Lift Recline Chairs: What to Know Before Buying

A lift recline chair is an electric armchair that can recline for resting and lift forward to assist the user towards a standing position. Different models vary in seat height, seat depth, backrest shape, padding, fabric, motor configuration and overall size.

Lift recline chairs are commonly used by people who have difficulty getting in and out of a standard lounge chair, or who want a more supportive chair for everyday sitting and resting.

A lift recline chair may be considered where a person finds it difficult to stand from a low chair, needs a more supportive resting position, or wants a chair that is easier to use throughout the day.

• difficulty standing from a low lounge chair
• short-term recovery after surgery or illness
• general comfort and resting at home
• reduced lower limb strength
• carer-assisted transfers or daily routines

Where there are falls, transfer, posture, pressure care, cognition or safety concerns, the chair should be discussed with a suitable health professional before purchase.

Before buying a lift recline chair, compare the practical details that affect day-to-day use.

• seat height
• seat width and depth
• backrest shape and support
• Number of motors for operation
• fabric type and cleaning requirements
• maximum user weight
• room space required behind and in front of the chair
• hand control layout and ease of use
• delivery access into the home

Lift recline chairs can have different motor configurations. The number of motors affects how independently different parts of the chair can move, including the backrest, legrest, headrest, lumbar section and lift function, depending on the model.

A single motor lift recline chair usually moves the backrest and legrest together. This provides straightforward operation and fewer independent positioning options.

A dual motor lift recline chair usually allows the backrest and legrest to move more independently. This provides more positioning options for sitting and resting compared with a single motor chair.

A three motor lift recline chair may add another adjustable function, such as independent headrest, lumbar or additional positioning adjustment, depending on the chair model.

A four motor lift recline chair generally provides more independent adjustment again, often allowing separate control of key areas such as the backrest, legrest, headrest and lumbar support, depending on the model.

A five motor lift recline chair may provide the highest level of independent adjustment in the range, with more separate positioning controls. The exact functions vary between brands and models, so the product specifications should always be checked before purchase.

The motor configuration should be considered alongside the person’s preferences, hand control use, room layout, product dimensions, available features and any requirements provided by a treating health professional.

Chair dimensions matter. A chair that is too low, too high, too deep or too narrow can be uncomfortable and may be harder to use.

When comparing chairs, check the seat height, seat depth, seat width, back height and maximum user weight. It is also worth considering how the person normally sits, whether they need to elevate their legs, and whether they can use the hand control comfortably.

For many customers, visiting a showroom is the easiest way to compare chair sizes and comfort in person.

Lift recline chairs are bulky items, so access should be checked before delivery. Stairs, narrow doorways, tight hallways, steep driveways or limited room space can affect delivery and placement.

Before ordering, consider where the chair will be placed, whether there is access to a power point, and whether there is enough clearance for the chair to recline safely without hitting walls, furniture or without impeding walkways.

Mobility Rentals and Sales can provide general product information, pricing, availability, dimensions, delivery information and equipment specifications. We do not prescribe lift recline chairs, assess clinical suitability, assess transfer safety or determine whether a particular chair is appropriate for a person’s circumstances.

Where there are posture, pressure care, falls, transfer, cognition, pain or safety concerns, advice should be obtained from an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, nurse or other suitable health professional before purchasing.