If you have limited mobility and struggle to get in and out of chairs, lift-assist chairs can help. They’re especially useful for improving range of motion for the elderly or anyone who has trouble getting around.
It’s not just a matter of sitting and standing easier — lift chairs help you stay independent and improve flexibility, so you have more stamina and energy throughout the day. And with smooth reclining action, you can change positions with ease and rest easier.
Keep your independence.
Safer for family members and caregivers.
Reduce the risk of injury.
Reduce edema.
Reduce pressure sores, also known as bed sores.
Therapeutic benefits to back and joints.
How to Choose a Lift Chair
If you’re looking into lift chairs, you’ve probably already learned how much they can improve quality of life. All lift chairs operate electronically via a hand control to recline and provide gentle assistance to a standing position.
Before you bring a lift chair into your home, it’s important to find the right fit — both for your home decor and for your body. Here are the factors you should consider when shopping for a lift chair.
Step 1: Choose positioning features
The first step in choosing a lift chair is deciding what kind of activities you want to do from the comfort of your chair, like napping or watching TV. Here are your positioning options.
Two Position
Two-position chairs have one motor which controls the back of the chair and the leg rest at the same time. If the back reclines, the leg rest comes up automatically. These chairs recline to about 15%, a comfortable angle for watching TV or reading.
Three Position
Three-position chairs also have one motor, but recline to about 45%. That’s about the same as a standard recliner, and gives an ideal angle for napping in a semi-upright position.
Infinite Position
With two motors that can operate independently, these chairs provide an infinite range of positioning options. You can raise the leg rest and adjust the back angle independently to suit your preferences.
Infinite-position chairs can lay back nearly flat like a bed, so they’re a great choice for sleeping. They can even recline so your feet are elevated slightly above your heart, which is recommended for people with swelling in their legs and ankles.
Some infinite-position chairs offer the added feature of zero-gravity positioning. This uniquely comfortable position was developed by NASA to neutralize pressure on the lower back — and it feels wonderful.
Zero Gravity
Zero-gravity chairs feature a seat box that can raise and tilt, much like an adjustable car seat. By raising the lower back, zero-gravity recliners correctly align the spine, relax muscle tension, improve circulation, and expand lung capacity.
Step 2: Size your chair
From Petite to Heavy-Duty, there are a wide range of lift chair sizes to choose from. Here’s how to choose the right length, width and weight capacity to ensure a comfortable fit.
A comfortable fit allows your feet to rest on the floor when you’re sitting upright with your back against the backrest of the chair. If you have long legs, consider a chair with footrest extensions to help comfortably support your entire ankle and foot.
In addition to having a comfortable cushion, the seat should be wide enough to accommodate your hips at their widest point.
Lift chairs start with a weight capacity of 325 pounds and range all the way up to 700 pounds.
Step 3: Customize
Consider which fabrics and colors will complement your lifestyle and decor. A wide range of durable, stylish fabrics are available, and we’re happy to send you free fabric swatches to help you make your decision.
For additional luxury, you can consider adding options like heat and vibration to your lift chair. Williams Bros. has a large selection of lift chairs in all different configurations, and we’re dedicated to getting you the chair that works best for you!
WB offers a full line of lift chairs at all of our Home Medical Equipment locations. Browse our collection online, or visit your local WB location and find the right chair for you.