Is a Power Lift Chair Right for You?

Is a power lift chair right for you? If you’re unsure, we’d like to help you make the best decision possible for your needs. This affordable and empowering piece of furniture can give you the freedom to sit down and rise to a standing position with less assistance from a caregiver, extending your independence and self-sufficiency.

There’s no denying how helpful the right power lift chair can be for people with chronic pain, arthritis, or mobility challenges. But they aren’t just for sitting and standing; they’re comfortable, attractive, and could even improve everything from circulation to joint pain if used correctly, too.

In this short guide, we’ll provide you with vital information to help you make the right choice before you browse our available power lift chair options.

When Power Simply Makes Sense

Power or manual lift chair–which is best? The answer isn’t always simple. Power lift chairs far exceed manual chairs in ease of use, but the technology does come at a slightly higher price point. Weigh the additional cost against whether or not you struggle with manual mobility aids. If you do, a power lift chair is the better choice for you.

Patients with arthritis, muscle weakness, paralysis, or neurological deficits will almost certainly find power lift chairs easier to navigate and more supportive than manual chairs. They’re also uniquely suitable for patients recovering from strokes, heart attacks, and serious illnesses.

Measuring for Your New Chair

Before you consider the chair’s features, you must first determine whether the chair will fit your space and have enough room to comfortably accommodate your body. Begin by measuring the space in which you plan to place the chair. Measure the total space available and make a note of the measurements. Compare these with the measurements listed on each available model to prevent sizing issues.

Remember that your new power lift chair needs clearance on all sides to recline, sit up, and boost you forward. For this reason, you should avoid placing it in tight corners or very small nooks whenever possible.

Next, consider how much space you will need when sitting in the chair. If you’re big and tall, have grandchildren, spend much of your time with a treasured family pet, or even just appreciate extra-roomy furniture, an extra-wide power lift chair will give you the support you need without sacrificing comfort. The only caveat is that the extra width produces a small reduction in support on either side.

Power Lift Chair Styles

Power lift chairs fall into three specific styles or categories: two-position, three-position, and infinite-position. Let’s take a look at the specific features in each of these categories.

Two-position power lift chairs are the most basic; they take you from an upright seated position to standing. They don’t recline, and thus, may not offer the same level of support as a three-position or infinite-position chair. That said, they are a sturdy and reliable choice when budget is also a concern.

Three-position power lift chairs boast the same features as a two-position chair with the added benefit of reclining, too. This is effectively the “next step up” and may be more suitable for patients who spend most of the day seated. If you’re recovering from surgery or struggle with daily chronic pain, using a three-position chair will ensure better support for standing, sitting, and the occasional nap, too.

Infinite-position power lift chairs contain advanced power lift chair technology that allows each portion of the chair to be individually adjusted for comfort and support. Standard models support sitting, standing, reclining, and the Trendelenburg position–a zero-gravity recline that reduces pressure on the joints and muscles.

Comfort and Style

Some power lift chairs boast additional features for comfort and style. Fabrics like corduroy and canvas offer durability and longevity, while materials like leather and faux leather come at a higher price point and are more fashionable.

Bear fabric breathability in mind; leather are soft and comfortable, but may produce sticking in warm weather. That can be a risk for patients who experience weakness. Conversely, waterproof, washable fabrics work best for situations where bodily fluids or spills are a concern. Use ScotchGuard to reduce the risk of stains on nearly all porous fabrics.

Most materials come in a variety of colors and shades to suit anything from contemporary to mid-Century appeal. Choose a chair that’s likely to blend into your living room or bedroom and it will appear to be just another piece of furniture rather than a specific mobility aid. Above all else, pick a style you enjoy, especially if you or a loved one will be spending most of their time sitting in it.

For patients who eat meals at their chair or use prosthetic limbs, power lift chairs with extra detachable support shelves can help. Most models use removable or adjustable shelves, making it easier to get comfortable and contour the supports to your unique presentation.

Adjustable head and leg supports are standard in any power lift chair that reclines, but some brands let you adjust either of the arms, too. If your chair will also double as a bed, pick a model that accommodates a mattress in the reclining position.

Accessories

Certain accessories may make your experience easier when using your new power lift chair. A small, square pillow and assortment of cylindrical bolsters provide extra support under the lower back, knees, and ankles when reclining.

A TV remote caddy hung from the side of the arm gives patients easy access to supplies, medications, remotes, telephones, and other important items. Detachable hospital trays that snap into place make eating easier, and provide an excellent surface for everyday activities, too.

For patients with advanced weakness, it may be wise to keep a walker in front of or beside the lift chair. Despite the fact that lift chairs do an excellent job of reducing strain when standing, some patients just require a little bit of extra help. Keeping it nearby gives the patient the option to use it when necessary without it feeling intrusive, lowering the risk of dangerous falls.

Your new power lift chair comes with significant benefits to both your home and your health. Regardless of whether you’re trying to relieve lower back pain or you’re supporting an elderly loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease, power lift chairs blend the need for independence with the need for support in a way that’s respectful, comforting, and easy to access. Still not sure which brand is best? Call your pharmacist for advice.