How to Choose the Right Lift Chair

Has the time come for you to purchase a lift chair to help you keep your mobility? Just like with any other item you buy, choosing the best lift chair requires some consideration. Buying the first product you see is never recommended because you may end up with a product that will not suit all of your needs. That is why you need to establish some criteria and take it from there. Surely, you can choose from different colors and fabrics, but there are more important things you need to consider first.

The Types of Lift Chairs

There are three types of lift chairs you can choose from, each with its own benefits.

The first is the two-position lift chair. It is ideal for watching TV or reading. It will provide the option of a 45º recline, and the footrest will flip up. However, the design is made for the casual user, so the backrest will not work independently of the footrest. The advantage of the two-position chair is that it does not occupy as much space as the other two types. While it is comfortable and helpful, it is not suitable for people who need more support.

The three-position lift chair has the benefit of reclining almost all the way. It is the best choice for people who want to replace their regular recliner. The backrest does not operate independently of the footrest, but unlike the two-position chair, the occupant can easily use it for naps and relaxing. Some models even have special features, like massaging and heating, which make the three-position chair ideal for seniors.

The infinite position lift chair, on the other hand, is everything you would want in a lift chair. First of all, two motors allow the footrest and the backrest to operate independently of each other. The occupant can decide which position is most comfortable. The infinite position chair was designed for people who would spend most of their days in it, which is why a variety of positions is needed. Individuals who suffer from hypotension will benefit a great deal from this chair, as they can sit in the Trendelenburg position. The point is that you can sit in it however you like. After all, it is called an infinite position lift chair. These too come with different features like massage and heating, and some even provide a sleeping mattress.

The Weight of the Occupant

Occupant weight is another aspect that you must take into consideration. Most models can hold a person who weighs 300 pounds. However, if the occupant is heavier than that, you need to read the fine print and make sure that the lift chair can hold that much weight. Otherwise, the motor (or motors) will not handle it.

The Height of the Occupant

Occupant height is particularly important because of the exit strategy and because the lifting must be executed in the safest way possible. It’s all about the distance a chair needs to lift off of the ground. A lift chair that was designed to lift a person who measures over six feet will require a higher lift than the one that was designed for a five-feet tall person.

A Lift Chair is an Investment so Choose Wisely

We understand that fabrics and colors are important for your comfort and aesthetic tastes. For example, some fabrics are more soft, durable, and easier to clean. However, please keep in mind that functional concerns can, like the ones mentioned above, bear more importance than just what a lift chair looks like. This is why choosing a lift chair should not be done in haste. Take your time and choose the best possible lift chair considering all the criteria we have discussed.... and get ready to enjoy your new investment!.

*Retired Brains does not offer lift chairs for sale, nor do we recommend any one particular type or brand of lift chair to our readers. Like any investment you make, we highly recommend researching the brand, cost and any other factors relating to your purchase, in order to ensure you have chosen the product that best meets your needs.

The image used in this article was created by Ted Kerwin and no alterations were made.