Lift Chairs for Elderly Reviews

Here is the definitive lift chair review guide. Read below to find out what is a lift chair recliner and what one should expect when purchasing a lift chair. This guide will give you an understanding of every lift chair recliner review and lift chair comparison you’ll find online as it covers the fundamental terminology. It also covers lift chair ratings, including ones for infinite position lift chairs and zero gravity lift chairs.

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What is a Lift Chair for the Elderly?

A lift chair is a recliner that is machine powered. One can switch from the sitting to recline position (or other positions) with a remote control. It also has an up position where the chair leans up and forward to push the sitter into the standing position. This is where the lift chair derives its name, for it lifts the sitter up. Lift chairs are intended for individuals who find it difficult to stand up from a chair such as those with severe arthritis in the knees or hips.

The Three Types of Lift Chairs for the Elderly

There are three general types of lift chairs: two position lift chairs, three position lift chairs, and infinite position lift chairs.

Two position lift chairs can go into the up position, sitting position, and 15 degree recline position. Of all the chairs we review, less than 5 are two position lift chairs. They are very rare. They have limited mobility and cost about the same as a 3 position lift chair. Its best to skip two position lift chairs.
Three position lift chairs go into the sitting position, 15 degree recline position, 45 degree recline position, and up position. The ottoman (footrest) can not be operated independently from the back and the chair can go only into its 3 pre-programmed positions. The price for a 3 position lift chair is generally lower than an infinite position lift chair. 3 position lift chairs usually require less room from the nearest wall than an infinite position lift chair.
The Trendelenburg position, shown here, is one where the feet are higher than the head.
Infinite position lift chairs can go from the sitting position to a full recline, where the chair lays flat. The footrest and back can be operated independently. Some models can go into the Trendelenburg position and zero-gravity position. The Trendelenburg position is where the feet are above the head. The zero-gravity position is where the head and feet are level but the hips are below the hip and feet. The zero-gravity position was invented by NASA to reduce stress during takeoff. It helps with individuals who are having joint problems on earth too. Infinite position lift chairs are good for individuals who want to lie down while watching TV or use their lift chair as beds. It is also the most versatile of the three types.

How Much does a Lift Chair Cost?

The average price for a lift chair, regardless of type, is $1,094.67. The median price is $995. This means that you are much more likely to purchase a lift chair between $450 to $1,100.

This and the following pricing data was obtained by a study conducted by BestLiftChair.net on 23 April 2016. The study had a sample size of 93 lift chairs that were available on the market. Discontinued lift chairs were not included.

How Much Does a 2-Position Lift Chair Cost?

Lift chair price chart — The average price for a 2-position lift chair is $769. The median is $754.

The average price for a 2-position lift chair is $769.00. The median is $754.

2-position lift chairs are rare and not recommended for the typical consumer. They have a limited recline of 15 degrees. The lowest 2-position lift chair price is $599 which is $110 more than the lowest 3-position lift chair price. There is no point in buying a 2-position lift chair.

How Much Does a 3-Position Lift Chair Cost?

3 position lift chair price frequency table — The average price for a 3 position lift chair is $1,063.57. The median is $976.

The average price for a 3-position lift chair is $1,063.57. The median is $976.

If one wishes to save money, a 3-position lift chair in the $500-$600 price range is a good choice. 3-position lift chairs that are over $1,300 should be avoided as that’s the average price for an infinite position lift chair.

How Much Does an Infinite Position Lift Chair Cost?

The average price for an infinite position lift chair is $1,300.64. The median is $1,467.

Infinite position lift chairs are split into two sections, budget ones that are between $700 and $1,300 and luxury ones that are between $1,400 and $2,200. Usually, luxury lift chairs are made by furniture companies, not mobility companies. This usually results in lower quality and durability lift chairs. We’d recommend you buy an infinite position in the $700 to $1,300 range from a mobility company.

Optional Features

There are a lot of optional features available with each lift chair. It really depends on what model and manufacturer you’re going with. Here are the most popular ones:

Heat and massage – some chairs allow optional heat and massage. If you are interested in this, know that the massage function usually makes a noise when on.
Lift table – as an optional accessory, a lift table can be purchased for $100 to $200. These are tables designed to work with a lift chair. They are on wheels or a pivot so that one can move them out of the way when one wishes to stand.
Leather – some chairs have leather available as an upgrade. While fabric upholstery is normal, leather provides a lot of durability and looks great. Normal fabric upholstery is just fine for most individuals however and individuals rarely complain about the upholstery but, if one wishes to have a leather lift chair, it is a good choice.
Slip covers – like all recliners, lift chairs can be fitted with slip covers to protect the upholstery.

Lift Chair Reviews by Manufacturers

Read reviews by manufacturers. Each link contains more details about the manufacturer as well as links to product reviews.

Delivery Options

The standard delivery option is freight. This means that there will be a semi-truck transporting the lift chair to one’s residence. The driver will drop the furniture off where it is convenient; usually on the driveway. Individuals who live on dirt roads have found (to their surprise) that the driver dropped the lift chair off at the beginning of the road. Make sure you communicate with the delivery company beforehand to avoid surprises during delivery.

Lift chairs weight 100 pounds or more. Have helpers to bring the chair from the driveway into your home. Usually, most manufacturers offer in-home delivery for an extra charge if the buyer can not move the furniture his/herself. They also charge extra for bringing the chair up stairs or into another story. Make sure you clear this with the company during purchasing.

