Different Types of Lift Chair Recliners Explained

By: Randy McIntire Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Lift chairs are special chairs that look just like a normal recliner, but have a built-in mechanism to help people rise from a sitting to a standing position if they are unable to get up without help. But while lift chairs resemble home recliners, they are definitely not "one size fits all" chairs. there are enough different types of lift chairs to suit just about every person's taste and needs. There are several things to take into account when deciding on a lift chair:

-Height and weight of the person using the chair
-Number of recline positions desired
-Chair depth and width requirements, if any
-Does the client want or need controls on the left side or right side of the chair?
-Should the chair have single or dual motors?
-Will the client use the chair for sleeping?
-Does the client want extras like heat or massage?

The main types of lift chairs are two-position, three position, and infinite position lift chairs; all of which help the person stand up from a seated position. The two-position lift chairs have two positions: upright, and a slight recline. The recline is only slight, and keeps the thighs and back at about a 90 degree angle. These chairs do not recline for sleeping. Three-position chairs recline fully for sleeping comfortably. This type of chair also allows the user to sit in a position that elevates the feet above the heart. Infinite position chairs offer a full range of reclining positions and do allow for comfortable sleep. The ottoman can be positioned separately from the rest of the chair for best comfort.

For the most comfort, the chair should be chosen according to the size of the person using it. Petite or small chairs are made for people who are less than 5 feet, 4 inches tall. Medium lift chairs accommodate people from 5 feet, 4 inches tall to 5 feet, 10 inches tall, who weigh up to 375 lbs. Large lift chairs are for people 5 feet, 11 inches tall to 6 feet, 2 inches tall who weigh up to 375 lbs. Tall lift chairs are for people over 6 feet, 2 inches tall who weigh up to 375 lbs. A wide or XL lift chair is for those who need a seat that is 2 to 4 inches wider than the standard chair, and who weigh up to 500 lbs. There are also extra wide petite versions of these chairs for the shorter person who needs more room. The heavy duty or XXL chairs are for people needing a seat 4 inches wider than a standard chair, who weigh up to 700 lbs. These are general guidelines only, and different brands may have slightly different dimensions, but there will be similarity across the different brands for size.

Lift chairs are available with numerous add-ons and accessories. Some people enjoy heat and massage capability, and some people may want or need the chair controls to be on the right-hand or left-hand side. Lift chairs are available with extra storage pockets for magazines and TV remotes, and cup holders and snack trays are other options available.

While lift chairs are roughly the size of the standard recliner, they sometimes require a little more room to fully operate in standing assistance. Some manufacturers, however, make "space saver" or "wall hugger" models which allow the lift chairs to operate within 4 to 6 inches from a wall. These are good choices for smaller rooms. When it comes to decor, there are numerous choices. Some manufacturers offer up to 30 different fabric choices, so that lift chairs can be made to match or coordinate with existing furniture.

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About The Author: Randy McIntire is an expert on the lift chair recliner and other mobility products. For more information, please visit the lift chair capitol, All Lift Chairs.