What Is A Lift Chair?

A lift chair is simply a chair that lifts and lowers to make it easier for the user to sit and stand. It is a huge help to those who might not be able to sit or stand without help at all. The most important thing to consider when purchasing a lift chair is the user's comfort. Someone who must struggle to get out of a chair can't be comfortable while doing so. A lift chair can make it easier to sit and rise comfortably, even after sitting for a long period of time when it's common to start to feel stiff. Aside from providing easy sitting and standing, the chair should also be comfortable to sit and relax in.

The earliest lift chair models were designed with a spring that did lift the chair, but turned out to be too dangerous to use. Unfortunately, "spring-loaded" wasn't an exaggeration, as often the chair would raise up so quickly and with so much force, it could actually cause the person sitting in the chair to jerk forward and fall. A scissor lift soon replaced the springs in lift chairs. This type of lift is powered by an electric motor that the user controls with a button. The motor only runs when pressure is applied, so the user has complete control at all times. This type of mechanism made it possible for lift chairs to help a large number of people, and today there is a variety for people of all shapes and sizes that are safe and easy to use.

In fact, there are so many today that a variety of the lift recliners available are specialty chairs for certain users. Some are more helpful for those with certain physical conditions than others, for instance. That's one reason it's necessary to really examine the chair you want and its features before you make a purchase. Size is an important consideration, but there are other factors like positioning, levels of recline and other things that can affect your decision. We'll address all the different features to look for later in this article so you can be sure to get a lift chair that's right for your needs.

In addition to drastic improvements in the lifting mechanism, other improvements have made lift chairs more convenient than ever to use. A battery backup, for example, is now standard on all lift chairs. This allows the chair to operate when the electricity goes out. Lift recliners plug into the wall and run on AC power. Thanks to the backup, the chair will still operate long enough to allow someone to easily rise, even after the power goes out.

One potential drawback for some people is the lack of rocker lift chairs, or those on bases that swivel. Many people want this type of chair and are disappointed that they don't exist. But it's important to understand that lift chairs, by their very design, rule out those options. These chairs are created to be mobility helpers, and safety is a priority in their design. A lift chair that could rock or swivel would be unsteady, and could move while someone is trying to use it. That could rock or swivel someone right onto the floor, and no one wants to see that happen.

Today's lift chairs, thanks to years of advances and improvements, can be the perfect piece of furniture for senior citizens with or without disabilities, or anyone who has trouble sitting or standing. For instance, I'm not a youngun' anymore, and unfortunately I'm familiar with the aches and pains that tend to start the moment I get up. Pushing a button to ease down into a chair or get out of one makes a huge difference. I can only imagine what a relief it must be for someone with swollen joints and real physical problems.

Call us today at 1 (800) 346-1699, and tell us what you're looking for in a lift chair. Our specialist can help you find the right one to make you as comfortable as possible.

Return to "Things Everyone Wants To Know About Lift Chairs"