There comes a time when we can’t do what we used to anymore, including standing up and sitting down.
A lift chair can give us the little push we need to get back on our feet or lean on when we sit down.
Here are the best lift chairs in the market to get you comfortable.
5 Best Recliners Chairs for the Elderly
Choosing lift chairs can be overwhelming, so I made sure to list the best ones so you’ll be sure to get your money’s worth.
1. Lifesmart Lie Flat Assisted Lift Chair Recliner with Massage and Heat
This narrow lift chair is packed with a massager and heating under its microsuede fabric.
It can lie in a straight position for sleeping for maximum comfort without taking up a lot of space.
It also costs less compared to the other lift chairs on this list.
Features:
- Product L xW x H: 32.67” x 37.40” x 41.70”
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- $1,399.00
2. LifeSmart Power Lift Chair Recliner in Microfiber Fabric with Massage
While this model does cost less than the previous chair on this list, you’ll still enjoy the great features of LifeSmart.
It doesn’t have a heating feature. However, its fabric is made from microfiber, sure to keep you comfortable whatever the weather.
It’s also one of the narrow lift chairs on this list.
Features:
- Product L xW x H: 35.5” x 30.75” x 40”
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- $999
3. Journey Perfect Sleep Chair with Assisted Lift and Therapeutic Lumbar Heat
This lift chair can be positioned differently to provide your needed comfort.
Its multi-zone heating and massager will help you relax in your chosen position. The different fabric options also make it customizable to your pleasure.
Features:
- Product L xW x H: 38″ x 38″ x 49″
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
- $2,800
4. Osaki Reclining Massage Chair with Assisted Lift and Heat
While on the higher range of prices, this luxury lift chair has an advanced massager and heating system for maximum comfort.
You can have the back and footrest reclined up to 160 degrees from their seated position for sleeping.
Features:
- Product L xW x H: 36.6″ x 36″ x 42.3″
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
- $2,399
5. Golden Tech EZ Sleeper Assisted Lift Recliner with Twilight & Power Lumbar
This lift chair provides a zero-gravity sensation. It also follows how the spine bends to a natural S position for proper posture.
Its footrest and headrest can be lifted and adjusted separately depending on your position preference.
It can accommodate up to 375 lbs, the highest capacity on this list.
Features:
- Product L xW x H: 47” 34” x 44”
- Weight Capacity: 375 lbs
- $ 2,895
What Is a Lift Chair?
A lift chair is the recliner of the future, specially made for seniors.
It has a motor to help you in and out of the chair with a simple button press and features that make anyone feel comfortable.
While it sounds like a luxury, a lift chair can be necessary for most people. After all, we’re not getting any younger!
What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Lift Chairs?
Using lift chairs can have its ups and downs. Check these out to see if a lift chair is for you.
Benefits of Lift Chairs
Lift chairs become desirable to seniors as we reach a time when our knees find it harder to climb or move.
Senior Mobility
Limited mobility will be one of our biggest problems as seniors. To stand and sit becomes a chore with the occasional falls.
Thanks to lift chairs, seniors can easily do these things with less risk of falling or getting into accidents.
Health Benefits
A lift chair would put less pressure on the legs when we stand.
Since you could also change the position of the chair and its curved fold, the recline typically helps with circulation and posture.
Reduce Anxiety
Having independence in getting to your seat means less stress for seniors who have to ask others for help.
Given that it’s an upgraded recliner, it also has extra details that will help anyone relax.
Drawbacks of Lift Chairs
While there are many things to love about lift chairs, it also has risks, especially when used without proper advice from your physician.
Cost
Lift chairs are usually seen as a luxury, given their price range. It can be very expensive, even if your insurance company could help cover it.
While it is an excellent investment, the costs might seem not worth it.
Even if many seniors need it, they might not be able to afford it.
Might Become Dependent
Over time, using lift chairs could harm our muscle strength.
Since it will assist your mobility to get a seat, your body will learn to rely on it instead of strengthening your muscles from moving.
It’s also difficult to rely on something you can’t have everywhere.
Health Risks
Besides the decrease in muscle strength, some people are also not allowed to use lift chairs for medical reasons.
Those with balance problems when walking or difficulty standing upright are not advised to use lift chairs.
Things to Consider When Buying a Chair Lift
If you’ve decided to get a chair lift, here are a few things to note while shopping for one.
1. Material
It’s important to check the materials used to make the chair lifts. You should see the fabrics and durability of its frame.
Depending on the medical condition, some may need firmer or curved chairs.
Also, ensure that the bottom or grip is non-slip so they won’t slide around when you stand or sit.
2. Size
Chair lifts are large and might seem like they occupy too much space.
Make sure the chair lift has its spot in the room where other furniture won’t block it would be typically considered a hazard to seniors.
3. Weight Capacity
A chair lift has a maximum capacity to ensure that there won’t be too much pressure on the motor inside.
While most chair lifts have a maximum capacity of 300 lbs, some have a higher capacity.
4. User-friendly Features
While these aren’t medical necessities, they help improve the chair lift experience.
It does help to comfortably sit back in a seat with cup holders and wireless remote controls in the safety of our own homes.
It gives the simple pleasure in life that makes them worth it.
5. Price
Chair lifts are available in a wide price range based on their main and additional features. Some may cost more than others.
When choosing your chair lift, ensure it will fit your budget without compromising the needed details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You may still have a few questions about chair lifts.
I have covered the commonly asked questions to make the research process easier.
What Is the Difference Between a Stair Lift and a Lift Chair?
A stair lift is a motorized seat that is bolted to your stairs. Its main purpose is to help people climb from one floor to another for those who use a wheelchair to get around.
It can follow a straight rail or curved rail of the stairs in your multi-level home. They even have a variation for those heavy-duty lifts.
On the other hand, a lift chair looks like a traditional recliner. However, it has details that help keep your balance when standing up and sitting down.
It has a power lift system underneath to do its job. A lift chair can also include features to help the user relax and be more comfortable.
Are Chair Lifts Covered by Insurance?
Your insurance company can cover a chair lift if your physician has noted that it is a medical necessity.
They can have your insurance pay for it if you have the following problems:
- Incapable of standing up and sitting down independently
- Severe arthritis or a neuromuscular disease
- Can walk independently with a walker or cane
- Part of the treatment
The insurance company won’t cover the costs if the patient only transfers from a regular chair to a wheelchair.
However, given how expensive a chair lift is, having your insurance pay for it might not be enough. You’ll have to be prepared to pay out of your pocket.
Do You Need to Set Up Lift Chairs by Yourself?
Most companies send technicians and the necessary personnel to set up lift chairs. They check all the features before leaving the chair to your care.
However, there are times when they are sent fully assembled in the box.
Be sure to clarify with the company if you need assistance with the setup and service.
If they are not informed beforehand, it would be your responsibility to set it up or call a separate service company.
Conclusion
Lift chairs give you a sense of independence in your seated position, lying down, or standing up.
While a lift chair can cost a lot, it has the simplest task covered and keeps you comfortable at home without worry.
