Best Power Lift Chairs for Seniors
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Being able to unwind on a comfortable chair after a long day on your feet is one of life’s pleasures. If however you suffer with impaired mobility, or you’re unsteady on your feet, trying to get in and out of a regular couch or chair can prove challenging, uncomfortable and it can be a painful experience.
For anyone that struggles to get in and out of a chair, or who finds it a challenge to stay comfortable while sitting, may want to consider using a powered lift recliner. This type of chair can recline with just a simple click of a button, allowing you to sit back comfortably with your feet up and rest those weary limbs. Afterwards, the chair will lift you to a standing position so you can easily get out of the chair without requiring any assistance.
A lift recliner can prove a real lifesaver especially for seniors or for anyone that suffers with a disability that impacts their mobility. Choosing the right lift chair recliner can be an overwhelming experience though, due to the sheer number of different models that are available. In this article we will explain what the main benefits of a lift recliner are, what factors you should look out for when deciding on the perfect recliner for you. Finally, we will review some of the best recliners that are available to suit different user’s needs.
Lift Recliner Comparison Chart
Domesis Renu Leather Wall Hugger Lift Recliner | Ashley Furniture Lift Recliner | Irene House Lift Recliner | Mcombo Lift Recliner | Mega Motion Infinite Position Lift Recliner | |
  |   |   |   |   | |
Chair Dimensions | 30" W x 33" D 28.75" H | 35" W x 40" D x 42.5" H | 33'' W x 38.5'' D x 42.5" H | 34.6" W x 30.7" D x 41" H | 34.00" W x 42.50" D x 43.50" H |
Seat Dimensions | 20.5" D x 18.5" W x 20" H | 21" D x 19" W x 20.5" H | 22.5'' D x21'' W x 20'' H | 20.5" D x 17.7" W x 20.00" H | 21.50" D x 21.00" W x 20.00" H |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 320 lbs | 325 lbs |
Fabric Type | Faux Leather | Faux Leather | Leather or Linen Options | Faux Leather | Polyester knit fabric |
Motor Type | Single-Motor | Dual-Motor | Dual-Motor | Dual-Motor | Dual-Motor |
Number of Positions | 2 | 3 | Infinite | 3 | Infinite |
Battery Back-Up? | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Additional Features | Vibrating, heat, dual USB ports, cup holders | ||||
Chair Weight | 110.66 lbs | 132 lbs | 121.2 lbs | 110 lbs | 132 lbs |
Rating | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 4.0 |
Price |
What is a Lift Chair Recliner?
A lift recliner also known as a riser recliner is an electronically powered chair that can recline to different seating positions. A riser can also slowly lift from a seated to an almost vertical position allowing the user to stand up more easily without requiring additional assistance to get out of the chair.
A lift recliner is operated via a simple to use handset which controls the chair’s motorized tilting mechanism. Depending on the recliner, it may have a single, dual, or up to four motors. The more motors a riser has, the more positions the chair will be able to achieve.
What Are the Benefits of a Lift Recliner?
A lift recliner can offer a range of benefits for seniors, these include such things as:
Allows the User to Sit and Stand-Up More Easily
Trying to get up from a seated to a standing position is often a struggle for anyone with balance issues, or for those suffering with reduced lower mobility. This can sometimes result in falls as the user may not have sufficient strength to leverage themselves out of a chair or they may simply overbalance.
One in four Americans suffers a fall each year (source) which can result in serious injuries. Lift recliners can help to reduce the risk of some of these falls.
A lift recliner is designed to assist the user in standing up as well as sitting down with a touch of a button without needing to put undue stress on their lower body, therefore requiring very little effort on their part to get in and out of a chair.
Enhanced Comfort When Sitting
The over 65’s have the most sedentary lifestyle of any age group. They spend on average, 10 hours per day sitting or lying down.
Having a chair that is comfortable for seniors and those suffering with disabilities which require them to sit down for longer, is vital. A recliner that allows someone to adopt a more comfortable position, not only allows them to take the strain off their joints while they sit back and relax, but it also helps to reduce the risk of developing pressure sores.
Recliners can adopt a range of different positions, this allows the user to perform a number of activities comfortably without having to strain such as reading, watching TV and lying back to take a nap.
Promotes Independence
Being able to get out of a recliner without requiring additional assistance means the user does not need to rely on anyone else to help them get out or into a chair. This not only allows them greater independence around the home, especially for those who live alone, but it can also provide extra piece of mind for family members as well.
Promotes a Better Seating Position and Alleviate Aches and Pains
Adopting a good seating posture is important especially for seniors who often spend extended periods sitting down. A bad posture can put undue stress on the user’s spine which can cause back pain and aggravate previous back injuries.
Recliners can help to improve a user’s posture by providing extra support in the lumbar region and allowing the user to adopt a more comfortable and natural sitting position. Recliners can provide relief from back ache, relieve muscle tension and help alleviate conditions related to arthritis. They also allow the user to elevate their feet above their hips which can also assist in reducing swelling in the lower limbs such as in the feet, ankles and legs.
Some higher-end recliners come with massage and heat features. Massage and heat therapy can help to soothe and alleviate aching joints as well as muscle stiffness. This is ideal for anyone that suffers with arthritis or other muscular conditions or for anyone that is recuperating from recent surgery.
Types of Lift Chair Recliners
Lift recliners generally come with either a single, or dual motors although some models can come with additional motors. The more motors a recliner has, the greater the flexibility in terms of positioning it will offer the user.
Here are the main differences between models:
Single-Motor Riser Recliner
A single-motor recliner, has one motor that controls both the footrest and the backrest in one fluid motion. Press the recline button on the handset and it will lift the footrest and the back will start to recline allowing the user to sit back and put their feet up while they watch TV or read a book.
