Best Lift Chairs for the Elderly

Is a senior you love starting to plop into their easy chair instead of sitting down smoothly? Are they struggling to stand? Or maybe they avoid getting up at all because it’s not worth the trouble… 

As seniors lose strength and flexibility in their knees and hips, getting up from – or sitting down in – a standard chair can become more of a challenge. 

Aside from being uncomfortable, getting up can require a lot of energy. It can be impossible if one has certain health conditions or is recovering from surgery.

Seniors sometimes feel badly about depending on others for help, and physically helping them up can actually endanger the safety of both the senior and their helper.

Lift assist chairs can enable a senior to rise from a seated position independently, safely and without expending too much energy.

There are a lot of choices in lift assist recliners, and they vary widely on all fronts; everything from appearance and size to functionality and extras. 

The best lift chair for a tall person will be very different from the best lift chair for a short person. Need a lift chair that swivels? A lift chair with power headrest? In this guide we’ll help you choose the very best lift chair for an elderly individual based on their needs.

Today’s top pick overall is the Irene House Infinite Position Lift Recliner, but depending on the specific needs of your special senior it may not be the best pick for them. Let’s take a closer look.

Best Lift Chairs for the Elderly: Our Favorites

1. Esright Electric Power Lift Chair Recliner

Best Massage Chair with Lift Assist

Esright Electric Power Lift Chair Recliner

Zero gravity position recliner

This massage chair with lift assist offers a full body vibration massage ergonomically designed for comfort.

The Esright Electric Power Lift Recliner offers a ton of extra features, alongside the ability to assist a senior in lifting themselves into a standing position.

Key Features:

  • Massage and heating capabilities
  • Faux leather upholstery
  • Two cup holders and storage pockets
  • USB charger built-in
  • Single motor where footrest and back rest move in tandem

This lift chair recliner is ergonomically designed for comfort. It offers thick padding beneath its faux leather upholstery for firm, comfortable support and a durable, easy-clean surface.

The Esright Lift Recliner also boasts impressive massage and heating abilities!

It offers eight vibration massage points along with lumbar heating, making it double as a therapeutic chair for elderly individuals. There are several massage rhythms and intensities that can be adjusted, allowing you or a loved one to fine-tune the relaxing massage exactly to your liking.

The heat feature in this chair is another point in its favor, and is well appreciated by those individuals who are frequently cold (a common issue for the elderly) or who enjoy some heat to soothe an achy lower back.

This lift recliner has it all, with two cup holders and side pockets that allow a senior to keep drinks and reading material close at hand. That’s not all though – this impressive lift chair has a USB outlet too that can be used to charge devices like a phone or tablet.

It’s super easy to install too, just taking a reported 15 minutes and not requiring any tools at all!

All in all, this chair offers great quality and features at an affordable price. It should be noted that this chair only has one motor, so the footrest and backrest move in tandem – they cannot be controlled separately.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Easy and tool-free
  • Height: 41.6” 
  • Width: 34.3”
  • Depth 37.6′
  • Arm Length [unspecified]
  • Arm Height: [unspecified]
  • Seat Height: 18.6″
  • Seat Width: 22.2”
  • Seat Length: 25”
  • Reclining Clearance: [unspecified]
  • Reclining Angle: 145 degrees
  • Fully Reclined Length: 59.9″
  • Weight Capacity: 330 lbs

Pros

  • Heated seat
  • Vibration massage
  • Two cup holders and side pockets
  • USB chargers
  • Reportedly quiet motor

Cons

  • Massage feature is somewhat loud
  • Some dislike the lift assist angle

2. Irene House Infinite Position Lift Recliner

Best Infinite Position Lift Recliner
Irene House Dual Motor Lift Chair 4.3-496-182-8 (Brown Faux Leather)

Irene House Infinite Position Recliner

A recliner with infinite positions

This lift assist and recliner in one can lay completely flat!

The Irene House Infinite Position Lift Recliner is a comfortable, durable and attractive lift chair that features an infinite number of positions – it can even lay completely flat for sleeping!

Key Features:

  • Infinite positions
  • Supports up to 300 lbs
  • Convenient side pocket is perfect for storing the controller and other items

About: This Irene House lift chair infinite position recliner boasts a dual motor system, allowing the leg rest and backrest to operate independently. You can adjust the leg rest to the exact position you want, and then move the backrest similarly!

Both motors are reportedly very quiet and smooth. And with the dual motor setup, the backrest can be set at anywhere between 105° to 180°, and the footrest can be set anywhere from 90° to 180°.

The independent extending footrest and reclining option allows a senior to stretch, nap, read, or watch TV all from one chair!

This chair prides itself on its sturdy construction, with a high-quality metal frame – plus, all of the wood boards used in the chair are formaldehyde-free in order to conform to the P2 Requirement of California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Oh and don’t worry, it’s comfortable too! The chair’s comfortable leather cover is soft, breathable, and waterproof, with an extra over-stuffed padding on the armrests, backrest, and seat area. The chair comes with a lumber pillow to better support the waist area, and features an extra-wide backrest.

