For people with limited mobility, motorized lift chairs can, literally, help you rise to any occasion. Lift chairs, sometimes called electric recliners, have a powered lifting mechanism that pushes the chair up from its base, allowing you to move to a standing position with minimal effort. Several conditions, such as arthritis or muscular dystrophy, may cause you to need the assistance of motorized lift chairs. The market for motorized lift chairs has expanded over the past few years, allowing you to choose from a growing list of attractive features. Four basic types of motorized lift chairs are available:
Choose lift chairs by size
Lift chairs are typically sold by size, depending on a person's height and weight. Most lift chairs can accommodate a person weighing up to 350 pounds.
I recommend: Lift Chairs 101 sells electric lift chairs in seven different sizes — from petite to extra large. One of the
largest and sturdiest lift chairs offered by Lift Chairs 101 has a seat width of 30 inches and a depth of 22 inches.
SpinLife.com offers four heavy duty lift chairs that can accommodate up to 700 pounds.
Shop for electric lift chairs by price
Motorized lift chairs aren't cheap and can cost well over $1,000. One-position lift chairs are usually the least expensive; infinite position models typically cost the most.
I recommend: Silver NetStores’
LiftChairs.com offers lift chairs at a variety of price points. All Lift Chairs offers a
low price guarantee and you can also sign up for
e-coupons that can save you up to $150 on the purchase of a lift chair.
Opt for special features for motorized lift chairs
Electric lift chairs can be purchased in a variety of fabrics and can include heat and massage elements.
I recommend: The lift chairs sold at
Electric Wheelchairs 101 include cloth and leather models. You can find fabric, vinyl, leather and faux suede models at
SpinLife.com. The lift chairs at
Sears feature remote controlled heat and massage. Also, check out Business.com’s listings for
electric wheelchairs for a good variety of styles.
Choose office lift chairs for the workplace
Some manufacturers sell lift chairs that look like office chairs and can be used in the workplace.
I recommend: Planet Mobility sells an ergonomic office lift chair and can also custom mount most standard office chairs or executive leather chairs to the lift.
Install stair lifts for easy access
If your home or office has multiple floors, consider installing stair lifts. Available in straight, curved and outdoor models, stair lifts improve accessibility.
I recommend: Stannah offers a wide range of stair lifts in straight, curved and outdoor models.
Electric Wheelchairs 101 sells basic models.