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If you ever have, or currently suffer from mobility problems then you’ll know how difficult it can be to do things on your own. In many instances, this can even include basic activities such as getting in and out of a chair without waiting for someone to assist you.
It’s with this in mind that many mobility sufferers are opting for the benefits that an electric lift chair provides. If you’re not entirely sure how these chairs work and why they’re so popular, then this post is a must-read.
The Lift Chair Concept Explained
Typically, electrical lift chairs or lift recliners as they’re also called feature a powerlifting mechanism that pushes the entire chair up from its base. This means that when the user is in the chair, the mechanism can assist the user in a standing position.
An empty chair is raised to meet the user halfway, which means there is no need to bend your back or knees, or place pressure on your knees to sit down. With this mechanism, a person won’t need to wait for someone to be around to assist.
Many Good Reasons to Invest in a Lift Chair
There are many reasons why anyone may suffer from mobility issues. Age, injury, or disability are the most common instances that could make getting up and sitting down more difficult. With this in mind, here are a few of the top reasons why investing in a lift chair is a good idea, no matter what your age or health status.
1. Enables the User to Get Up and Sit Down Unaided
The number one reason why lift chairs are so popular is that they help users get up and sit down without additional strain. It’s as simple as pressing a button on a remote and you’ll be able to get the chair to meet you halfway.
Whether you’re at home recovering from recent surgery, or you have more permanent mobility issues, you will be able to get up and sit down when you need to. There’s no need to call someone to assist you. Lift chairs are an excellent way for users to regain some of the independence they may have lost.
2. Promotes Overall Circulation and Posture Support
You can also opt to invest in a lift chair even when you don’t suffer from any mobility issues. This type of seating has been designed to minimise swelling in your legs and feet and also reduce the formation of varicose veins.
By choosing a setting where your feet are in an elevated position, your legs will not only feel more comfortable, but you will also encourage better overall blood circulation. Ideally, you should place your feet at least 10cm above your heart level. Getting your chair into this position is as easy as using your remote to choose the right setting.
Uncomfortable chairs can be detrimental to your muscles and joints. Choosing the comfort of a lift chair will reduce the risk of skeletal joint degeneration, also called osteoarthritis, and muscle fatigue from sitting in an uncomfortable position for too long. These chairs are designed to alleviate pain in your neck, back, and shoulders.
3. Reduces the Risk of Injury to Another Person
In many cases, a person with mobility issues may have a carer looking after them. Whether this is a healthcare professional or simply a member of the family, there’s always the risk of one or both parties getting hurt when they’re to lift the person out of the chair.
This issue is reduced quite significantly when you’re using a lift chair. Instead of trying to “pick you up out of” the chair, your carer will simply be able to guide you out as the chair does all the heavy lifting. Many users report being able to get out of their lift recliner and into their wheelchairs without needing additional assistance from another person.
4. Can Assist With Recovery and Sleeping
Sometimes, mobility issues are temporary and happen as a result of injury or surgery. In this case, the user will benefit from the chair’s ergonomic design, additional spinal support, and varied seating options.
Since these chairs are also super comfortable to sleep in, there’s no need to get up and go to your room when you feel like having a nap. All you have to do is choose the most comfortable position for your nap, and if your legs are elevated correctly, you may never want to sleep anywhere else!
Final Thoughts
Mobility issues make moving around difficult or in some cases impossible. While the lift chair can’t make moving around any easier, it can surely reduce the pressure on your joints when you need to sit down or stand up.
With the comfort levels on offer, you’ll also be able to sleep, take short naps, or remain in the chair for extended periods without feeling uncomfortable. Using the chair ensures that you will easily be able to get up and sit down without needing another person. You’ll wish that you invested in one sooner!
Photo by IMG Comfort