Lift Chairs |
Those who have conditions such as Lou Gehrig's disease, Parkinson's disease, arthritis or other debilitating health conditions often find that simple activities such as rising from an easy chair can be challenging endeavors. In addition, the elderly, or those who are obese may also experience difficulties when performing such tasks. In certain instances, a person may be faced with the possibility of having to give up his or her freedom and independence, and seek residence in an assisted living facility. However, simple devices such as lift chairs can offer an alternative to supervised car, and allow one to stay in an independent environment.
Maintaining Independence
Maintaining independence can be a daunting task for those with mobility restrictions. However, in today's modern times, many helpful devices have been invented to help individuals do just that. As previously mentioned, a lift chair is one such tool that has helped countless people who have problems reaching a sitting position or rising to their feet. Also called power lift chairs, electric lift chairs or recliner chairs, the handy devices can make life a bit more enjoyable for those with physical limitations.Most lift chair models are designed to look just like a traditional easy chair or armchair. However, such chairs feature a special mechanism that elevates the individual to a standing position by the press of a button. This is accomplished by an electric motor located at the chair's base, which raises the entire chair, as well as its occupant, in a slow and safe manner until the person has reached an upright position. Lift chairs can be used just like a recliner as well, and these positions can also be reached by simply pressing the appropriate button.
Selecting a Suitable Model
When the decision has been made to acquire a lift chair, care must be taken to choose the most suitable model. In order to do this appropriately, one should take several aspects into consideration. These factors include the material from which the chair is made, the chair's aesthetic appeal, and the height and weight of the individual for whom the chair is intended.It is also essential that one attempt to select the best type of upholstery when choosing a lift chair model. Those with limited mobility should consider a chair that is upholstered with an easy to clean fabric, or stain resistant material. Alternatively, one can choose a leather or suede chair; however, such models are typically more expensive.
Click here to learn more about Lift Chair Types.
Some of the most popular brands of Lift Chairs are made by the following companies:
Additional Features
Most lift chairs come with a battery, which allows the chair to stay functional even during a power outage. Models can also be purchased that feature a massage roller. Additionally, some lift chair models have a heating element, which is sometimes quite helpful for those with certain joint or muscle problems.
Quality of Life
Over the years, modern inventions such as the lift chair have revolutionized the lives of elderly persons, as well as those with physical limitations. Such devices make the lives of such individuals, and the lives of their relatives, more enjoyable and comfortable.Lift Chair Benefits
Lift chairs are used most frequently by those who wish to enjoy their home or apartment more fully. However, there are also chair models that are designed to help individuals with activities of daily living such as bathing. Bath lift chairs are an option for those who have trouble getting in and out of the bathtub.A bath lift chair features a similar mechanism to that of a standard lift chair, and will lower the individual into the bathtub, as well as return him or her to an upright position afterwords.
Safety Considerations
In addition, the chair will not continue to rise if the person has pushed the button only once, rather, he or she must hold the button down in order for the chair to continue adjusting itself to an upright position. This ensures that no injuries will occur if the button is bumped or pressed by accident.
Financing
There are certain people who may desire a lift chair, but find that such devices are out of reach financially. If this is the case, one may wish to inquire about financing or other avenues through which it may be possible to acquire such a chair. Fortunately, certain resources are available for individuals who need financial assistance in order to obtain a lift chair. One alternative is the Veterans Administration, where help may be available. Their website is www.va.gov. Other websites where one can inquire about financing programs or other types of assistance include www.genome.gov and www.direct.gov.uk.Renting a Lift Chair
This is an ideal option for those who need such a chair immediately, but cannot afford to purchase on outright. In addition, it is a wise choice for a person who only needs this type of chair for a short time, such as someone who is recovering from an accident, but who will soon be mobile again. Most rental companies will install the lift chair for an individual, as well as demonstrate how the chair should be used, which many people find extremely beneficial.
A person should always sit down and weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision about whether to rent or purchase a lift chair. It may also be a good idea to consider the possibility of acquiring a chair from a rent-to-own company, where one's monthly payments will go toward the price of the chair should he or she decide to buy it outright. Another advantage of renting such a chair is the fact that one can try the model out before making a final decision about whether or not to make a purchase.
Contract Considerations
When the decision has been made to rent a lift chair, it is essential that one carefully read all the fine print in the rental agreement, in order to avoid confusion or misunderstandings. It is also wise to uncover any hidden fees or extra costs over and above those listed on the company's website or in its brochure. The whole idea of renting a chair is to save money, therefore it is wise to consider any and all fees before making a final decision about whether or not to pursue this option. Some people may also be happy to discover that in addition to lift chairs, there are other mobility aids in which one can invest, such as stair lifts and adjustable beds.Used Lift Chairs
Another alternative one may wish to consider is purchasing a used lift chair. Although his or her options may be somewhat limited with regard to color and style, the difference in price may make it possible for one to acquire such a chair, when before it may have been completely out of reach due to cost.Lift Chair Repair And Troubleshooting
Most people would agree that an essential part of owning a lift chair is proper maintenance. The following are several common problems and their remedies.- Chair does not work in any capacity: Check for an appropriate power source.
- Chair is in down or full tilted position and will not move: The hand control or switch may need to be replaced
- Chair works for only a few cycles then stops: Allow the chair to sit for a few minutes,as the thermal switch may have overheated
- Chair will only recline or lift when it is not occupied:
- The gears or motor may need to be replaced. If this is the case, it is wise to avail oneself to the services of a professional electrician in this case.
- Motor runs but the chair remains stationary: Could be defective motor nut threads or gears.