A lift chair looks like a  armchair, however it features an electric motor that lifts the chair into an upright position, helping you sit down and stand up easily and safely. If you’re considering buying a lift chair for yourself or a loved one, continue reading for information to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for you and which type of chair you should look for.

What are the benefits of a lift chair?

A boost for your mobility

If you or a loved one have limited mobility or are recovering from surgery, a lift chair can help you get up and down with ease and safety. It can also help increase your independence and ability to live well in your own home, as you won’t need to rely on a carer or loved one to help you stand up and sit down.

Relaxation and relief

With their ergonomic support and ability to recline to multiple different positions, lift chairs provide enhanced comfort whether you’re watching TV, reading a book, entertaining guests, or even taking a nap. They can help improve posture, offering relief from back pain. Chairs with an elevated footrest can help reduce swelling and pain in the legs especially those with lymphoedema and can also help improve blood and oxygen circulation. And lift chairs that can fully recline offer a great spot for a nap, especially if you experience respiratory issues like COPD, as sleeping with the backrest slightly raised can help you breathe better.

A helping hand

Lift chairs can be a useful aid to carers, helping them provide assistance to those with mobility issues while preventing common injuries and falling risks associated with lifting patients.

What are the different types of lift chairs?

Lift chairs broadly come in three different types – two-position, three-position, and infinite-position lift chairs. All lift chairs will lift the user into a position where their feet are on the floor and they can easily stand up.

Two-position lift chairs

This type of lift chair reclines to a 45-degree angle so the user is only leaning back slightly. Most people find this a comfortable position for reading and watching TV.

Three-position lift chairs

Three-position lift chairs can recline to an almost flat position and stop anywhere in between. When fully reclined, your body will be in a slight “V” position with your head, knees, and feet higher than your hips.

Infinite position lift chairs

This type of chair can recline to a completely flat position and stop at any point in between. Some models can lift your feet above your head into therapeutic positions, such as the Trendelenburg position, which helps alleviate pressure on the lower back and improve circulation. Another option with this type of lift chair is the zero gravity position, where the lower body is higher than the heart. This position relieves spinal pressure, muscle tension, and improves circulation. Infinite position lift chairs often come with a programmable remote, allowing you to save your favourite position and return to it with the touch of a button.

Tips on choosing your lift chair

For help choosing the right lift chair for your or your loved one, ask yourself the following questions.

1. What is the height and weight of the person who will use the lift chair?
   Most lift chairs will specify an optimum height range and a maximum weight for the person using it.
2. How much time will be spent in the chair?
   If you’re planning on spending a lot of time in the chair, an infinite-position model will give you more variety and may be the best option.
3. How much space is available where the chair will be placed?
   Three-position and infinite-position chairs need more space to recline, while a two-position chair may be a better option if you have limited space.
4. Which extra features are you interested in?
   With different models come different features. Consider whether you’d like a power headrest, which gives additional support to your head, neck, and shoulders, or power lumbar support for your lower back. Some even come with optional heat and massage technology to take the luxury and relaxation up to the next level.
5. What style would look best in your home?
   With an extensive range of fabrics, colours, and designs to choose from, your lift chair doesn’t have to look like a piece of hospital equipment. Instead you can choose one that fits the unique style of your home.

A lift chair could be an excellent addition to your home if you’re looking to give your independence and mobility a lift – in the most comfortable way possible! At Wellwise by Shoppers™, we offer a wide range of lift chairs that you can browse online. Alternatively, head to your nearest Wellwise location, where one of our team will be happy to help you find the right option for you!

The information presented in this blog post is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information in this post as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for professional counseling care. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Resources

https://silvercross.com/lift-chairs/

https://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/what-to-know-about-lift-chairs#:~:text=Benefits%20of%20Using%20a%20Lift%20Chair,-Every%20year%2C%203&text=Lift%20chairs%20help%20older%20people,that%20works%20best%20for%20you.

https://www.vitalmobility.ca/blog/five-big-benefits-of-owning-a-lift-chair-recliner/