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The Complete Guide to Choosing the Best High Seat Sofa for the Elderly

As we age, sitting down and standing up from standard height sofas can become increasingly difficult and painful. A high seat sofa, with a seat height ranging from 18-25 inches, can provide the perfect solution for elderly individuals struggling with mobility and comfort.

We'll provide tips on finding the right seat height, depth, and width, along with recommendations on cushioning, adjustability, safety features, and more. Whether you are an elderly individual or shopping on behalf of an aging parent or loved one, use this guide to find the ideal high seat sofa to meet your specific needs and ensure many years of comfortable use.

high seat sofa for elderly

Factors to Consider When Choosing a High Seat Sofa

Seat Height

The higher seat height of these specialized sofas makes them easier for older adults to get in and out of. Look for seat heights between 18-22 inches to reduce joint pain and improve mobility. Some sofas offer adjustable height mechanisms that allow you to raise or lower the sofa from around 16 to over 20 inches. This adjustability ensures you can find the perfect seat height.

Seat Depth and Width

Measure the person who will use the sofa to find a seat depth and width that allows them to sit comfortably without feeling swallowed by large cushions or constrained by narrow seats. Average seat depths range from 20-24 inches. Measure from the back of the knee to the lower back to find an ideal seat depth. Look for at least 20 inches of width to accommodate larger body types. Some high seat sofas come in bariatric sizes with extended seat depth and width to accommodate up to 600 pounds.

Cushion Comfort and Support

Premium cushioning provides essential comfort and support. Look for cushions made with dense, durable foams or down alternative fills that hold their shape and resist flattening over time. Softer cushions provide more contouring comfort while firm options offer robust support. Some sofas also incorporate innovative pressure relief technologies within cushions to enhance comfort and circulation.

Armrests

Armrests on both sides of the sofa provide stabilization and support as elderly individuals sit down and stand up. Seek armrests positioned at an optimal height in relation to the seat to aid mobility. Those with thick cushioning offer enhanced comfort yet still allow you to rest your arms. Some high seat sofas have adjustable armrests that can swing up out of the way.

Back Support and Adjustability

Look for high seat sofas with lumbar support built into the lower back cushions to maintain healthy posture and spare the back discomfort. Padded headrests also provide neck relief. Reclining backrests allow adjusting the sofa from upright to partially or fully reclined positions. This reclining feature enables resting in greater comfort.

Upholstery

When choosing upholstery, opt for durable, easy-to-clean fabrics that are soft yet non-slip to prevent sliding. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are breathable while microfiber resists stains. Leather offers a smooth feel but can be hot. Solid upholstery colors hide wear best. Apply protectants to guard upholstery against spills and stains.

Additional Features to Consider

Some high seat sofas offer extra features to enhance comfort, support, and safety:

Matching Your Needs to Styles of High Seat Sofas

High seat sofas come in diverse styles. Traditional rolled arm sofas provide an elegant look. Power lift recliners allow adjusting the height and reclining via buttons. Modular designs allow customizing components for personalized fit. Sleek contemporary styles offer clean-lined designs to match modern decor.

Shopping Tips and Recommendations

We recommend trying sofas firsthand to judge comfort and ease getting up and down. Opt for in-home delivery and assembly. Review return policies before purchasing. Measure your space and determine must-have features before shopping to streamline selection and find options suited to your budget. Investing in the optimal high seat sofa improves quality of life for elderly loved ones.

The right high seat sofa enables seniors to relax in comfort and stand with greater stability. Keep seat height, dimensions, cushioning, and adjustability in mind while shopping. Evaluate additional features that customize support and safety. Use our detailed guide when comparing sofas to find the perfect match for you or your elderly loved one's needs and lifestyle.