This site copyright © Maybank Associates 2006. All rights reserved.

 

Powered chairs

 

Also variously called lift chairs, riser chairs or riser recliners, these comfortable electrically powered armchairs are a great help for those who are less able bodied or have difficulty rising from a standard low-slung lounge armchair. Models vary - some are straightforward ‘riser’ chairs that are designed simply to assist the sitter to stand while others incorporate motorised reclining and footrest functions. As a versatile piece of furniture that’s both practical and comfortable, these power chairs are pretty hard to beat!

Not all powered chairs are for the lounge - some are more specialised, designed for people who suffer from severe mobility problems.  These chairs are made for long periods of use and often have cushioning made from bariatric foam, which moulds itself to the user’s shape for even greater comfort. Some feature drop-arms for ease of access and again some are specially designed for convalescent patients who need comfort during long periods of immobility.

 

Lift chairs, along with stair lifts and scooters can do wonders for comfort, mobility and increased independence. Lift chairs can be relatively inexpensive but, as with everything in life, you get what you pay for. You might want  to think about the following points before purchasing your chair -

• Take into account your size - height, weight and width.
• Seat depth & width required.
• Right hand or left hand controls.
• Specific accessories like heat or massage function
• Will you sleep in your lift chair?
• Do you want 2, 3 or infinite positions?
• How much time are you likely to spend in your chair?
• What size is your room?
• Do you want your chair bespoke or off the shelf?
• Do you want your chair to be static or mobile?
• Covered in fabric, vinyl or leather?
• How much can you afford and are grants or loans available?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When you’ve decided what you want from your chair you can then go ahead and source the model that’s right for you but here are a couple of  pointers that should assist you in making your decision:

Most lift chairs will work with weights up to about 400 lbs. A two-position lift chair has a lift position and a slight recline position. In the reclining position  your back & thighs will stay at about 90 degrees. They do not recline fully for sleeping.

A three position lift chair, however, will recline fully. It gives a wider range of positions and many allow the user to position their feet above the heart, useful for those with circulatory problems. You should be able, if necessary, to sleep in a three-position reclining lift chair yet it will still be able to get you to your feet when needed.

 

When the user wants to sit down, all he or she has to do is lean weight on the seat. This triggers a mechanism that lowers the user into a sitting position. The mechanism of these chairs prevents users from flopping down, easing them instead into a comfortable sitting position whilst at the same time providing stability and support for the sitting and standing movement.

 

In summary, lift chairs, riser chairs, recliners - call them what you will - are yet another aid to those people whose limited mobility would otherwise relegate them to the traditional - yet not so comfortable - wing-backed fireside chair.

Back to top

 

 

Free health newsletters!

Straight back lift chairs

2-position lift chairs

3-position lift chairs

Infinite position lift chairs

Heavy duty lift chairs

Lifting cushions

Two models of lift chair showing the fully-raised position - the one to the right also features an integral footrest.