Best Geriatric Massage Chairs
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It’s no secret that a massage can bring a variety of benefits especially as we reach our older years and our bodies require a little more TLC. However, continually booking in at the day spa may not be financially or logistically possible. The good news is that there are many massage chairs that can bring the convenience of a massage into the comfort of your own home.
In this guide, we will be taking a look at the many reasons why a geriatric massage chair could be a welcome addition to your home and the factors you should consider before making a purchase. We will also explore some of the very best massage chairs you can buy which will allow you to make a more informed decision on the best product for you.
Geriatric Massage Chairs Comparison Chart
Real Relax Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair | Osaki OS-4000 Massage Chair | Luraco iRobotics 7 PLUS Medical Massage Recliner | Kahuna LM-6800S Space-Saving Zero Gravity Massage Chair | Massage Recliner By the BestMassage Store | Kahuna LM6800 Zero Gravity Full-Body Massage Chair | |
Weight Capacity | 400 lbs | 265 lbs | 300 lbs | 220 lbs | 275 lbs | 249 lbs |
Dimensions Upright | 34" L x 30" W x 63" H | 46" L x 32" W x 47" H | 60" L x 38" W x 47" H | 52" L x 31" W x 48" H | 34" L x 27" W x 39.8" H | 48" L x 31" W x 46" H |
Dimensions Recline | 54" D x 30" W x 43" H | 76" L x 32" W x 47" H | 81" L x 38" W x 47" H | Only requires 3" from the wall when reclined | 63" L x 27" W x 30" H | Only requires 3" from the wall when reclined |
Product Weight | 217 lbs | 214 lbs | 265 lbs | 228 lbs | 62.3 lbs | 249 lbs |
Total Airbags | 50 | 38 | 100 | 36 | 2 massage points in the lumbar region | 36 |
Heat Therapy? | Lower lumbar | Lower lumbar | Calf, foot, lumbar, seat | Lumbar, legs | No | Lumbar, legs |
Massage Programs | 6 | 6 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 6 |
Speed & Intensity Levels | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 3 |
Height Limit | 5'2" – 6'1" | 5'2" – 6'4" | 4'7" – 6'7" | Up to 6' | 5'2" – 6' | 5' – 6' |
Price |
What is a Massage Chair?
Many adults in the older age bracket struggle with pain and this can affect their day to day lives. Having a massage chair can provide excellent relief and it can allow the senior the freedom of easier movement.
A massage chair is a chair with an ability to give the user a relaxing and beneficial massage. Some of the older models were very simple and did not provide an adequate massage, especially for older adults. However, the modern versions of these chairs offer a variety of features that can bring relief from many painful conditions.
Each chair will vary greatly but for the most part, you can expect to be able to access a massage of each area of the body – whilst there are chairs that target specific areas, most of the modern geriatric massage chairs provide an all-over massage.
What are the Benefits of a Massage Chair for Seniors?
The advantages of using a geriatric massage chair are many. But did you know that by improving your physical wellbeing through massage, this can contribute to better mental health and relief of conditions such as anxiety? One study demonstrated that when a group of adults used a massage chair for just a few minutes a day, there was a marked improvement where mental health was concerned.
Furthermore, having a regular massage is highly beneficial during older adulthood, physically speaking. There is no denying that as we age, our bodies are not as agile as they once were and this can result in a variety of medical conditions – many of which can be addressed with the simple physical therapy of massage.
Conditions such as arthritis, backache, and aching joints might also be successfully treated through the use of a massage chair. The huge variety of features including rollers and various types of massage that are included with these chairs can bring significant pain relief which is something that many seniors struggle with.
A geriatric massage chair will work well for anyone who suffers from the aforementioned conditions and who require a convenient and affordable way to obtain regular therapy for these.
As your muscles are relieved from tension, this can have an impact on the number of headaches you experience. Using a massage chair can also help your body on the inside too – there is evidence to suggest that, as a result of using these chairs, your heart rate and circulation can be improved. This is down to the improved stress levels that we experience when receiving a massage. On top of this, there is a strong belief that massage can improve the function of your immune system thanks to the relief of stress.
