What is a Lift Chair?
A lift chair is used to help raise a person to a standing position. In addition to helping make standing easier and safer, lift chairs also recline. Some lift chairs recline to a full sleeping position, allowing the feet the to go above the heart, a true trendelenburg position. A lift chairs backrest and footrest are controlled by a safe low-voltage electric motor. This is to help greatly improve a comfortable sitting position.
Your Chair |
Your Height |
Your Weight | Petite |
5'4" and Smaller |
No more than 275 lbs | Standard |
5' 4" - 5' 11" |
No more than 300 lbs. |
Wide |
5' 6" - 6' 4" |
No more than 400 lbs. |
Petite Wide |
5' - 5' 6" |
No more than 400 lbs. | Extra Wide |
5' 4" - 6' 2" |
No more than 500 lbs. |
How does a lift chair work?
Lift chairs use a strong lifting mechanism that is installed into the base of the chair. It is used to raise the chair and person slowly up to a standing position. This allows the person to exit their chair safely without assistance. The lifting mechanism contains a low-voltage motor and connecting hand control.
What is the difference of a 2-way, 3-way, Wall Hugger and Sleeper (Infinite) Lift Chair?
The difference is the degree that the lift chairs can recline.
2-Way / 2 position lift chairs recline about thirty to thirty-five degrees past center sitting upright position. There are two positions on this chair; sitting upright and slightly reclining. They also lift you to a standing position. These chairs are very comfortable for watching TV or reading. They do not recline all they way back, and are not well suited for sleeping.
3-Way / 3 position lift chairs recline about seventy to seventy-five degrees past center sitting upright position. There are three positions on this chair. Upright sitting position, tv recline, and fully reclined. They also lift you to a standing position.
Infinite Position (Sleeper) Lift Chairs recline slightly farther than a 3 position lift chair. This chair lies flat and if need be, allows the foot rest to be elevated higher. This chair runs on two low-volt motors. One motor controls the back and the other controls the footrest allowing the chair to run each independently.
The Wall Hugger (wall away or zero wall) lift chairs can be placed about four inches from a wall. This lift chair glides forward into the room to fully recline. The motion of the chair brings the ottoman (foot rest) up to your feet before it reclines, allowing you to sit with your feet elevated comfortably. This type of chair is perfect for small living spaces.
What size lift chair would fit me?
Lift chairs come in all shapes and sizes so it is important to purchase one that will work with your body type.
How to understand measurement charts.
Weight Capacity: This is how much weight the lift chair can support. It is a good idea to give yourself a little room to be comfortable in your chair. As a guide, try to add an extra 20% to your current weight to pick the right size that will last for you. Keep in mind that by allowing for the correct weight, if something should happen to your chair and your weight is over the stated capacity, it will not be covered under manufacturer's warranty.
Recommended Height: The recommended height is an approximation of the standard heights that you will comfortably fit in a chair. Chairs are typically tested within that height range to allow for a good fit.
Foor to Seat: This measurement is taken while the lift chair is sitting an upright sitting position. The measurement is from the floor to the top of the seat.
Seat Width: This is the distance between the armrests.
Seat Depth: Depth of the seat is measured from the front of the seat to the back of the seat, stopping at the backrest.
Back Height: This is measured from the bottom of the backrest where it meets the seat, to the top of the backrest. |