For bonus features, the Irene House Infinite Position Recliner comes with side pockets as well – perfect for storing reading classes, hearing aids, or a senior’s e-reader!

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Reportedly easy to assemble, not requiring tools
  • Height: 42” H
  • Width: 31” W
  • Length: 36” D
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Width: 22” W
  • Seat Depth: 21” D
  • Seat Height: 19″
  • Maximum Weight: 300 lbs
  • Reclining Clearance: [not specified]
  • Reclining Angle: 180 Degrees
  • Position: Infinite

Pros

  • Infinite positions
  • Can lie completely flat
  • Works great in small spaced

Cons

  • May feel too small for taller users
  • Remote only has up and down icons, no words (which may confuse some seniors)

3. Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Power Lift Recliner

Another Great Pick
Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Faux Leather Electric Power Lift Recliner for Elderly, Brown

Ashley Yandel Power Lift Recliner

Quiet and smooth operation

This power lift chair reclines 180 degrees and includes a battery backup.

The Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Power Lift Recliner is a solid, slow-moving recliner that features dual motors, allowing the footrest and backrest section to elevate or recline independently of one another.

The chair’s saddle brown colored upholstery looks like leather, but is in fact composed of thick poly fiber for a soft, ultra-cozy sensation.

This lift chair features a a high back and thick cushions for additional comfort. But what makes this chair stand out is its slower movement, completing a full recline to lift cycle in one minute. Moving from a recliner to upright position takes 14.5 seconds. This makes this slow-moving chair especially well-suited for elderly seniors, disabled seniors, or nervous seniors who simply prefer the safety and security of a slower-moving lift chair.

Customers also consistently note that this chair’s lift assist position is much higher than shown in the product photos – many note it’s very easy to stand from the chair’s lift position!

Key Features:

  • Dual motors allow footrest and backrest to operate independently
  • Wired control pad features simple, easy-to-use tactile buttons
  • Slow and quiet motor operation
  • Battery backup for power outage (requires two 9-volt batteries)

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Requires some simple assembly
  • Height: 42.5″ H
  • Width: 35” W
  • Length: 40″ D
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: 25′.8′ H
  • Seat Width: 19” W
  • Seat Depth: 21” D
  • Fully Reclined Height: 32.6″
  • Fully Reclined Length: 69.25″
  • Reclining Clearance: 16″
  • Reclining Angle: [not specified] – does not lie flat
  • Position: Reclined, Upright, and Lifting Position

Pros

  • Customers note this chair is super quiet
  • Fans report its comfortable even for taller men
  • Fairly simple to assemble, taking roughly 30 minutes (reported by users)

Cons

  • No massage or heating feature
  • Can’t recline completely flat
  • Requires some assembly (but even older folks note the assembly isn’t too challenging)

4. Chenille Power Lift Assist Recliner

Best Traditional Design
chenille-power-lift

Chenille Power Lift Recliner

Linen-like fabric upholstery

This soft fabric chair offers a simple, traditional design and comfortable materials.

The Chenille Power Lift Assist Recliner wins today’s “Best Traditional Design” distinction due to its classic design and linen-like chenille fabric upholstery. It’s also a stand-up recliner chair that can comfortably accommodate seniors.

The recliner’s chenille fabric can be easily wiped clean with a dry cloth. Chenille is appreciated as a furniture fabric by many for its soft texture and surprising durability. However, it can react poorly if it gets wet. This may not be the best choice for seniors for whom spills or wetness might be a concern.

Key Features:

  • Traditional style
  • Massage capabilities
  • Comfy chenille fabric upholstery
  • Side storage pocket

About: The Chenille Power Lift Assist Recliner features a chaise-style footrest which offers extremely comfortable support along the entire length of the senior’s legs. 

The footrest moves in tandem with the rest of the chair. This makes for a smooth reclining experience, but reclining feet while sitting upright is not an option.

This power lift chair recliner comes with a handy wired remote control which makes it easy to operate for seniors with the touch of a button.

The chair has a massage feature too – perfect for taking the aches out of weary older bodies! It also has extra-thick cushioning and side pockets too.

Assembly is a snap – literally! Simply snap the back of the chair into the seat. No tools required. The chair is heavy (106 pounds) and the delivery box is large, so it’s a good idea to have two people available to move it.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Fairly simple, estimated 15 minutes
  • Height: 40.55”
  • Width: 35″
  • Length: 31.5”
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Width: 21.35″
  • Seat Depth: 20.27″
  • Reclined Depth: 64.56” D
  • Reclining Clearance: [not specified]
  • Reclining Angle: [not specified]
  • Position: 2-Position

5. Jaliyiah Power Lift Assist Recliner

Best Leather Lift Assist Chair
Jaliyiah Power Lift Assist Recliner

Jaliyiah Power Lift Recliner

Fire resistant leathersoft upholstery

This lift recliner is durable with locking rollers feature to facilitate easy movement.

