Lifting yourself up to a standing position is something that you might have been able to do easily when younger. Factors such as age, arthritis, and neuromuscular diseases are some factors that make this task much more difficult. A special type of mobility aid, called a lift chair, is often used to help make this process easier and much safer.

Lift chairs are in essence an upgraded recliner. Most offer a reclining back and extend a footrest to facilitate a comfortable position to sleep or watch TV in. While very similar in design and look, lift chairs are actually much different from a regular recliner. The base of the chair contains an electric motor that slowly raises the chair into the air. When the chair is at its apex, it is a simple matter to stand or sit safely and without any assistance from outside sources. The electric motor that controls the lifting mechanism is also used to control the backrest and the footrest, which makes these chairs incredibly comfortable and makes it a simple matter to find the perfect position.

When trying to find a lift chair that will fit your needs, it is important to have an idea of how big of a seat you need. You will need to know your height or weight, or that of the occupant of the chair. If you anticipate the addition of any extra weight, you will want to honestly assess your expected weight.

In addition to knowing your height and weight, you will also want to have an idea of what sized seat you need and will be the most comfortable. It is a good idea to measure your existing recliner or easy chair to get an idea of what sized chair will be right for you. The most important measurements are the seat width and seat depth. The seat width refers to the distance between the armrests that your bottom would come in contact. The seat depth is the measurement of the seat from the back of the chair to the edge of the seat.

The seat depth and the seat width will likely offer the most in terms of comfort and are in many ways the most important measurements, but you should also consider the distance of the chair off of the ground and the length of the back. These measurements are used to help construct the proper height rating of a chair and as long as you fit into the chairs height rating, you should not encounter any problems.

A lift chair in your living room can greatly increase your independence, because it allows you to stand or sit at the push of a button. This is important, because it will no longer be necessary to rely on others to help with your standing or sitting.