7 Features Of Adjustable Lift Chairs For Older Adults

Finding the right lift chair for a family member is a decision that requires careful consideration and thoughtfulness. Whether it's for an ageing parent, a loved one with mobility challenges, or someone recovering from an injury, selecting the perfect lift chair can greatly enhance their comfort, independence, and overall well-being. 

Here, we provide essential tips, insights, and considerations to help you navigate the process of choosing a lift chair for an older adult. 

From understanding the various types of lift mechanisms to exploring key features, safety considerations, and even aesthetic options, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make an informed decision that brings joy, support, and enhanced quality of life to your cherished family member.

#1. Size and fit

When purchasing lift chairs for older family members, it's important to consider the chair’s size and dimensions to ensure it fits well within their bedroom or living room. Take measurements of the space before purchasing, considering any potential obstacles or furniture arrangements. 

Also, check the chair's weight capacity to ensure it can comfortably accommodate your family member. Lift chairs typically have weight limits ranging from 100 to 200 kilograms or more — choosing a chair that can safely support your family member’s weight without exceeding its capacity is crucial. 

If you're unsure about the size or weight requirements, contact the manufacturer, consult your family member’s occupational therapist or healthcare professional, or contact Active Mobility for guidance!

#2. Type of lift and recline mechanism

Lift chairs for older people come with various mechanisms designed to offer different levels of reclining and positioning options. These mechanisms include single, dual and triple motors.

• A single-motor lift chair operates using a single-motor mechanism that simultaneously controls the backrest and footrest movement. Your family member will have two primary positions: sitting upright and reclined with the leg rest elevated. When they activate the lift mechanism, the chair smoothly transitions from the seated position to a lifted position, assisting them in standing up or sitting down with ease.

• A double-motor lift chair has two separate motors, providing independent control over the backrest and footrest. This will allow your family member to adjust each component individually, offering a greater range of customisable positions and enhanced comfort for a tailored seating experience.

• A triple-motor lift chair is designed with three distinct motors, enabling independent control over the backrest, footrest, and seat tilt. This advanced functionality allows you to adjust each component separately, offering various customisable positions and optimal support for various seating preferences and therapeutic needs.
• A quad motor lift chair features four independent motors, enabling precise control over reclining, lifting, footrest adjustment, and lumbar support. With their ergonomic design and luxurious upholstery, quad motor lift chairs provide the perfect blend of comfort and assistance for older people.

Consider your family member’s preferences and requirements when selecting the lift mechanism. Think about their desired comfort levels, mobility limitations, and any specific positions that may benefit their well-being.

#3. Comfort and padding

When shopping for lift chairs, it’s important to look for chairs that offer superior comfort, support, and durability, so it’s crucial to consider the padding, cushioning, and upholstery materials. 

High-quality memory foam can provide excellent support and conform to the body's contours for enhanced comfort. Meanwhile, check for durable upholstery fabrics resistant to wear, stains, and fading, ensuring the chair's longevity.

Take into account any specific requirements your family member has. For example, if lumbar support is needed for back comfort, choose a lift chair that offers adjustable or built-in lumbar support features. Some users need extra padding or cushioning in certain areas, like the seat or armrests, to alleviate pressure points and provide additional support.

#4. Control options

Lift chairs generally come with a wired or wireless Bluetooth remote control.

Wired remotes are connected to the chair via a cord, providing a convenient and easily accessible control panel. They’re ideal for users who prefer a fixed control location, like attached to the side of the chair or stored in a pocket on the armrest.

Wireless remotes, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility and mobility. Your family member can control the lift chair from a distance without the constraint of a cord — this is particularly beneficial if your family member has limited mobility or prefers the convenience of controlling the chair from various positions in the room.

Regardless of the type of remote control, the controls should be user-friendly, intuitive, and easy to operate. The buttons or switches should be clearly labelled and easily visible, allowing smooth and effortless adjustments of the lift chair's positions. Before purchasing, consider your family member’s dexterity and specific accessibility requirements to ensure the controls are accessible and manageable.

#5. Safety features

Prioritising safety features is crucial to ensure accident prevention and peace of mind. Anti-tipping mechanisms, for example, are essential to enhance stability and prevent the chair from tipping over, especially during lifting or reclining movements. These mechanisms provide stability and ensure the chair remains securely positioned.

Emergency battery backup is another important feature — in the event of a power outage, the backup system allows the lift chair to operate, ensuring your family member can safely return to a seated or standing position without relying on external power sources.

A smooth, controlled lifting and reclining motion is paramount for user safety and comfort. High-quality lift chairs are designed to provide a gradual and controlled movement to prevent jarring or sudden shifts, reducing the risk of falls or discomfort.

Finally, check for features like sturdy construction, reliable locking mechanisms, and easily accessible emergency stop buttons. These elements contribute to a safer and more secure lift chair experience.

#6. Ease of maintenance

Opting for materials that are easy to clean and resist stains can help minimise upkeep and ensure the chair remains in good condition.

Stain-resistant fabrics or with a protective coating can help repel spills and stains, making it easier to wipe them away with a damp cloth. Leather or faux leather upholstery can be a practical choice because they are generally resistant to spills and can be wiped clean effortlessly. However, it's important to ensure the leather is high quality and treated to resist stains and spills.

Removable and washable seat or cushion covers can also be helpful, allowing for easy removal and cleaning when needed.

Regular maintenance, like dusting and vacuuming, can help keep the lift chair clean and fresh. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions to avoid any damage to the upholstery or other components of the chair.

#7. Budget

While prioritising quality is crucial, affordability is also a key factor to consider. Look for lift chairs that strike a balance between quality and cost-effectiveness — compare prices, features, and customer reviews to ensure you get a chair that meets your family member’s needs without exceeding your budget. 

Remember to consider the long-term value, including durability, warranty coverage, and after-sales support!

At Active Mobility, we offer a range of flexible payment options to make lift chair shopping easier and more affordable. For example, we offer Afterpay so that you can manage payments over the course of six weeks. High-back chairs for older Australians can sometimes be covered under Home Care Packages through My Aged Care, as it is considered an aid for staying independent at home.

Find the perfect adjustable lift chair for older adults at Active Mobility!

At Active Mobility, we stock an extensive range of safe and comfortable higher-back chairs for older Australians from a range of premium brands. Available at affordable prices, our team will deliver your family member’s new lift chair directly to the door — we’ll even help with set-up and ensuring your family member is comfortable with the controls from day one.