The Jaliyiah Power Lift Assist Recliner is beautifully upholstered in LeatherSoft, a natural leather enhanced with polyurethane for softness and durability.

Key Features:

  • Rollers for easy relocation
  • USB outlet in control pad
  • Fire rated and fire resistant
  • Side pocket for storage

About: The Jaliyiah Recliner is on the smaller side, but still comfortably accommodates seniors up to 5 feet 8 inches and 350 pounds.

Its LeatherSoft upholstery is known for softness and durability. It’s easy to clean using water-free solvent. LeatherSoft can be a bit slippery, so it may not be the ideal choice for an elder who has very weak core muscles or difficulty controlling their trunk.

This recliner is also fire resistant, so it could be a great choice for a senior who smokes.

The Jaliyiah power lift chair recliner features locking rollers so it can easily be moved. This can be extremely helpful, but do take care to keep the rollers locked to prevent accidental movement that could contribute to an elder’s fall.

The footrest comes up before the back reclines, so it is possible for an elder to elevate their legs while remaining upright.

Assembling the Jaliyiah is very easy: simply snap the top into the base of the chair. Since it does have rollers it’s easy to move it around independently. Upon initial delivery it might be helpful to have a second person available to help move the 116 pound box.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Simple 1 person tool free assembly. Top of chair snaps into base. 
  • Height: 57″
  • Width: 33″
  • Length: 67″
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: 23.25″
  • Seat Height: 21″
  • Seat Width: 18″
  • Seat Depth: 21″
  • Reclining Clearance: 27″
  • Reclining Angle: 135 degrees
  • Position: Infinite

Pros

  • Fire rated / fire resistant
  • USB outlet

Cons

  • No battery backup

6. Homall Electric Power Lift Recliner

Most Affordable Lift Assist Chair
Homall Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair Sofa PU Leather Home Recliner for Elderly Classic Lounge Chair Living Room Chair with Safety Motion Reclining Mechanism (Black)

Homall Electric Power Lift Recliner

Small and budget friendly recliner

This comfortable power lift recliner is easy to fit in a room and is light on the wallet

The Homall Electric Power Lift Recliner is a small, budget friendly power lift recliner that offers a narrower, sleeker design.

Key Features:

  • Slimmer design
  • Massage option
  • Side pocket
  • Budget-friendly

About: At less than 80 pounds, this lift assist chair is lighter than many other power lift recliners and can accommodate elders up to 265 pounds. 

This power lift chair for seniors boasts a slimmer design, with a streamlined look that doesn’t have the larger, overstuffed armrests found in many other lift recliners.

The quiet motor allows a senior to easy be reclined or lifted as needed, moving slow and steady. It even comes with some basic massage functionality!

Another nice feature about this recliner is that, although the feet and back are controlled by the same motor, the footrest starts to raise up before the back of the chair reclines. 

This allows for an elder to enjoy elevated feet while still sitting upright – something many lift chairs can’t do.

Overall, this chair might be just the right choice for a smaller senior. The construction and material quality is generally quite good for its cost, but understandably can’t compare with some of the chairs at higher price points.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Reported to be fairly easy, requiring 10 – 20 minutes
  • Height: 41”
  • Width: 25”
  • Depth: 29.5”
  • Seat Height: 17.7”
  • Seat Width: 19.7”
  • Seat Depth: 22”
  • Weight Capacity: 265 lbs
  • Reclining Angle: [not reported[
  • Position: Seated, Reclined, and Lifted

Pros

  • Narrow, streamlined design
  • Massage feature
  • Budget friendly

Cons

  • A few people report receiving pieces that are damaged, but this seems uncommon

7. J&L Furniture Power Lift Chair

Most Color & Fabric Options
JC HOME Palomino Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair Sofa with 8 point Massage and Lumbar heating, Footrest Adjustable for Elderly ,Tan

J&L Furniture Power Lift Chair

Infinite position lift chair with three motors

This power lift recliner features lumbar support controls as well as the ability to operate footrest and back rest separately

Available with several colors of upholstery, the J&L Furniture Power Lift Chair is perfect for seniors who want a lift chair with a pop of color!

Key Features:

  • Several color and fabric options
  • Three motors
  • Infinite positions, with footrest and back rest operating independently
  • Lumbar support controls

In addition to the multiple upholstery colors available like yellow, pink, grey, and green, the J&L Chair also comes in faux leather colors too!

This lift chair boasts not one, not two, but three motors with smooth, whisper-quiet operation. This allows the footrest and backrest to move independently, allowing you to adjust each component to a position that’s perfect for you. In addition, the lumbar support can be controlled via its own motor as well!

Since the sections can be operated independently, this chair has infinite positions, It can lay flat at 180-degrees, up at a seated position, raised at a 45-degree angle with the lift assist function, and anything in-between.