Types of Geriatric Massage Chairs
When looking for a geriatric massage chair, you will notice that there are many different types and this can be somewhat confusing, especially if you have never shopped for this type of equipment before. Understanding what each type of chair has to offer can greatly aid you in making a decision.
Shiatsu Massage Chair
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage which works with the energy of the body and applies pressure to certain areas in relation to the concept of acupuncture. This type of massage is also offered in the form of a massage chair and can help to relieve stress and improve your mood.
These chairs are also excellent for anyone who needs to get good relief from a build-up of tension in the muscles. The pressure is rhythmic and strategic which is great for targeting specific areas.
Zero Gravity Massage Chair
When astronauts are flung into space, they are put into the same position that a zero gravity massage chair will put the user – but of course, there will be no blasting off in this instance.
These chairs are perfect for relaxing and can provide intense stress relief as well as boosting your mood.
The reclined position means that the pressure on your spine is greatly reduced making these a good choice for people who struggle with back pain. What’s more, the feet are positioned over the heart whilst you receive the massage which can be perfect for improving circulation.
Infinity Massage Chair
The Infinity massage chair is one of the most respected massage chair brands in the world and this comes as no surprise when we consider the innovation and wealth of features that we see in these chairs.
They offer a range of massage chairs that are designed to target specific needs – everything from the active sportsperson to the elderly.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Geriatric Massage Chair?
Depending on your needs and the things that you wish to target, there are many options to consider when choosing a massage chair that is going to provide you with the most benefits. Since massage chairs are something of an investment, you certainly won’t want to buy a substandard piece of equipment, or one that isn’t going to help you combat pain where you need it the most.
Before parting with your hard-earned money, be sure to take into consideration all of the following aspects.
Massage Type
The type of massage chair may give you varying results so it is important to look at what sort of massage you will be getting. We have discussed the Shiatsu massage which is ideal for anyone looking to target certain areas and for stress relief, but there are other types of massage with other benefits.
For example, you might select a chair that offers Swedish massage which is excellent for managing pain and improving your posture, amongst other things.
You should take a look at the motion of the massage, there are many choices which may include rolling, kneading, percussion, tapping and may more – not only will their benefits impact your decision but your personal preference should play a part too.
Massage Options & Intensity
As we discussed earlier on, there are some massage chairs which are designed with specific parts of the body in mind, whereas others will give you a more all-over experience. Your needs will depend on the option you choose.
For example, if you struggle with back and neck pain, you might go for a chair that targets these areas, or if your feet are often a pain point, a chair that focuses on the lowers limbs may be preferable.
In contrast, an entire body massage can work well for people that do not have localized pain but a more general need.
There may also be an option to increase or decrease the intensity of the massage which gives you greater control over the pressure. There may be days where you need something a little more intense so this is a good option to consider in this case.
Heat Therapy
Some massage chairs offer a heat function which is essential if you are trying to target pain. Whilst there are many additional features of the geriatric massage chair, heat is one of the most widely favored so it can be worth checking if your chair has this capability.
The heat is delivered through an infrared system which not only helps reduce pain but can also be extremely relaxing.
Available Space
Do you know where you will be placing your massage chair? Some people might position it in the main living area of the home whereas other people prefer to keep it in the bedroom or a dedicated wellness room. But wherever you decide to place the chair, it is important to determine whether there will be enough room.
Many massage chairs are quite bulky and have a hefty footprint so finding somewhere to place them where they will not be an obstruction can be challenging. However, if you are limited on space, there are many compact models available.
Weight Capacity
Finding a massage chair with a weight capacity that matches your own weight is vital. The main reason for this is to ensure that you are able to safety use the chair without the risk of injury.
Many geriatric massage chairs will have a weight capacity of around 250-300 lbs but depending on the manufacturer, this can vary. Whilst some chairs may not break if used with an incompatible user, it could void your warranty if anything were to happen.
Remote Control
Ease of operation is essential in any piece of equipment and your massage chair is no exception. Many chairs feature an easy to use control panel on the arm which allow you to stay relaxed without having to move to change the settings.
However, many chairs will come with a remote control for even easier operation. This makes it easier for a caregiver to operate the chair if it is needed.
