If you struggle to return to a standing position after you've been sitting for a while due to arthritis or another medical condition, then a lift chair can help. A lift chair elevates you to a standing position so you are steady on your feet before you stand and walk.
This helps prevent falls and it may make it less painful to stand. Buying a lift chair is a lot like buying a good recliner. You want one with a size that fits and that feel comfortable.
You'll get to choose from a range of colors and fabrics so the chair will blend right in with the rest of the room. Here are some tips for buying a new lift chair.
Match the Dimensions to Your Size
Choose a lift chair based on the seat width, seat height, and back comfort. The seat should be wide enough for your hips to be comfortable and to provide a little extra space. You may want to share the chair with your pet cat or lap dog, or you may want room for books or knitting supplies at your side.
However, don't choose a seat that is too wide because you'll be uncomfortable if your elbows can't rest on the arms. The seat of the chair should be low enough that you can sit with your feet flat on the floor for stability as the chair elevates you into a standing position. The back should fit your height.
If you're very tall, you want a back that will support your head so you don't have to scrunch down in the chair for head support. The lower part of the back should fit so it provides lumbar support for your back. Lift chairs come in sizes from petite to tall and extra-large so you'll find one that's a good match for your size.
Choose the Reclining Positions
Lift chairs are available in reclining models and these are worth considering since they offer increased comfort. Consider how often you will sit in the chair to decide if a recliner is right for you and what kind of reclining positions are best.
A typical recliner elevates the legs as the back reclines. It usually reclines far enough to allow you to watch television comfortably and nap. A recliner that has infinite positions is more versatile. The back and leg portions operate independently of each other.
This allows you to sit upright while your legs are elevated. An infinity recliner reclines to a flat position too, which is helpful if you plan to sleep in the chair. A zero-gravity recliner is like an infinity recliner except it allows you to raise your legs higher than your hips.
This helps reduce back pain. It's also useful for keeping your legs elevated if you have problems with swelling in your feet or legs.
Look for Useful Features
Some lift chairs offer heat and massage options. Heat can help with back pain and it can increase your comfort if you're always cold in the winter. The massage function is relaxing and it helps lull you to sleep if you battle insomnia.
Other options include storage pockets for holding the remote and magazines. Some have arms with built-in cup holders and other chairs have arms that double as lids to storage wells in the chair so you can keep supplies nearby.
If you have arthritis in your hands and think you might have trouble working the manual recliner lever, you can buy a lift chair that's a power chair controlled with a remote that allows you to adjust the legs and back with the push of a button.
With all these options, you may need expert guidance when you're ready to buy your chair. Visit Medic Pharmacy & Surgical for your new lift chair
and any other mobility aids you may need.