This chair is designed to support seniors up to 300 lbs, and is sized ideally for users between 5’3’’-6′ height. It includes side pockets for easy storage and cup holders too!

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Easy 1 person tool-free assembly (this chair weighs 86 pounds so having a second person available to help move the box or chair may be helpful)
  • Height: 42.9″
  • Width: 36.6″
  • Depth: 39″
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Height: 24″
  • Seat Width: 23′
  • Seat Depth: 21″
  • Reclining Clearance: [not specified]
  • Reclining Angle: up to 180 degrees
  • Position: Infinite

Pros

  • Infinite positions
  • Three motors to operate pieces independently
  • Additional lumbar support

Cons

  • Customers report this chair may be too large for smaller, petite seniors

8. Malvena Power Lift Assist Recliner

Best Chair With USB Charger
Malvena Power Lift Assist Recliner

Malvena Power Lift Recliner

Thickly padded armrests for comfort

This power lift recliner is best for its USB outlet and eight point vibration massage.

The Malvena Power Lift Assist Recliner is a moderately large, comfortable recliner with many extras including a USB outlet, cup holders, heat and massage.

Key Features:

  • USB Outlet
  • Side pocket
  • Dual cup holders
  • Lumbar lower back heat
  • Eight point vibration massage

About: The Malvena power lift recliner comfortably accommodates seniors up to 5 feet 8 inches and 330 pounds. Thickly padded armrests and back make for a plush and comfortable experience.

The recline and lift is controlled via button just below the armrest. The lack of remotes may be handy for seniors who get frustrated or overwhelmed by extra devices and cords. This is also where the USB outlet to charge mobile phones or other devices can be found. 

The Malvena recliner features its Silent Lift Motor for whisper-quiet lift mechanism operation, so it should barely make a peep when it changes position. 

The Malvena recliner offers eight vibration massage points. Two at the upper back, two at the lower back, two at thigh level and two at the lower legs. It also offers heat at the lumbar lower back area.

Its soft, leather-like polyester upholstery resists wetness, staining and fading over time. It can easily be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Easy 1 person, tool free assembly. Top of chair snaps into base. This chair weighs 106 pounds, so it may be helpful to have a second person available to move the box or chair.
  • Height: 41.3″
  • Width: 33.3″
  • Length: 37″
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: 25″
  • Seat Height: 19″
  • Seat Width: 21.25″
  • Seat Depth: 22″
  • Reclining Clearance: 24″
  • Reclining Angle: 150 degrees
  • Position: Infinite

Pros

  • Heat
  • Massage
  • Cup holders
  • USB outlet

Cons

  • No battery backup for power outages

9. Mcombo Power Lift Recliner for Big and Tall People

Best for Large Men
MCombo Large Power Lift Recliner Chair Sofa with Massage and Heat for Big and Tall Elderly People, 3 Positions and USB Ports, Extended Footrest, Fabric 7516 (Large, Coffee)

Mcombo Large Power Lift Recliner

Made for taller users

This power lift recliner is designed for taller users and can accommodate up to 320 pounds.

The Mcombo Power Lift Recliner for Big and Tall People is a big, high-quality, heavy-duty lift chair for larger women and men. This chair provides the user with three positions: a reclined position for resting, a TV-watching position, and a lift assist position.

Key Features:

  • Maximum weight capacity of 320 pounds
  • Dual storage pockets and cup holders
  • Vibration and heating modes
  • Extended backrest
  • Includes USB outlets

The chair is specifically designed for taller individuals, with an extended backrest that boasts a 28.3″ length.

This chair also boasts full-body vibration with 8 different vibration points and a lumber heating point as well. It includes nine different modes and five intensity levels so that you can choose the perfect setting. You can even time the vibration or heating to turn off after ten, twenty, or thirty minutes!

As a bonus, this lift assist chair for tall people also includes dual USB outlets to charge devices like your phone, as well as dual side pockets to storing smaller items like one’s eyeglasses or TV remote control. It even has two cup holders for keeping all your favorite drinks close at hand!

Recommended for seniors with a height between 5’7″-6’2″, this chair may be too large and heavy for some seniors’ needs, but for the big and tall crowd it could be well worth the cost.

Product Specifications:

35.4″(W)x39.8″(L)x44.5″(H)

  • Installation: Reported to be fairly easy – manufacturer claims it will take 15 minutes, but there’s also an option for professional assembly in the home.
  • Height: 44.5″
  • Width: 35.4″
  • Length: 39.8″
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Width: 19.3″-22.8″
  • Seat Depth: 20″
  • Reclining Clearance: 16.5″
  • Reclining Angle: 140 degrees
  • Position: 3 position

Pros

  • Great bonuses like USB outlets, cup holders, and pockets
  • Heat and vibration options
  • Extended backrest for taller seniors

Cons

  • No dual motors – leg rest and backrest move in coordination
  • Heat and vibration cannot work together – you can only use one option at a time
  • Some complain the footrest isn’t long enough – for a longer footrest, try their extended footrest model (which unfortunately doesn’t include heat or vibration)

10. JC HOME Palomino Electric Power Lift Recliner

JC HOME Palomino Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair Sofa with 8 point Massage and Lumbar heating, Footrest Adjustable for Elderly ,Tan

JC HOME Palomino Power Lift Recliner

Simple yet high quality recliner

This power recliner runs on a quiet motor operation with full leg support.