Best Massage Chairs for Seniors
Choosing a massage chair can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack thanks to the astonishing amount of avaialable options. However, we have searched far and wide to bring you a selection of superior massage chairs that are ideal for the senior user.
1. Real Relax Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair
Best Shiatsu Massage Recliner Chair – Real Relax Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair
This massage chair comes in a variety of colors so you are able to find one that matches the interior of your home – aesthetics are important, after all.
However, there is far more to this massage chair than just how it looks and with the impressive amount of features, it will work well for older people who have diverse needs. This is thanks to the full body function of this chair and the zero gravity feature – you are getting the best of everything with this Shiatsu massage chair.
One of the great things about this chair is that it has a weight capacity of 400 lbs so it is suitable for a wider range of users and is durable too. It is also suitable for use with people up to a height of 6’1”.
There is an option to connect a device via Bluetooth so that you can enjoy some relaxing music or listen to the news whilst you receive your massage. And the LED lights add to the overall experience.
The chair features 50 airbags and 8 rollers, designed to target every area of the body, leaving you feeling relaxed and pain-free. Each of these components can be remotely controlled and the intensity can be altered to suit your needs.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Chair dimensions: 34″ L x 30″ W x 63″ H
- Product weight: 217 lbs
- Total airbags: 50
- Heat therapy?: Yes
- Massage programs: 6
- Speed & intensity levels: 3
2. Osaki OS-4000 Massage Chair
Best Overall Massage Chair – Osaki OS-4000 Massage Chair
If you need a massage chair that is going to give you a detailed all-over body massage then this could be the answer to your problems. There are a variety of airbags positioned all over the chair which will allow it to target the shoulders, arms, back, neck, legs and feet. If you struggle with generalized pain, this is an excellent choice.
There are six pre-programmed massages to choose from so it’s not hard to see that this is a diverse piece of equipment and there is also a neat little LCD screen to display all the relevant information.
However, one of the most impressive features of this chair is the computerized body scan which enables the chair to deliver a precise and detailed massage that perfectly matches the contours of your body.
There is a choice to lie in a recline zero-gravity position for even deeper relaxation and the ergonomic design of this chair will ensure that it molds to your curves giving you optimal comfort.
Furthermore, the lower back is also targeted with heat therapy which makes this a very good chair for people who need that additional comfort and therapy in this area.
With a leg scanner for more precise massaging and an easy to use remote control, this is truly the massage chair of the future.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 265 lbs
- Chair dimensions: 46″ L x 32″ W x 47″ H
- Product weight: 214 lbs
- Total airbags: 38
- Heat therapy?: Yes
- Massage programs: 6
- Speed & intensity levels: 5
3. Luraco iRobotics 7 PLUS Medical Massage Recliner
Best All-Body Massage Recliner Chair – Luraco iRobotics 7 PLUS Medical Massage Recliner
For the tech-loving senior the Luraco chair is a must since it features an on-board computer that has the same capacity as a smartphone. However, if you’re simply looking for something that will deliver a relaxing and quality massage then you won’t be let down with this model.
There are a variety of pre-set options which allow you to target certain parts of the body or you can simply go for the entire body massage for those days when you are experiencing aches and pains everywhere.
The chair operates with a very low noise level so that your relaxation is not interrupted. In addition to this, you will be getting three varying heat levels to really amp up the tension and pain relief.
The Lucaro can boast to being the only massage chair that has been developed and built in the USA so if you want homegrown technology, this is where you will find it. It has been developed whilst paying close attention to medical research and as a result you are getting a variety of smart rollers and air bags that perfectly target key areas.
The weight capacity of the chair is 300 lbs so will suit quite a varied range of users and the intensity of both the massage and heat can be easily adjusted with the hand-held control panel.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Chair dimensions: 60″ L x 38″ W x 47″ H
- Product weight: 265 lbs
- Total airbags: 100
- Heat therapy?: Yes
- Massage programs: 9
- Speed & intensity levels: 5
4. Kahuna LM-6800S Space-Saving Zero Gravity Massage Chair
Best Compact Massage Recliner Chair – Kahuna LM-6800S Space-Saving Zero Gravity Massage Chair
This massage chair makes a very good choice for people who have limited space thanks to its compact design. But that does not mean that any of the features you would expect from a high-end massage chair to be compromised – you’re still getting everything you would in a larger model.
