Robert asked:

Every one has or has had that favorite sitting chair that perfectly fits the body and is just right for sleeping. Eventually, whether due to old age, arthritis, or muscular diseases, it can become very hard to get up from your chair especially if you have been sitting down for a while. A lift chair can help solve this problem and keeps you from having to rely on family members, loved ones, or paid nurses to help you get around your own home. They also are extremely comfortable and are great for watching TV, reading, and taking a nap.

A lift chair is a recliner that is completely motorized. The backrest and foot rest are controlled by a remote or a set of buttons on the side of the chair and the base raises and lowers making it easy to stand and to sit down. There are many different types of lift chairs and there are even some that use a spring. Lift chairs that use a spring are incredibly unsafe. Where an electric lift chair slowly and carefully raises and lowers at a very safe speed, a spring loaded lift chair almost catapults or jerks the seated individual to a standing position. A spring loaded lift chair can result in falls, bruises, and puts much mores strain on the muscles than an electric powered lift chair.

If you are in the market for a lift chair for yourself or for a loved one make sure you do not purchase a spring loaded lift chair. They are often less expensive but this is because they are extremely unsafe. Instead find one that utilizes an electric motor which will slowly and safely lift the seated individual in a manner that will not put undo strain on their body.

Robert asked:

There comes a time in everyone life that it will no longer be as easy to come to a standing position. This can be due to muscular diseases, arthritis, and old age, but does not have to mean an end of mobility. After having been sitting for an extended period of time the muscles stiffen and it can become very painful to stand up. This can be hard on your muscles and bones as well as those of your family if they must help you stand. A lift chair can solve this problem and works by using an electric motor to raise the base into the air via a remote control or buttons on the armrest.

You may be tempted to purchase a used lift chair from the internet or newspaper but this is seldom a good idea. New lift chairs are relatively inexpensive and will last for many years. If you buy a used lift chair you have no way of knowing the condition of the motor or what has been spilled on the chair. All lift chairs are rated up to a certain weight capacity. People do not always follow this, though, which puts a good deal of strain on the electric motor and will in time result in a burned out motor. If you buy a used lift chair that has been mistreated, it is possible that it will work when you buy it only to fail a short time later when you most need it.

Lift chairs can greatly increase your mobility, help you retain your independence, and more fully enjoy life. Do not take the chance on a used lift chair that you purchase off of the internet or from the local classifieds. The little bit of money you save is not worth the chance you are taking, and if the motor does fail there is no warranty like you get with a new lift chair. You are instead forced to hundreds of dollars to buy a new motor or end up buying a new lift chair anyway.

Eric Comforth asked:

Lift chairs are used for a variety of uses, generally to make moving from one location to another easier. They are also used to help someone be able to get in and out of a chair with ease. Many elderly and those who suffer from arthritis or limited mobility find lift chairs to be the answer to being able to get around easier.

Power lift chairs have a built in motor that changes the position of a seat from sitting down to a complete upright position. These electric lift chairs are specially designed to prevent them from folding down on the individual or tipping over. Most lift chairs have two positions, upright and sitting down. Electric lift chairs can generally hold weight up to 375 pounds. Special chair lifts can be made for heavier individuals.

A newer design on the market is the three position lift chair. They are deeper and wider than the two position lift chairs. The additional position is called the napping position, which is a fully reclined position. The weight limit is the same as that of the two position lift chair.

Many lift chairs are designed to look just like regular chairs and recliners. They blend in well with other furniture and come in a wide array of colors. They are made of many types of fabrics as well including vinyl and leather. Some chairs offer heat and massaging options as well. Prices of lift chairs vary based on the brand, the size, the fabric, options, and how many positions they have. They start as low as $400 and are as much as several thousand dollars.

Lift chairs are also designed to help individuals go up stairs. These are very common in older buildings. However, newer buildings are starting to include them in the event of an emergency when the elevators can’t be used. Two of the most common types of lift chairs are wheel chair lifts and stair chair lifts.