The JC HOME Palomino Electric Power Lift Recliner is classic-looking recliner and features high quality construction with solid lumbar heating and massage features. It’s upholstered in a soft yet durable fabric that resembles leather.

Key Features:

  • 8-point massage function with lumbar heating
  • Classic design

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Easy, simple setup
  • Height: 41.3”
  • Width: 37.4”
  • Length: 32.6”
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Width: [not specified]
  • Seat Depth: [not specified]

Pros

  • Fairly affordable compared to other chairs
  • Massage and lumbar heating

Cons

  • Not as much manufacturer information provided

11. Golden Technologies Comforter Lift Chair

Comforter Lift Chair

Golden Technologies Lift Chair

Quality and comfortable lift chair

This comforter lift chair provides full chaise leg support and a battery backup.

Golden Technologies has a well-earned reputation for quality power lift chairs. Golden Technologies products have been impressing users for many years and have garnered some of the best lift chair reviews. 

This Comforter Lift Chair offers excellent lumbar support, extended length leg rests and several extra design features to ensure safe, dependable performance over years of use.

Key Features:

  • Full chaise leg support
  • Dual motors support a maximum weight capacity of 500 pounds
  • Battery backup for power outage

This model of the Golden Technologies Comforter Lift Chair best fits people who are 5’ 4” to 5’ 10” tall. This Golden lift chair 500 lb capacity is due in part to its dual motor design.

Users over the years appreciate its comfort, durability and smooth, quiet motor operation.

The Golden Technologies Comforter Lift Chair comes upholstered in soft, durable polyester in a selection of rich color choices including palomino brown, admiral blue, evergreen, cabernet and champagne. 

Assembly isn’t difficult: a few cords will need to be connected and the top of the chair will need to be attached to the base using the included wrench. For an additional charge, Golden Technologies will send a serviceperson to assemble and set up the recliner and remove all packing materials with their “White Glove Delivery and Setup” option.

The Golden Technologies recliner is at a higher price point than some of the other recliners in this round up, but the quality construction and craftsmanship, along with its 3 year warranty, justify the higher cost for many individuals. For seniors seeking a heavy duty lift chair with lumbar support, this could be a good choice.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Moderate assembly. 2 people are suggested for moving the chair.
  • Height: 42”
  • Width: 32.5”
  • Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Height: 19.5”
  • Seat Width: 21”
  • Seat Depth: 21”
  • Reclining Clearance: 17”
  • Reclining Angle: 145 degrees
  • Position: 3-Position

Pros

  • Durable and built to high quality standards
  • Dual motors
  • Safely accommodates seniors up to 500 pounds
  • Array of color choices

Cons

  • Higher price point than some other options

12. Serta Brookfield Power Three Position Lift Chair

Serta Brookfield Power Chair

Serta Brookfield Power Chair

Gel infused memory foam

This power lift chair provides great comfort for all body shapes and includes a LED hand control.

This Serta Brookfield Power Three Position Lift Chair features gel infused memory foam to relieve pressure on the arms, seat and full chaise ottoman.

Key Features:

  • Weight capacity: 375 pounds
  • LED Hand control with USB outlet
  • Side storage pocket
  • Gel infused memory foam for pressure relief

About: This Serta Brookfield Power Lift Chair best accommodates seniors between 5’ 4” and 5’10” who weigh up to 375 pounds. Webbed internal supports help to ensure a comfortable fit for all body shapes.

Memory foam infused with gel is used throughout to ensure comfortable pressure relief on the arms, seat and ottoman. The full chaise ottoman provides continuous support and comfort along the length of the leg with no break between the seat and footrest.

The power lift chair motor is designed for smooth, quiet operation and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

The Serta Brookfield Power Lift Chair comes with an ergonomically designed control wand. The wand includes a USB outlet so seniors can conveniently charge their mobile phones or devices from their recliner.

It is available in four rich hues: Chocolate, Forest, Ocean or Wine.

This power lift chair is designed to meet high standards of quality construction for lasting durability.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: [not specified]
  • Height: 33”
  • Width: 37”
  • Length: 30”
  • Arm Length: [not specified]
  • Arm Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Height: [not specified]
  • Seat Width: 21”
  • Seat Depth: 20”
  • Reclining Clearance: 17”
  • Reclining Angle: [not specified]
  • Position: 3-Position

Pros

  • USB Outlet
  • Whisper-quiet motor
  • Quality craftsmanship

Cons

  • Higher price point

Budget-Friendly Lift Recliner Chair Alternatives

The following options may be helpful for seniors who may be on a tight budget, who need to simply raise the height of an existing recliner a bit, or who are looking for a portable lift chair solution.