All lift chairs, except for a few, require assembly. Instructions are provided in the package and it is straightforward, if one is technically inclined. If not, have helpers on delivery day. Once again, if needed, one can pay for lift chair assembly upon delivery. This is called white glove delivery and usually costs $250. White glove delivery also includes in-home delivery.

Usage

Every lift chair includes a remote. The remotes are all different but, basically, it lets the sitter choose the position he/she wants. There is usually a magazine rack at the left and right of the chair to store magazines (or the remote). Some remote have a light on them which can be helpful or annoying.

Lift Chair Recliner Warranty

Warranty terms differ from company to company. Make sure you read the warranty thoroughly before buying! At bestliftchair.net, we’ve read some terrible warranties before! Generally, the frame, motor, and lifting mechanism will be covered by a multi-year warranty (at least 3). The fabric will not be covered and everything else is covered by a 1 year warranty.

The warranty is usually only good for the original purchaser, for residential use, and with proper usage and maintenance. The manufacturer is the one who determines if the chair was used properly or not. Some manufacturers will only cover a damage if the spare parts are on hand. This is terrible as, once a model is discontinued, there will be no support. Avoid these companies completely.

Other Mobility Devices

Sure, a lift chair can improve your life every single day, but so can other devices. Many manufacturers have designed and produced tools that are meant to help people who have mobility problems. Unfortunately, such problems are not rare, and they differ, but so do mobility aids. You can find a vast variety of products designed to help anyone who may find himself or herself in a position in which moving around is not as easy as it is for most people. Below you will find a list of such products. Hopefully, one of them will make your life easier.

Bed rails – they are designed to prevent nighttime falls. It is quite common for people who suffer from dementia or simply elderly people to fall out of bed, which is why a bed rail is more than useful. A bed rail can also serve as an assist handle that can make getting in and out of bed easier.
Overbed tables – these are designed for many purposes, from having a lovely meal sitting comfortably in bed to working on your laptop or writing. They are very useful to people who are bound to their beds while they recover from surgery, or for other medical conditions that require bed rest.
Walkers – walkers are quite common, especially among the elderly. They help you keep your balance and will give you some of your independence back. It is a simple aluminum or steel frame, with wheels or without, but it is capable of giving back your freedom to move around.
Rollators – rollators are a sort of walkers, but they have better and bigger wheels, and they also have a seat where you can rest. They are considered better than walkers, but they are also more expensive. However, they are worth the investment. Not only that they are durable, but they are more stable than walkers as well. Many people prefer it because they can go outdoors more. A walker has its limitations.
Knee scooters – these are ideal for people who suffer an injury or a fracture of their lower leg. It is called a scooter because it resembles one. You put your injured leg on the platform and use the healthy leg to push forward. It is fast and convenient. The drawback is that you can only use this device when the injury is below the knee. That is because the knee walker requires you to bend the knee at a 90º angle.
Bath lifts – these are exceptional. Not everyone can enjoy a lovely bath, which is why this device is highly appreciated. There are many types, but they basically help you get in and out of the tub. They are wonderful for people who have balance issues.
Canes – they are the most common mobility aids people use. There are several types of these as well, and not all of them are recommended for the same issue, but they do the job of helping you keep your balance. At the end of the day, that is all that matters.
Crutches – crutches represent the standard solution for leg fractures. You break your leg, you have it put in a cast, and then you have to walk on crutches for several weeks. It is straightforward and efficient. At least you can get around.
Wheelchairs – there is nothing more extreme than a wheelchair. If you think about it, all the devices above require you to make some effort, but wheelchairs not so much. However, just because you got to this point that does not mean it is the end of the world. People in wheelchairs can do many things nowadays, and that is thanks to high-quality chairs.

As you can see, there are plenty of products out there that can be of help. No matter what condition you suffer from and no matter the nature of your disability (permanent or temporary,) you can always find a solution to make your life more bearable. All you have to do is look for it.

FAQ

What’s the cheapest price for a lift chair?

We’ve seen it as low as $200 for a 2 position lift chair. It’ll lift the sitter up from the sitting position but, besides that, we don’t know much about its quality, durability, warranty, or safety. For a realistic price on a standard lift chair, $489 is the lowest for a 3 position lift chair and $722 for an infinite position lift chair.

How much can I expect to pay on shipping?

Expect free freight shipping. If a manufacturer or retailer charges you for shipping, go elsewhere. If you asked for something special such as in-home delivery or assembly, that will be extra.

Where are lift chairs for sale?

Lift chairs are available for purchase online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Online retailers are numerous. You can also find nearby stores in our directory.

Should I buy a used lift chair?

No. It might take a some time to find a nice, used lift chair that is the right size. The price savings is not that much as the lowest price lift chair is only a $200 more than the average price used lift chair (~$300). Click here to read our used lift chair guide.

Are lift chair rentals any good?

While possible from some medical suppliers, lift chair rentals should only be done when a condition is temporary. The price of a rental will equal the price of a lift chair in under a year. Click here to read our lift chair rental guide.

Will my insurance cover lift chairs?

Generally, no.

Will Medicare cover lift chairs?

For some. Read about it here. You’ll need a signed medical necessity form from your doctor, a “lift chair prescription” if you want to call it that, to qualify.