Choosing A Lift Chair
For some people, getting up from a sitting position can be quite
a chore. Lift chairs help in this regard. In today's modern
world, lift chairs offer those who have difficulty sitting down
and getting up from sitting the opportunity to live normal lives
even with their disability.
There are many reasons why people have difficulty getting into
and out of a sitting position. Some suffer from arthritis, and
getting up from a sitting position is all but impossible for
them. Many of those who are advanced in age show signs of muscle
weakening and difficulty in moving about. This is to be expected
as people age. However, without assistance, life for these
people becomes extremely inconvenient and, at time,
embarrassing.
To help make their lives easier, lift chairs were invented. Lift
chairs are furnitures that make getting into and out of a
sitting position easier. They are made of usual couch material
and may look like a normal couch. They, however, have built in
motors that change the position of the seat that helps the user
as he moves to stand up. The contraption is activated by buttons
on the seat or on a remote control. When the user wants to sit
down, all he or she has to do is lean weight on the seat. This
triggers a mechanism that lowers the user into sitting position.
The mechanism of these chairs prevents users from flopping down
unceremoniously on the couch. It provides stability and support
for the sitting and standing movement.
There are many reasons why one would want to use a lift chair.
As mentioned earlier, one of the reasons one would want to use
lift chairs is arthritis. Other diseases include Parkinson's,
Lou Gehrig's and other mobility limiting conditions.
People who suffer from other conditions such as knee and hip
problems also need lift chairs - as do people who have had
accidents, muscular weakness, or even advanced age. For these
people lift chairs present the best way to continue living a
functional life. They will also be less dependent on other
people to get around their homes.
Lift chairs also help caregivers. Instead of having to carry
their patients in and out of their chairs, their patients can
now be assisted by automatic lift chairs. This helps them avoid
getting fatigued and sore from carrying their patients.
Lift chairs come in different styles, colors and functionalities
- and yes prices. At first sight, lift chairs will resemble
normal upholstered chairs. They look like your typical sofa,
recliner, or chair. Some even double as beds. If you are to buy
such furnitures, make sure you choose one that fits the needs of
its user. If he or she is more comfortable with a recliner or
chair, then by all means consider that style for him or her.
You should also consider the fabric for the lift chair you wish
to purchase. Some patients have sensitive skin conditions. You
should take this into consideration when choosing a lift chair.
Leather might irritate some, while some might be irritated by
fur. A good knowledge of your patient will assist your decision.
You should also consider the size and height of the chair. Its
dimensions should match the needs of its user. When shopping for
a lift chair, it is important to consider the size and height of
the individual who will be using the chair. If it is too small
the chair will be uncomfortable for the user. If it is too
large, the user might feel the same way.
Consider also the weight of the user. Lift chairs can carry
large loads but you must make sure the brand you choose can
handle the weight of its user.
Lift chairs are usually plugged into your typical electric
outlet. There are versions, however, that can operate on battery
packs. This makes them convenient even in the event of a power
black out.
There are also brands that have massage units and heating
implements. If your patient needs these features, you can have
them installed too.