two motors, one to control the backrest and one for the leg rest. This allows you to customise your sitting position.

Four-motor – The chair has four motors which makes it the most advanced chair. Every adjustment is controlled individually, the added two motors allow the user to tailor the headrest and lumbar section to suit their exact comfort needs.

A linen fabric recliner chair with an adjustable bed in the background

Choosing the Right Type of Recliner Chair 

Knowing which recliner chair is best for you or a loved one depends on several factors including level of needs, budget and space. Ultimately, the right chair will provide excellent comfort and support you when sitting. If you have a disability or limited mobility, a riser recliner chair is a great investment for current and future care needs. 

For example, the reclining features ensure elevated comfort and pressure relief, whilst the rise function helps maintain independence if care needs progress. With the right type of recliner chair, you can enjoy enhanced comfort, improved mobility, and greater independence at home.

Contact the Experts at Opera Beds to Learn More 

With over 20 years of experience, at Opera Beds, we recognise how the right chair can make a positive difference in quality of life. Our friendly team is committed to finding the best solution. That’s why we offer a range of ways to get started, whichever works for you.  

No-obligation consultation

Whether you are looking to purchase a chair for yourself or would like advice for a loved one, we’re here to help. Our consultation lets our experts get to know you and your circumstances by asking a series of questions before providing suitable recommendations. We offer consultations by either phone, video or in-person and ensure you have everything you need to make an informed decision.

Book your consultation with an Opera advisor and start your journey to making life easier.

a sales woman holding a fabric book to a customer in her living room

We’ll help you find the perfect bed...

Submit a quick enquiry today and we can help you find the perfect bed for your needs.

  • 1-1 Advice Calls
  • Free Brochure & Samples
  • Personalised Quotation

Find out how Opera could help you with your bed needs.
Contact us, or speak to our experts advisors on 0333 222 85 84.

Free Consultation

Book Now

Free Brochure

Order Now