13. Recliner Risers

Recliner Risers

Recliner Risers

Inexpensive and budget friendly riser

This riser increases existing recliner by 1.75 inches to work well with the senior’s needs.

Far less expensive than the cost of a lift assist recliner, these Recliner Risers may be a smart option for seniors who have a recliner that works well for their needs, but needs to be heightened.

Key Features:

  • Increases the height of an existing recliner
  • Non-slip pads prevent marking the floor

About: The Recliner Risers come in a set of four and are installed on the legs of a senior’s existing recliner to raise its height by 1.75 inches. Because it also neutralizes the forward tilt, the chair is effectively raised 4-6 inches in all.

The forward tilt can create difficulties for some seniors in their ability to rise safely. Neutralizing the tilt can make a big difference for these seniors. 

A chair’s height makes a difference in how easy it is to stand, according to studies on seating for elders. It reduces the amount of strength and flexibility needed in the hips and knees to stand independently.

The Recliner Risers will not interfere with rocking or reclining and they feature slip resistant padded bottoms for safety and to prevent marks on the floor.

Product Specifications:

  • Installation: Quick installation using supplied wood screws and velcro
  • Height: 2”
  • Width: 6”
  • Length: 2”

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Can improve comfort, ease and safety of standing for some seniors

Cons

  • Only works with recliners that have wooden legs

14. Sit N Stand Portable Seat Lift

sitnstand

SitnStand Portable Smart-Rising Seat

Portable smart-rising inflatable chair lift

This inflatable seat lift can turn nearly any standard chair into a lift chair through air-filled pockets

The SitnStand is a portable, smart-rising inflatable lift aid. With this tool, you can turn nearly any standard chair into a hassle-free lift chair!

Key Features:

The SitnStand Portable Rising Seat is a high-tech portable alternative to standard lift recliner chairs, using inflatable pockets that can electronically be filled and deflated with air as needed.

This travel lift chair aid is extremely easy to use, requiring no assembly or frustrating installation. Just use the simple up and down buttons to inflate or deflate the cushion steadily as is required to sit down or stand up.

The inflatable pad is compatible with most chairs, including non-lifting recliners, armchairs, standard chairs, and even couches and sofas!

The device offers four inflating height levels, allowing for a variety of lift positions depending on your height and need. It’s approved to lift adults weighing up to 265 lbs.

While the SitnStand is great for a variety of situations, it’s especially well-suited to travel, weighing only 6.6 lbs total – that includes with the carrying bag, battery, and charger! Plus, the cushion seat is removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.

Pros

  • Easily portable and ultra-lightweight
  • Comes with carrying case

Cons

  • Fairly expensive – not a ton cheaper than a standard lift chair

15. Uplift Premium Power Seat Lift

Uplift Premium Power Seat Lift

Uplift Power Seat Lift

Portable electric lift assistance

This power seat lift fits most sofas intended to safely lift seniors in almost any chair.

The Uplift Premium Power Seat Lift offers portable electric lift assistance in almost any chair at a price point lower than buying a new lift recliner. It is a recipient of the Arthritis Foundation’s Ease-of-Use Commendation.

Key Features:

  • Memory foam core for comfort and pressure reduction
  • Ergonomic handles for easy portability
  • Fits in most sofas and armchairs
  • Washable fabric covering

The Uplift Premium Power Seat Lift features a powerful motor that can safely and smoothly lift a senior weighing up to 300 pounds. 

Seniors have been using the Uplift for years and especially appreciate its high degree of portability. It features two ergonomic handles for easy carrying. It can be placed in a dining chair, on a sofa or at a friend’s home; anywhere there is an electrical outlet.

Some users have mentioned that the seat isn’t as comfortable as sitting directly on furniture. It is available in either 20” or 17” width and users generally recommend sizing up to the 20” in most cases. However, smaller elders, or those using the Uplift in a small chair, may prefer the 17” size. 

Be aware that a chair with seat lift will be a few inches higher than one without. This may mean that the senior is sitting nearly level with shorter armrests. For this reason, users recommend placing it in a chair with higher armrests when possible.

The Premium Power Seat Lift features a memory foam core to reduce pressure. It can easily be wiped down for cleaning. The zippered comfort mesh cover allows for increased air flow. It is both waterproof and washable. 

Pros

  • Easily portable

Cons

  • Less comfortable than many recliners or sofas
  • The Uplift doesn’t fit well in some recliners when they are in the reclined position

The Four Types of Lift Chairs

There are four basic types of lift chair recliners: two-position, three-position, infinite position and zero-gravity. 

The name of each type of lift chair actually refers to how far back the chair can recline. It doesn’t refer to any set number of positions. Most electric power chairs can be stopped at any desired point between their maximum standing and recline angles.

Two Position Lift Chairs

Two position lift chairs offer two primary positions: sitting and standing. Most do recline slightly as well, to about 45 degrees. This can be a comfortable position for individuals to lean back with their feet up a bit while reading or watching TV.  