Wheelchair lifts are made of an enclosed area with a wide opening. The individual guides their wheelchair into it while still seated. There are operating buttons inside similar to an elevator. The entry side closes and the lift moves up or down to the desired location. Once it stops, the other side opens and the individual is able to wheel out with ease. These are very popular for employers who require a wheelchair. They are easy to use and the individual does not have to ask anyone for assistance. Wheelchair lifts must meet all ADA requirements.

It is not uncommon for disabled individuals to have a wheelchair lift on one side of their van. This makes getting in and out very easy. These generally work with the use of hydraulics. Most vans can be modified to add a wheelchair lift without too much difficulty.

Lift chairs are commonly used in businesses for individuals who do not have to use a wheelchair, but have difficulty walking up stairs or inclines. These generally have a chair at the base that the individual sits in. They then use the controls to move up or down the lift. The chair moves slowly, but it a great alternative for those who find the stairs to be very difficult to conquer.

Lift chairs are inexpensive, and can easily be added to your home along a stairway if you need to use one on a regular basis. For many people, this option has allowed them to be able to remain in their home rather than move to a one level or assisted living environment.

Lift chairs are a great tool for individuals with disabilities, limited mobility, arthritis, and the elderly. They are used at home, in vehicles, in businesses, and in community buildings. They offer individuals the opportunity to be more self sufficient. Some lift chairs help people get from a sitting to standing position with easy. Others allow them to be able to get into their vehicle. Others allow them to avoid stairs, giving them greater access to most buildings.

If you are interested in a lift chair, it is important to conduct your research. Find out what is available, the best type of lift chair for your needs, and research the company you are working with. You will also want to make sure the lift chair you purchase is ADA compliant and comes with a warranty. Lift chairs come in many sizes, colors, and range in price. Taking the time to fully research the information will result in you being very satisfied with your selection.

Robert asked:

For people who are suffering from diabetes, knee problems, hip problems, shoulder weakness, leg swelling, and arthritis may find lift chairs a device that will make their lives easier and more comfortable. These lift chairs are also beneficial to stroke victims, as well as for those who are recovering from surgery.

Lift chairs are typically made like any ordinary sitting chairs. However, a lift chair comes with a power motor that will help lift up the chair to assist the occupant get up from a sitting pose. Because a lift chair is of great importance, choosing the appropriate lift chair is a must. This selection may be somehow difficult so here are some factors that you might want to consider when comparing lift chairs and buying one.

Style and Color

Lift chairs can also be attractive supplements to any home décor. Hence, style and color is an essential factor. Generally, lift chairs may look like typical accent chairs, love seats, sofas, or recliners, while a few may even appear as beds. Style and color of the lift chair must complement or accentuate the interior design of your home.

Dimension (Size and Height)

Another essential factor that must be considered in buying a lift chair is its height and size. The dimension of the lift chair must be appropriate for the one who will use it. A lift chair that is too small or too large may be uncomfortable for the occupant. Hence, it will be a great help if the person who will eventually use it can try sitting on the chair before actually purchasing it.

Weight of the User

Lift chairs, depending on the brand or model, may vary in terms of weight capacities. In choosing a lift chair, consider one that is strong enough to seat the occupant. Typical lift chairs can seat users who weigh at most 375 pounds. However, lift chairs that are heavy duty types can accommodate users up to 700 pounds or those who are exceptionally taller.

Power Source

There are lift chairs that make use of battery packs to function. Others need to be plugged into conventional power outlets. Both power sources are good power suppliers. Just make certain that whatever you choose will be convenient for the end user. Most lift chairs that are heavy duty utilize dual motors. This is to ensure a more powerful operation.

Accessories

When all of the aforementioned factors are already met, you might want to include other accessories to add to your chosen lift chair. For additional comfort, massage and heat can be added to the seat (or both the back and seat) of the lift chair. Head and lumbar pillows are also great options. Some lift chairs may also be added with side pockets for easy accessibility, as well as hand controls for more convenience.

By now, you already know what features to look for when buying a lift chair. Always keep in mind that what matters most importantly is that the individual for whom the lift chair is intended to.