A Guide to Finding the Perfect Furniture to Enhance Your Comfort

About Nicole Pajer

Nicole Pajer is a Los Angeles-based freelance published in The New York Times, Woman's Day, AARP, Parade, Wired, Glamour, People and more.

"As we age, our bodies go through various changes that can make sitting, lying down, or standing up more difficult," says Dr. Michelle Davis, clinical director of Attain Physical Therapy. "For seniors, having furniture that offers both comfort and support is not just a luxury—it's a necessity." The key is finding pieces that not only provide comfort but also offer support

to make daily activities like reading, relaxing, or even getting up from a chair easier and more enjoyable. If you're in the market for new furniture and want to ensure it's both comfortable and functional, here are some tips to guide your search.

Test out how it feels

You found the perfect couch for your living room looks-wise, but before you commit, make sure you try it out to see how it feels. “Keep comfort, firmness or softness of surface [in mind] when testing,” says Allan Ayala, RPT, a physical therapist and the Director of Rehabilitation at HCA Florida Highlands Hospital. And don’t just sit on it for a quick second and give it a stamp of approval. “Bear in mind that you will be on that surface for extended periods not only for a few seconds,” says Ayala. Thus, you want to try to choose furniture that will feel good if you spend hours sitting or lying upon it.

Prioritize lumbar support

Look for good lumbar support and don’t go too soft. Dr. Kirill Skipalskiy, a doctor of physical therapy and owner of Skip 2 Health Physical Therapy & Wellness, suggests buying furniture that provides “firm but comfortable seating.” “Overstuffed furniture can be difficult to get out of; firmer cushions provide better support,” he says. You also typically want to have sturdy chairs with high arms that you can easily get in and out of. While soft can feel good at first, unsupportive furniture can lead to conditions like back pain.

Material matters

When possible, choose furniture that is made with slip-resistant surfaces. “Avoid furniture with slippery upholstery like leather; opt for fabrics with grip,” suggests Skipalskiy. You may also want to make sure that any furniture you have, like rugs, have non-slip pads underneath or grippers to help them remain in one place on the floor when in use. This may be able to help to prevent falls and household accidents.

Pick the right height

When shopping for furniture, make sure the height is compatible with your lifestyle. Choose a bed that is tall enough or short enough that it’s easy to get in and out of every day. Select a chair that is at the right height for you to sit and to stand up with ease. And when you pick a table, consider the height for sitting at it and using your laptop or eating meals, says Ayala. Also, consider paying attention to how your knees feel under the table.

Consider adjustable and ergonomic designs

Choosing furniture that can go up and down, forward, and back, and incline or decline can potentially help with mobility issues and can enable you to find your ideal comfort settings. “For seniors, an adjustable bed where head angle and leg angles can be altered [can be] helpful for conditions such as sleep apnea, GERD, COPD, spine conditions and vascular insufficiencies in the legs,” says Ayala.

“Look for chairs and sofas with supportive cushioning, high backs, and armrests to help with getting up and sitting down,” suggests Skipalskiy. Dr. Barbara Sparacino, founder of The Aging Parent Coach, says one essential item to consider is a high-quality, ergonomic recliner. “These chairs offer adjustable support for the back, neck, and legs, helping relieve tension and promote relaxation,” she says. “Many newer models even come with lift functions, which are fantastic for anyone with limited mobility who might struggle to get in and out of a chair.”

Opt for rounded edges

Square tables are nice, but round tables come with less harsh corners to navigate. “Rounded edges reduce the risk of injuries from accidental bumps, loss of balance and falls,” says Skipalskiy. You can get everything from a coffee table to kitchen table in a round or oval design.

Choose stability

Make sure that any tables or chairs that you purchase are nice and sturdy, so they don’t tip over and create a safety hazard. This is also something to consider when looking for the perfect bed. “A mattress with a sturdy frame and a reinforced edge can provide the necessary stability and support, reducing the risk of falls or injuries,” says Davis.

Bring a table to you

Sitting on a chair at a kitchen table can be uncomfortable for some. In that case, consider opting for a table that pulls up to your couch or can be used while you’re in bed. “One piece that gets overlooked but can make a huge difference is a rolling overbed table,” says Moti Gamburd, CEO of CARE Homecare in Los Angeles. These aren’t just for hospitals. “They’re incredibly practical for home use, especially for anyone spending extended time in bed or seated.”

“By focusing on comfort, support, and safety, it’s possible to create a living space that enhances mobility and well-being,” says Davis. While finding the right furniture might require some trial and error, she adds, considering your daily activities and individual mobility needs can be an excellent guide when shopping for your next couch, chair, and beyond.