Three Position Lift Chairs

Three position chairs offer standing, sitting and reclining positions. These power lift chairs can usually recline quite a bit, almost to a flat position. 

The footrest and back are typically controlled by the same motor in three position chairs, so they cannot be controlled independently of one another. 

Some of these chairs do raise the footrest quite a bit before starting to recline back, so in some cases this might work out for individuals who like to elevate their feet while sitting upright.  

Infinite Position Lift Chairs

Infinite position lift chairs often recline to a full flat position (180 degrees), or close to it. They often will have separate motors for the back recline and footrest so that they can be controlled independently of each other. 

Seniors seeking a chair suitable for napping will likely be most happy with an infinite position chair. 

Zero-Gravity Position Chairs

The zero gravity position was initially researched and developed by NASA in order to reduce the amount of compression stress placed on astronauts’ bodies during the launch process. 

Essentially the knees and hips are slightly bent and the feet are at heart level or a bit higher. This position has been shown to offer a myriad of health benefits, including relief of pressure on the spine and joints, improved circulation and increased lung capacity. 

Features to Consider in a Lift Assist Chair

Consider the following features while shopping for a lift assist recliner.

Foot Rest Elevation

Many recliners have only one motor and so it controls the footrest and the recline simultaneously. Some seniors like to be able to elevate their feet while remaining upright, so be sure to look at this closely if it’s a priority in your situation.

Be sure to consider as well how high you’d like to elevate the footrest. It could be a matter of comfort or of health. Some seniors have circulatory issues or other conditions that require them to elevate their feet above heart level.

Massage & Heating Functions

There are many types of massage chair technologies on the market, including vibration, rolling, kneading, compression and others. High end massage chairs tend to cost between five to fifteen thousand dollars. Some lift recliner chairs do have massage features built in.

Some power lift chairs have massage points in the lower back, and others feature points throughout the entire body.  Some also feature heating points in the back which can promote muscle relaxation or simply just create a comfortable feeling of warmth.

In addition to point placement, look for adjustable massage modes and levels of intensity. 

Reclining Clearance and Fit

Lift recliners vary tremendously in size as well as in how much space they require to recline. Most cannot sit next to a wall and will need 18 inches or more of clearance.

Remember to check the dimensions of any doorways that the recliner will need to pass through on its way to where it will be set up. 

Chair Size and Dimensions

Recliners come in a wide range of sizes, so pay attention to the recommended high and low recommended user sizes

While a senior may be able to utilize a chair that is outside of their recommended range in some cases, they may be sacrificing more than just comfort. 

It can be unsafe for small individuals whose feet don’t reach the floor from a sitting position, while allowing the feet of a tall senior to protrude off the end of a footrest could cause circulation concerns.

Pay attention to the height, width and depth of the chair’s seat, and the height of armrests to ensure a comfortable fit for the senior’s body size and personal preferences. Do they prefer a soft plushy feel or firmer, more supportive cushioning? Keep all these individual preferences in mind while shopping for power lift chairs!

In many cases, an elder’s chair measurements can be taken easily using a measuring tape. There are five main measurements to keep in mind.

Seat Height

Measure from the bottom of the foot to the inner knee. 

Measure both legs in case there is a difference. If there is more than an inch or two of difference, consult a professional therapist for recommendations.

Seat Width

Measure the widest part of the senior’s hips, buttocks, thighs or knees (whichever is the widest) to determine the minimum seat width. 

Take measurements from the outermost point on one side to the outermost point on the other.

It can be helpful to have someone hold a book, or other thin rigid object, upright at these outermost points for easy measurement.

Seat Depth

Measure from the back of the senior’s buttocks to the inner knee and then allow two additional inches to prevent issues caused by friction or pressure. 

Measure both sides as sometimes leg length can vary from side to side. 

Armrest Height

Armrests should be high enough to allow the senior to sit upright with shoulders relaxed and level (not pushed up towards their ears) when their forearms rest on the armrest at a 90 degree angle. 

Measure the distance from the bottom of the arm to the seat of the chair.

Back Height

Back height is measured from the top of the person’s head to the seat of the chair.

It might be a good idea to request the assistance of a licensed physical or occupational therapist to ensure exactly the right measurements are obtained. 

Professional therapists can also identify any need for additional postural support and make appropriate recommendations. This can make a big difference in a senior’s comfort as well as the rate their physical mobility and health may decline, or not.

It is an especially good idea to consult a physical therapist if:

  • The senior has difficulty shifting their own body weight in a chair, which puts them at risk for pressure injuries.
  • Part of the senior’s body is paralyized or contracted, such as after a stroke.
  • The senior walks with a limp.
  • The senior’s body posture is not symmetrical 
  • The senior’s knees both lean to the same side when they are sitting.

Maximum Weight Capacity

Never exceed the recommended weight capacity in a lift recliner. Doing so can void the warranty, burn out the motor, and worse, put the senior’s safety at risk.

