Types of Lift Chairs

Lift chairs have been very become very popular since they were first introduced in early 1980′s. They have also come a very long way since then and are used across the globe by people, whether due to arthritis, Alzheimer’s, or other health problems, have difficulty standing on their own. There are many different models of lift chairs available on the market today and it is easy to become overwhelmed by the many options around, but if you know a little bit about them, it becomes a lot easier to find one to fit your needs.

Lift Chairs Defined

A lift chair is a type of chair that functions in a manner similar to a regular Lazy-Boy type recliner, but the base of the chair is outfitted with an electric motor and a powerful lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism is activated by the electric motor and slowly raises the chair into the air. The angle of the seat when the chair is fully raised makes it very easy to stand without requiring outside assistance.

When lift chairs were first introduced, many used a spring system that basically catapualted the seated individual into a standing position. This proved to be very dangerous though and was responsible for many accidents, so no reputable manufacturer or dealer will offer a spring loaded lift chair. You might still come across these types though when shopping online and often if you find a lift chair that is priced well below the cost of other chairs it is a spring loaded lift chair. These types of chairs should be avoided though, because they can be very dangerous.

While there are many different models of lift chairs available, they can be divided into 3 basic categories, which describe how far back the chair can recline.

Three Basic Lift Chair Types

Two-Position Lift Chairs: These lift chairs allow for the chair to be reclined to a position that is great for watching TV or reading a book. The chair reclines about forty-five degrees and often these types of lift chairs are the least expensive.

Three-Position Lift Chairs: These lift chairs recline much farther than two-position lift chairs and are perfect for sleeping as well as watching TV or reading a book. They recline almost completely horizontally and while they tend to cost a little more, they offer a much better sitting experience.

Infinite Position Lift Chairs: This type of lift chair is often the most expensive, but it also gives the user the most amount of control over their chair. Infinite positon lift chairs allow for the back of the chair to be raised and lowered independently of the footrest, which makes it much more customizable than the other two types of lift chairs. Like three-position lift chairs, infinite position lift chairs can recline to a position that is near horizontal and perfect for sleeping.

No matter if you decide to go with a three-position, two-position, or infinite position lift chair, you will not be limited to only two or three positions, but instead are only limited by how far the back of the chair can recline. This means you can stop the chairs back at any point up until you reach its limit, which makes it very easy to find a comfortable position and keep it.

There are some chairs that offer additional features, like removable mattresses, armrest compartments, and removable armrests, but they can all be divided into these three basic categories.