The Difference Between A Lift Chair And A Recliner
Chairs are pieces of furniture in the home that are used every day. Apart from the normal chair, many homeowners have at least one standard recliner that is a favorite spot to relax, watch TV, read their favorite book, or even take an afternoon nap. However, people dealing with mobility challenges, recovering from surgery, or choosing to age in place, may need more than a regular recliner. A regular recliner does not provide the adequate support and functionality that individuals with mobility limitations need.
4 Basic Differences Between Recliners And Lift Chairs
The terms recliner and lift chair are often used incorrectly. At first glance, it is easy to understand why people confuse the terminology, but even though the two items may look similar, their design, functionality, and intended use make them very different items of furniture.
The difference between recliners and lift chairs can be broken down into:
- Basic design
- Positioning
- Safety features
- Upholstery
1. Basic Design
Recliner – Recliners are designed for relaxation and comfort. They typically allow the backrest to lower and have a footrest that simultaneously extends outwards. Most recliners have a manual lever or an electric button/remote control that helps to adjust the position. Recliners do not have power assistance lifting mechanisms to help individuals stand or sit up safely.
Lift Chair – Lift chairs are considered durable medical equipment specifically designed for people with mobility challenges. Like recliners, lift chairs also recline, but the difference is that they have a powerful motorized lifting mechanism that can also gently tilt the chair into a standing position. This feature helps users safely transition from a seated to a standing position or vice versa.
2. Positioning
Most standard recliners have limited raise options and two basic positions, namely:
- The upright position
- Reclined position with footrest raised
Lift chairs come in multiple position categories and can accommodate many different needs.
Some examples of lift chairs include:
Infinite-position lift chairs. These models can achieve a zero gravity position, which reduces the pressure on the spine and joints. They are ideal for long-term sitting or sleeping. Equipped with dual motors, they allow the backrest and footrest to function independently.
Two-position lift chairs. These only recline slightly and are ideal for relaxing, watching TV, or reading a book.
Three-position lift chairs. These can recline a little further and often recline almost flat. These chairs are ideal for napping.
3. Safety features
When it comes to safety, the lift chair outshines the regular recliner.
The main reasons that lift chairs are safer than recliners include:
- They have a motorized lifting mechanism that reduces the risk of injury and falls. They assist users to stand without straining their hips, knees, or back.
- Many lift chairs also have a battery backup, ensuring that the lift chair will function even in the event of a power outage.
4. Upholstery
Recliner – Recliners are available in a wide variety of fabrics, leather, and styles to fit within the aesthetic of the home. Recliners focus on aesthetics as opposed to durability.
Lift chair – Lift chairs are also available in a variety of attractive upholstery, but their main objective is to have durable upholstery, as well as being shear and stain-resistant. Medical-grade durability and stain resistance allow the chair to be easily cleaned. Upholstery that is shear-resistant protects the user’s skin, especially if they are using the chair for long periods at a time.
While recliners mainly focus on aesthetics, lift chairs are designed to look stylish and also withstand daily use by people with mobility challenges.
Who Would Benefit From A Lift Chair?
Lift chairs are designed for people who find it challenging to stand up from or sit down in a chair, and are specifically beneficial for individuals who have:
- Muscle weakness, arthritis or joint pain, and those who struggle to stand or sit safely.
- Undergone surgery or medical procedures that require post-operative rest and limited muscle strain.
- Live with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s Disease or Multiple Sclerosis.
- Mobility challenges and the desire to remain at home as long as possible.
Lift chairs benefit individuals by:
- Assisting them to sit down and stand up independently. A lift chair will boost their confidence and reduce their reliance on caregivers and loved ones.
- Lift chairs are safe, and they minimize the risks of falls and injury during transition.
- The adjustable positions reduce pressure on the spine, hips, and knees, and often allow for pain relief.
- Elevating their legs helps alleviate swelling and improve circulation.
- Infinite position lift chairs can also be a comfortable place to sleep, especially for individuals who suffer from breathing difficulties or acid reflux.
Deciding Between A Lift Chair And A Recliner
If you are unsure whether you should purchase a lift chair or a recliner, here are some questions to ask yourself.
If you answer yes to any of these questions, then you should consider purchasing a lift chair:
- Do you or your loved one have difficulty transitioning from seated to standing or vice versa?
- Is Independence important for your daily living, and are you struggling to be independent because you cannot stand or sit without assistance?
- Is safety during the transition from seated to standing and vice versa important to you?
- Will the chair be used for long-term support or recovery from surgery or a medical condition?
Affordable Medical Supplies Top Lift Chair Pick
Affordable Medical Supply is an authorized dealer of Pride Mobility Lift Chairs. When deciding on a lift chair, don’t let the endless possibilities overwhelm you; our expert staff is here to advise and help you choose the perfect chair for your needs.
Pride Mobility lift chairs come in a variety of models, including:
- The Viva lift chair collection, which includes the:
- Ultra collection
- Radiance collection
- Atlas Collection
- Atlas plus collection
- Tranquil 2 collection
- Escape collection
- Metro collection
- Elegance collection
- Urbana collection
- Legacy Collection
- Infinity collection
- Oasis collection
- Heritage collection
- Essential collection
All Pride Mobility Lift Chairs have:
- Multiple sizes and weight capacity options
- Smooth and quiet motors
- Infinite positions, with seat, lumbar, and shoulder support for personalized comfort
- Backup battery systems
- Stylish and durable upholstery
- Reliable warranties and after-sales support
Find The Right Lift Chair At Affordable Medical Supply – Tamarac
At Affordable Medical Supply, we understand the importance of finding the right solution for your unique needs. Our knowledgeable staff are known for their consistent and reliable service, understand that a lift chair is a life-changing furniture item for individuals facing mobility challenges, and are here to guide you every step of the way.
Let us help you choose the perfect lift chair. Call us at 866-484-7599 today.
