A power lift chair is one of the most useful pieces
of furniture someone with poor balance or weakness can own. While
not perfect for everyone, a good lift chair will enable the user
to follow medical instructions about keeping legs elevated and
reduce the chance of a fall while standing up from a sitting
position. However, if someone chooses the wrong chair it can be
extremely uncomfortable, if not worse.
Power lift chairs look like standard recliners, which means that
they do not stand out as "medical equipment" in any home. These
chairs use the power of a motor to raise and lower the entire
chair. When the chair is not being used it remains in the "up"
position. When the owner is ready to sit, he or she backs up to
the chair and the chair slowly lowers while the user "rides down"
to the sitting position.
Two-Position Power Chairs
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The original lift chair, which offers two
positions - the upright sitting position and a slight recline of
approximately 90 degrees. These chairs do not fully recline for
sleeping.
Three-Position Lift Chairs
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The three-position chair includes a third, fully
reclining position to the two original positions. The full recline
is extremely popular among seniors, especially those who have been
instructed to regularly elevate their legs and feet. Elevating the
legs and feet from the full recline position is often more
comfortable for the back. These chairs are often deeper and wider
than the two-position chairs, which also makes them more
comfortable for napping or sleeping.
Most standard lift chairs will comfortably
accommodate between 350 and 375 pounds. Most manufacturers do
offer a smaller selection of extra wide, heavy-duty chairs for
larger individuals.
Medicare Coverage of Power Lift Chairs
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While Medicare does not cover the cost of lift
chair furniture, with a physician's prescription they do cover the
cost of the motor. Lift chair motors are usually reimbursed up to
approximately $300. The purchaser must pay the difference between
the motor reimbursement and the full cost of the chair.
Often used lift chairs are available. Check with local medical
equipment providers and on sources such as Craig's list. Be very
certain if purchasing a used lift chair that the upholstery is
clean and has no odor. Unfortunately, some people have incontinent
episodes in their lift chairs. You do not want to purchase a chair
where anyone had an accident!
Electric Power Chair Checklist: What to Look For When Choosing
a Power Lift Chair
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1. Before choosing a chair, examine the
amount of space available. If space is limited, look for a
design that will not require a great deal of empty space behind
the chair. "Wall hugger" chairs will move forward into the room,
rather than back toward the wall, when a sitter reclines.
2. Will the user be napping or sleeping in the chair?
Choose a three-position chair. If the individual will never want
to recline fully, a two-position chair will be more than
adequate.
3. Choose a chair that is rated for the individual's
weight, and that is neither too big or too small. When the chair
is in the upright seated position, the user's feet should rest
flat on the floor. If feet dangle in the air without reaching
the ground, the chair is too high or too deep, or both.
4. Be aware of where the electric control is located. If
the user has difficulty using one arm or hand, you will want the
control on the strong side. It should not have to stretch across
the sitter's body to be used.
5. Is there battery backup in case of power failure?
6. Look for upholstery that is easy to clean. If
incontinence may be an issue, choose vinyl or another
water-resistant upholstery. If the end user is a nibbler and
snacker, choose a fabric that is scrubbable. Beware of very
light-toned and solid color fabrics. Tweeds and multi-toned
colors generally show fewer stains and less wear.
7. Ask about warrantees and guarantees. Motors do
ultimately wear out, but there should be coverage for a specific
time frame.
As the popularity of lift chairs has grown, so
too have the style options. From small and elegant wingbacks to
overstuffed and oversized, there are lift chairs for just about
every need, height, weight and decor. Simply keep these tips in
mind before purchasing.
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