While you may not know exactly what a Lift Chair is or who benefits from one, then chances are you have seen one before. That’s because a Lift Chair looks no different from a standard reclining chair – it just has additional features! This article is designed to provide you with an overview of what a Lift Chair is, what it’s used for, and when it is beneficial – or even necessary – to use one.
What is a Lift Chair?
A Lift Chair is a piece of medical equipment that looks similar to a standard reclining chair. It can be used in an upright position or reclined with just the push of a button. The difference is that the Lift Chair contains a powerful lifting system that can be triggered to tilt the base and back of the chair forward, assisting the user in returning to a standing position. The user operates a Lift Chair by pushing buttons on a remote rather than manually engaging a lever or switch.
There are a number of different names used to describe Lift Chairs. You may see them marketed as “Power Lift Recliners”, “Pop-Up Chairs, “3-Position Recliners”, or “Infinite Position Recliners”, but each of these terms refers to the same type of device.
Lift Chairs are available in a variety of sizes and styles, with numerous optional features. Available in small to large widths, petite to tall heights, cloth, vinyl, or even leather upholstery, and with options including a number of positions available, heat, and massage, Lift Chairs can be customized to suit your specific needs.
Who Benefits from a Lift Chair?
Lift Chairs are ideal solutions for anybody who has difficulty transitioning from a seated position to standing due to limited mobility or balance issues. However, the benefits extend far beyond assistance simply sitting down and standing up.
With optional heat and massage features, Lift Chairs provide therapeutic benefits to those with stiff and sore joints, back pain, arthritis, and a variety of other conditions. They provide excellent, affordable alternatives to expensive bathtub modifications for those who require heat and massage therapy.
Lift Chairs can be used for more than just reclining while watching your favorite television programs. Whether you like to use a computer or telephone, read
books or magazines, or engage in a number of other recreational activities, the variety of positions available from your lift chair can comfortably accommodate. Many individuals even opt to sleep in their Lift Chairs rather than in their beds because of the variety of positions available. Most models can be reclined to a flat position, but can also be modified to different angles and elevations for maximum comfort. For individuals who must keep their legs elevated while they sit or sleep, Lift Chairs are an ideal solution.
Even individuals who have had surgery in their shoulders, arms, or other areas can benefit from a lift chair. According to one 101 Mobility® of Maine customer,
The ‘pop up chair’ as I call it, has worked out extraordinarily well. I can not imagine going through the recovery without having a chair like what I have rented from you folks. I highly recommend it for anyone having had shoulder surgery of any kind, especially replacement (like I had) or rotator cuff repair where they do not want any shoulder/arm movement for quite a long period of time. It’s a must have item, especially if you want to get any sleep at all…….trying to sleep flat on your back is VERY painful. The recliner chair lets you pick a comfortable sleeping angle from vertical to flat out.
Where can you get a Lift Chair?
There are many places to purchase a lift chair, but we recommend working with a professional to determine the best type. With the wide range of sizes, features, and designs, the options can become overwhelming and you may end up with a Lift Chair that does not suit your needs adequately
An expert can work with you to determine more than just the right color to suit your decor – he or she will ask questions such as:
- Do you frequently eat or drink in the chair? If so, vinyl or leather upholstery may be ideal as it will be easier to clean
- Do you have a pet that will be sitting in the chair with you? If so, you may require a wider width to accommodate both you and your furry friend
- Will you be sleeping in your chair? If so, comfort is extremely important – some companies even offer mattresses compatible with lift chairs to maximize your comfort level through the night
- Will you be spending extended periods of time in your Lift Chair, or will it be used only for relaxation and watching television? For limited-use, a two-position Lift Chair may be adequate. For long periods of use, a 3-position or infinite-position Lift Chair may be preferable to ensure comfort over long periods of time
- What is your weight? Lift Chairs are designed to handle a wide range of weight thresholds, so finding one to suit your specific needs is imperative to ensure your safety while using the device
- Do you currently have a favorite reclining chair that the Lift Chair will be replacing? If so, information about your current chair can help the specialist choose a Lift Chair with similar features to make your transition as comfortable as possible
- How much space do you have for the Lift Chair? Some units occupy more space, while others are designed to be more compact and can be placed close to the walls to prevent them from obstructing your living area
- Will you need the Lift Chair permanently, or only temporarily? Many companies offer Lift Chairs for rental use while recovering from surgery or visiting a relative
Contact 101 Mobility® today to find out more about our Lift Chair selection!