How to Choose the Right Lift Chair: Key Considerations and Options

Lift and recline chairs are a practical solution for people with reduced balance and mobility, making it easier to move from sitting to standing. They’re perfect for those dealing with mobility issues due to ageing, health concerns, or recovering from an injury. These chairs have a motorised lifting mechanism that tilts forward to help you stand up, and they also recline for added comfort. This combination helps increase independence while providing a comfortable place to sit and relax.

The V-Motion Lift Chairs in Bison & Cognac

Who might use a Lift Chair?

Many people can benefit from using a lift and recline chair. Some individuals who may benefit from using a lift and recline chair include:

• Individuals who face mobility challenges
• The elderly
• People with arthritis, joint pain, or muscle weakness
• Individuals with mobility issues caused by conditions like Parkinson’s disease or stroke
• Those recovering from surgery
• People with disabilities

Key Considerations

Single or Dual Motor Lift Chairs

Lift chairs come in two main types: single-motor and dual-motor. Each has its own benefits, depending on your needs and preferences.

• Single-Motor Lift Chairs: Single-motor lift chairs operate similarly to standard recliners. When you recline the backrest, the footrest raises simultaneously, and when you return the backrest to its original position, the footrest lowers. These chairs are generally more affordable, and the controls are simple, with just two directions: up and down. Most single-motor lift chairs also feature a wall saver mechanism, allowing the chair to move forward away from the wall during recline. This feature requires as little as 50mm of space behind the chair, making it perfect for tight spaces.
• Dual-Motor Lift Chairs: Dual-motor lift chairs offer separate controls for the backrest and footrest, allowing them to operate independently. This means that you can recline the backrest while keeping the footrest lowered, raise the footrest while remaining upright, or fully recline to an almost horizontal position.

Do you prefer a lift chair with more adjustability? We also offer lift chairs with 4 or more motors:

• Multiple Motor Lift Chair: Similar to the functionality of a Dual Motor chair, having four or more motors allows the user to further customise their comfort. These extra motors allow the user to adjust their lumbar and headrest supports entirely independently from the other functions.

Tip from the team: Most customers benefit from the additional positioning options available from a dual motor chair. You would typically choose a single motor chair only if simple controls were essential or space was very limited. Our Oscar Barwon Lift Chair is available in both varieties.

• Single Motor Team Pick: Oscar Barwon Lift Chair
• Multi Motor Team Pick: Alivio Donatello 5 Motor Lift Chair with Heat and Massage

Size of Chair

The size and fit of a lift chair are important considerations. A properly fitted lift chair will support good posture and provide a good platform for safe transfer. Most lift chairs from GMobility are available in a range of sizes many can be further customised (either from the factory or via adjustment) to provide a finely tuned fit.

Sizing varies between brands and models, so it’s important to try out different options before deciding. Many lift chairs also allow for adjustments in seat width, height, and depth to help achieve the ideal upright seating posture, ensuring both comfort and support.

Fabric

Choosing the right fabric for your lift and recline chair is important for both aesthetics and practicality. GMobility offers a variety of fabric options, including leather, fabric, and vinyl, as well as specialised 2-way stretch fabric often used for pressure care chairs.

• Leather and vinyl: Leather and vinyl are popular for their elegance and stain resistance. These materials are simple to clean and maintain, making them ideal for those who prioritise durability and a polished look.
• Fabric Options: Fabric options provide comfort and breathability, making them suitable for long-term use. These fabrics are available in various colours and patterns, allowing you to match your chair with your home decor.

Easy Cleaning Team Pick: Scotchgard protection helps keep your chair looking new by making the fabric more resistant to stains and spills.

Durability Team Pick: Armrest and headrest cover add an extra layer of protection, extending the life of your chair and keeping high-contact areas in good condition.

Pressure Care

Individuals who may be seated in their lift chair for extended periods should consider pressure care as an important factor. Look for chairs that incorporate pressure-relieving features to reduce the risk of developing pressure sores. Lift chairs with cushioning designed to distribute weight evenly can minimise pressure on specific areas, such as the tailbone and hips. Those with memory foam or gel-infused cushions can provide added comfort and support, and it can also be an option to have your lift chair customised to fit your needs.

• Pressure Care Team Pick: Air Comfort Lift Chairs

Lift Chairs at GMobility

Picking the right lift and recline chair is important for ensuring comfort and ease of use for those with mobility challenges. The perfect chair helps with standing and sitting while also boosting independence and well-being.

At GMobility, we’re all about improving our clients’ comfort and independence. Drop by one of our showrooms to check out our range of lift chairs and get help from our Customer Service Representatives.

If you need a bit more guidance or expertise, please get in touch with us via trials@gmobility.com.au to book in with one of our Assistive Technology Specialists.

If you can’t make it to the showroom, no worries! We offer in-home trials and work with therapists to customise the ideal lift chair for your unique needs.

Here’s what we offer:

• Customised lift chairs
• Lift chair rentals
• Lift chair purchases
• Delivery and installation

Contact us here!