3 Things To Consider When Buying Furniture For An Elderly Family Member
If your elderly loved one has recently decided that they need some new furniture for the house and have selected you to go furniture shopping, you may be in for a challenge if you've never done it before. However, equipped with the right knowledge and what to look for, it doesn't have to be as much of a challenge as you think it does. Ultimately, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind as you begin your search for the perfect furniture for your loved one, including the following:
1. The Height of the Furniture
Senior citizens do not need furniture that is too low to the floor. This will make it difficult for them to get up, and they'll have to basically fall down in order to sit. At the same time, you don't want it to be too tall for the height of your family member. It can help to measure the height from their feet to their waist, or the height of their favorite chair, before you go furniture shopping.
2. With or Without Arms?
If your elderly family member tends to have issues with balancing themselves even when sitting down, then it is imperative that you choose furniture that has arms. The arms will serve as a support system for your family member when they need some help getting up, and if they fall asleep while sitting in the chair, there is less risk of them falling over and onto the floor.
3. The Type of Material
You also want to make sure that you don't choose a slippery or slick material when looking at furniture. While leather may be gorgeous, it isn't the best material for your loved one. A textured fabric would be safer, as it would help to prevent the risk of slipping out of the chair or off the soda. This is particularly important for senior citizens who tend to slide down when they're sitting.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help at the Furniture Store
If you're uncertain whether a certain piece of furniture will work for your elderly family member, consult with a representative at the furniture store. Remember, they are there to help you find what you are looking for. If they don't have what you need, they can probably point you to the right place.
When possible, take your loved one shopping with you so that they can provide their input. This will increase the chances of you choosing the best furniture for them based on the aforementioned considerations.
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