Your warranty runs from between 2 and 5 years for various components of the chair so you can feel confident that it will stand the test of time, no matter what happens.
The chair features various speeds and intensities but one of the most noteworthy aspects is that this one gives you the option to customize your own massage sequences and save them as a favorite. If you need to constantly target a specific area or need then this feature is a must.
If you prefer a preprogrammed option then you’ll be delighted to hear that this one has 12 – 4 basic programs, 4 elite programs and 4 designed with stretching in mind. They really have thought of every need when designing this chair. What’s even more special is that one of these programs is designed specifically with the senior user in mind.
The back of the chair can be adjusted to perfectly meet your height and body shape so that you will always be getting maximum comfort – this is essential in maintaining a good posture!
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs
- Chair dimensions: 52″ L x 31″ W x 48″ H
- Product weight: 228 lbs
- Total airbags: 36
- Heat therapy?: Yes
- Massage programs: 6
- Speed & intensity levels: 5
5. Massage Recliner By the BestMassage Store
Best Budget Massage Recliner Chair – Massage Recliner By the BestMassage Store
For many people, a massage chair could be seen as an eyesore in their living space, especially if it features a design that simply doesn’t match but this isn’t an issue with this chair since it comes in a wide choice of colors to perfectly match your style. Furthermore, the chair comes upholstered in a fabric that is easy to clean and maintain whilst featuring a design that will easily fit into any room.
The chair can be used in an upright position but also features a handy recliner for when you want to fully relax.
There are eight main functions giving you versatility but in addition to this there is the power function which uses intense vibrations to target the lower back and waist – perfect for people who struggle with managing pain in this area.
The chair is filled with a super-soft and comfortable foam which perfectly contours to the shape of your body. This is important at any time of life but even more so in later life when your body requires optimal support.
It has a maximum weight capacity of 275 lbs so is a little less generous than other options but still meets the needs of many body types. Moreover, the sturdy steel inner frame means that you are getting a stable chair that is very durable.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 275 lbs
- Chair dimensions: 34″ L x 27″ W x 39.8″ H
- Product weight: 62.3 lbs
- Total airbags: 2 massage points (lumbar region)
- Heat therapy?: No
- Massage programs: 8
- Speed & intensity levels: 3
6. Kahuna LM6800 Zero Gravity Full-Body Massage Chair
Best Zero Gravity Massage Recliner Chair – Kahuna LM6800 Zero Gravity Full-Body Massage Chair
This is a massage chair that has an incredible amount of features and whilst the priciest version of it may be something of an investment, it will certainly be worth it when you discover the wealth of things that it has to offer.
The chair not only has a wide range of massage options which we will look at shortly but also features a yoga program and various heat settings.
There is a smart body scan feature that allows the chair to adapt perfectly to your shape and size giving you the optimal massage. What’s more, the combination of rollers, airbags and 3 zero gravity positions means you will be more relaxed and pain-free than you have ever been.
For people who are short on space but require a generous massage chair in terms of function, this is an excellent option thanks to the ability to need as little as 3 inches of space between its location and the wall.
If you struggle with pain in the feet, the chair has dual rollers that will relieve pain and tension and the foot area is easy to remove and clean to ensure optimal hygiene at all times.
The sleek brown leather design looks great in any room and will thanks to this neutral tone, it will match any color scheme.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 249 lbs
- Chair dimensions: 48″ L x 31″ W x 46″ H
- Product weight: 249 lbs
- Total airbags: 36
- Heat therapy?: Yes
- Massage programs: 6
- Speed & intensity levels: 3
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
For older adults who struggle with pain and tension across the body, a massage is a viable way to treat this. However, going for this type of treatment can be costly and time-consuming.
A massage chair is a great way to have a regular massage in the comfort of your own home and there are an excellent variety of options for chairs in this category.
When choosing your massage chair, there are certain things you should think about such as the size of the chair, the type of massage you would like and whether there are any additional features such as heat therapy.
By paying attention to these things you can be sure that you will find a massage chair that will effectively soothe and restore you.