An Introduction to the Different Types of Lift Chairs

As a person ages, there are usually a great deal of changes to the body. Some of these changes are natural, but there are also a number of diseases and conditions, whose risk increases for those who are elderly. Often, these disease and conditions have a very serious effect on the seniors ability to get around, often working together. For instance, limited vision coupled with arthritis, can greatly increase the chance that the senior will fall.

These diseases can have a number of effects, but one of the most common is that the senior is not able to stand and sit safely without a helping hand. There are a number of ways this issue can be addressed, but one of the most common and effective means is using a lift chair.

A Brief Description of Lift Chairs

The first lift chair was developed almost thirty years ago, but since a great deal of change has went into how lift chairs are made. The lift chair of today features an electronically controlled system, which is responsible for both raising the chair and its occupant to their feet, while also reclining the chair and extending the footrest. This results in an extremely comfortable and easy to use recliner, which can be controlled by simply pushing a button.

On the market today, there are a number of different models of lift chairs, as well as many different lift chair manufacturers. However, the most common types of lift chairs are either Pride Lift Chairs or Golden Lift Chairs, both of which are well known for their quality and durability. Since there are so many different models to choose from, it might seem like choosing the right lift chair is overwhelming, but this is not a decision that must be difficult. Instead, by understanding the three different types of lift chairs and then analyzing the attributes of the user, it is possible to easily select the lift chair that will best fit the needs of its user.

Different Kinds of Lift Chairs

First, it is important to understand how lift chairs are classified. Lift chairs are grouped into categories based off of how far the backrest can recline.

Two Position lift chairs, which are also called TV Position Lift Chairs, are designed to recline about 45 degrees. This is well suited for those who wish to watch TV or read a book, but might not be as good of a choice for those who wish to sleep in their lift chair. From a cost perspective, two position lift chairs are the least expensive.

Three Position Lift Chairs recline much further than that of a two position lift chair, to a nearly horizontal position. This makes them ideal for sleeping and watching TV. Cost wise, three position lift chairs fall in the middle, but are not usually significantly more than two position lift chairs.

Infinite position lift chairs are the most expensive type of lift chair, but they are also the most versatile. In an infinite position lift chair, the backrest and the footrest are controlled separate from one another. This allows the user to recline the backrest, without extending the footrest and vice versa. This is not possible with the other types of lift chairs. Infinite position lift chairs also recline further than three position lift chairs.

Selecting the Right Lift Chair

Once you decide what type of lift chair will best fit your needs, it is simply a matter of finding one that looks attractive and fits your existing furnishings, while also fitting the physical requirements of the user. This includes considering the weight, height, and overall proportions of the person who will be using the lift chair.