Pockets and Storage

Pockets on the sides of the chair can really come in handy for tucking away control pads and conveniently storing magazines, reading glasses and other items .

Color and Style

Obviously color and style are big considerations when it comes to a significant piece of furniture like a recliner. This can make a big difference in the ambiance of a room.

Fabric and Upholstery

The fabric and upholstery should be a primary consideration. Going far beyond its impact on the room’s ambiance, it can make a big difference to a senior’s comfort and even hygiene.

If incontinence or frequent spills is a concern it may make sense to look for vinyl or leather blend or coverings, or one that has been treated to repel wetness. 

However if overheating or sweating is a factor, a cooler, softer fabric option may be preferable. 

Also consider cleaning recommendations and fabric durability when making your selection.

Battery Backup

A smart feature to look for is a battery backup so that, if the power should go out the chair can be returned from a reclined position to its default seated one. 

Battery backups are generally intended for one use only and then require replacement. They are not intended to operate the chair, but in an emergency could make a huge difference in getting a person out of the recliner, especially in regions where power outages are not uncommon.

Assembly and Delivery

Most lift recliners are delivered with some assembly required. Sometimes this is as easy as snapping the top half of the chair into the bottom half, but in other cases it can be more involved. 

Often the weight of the chair is more of an issue than the assembly itself, so having two people available for that reason often makes sense even if the assembly itself is easy. 

Depending on delivery options, it’s possible to end up with a large 100+ pound box sitting on your curbside or bottom of your stairs. Pay attention to delivery dates and options to ensure that you are setting yourself up for a smooth, successful experience.

Some companies offer enhanced delivery, assembly and setup, which can be worth the added expense in some cases.

Warranty

As with any significant purchase, consider the length (or lack) of warranty – and specifically which part(s) are covered – when making your selection. 

Pay attention to the terms of the warranty. Sometimes activities such as exceeding weight recommendations or placing the recliner too near a wall (exceeding clearance recommendations) can void a warranty.

Lift Chair FAQs

Are lift chairs dangerous?

There are a lot of reasons why a lift assist might be a great choice for an elder. It can enhance waning mobility, conserve valuable energy, aid in recovery following surgery and protect caregivers from the dangers of injury while lifting.

There are just a few situations that deserve special consideration.

Certain elders with advanced dementia – those who cannot remember how to safely operate a lift recliner but will still try – can be injured if they try to get up from a reclined position or if they slide out of the chair while it’s in a standing position. 

Many people with dementia can benefit from a lift recliner, so you will need to evaluate your senior’s individual situation and weigh any risks against the benefits.

In addition, many elders have arthritis or other health conditions that may make getting up tiring or uncomfortable. However, in some cases they can actually retain their strength and ability better if they continue to push themselves to the extent they can safely do so.

Once someone stops using their strength it can quickly devolve and can be extremely hard to regain what is lost. Be sure that the senior knows that they should only lift the chair to the extent they need – which can vary from morning to night or from day to day.

This could mean using the lift function only to a percentage of its full capability so that they receive just the help they need while still engaging their muscles to the extent they can. 

A physical therapist can offer for individualized recommendations for safe and comfortable transfers and strength maintenance. Talk to your doctor about whether physical therapy might be a good idea in your case.

What is the average cost of a lift assist chair?

The cost of a lift chair can vary tremendously from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

Size, quality craftsmanship, and extra features can all affect the overall price. 

Be sure to consider how much chair you actually need and how long you foresee using it. If a senior uses it regularly, it may be worth paying a little extra to ensure it is the right pick.

Are lift assist chairs covered by Medicare?

A portion of the cost of a lift chair may be covered by Medicare as Durable Medical Equipment, or DME, under certain conditions.

For example, a doctor would need to certify that the lift chair was medically necessary and other interventions, such as therapy, have already been attempted. 

Discuss your situation with your doctor and Medicare representative ahead of buying a lift chair to determine whether you might be a candidate for coverage.

So, which is the best power lift assist chair?

For a senior seeking a quality lift chair at a reasonable price point, our top pick is the Irene House Infinite Position Lift Recliner. The Irene House Chair is very well made in its own right. It includes dual motors and can recline 180 degrees into a fully flat position.

This makes it the best lift chair for sleeping in today’s roundup.

An Honorable Mention…

An honorable mention goes out to the Mcombo Power Lift Recliner for Big and Tall People, a hefty durable lift chair which offers heat, massage, built-in cup holders, USB-charging ports, and quality craftsmanship. 

Do you have a favorite lift assist chair you want to recommend? Tell us your favorites in the comments!

Last update on 2022-01-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

2 thoughts on “Best Lift Chairs for the Elderly”

  1. Please recommend Best rated lift chair with the following options.

    Auto Lift, power adjustable head and lumbar, feet/lower legs up while sitting up, 3 reclining positions Also lying flat option, swivel, rock. Micro suede

    Reply

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