Enjoy Greater Independence at Home with a Lift Chair

An electric recliner lift chair looks very similar to a standard recliner but has greater functionality. A standard recliner is available with both manual and electric options with the ability to recline back and elevate the legs. A lift chair has a built-in motor and not only performs the same functions as a standard recliner, but it will also lift and lower the entire chair from a seated to standing position to assist people with limited mobility or other health conditions.

Independence is an important aspect when it comes to a person's quality of life, so if you, or a loved one has been impacted by illness, injury, disease, and other disorders that may impede one's ability to function without additional assistance, then a lift chair might be a welcome addition at home.

A lift chair is ergonomically designed to encourage correct posture and reduce swelling in the legs whilst improving blood circulation and comfort. Lift chairs are also intended to provide a stable and safe way to help you get in and out of your chair after sitting or resting for an extended period of time. In addition to lifting and lowering the chair with less strain on your joints, knees and back, you can also lay back and elevate the legs with a simple touch of a button, so that you can find your perfect reclined position for resting or relaxing.

As a caregiver, helping or transferring someone can also be a daunting task, which would typically involve leaning over and using your own body weight and strength to pull them up, out of their chair. An electric lift chair saves you from awkward strains and positions to help them get back on their feet and minimise the risk of injury, both to you and your care recipient.

To ensure the chair size is right for you, it is important to consider your height, weight, and whether the seat is wide enough to accommodate your hips. Start in a standard seated position and fold your knees over the edge and place your bottom towards the back of the seat. Your shoulders should be supported, and your body ergonomically aligned with good posture. Is your head supported, and does the height of the armrest allow you to rest them comfortably? Choosing the right size will ensure your comfort level is not compromised.

Built-in Features

Some popular built-in features include a side storage pocket which can be easily accessed for items such as magazines, your weekly TV guide, TV remote or favourite book. Other handy features might include integrated cup holders and USB charging ports so that you can charge your mobile devices without leaving your chair!

Back-up Batteries

In case of a power failure, it is important that you can still operate your chair without using your mains electricity supply. Most lift chairs will include a small battery back-up that will operate 1 or 2 times so you can get to your feet and out of your chair if required (also known as power failure back up). It is recommended however, that a separate rechargeable Lithium battery pack be on-hand to safeguard you against any unexpected, long-term power outages which can operate up to 8 hours* when fully charged.

Adjustable padding will let you find the most supportive position and maintain good posture. Check to see if the headrests can also be adjusted.

Your Space/Room

Most lift chairs will recline back at varying degrees for resting. It is important to ensure you have enough space in your living room or bedroom when the chair is in its fully reclined position, so that you can operate your chair without any obstruction.

Craftsmanship

Needless-to-say, in the event something should go wrong, the manufacturer will provide a warranty period for the upholstered finish and a separate warranty for the structural workmanship, so you can rest with peace of mind.

One of the most important features of an electric lift chair would be the type of motor it has. The motor essentially allows the user to control the lift and recline features and impacts how many positions the chair can achieve. The motor is strictly a matter of controlling the inner mechanism and does not, in any other way, contribute to the comfort of the lift chair. The advantage of a dual motor means the footrest and backrest can operate independently for multi-position comfort, and typically supports more weight without overloading the motor.

The primary difference between a single motor and a dual motor lift chair lies in the functionality and control of the chair's movements.

1. Single Motor Lift Chair: A single motor lift chair has a basic mechanism that operates both the backrest and footrest together. When the user activates the control, the chair moves as a single unit, reclining the backrest and elevating the footrest simultaneously. As a result, the user cannot adjust the backrest and footrest independently. The single motor lift chair generally offers two primary positions: sitting upright and reclined with the footrest elevated.
2. Dual Motor Lift Chair: In contrast, a dual motor lift chair features two separate motors—one controlling the backrest and another controlling the footrest. This design enables independent movement and adjustment of the backrest and footrest. The user can operate each motor individually, allowing for a wider range of positions and customization options. For example, they can recline the backrest while keeping the footrest down or elevate the footrest while keeping the backrest upright. Dual motor lift chairs provide more flexibility and versatility in finding a comfortable sitting or reclining position tailored to the user's preferences.

The choice between a single motor and dual motor lift chair depends on the individual's needs and preferences. A single motor lift chair can be a suitable option for those who primarily seek basic reclining and assistance with standing up. On the other hand, a dual motor lift chair is ideal for individuals who desire greater control over their seating positions and want the ability to adjust the backrest and footrest independently for increased comfort and support.

The back rest reclines at varying degrees, taking pressure off your spine and lower back.

Leg Extension

Allows you to stretch out the legs and improve blood circulation, whilst either sitting upright or in a reclined position.

Lay-Flat

Although it is not ideal to sleep in your chair for long periods of time, some lift chairs feature a lay-flat position that allows you to fully recline back and extend your legs out straight, so you can rest throughout the day without leaving your chair.

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) provides support to eligible individuals with intellectual, physical, sensory, cognitive, and psychosocial disability. The NDIS is designed to equip people with the support services they need to help improve their skills and independence over time. Specific needs, such as a mobility lift chair or adjustable bed may be considered a reasonable and necessary requirement that will assist with a disability or provide aged-care support.

To determine whether you are eligible, you will need to understand the NDIS funding criteria and provide written evidence via a qualified and registered therapist or doctor that a lift chair is necessary to assist with core mobility tasks, such as safely getting in and out of your chair. You would also need to substantiate that the lift chair:

• is needed directly, as a result of your disability
• can be properly installed, and then safely operated
• will be effective and beneficial in increasing independence at home when moving between sitting and standing

Click here to see more detailed information and eligibility criteria.