By Bryan Johnson, ReclinerChairExpert.co.uk
Introduction
My name’s Bryan Johnson. I’m in my mid-sixties and, after a career in publishing, I’ve spent the past decade writing about rise and recline chairs for ReclinerChairExpert.co.uk. I do it partly because I enjoy testing new products, but mainly because I know first-hand how vital the right chair can be. Like many of you, I live with a mix of stiff knees, occasional backache, and the odd “bad day” when getting in and out of a regular armchair feels like a challenge.
When I review a chair, I don’t just sit in it for ten minutes—I live with it. I read my morning paper in it, I put my feet up in the evening with a cup of tea, and I’ve even nodded off during the Six O’Clock News more times than I’d care to admit. So when I say a chair works, it’s because it genuinely works in daily life.
Today, I want to share my thoughts on the Opera Albany Dual Motor Riser Recliner Chair, a model that promises flexibility, comfort, and support for older adults who value independence.
Product Overview
The Albany is a dual motor riser recliner, which means you can adjust the backrest and the footrest independently. This might sound like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference. For example, I often like to keep my back upright for reading while raising my legs to take the pressure off my knees after a walk. With a single motor chair, you don’t get that level of choice.
It also has a powered rise function that gently lifts you to a standing position. On mornings when my joints are stiff, this feature feels less like a luxury and more like a lifeline.
Design-wise, it’s traditional and homely—think padded wings, a supportive high back, and sensible upholstery choices. It’s a chair that looks natural in a British sitting room, which for me is important.
Key Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Dual motor (independent backrest and footrest adjustment) |
| Riser Function | Yes – powered lift to standing position |
| Recline Range | Upright to near-flat sleeping position |
| Design | Traditional winged back, upholstered in multiple fabrics |
| Controls | Wired handset with large, easy-to-press buttons |
| Storage | Handy side pocket for handset, remotes, or glasses |
| Warranty | Typically 2–5 years (varies by retailer) |
| Price Bracket | Mid-range (accessible, but not budget) |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Independent leg and back control
- Smooth, quiet operation
- Riser function is steady and safe
- Supportive cushioning for long sitting sessions
- Homely, traditional design
- Simple handset with large buttons
Cons
- Needs clearance behind for full recline
- Slight learning curve with dual motor controls
- Heavier than a standard armchair (not easily moved)
- Fabric choices more “classic” than modern
Design and Build Quality
I’ve tested chairs that felt flimsy, but the Albany isn’t one of them. The frame feels solid, and when you sit down, it doesn’t shift or creak. Upholstery stitching is tidy, and the fabric feels hardwearing enough for daily use.
Aesthetically, it’s on the traditional side. My wife commented that it looked like “a proper chair” rather than a piece of medical equipment, which to me is a compliment. I want furniture that blends in with the bookshelves and side tables in my lounge, not something that screams “hospital ward.”
Comfort and Ergonomics
This is where the Albany shines. The seat depth is generous but not overwhelming, and the cushioning strikes a pleasing balance—firm enough for support, soft enough for comfort.
One evening, after pottering in the garden, my knees were sore. I raised the footrest, reclined slightly, and within minutes felt the pressure ease. Another day, I used it almost fully reclined for an afternoon nap. It doesn’t replace a bed, but I can honestly say I slept better in it than I do on the sofa.
The lumbar support is subtle but present, which helps on days when my back feels tight. And I particularly appreciate being able to sit upright with my legs elevated when reading—something I couldn’t manage with my old single motor chair.
Ease of Use
The wired handset is refreshingly simple. Large buttons with arrows make it obvious which way things move. Within five minutes, I was confidently adjusting positions.
The rise function is excellent. On mornings when my knees protest, I press the button and the chair gently tips me forward until I’m standing. No pushing, no straining—just an even, controlled lift. It’s a small thing that makes a massive difference in day-to-day independence.
Assembly and Setup
The chair arrived in two main parts (back and base), which the delivery team slotted together and plugged in. They also gave me a quick demonstration. If you’re not confident with plugs and leads, don’t worry—setup is straightforward and most mobility suppliers offer full installation.
One practical point: the Albany needs a bit of clearance behind to recline fully, so measure your living room carefully.
Durability and Maintenance
Over the weeks I’ve tested it, the motors have been smooth and quiet. There’s no wobble, no sagging, no alarming noises—just steady, reliable performance.
Maintenance is low effort. I run the hoover nozzle over the seat now and again, and a damp cloth sorts any spills. The handset tucks neatly into the side pocket, and the cable length is sensible—not long enough to be a trip hazard.
Accessibility and Health Considerations
This chair clearly has health and mobility in mind. The riser function reduces knee strain, while elevating the legs helps circulation. On evenings when my ankles felt puffy, raising my legs made a noticeable difference.
The recline range is helpful for back pain management, allowing me to find that “just right” angle where the pressure eases. While it’s not a medical device in itself, the comfort it brings is undeniably beneficial to daily wellbeing.
Final Verdict
The Opera Albany Dual Motor Riser Recliner Chair is a strong contender for anyone wanting a supportive, versatile, and homely rise-and-recline chair. It isn’t flashy, but it does its job extremely well.
If you value independence, want a chair that blends into your home, and need flexibility for aching joints, this is a solid choice. The only caveats are space requirements and getting used to the dual motor controls—but those are minor hurdles compared to the benefits.
My rating: 4.5 out of 5
User Reviews & Where to Buy
Other users echo much of what I’ve found. Many praise the smoothness of the motors and the comfort of the design. Some mention, as I did, the need to give it a bit of room to recline fully.
You’ll find the Albany through mobility specialists like Better Mobility, who also provide delivery and setup. Prices vary depending on options, but it sits firmly in the mid-range bracket—accessible without being bargain basement.
Final Thoughts
At this stage in life, comfort and independence are worth investing in. I’ve tested many chairs that promised both but delivered only one. The Albany delivers both.
For me, it’s the little moments that sold it. Settling in with the crossword and elevating my legs, standing up easily on a bad knee day, or dozing off after Sunday lunch—it all added up to a chair that genuinely improved my daily routine.
If you’re looking for a rise-and-recline chair that feels like a true companion in your living room, the Opera Albany is one I’d happily recommend.
Would you like me to extend this with more “storytelling snippets” (like a Sunday routine, watching Match of the Day in the chair, or how friends reacted when visiting), so it reads even more like Bryan’s personal diary?
