For those with limited mobility, or who have difficulty staying comfortable sitting in a conventional recliner, a lift chair can provide much-needed relief.
A lift chair does just what the name suggests: it rises to support during the sitting motion, making it much easier to bend at the knees and the hips. Need to get out of the chair? The lift chair will adjust to assist in standing again.
Lift chairs also have functions to recline at varying angles, helping those recovering from surgery or who have other injuries that make it difficult to sleep horizontally. They also adjust to elevate the legs for those with circulation issues.
The benefits of using a lift chair are more diverse than simply offering assistance to sit and stand, however.
Some chairs offer heat and massage features, providing therapeutic relief for those with back and neck pain, joint pain, arthritis, and a host of other conditions that require circulation stimulation.
Added bonus: despite all of the extra features, lift chairs often look just like any other recliner. They’re not bulky or unattractive in your living room!
If you decide to purchase or rent a lift chair, there are a few questions to ask to assist in choosing the right chair for you:
- Will you be eating and drinking in the chair? If so, it may be a good idea to consider leather or vinyl upholstery, as it’s easier to clean.
- Will you use the chair for sleeping pretty frequently? Comfort is essential if you’ll be spending extended amounts of time sleeping in the chair, so choose your padding wisely. Some companies even offer mattresses designed to fit lift chairs.
- If you’re planning on using the chair for relaxation and watching TV, a two-position chair may be more appropriate than the three-position chair used for longer usage times.
- Will you be sharing your chair with a fur baby? If you have a pet that will be keeping you company, you may want to think about upholstery options as well as a wider chair width.
- Consider tailoring the chair to your weight requirements. Lift Chairs are made to accommodate a variety of weights, which is important for safety reasons while operating the mechanics of the chair.
There are plenty of other things to consider when choosing a Lift Chair. You’ll need to measure the space to fit your chair appropriately. You can even share information with a specialist about your current recliner (if you have one you’re replacing) to keep you comfortable!
Be sure to ask plenty of questions and gather as much information as possible before making a commitment. Our staff at NCO is very knowledgeable and more than happy to help you choose a chair. Whether you’re renting or looking to invest in a Lift Chair permanently, come see us for a consultation!