Press the raise button, and the chair will return back to the seated position and assist the user back to their feet.
A single motor recliner is the most affordable option although it does mean you have less control over the seats positioning.
Dual-Motor Riser Recliner
A dual-motor recliner, has two motors that can control the footrest independently from the backrest. It offers the user more control allowing them to have the footrest either up or down and the backrest either reclined or in an upright position.
A dual-motor recliner is more expensive but it does offer the user increased comfort allowing them to position the chair to suit their individual needs.
Four-Motor Riser Recliner
Some models come with 4 motors. They operate similarly to a dual-motor recliner, the major difference however is they have two additional motors. One of the motors controls the headrest and the other one controls the lumbar region.
The adjustable headrest helps to ensure that the neck and shoulders are always properly supported and the adjustable lumbar can help to reduce pressure on the user’s back and relieve muscle tension and provide relief from back ache.
A four-motor riser provides greater flexibility and is ideal for anyone that has to sit for extended periods of time.
Infinite Riser Recliner/Zero Gravity Recliner
An infinite recliner also known as a zero gravity recliner is a type of dual-motor recliner, the main difference however is it can recline completely flat as well as being able to adjust to a range of other positions. Whether you want to take a nap, read a book or you simply want to watch TV, an infinite recliner will allow you to adopt the most comfortable position in every situation.
This recliner helps to elevate the user’s legs above their heart, which is as known as the Trendelenburg positon. It can help to relieve pressure and it assists with promoting a better posture. It’s perfect for anyone that suffers with back issues and it can also help with circulation.
How to Find the Perfect Fit Riser Recliner
Riser recliners come in a range of different sizes. Choosing the right size recliner for your particular needs is vital. If it’s not the right size, it may prove uncomfortable, putting undue stress on your limbs and providing no benefit at all.
How to Get Properly Measured for a Recliner?
Before deciding on a recliner, always get measured first so that you ensure that the recliner you choose is a good fit and will provide you with the right support.
In order to do this, simply follow these simple steps:
- Get the user to wear their normal indoor shoes and get them to sit down on a regular chair. Ensure their legs are parallel to the floor and their knees form a 90 degree angle.
- To find the approximate seat width that you should be looking for, measure the user’s hip width.
- To find the approximate seat depth that you should be looking for, measure from the user’s bottom to the back of their knee.
- To find the approximate seat height that you should be looking for, measure from the user’s knee down to the floor.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lift Recliner
Budget
Before looking for a recliner always determine what your budget will be first.
A recliner with a single-motor is usually the cheapest option although you will have less control over the seats positioning. This type of recliner is ideally suited for light use i.e. if you only spend a few hours a day watching TV or reading.
If you have a bigger budget, you may want to look for a dual-motor recliner that allows you to control the footrest independently from the backrest, therefore providing you with greater control over the chair’s positioning.
If comfort is the most important factor over budget, you’ll probably want to opt for either a four-motor recliner or a zero gravity recliner.
A four-motor recliner will allow you to additionally control the headrest and the lumbar region. It’s more suited for anyone that needs to spend a lot of time seated and wants to remain as comfortable as possible. It helps in ensuring that the user’s neck and shoulders are properly supported and it can reduce the pressure on the user’s limbs.
If you’re looking for a recliner that can fully recline to a horizontal position, you’ll need to opt for a zero gravity recliner. This type of dual-motor chair can adapt to any positon, allowing you to perform a full range of activities comfortably.
Room Size
Always ensure there is sufficient space in the room to accommodate your recliner.
A standard riser recliner will not only slide forwards but it will also slide backwards so ensure there’s enough clearance space between the chair and the wall, otherwise it may not be able to recline properly.
If you plan on putting a recliner in a small room, you may have to consider a wall-hugger lift chair over a standard recliner which is suitable for smaller spaces. A wall-hugger recliner, as the name suggests, requires less clearance space to recline so it can be placed closer to the wall.
Ease of Use
Another important factor to consider is ease of use.
If the user is visually impaired, does the handset light up so they can clearly see the buttons? Check also that the buttons are big enough and are easy to operate. This is particularly important if the user has reduced hand dexterity and may struggle to operate smaller buttons.
If on the other hand, the user suffers with Alzheimer’s or dementia, ensure that handset does not have too many complicated controls which could confuse them and they may struggle to operate the chair.
Weight
The average weight capacity of a standard riser recliner is 300 lbs. There are however heavy duty bariatric ones available that can support weights up to 600 lbs.
Always check that the recliner will support your weight, otherwise it could prove dangerous.
Back-Up Battery
Some models of recliners come with a back-up battery. This allows you to return the recliner back to its original sitting or standing position so you can safely get out of the chair in case there is a power outage.
It’s advisable that the recliner that you choose has a back-up battery, this is especially important for users with limited mobility who may struggle to get out of recliner in the event of a power outage.
Upholstery
Recliners come in a range of upholstery options, including leather, cloth, microfiber and PVC.
Leather is usually more durable than cloth, microfiber and PVC and generally lasts longer. Leather is ideal for allergy sufferers as it’s the least allergenic material. Another advantage is it’s easier to keep clean, if you have pets, or you accidently spill something, it can be quickly wiped clean.
One of the drawbacks of leather though, is it usually only comes in a limited range of colors. If you’re looking for a wider variety of colors/patterns to compliment your home decor, you’ll probably want to opt for fabric. Leather can also become sticky in hotter weather and cold in colder temperatures which is not the case for cloth or microfiber.
Advanced Features
Some higher-end recliners come with additional options such as heat and massage features. These are particularly suited for users who suffer with arthritis and muscular conditions as they can help to alleviate muscle stiffness, aching joints as well as improve circulation.
If you’re simply looking for a basic comfortable recliner, these additional features may not be required allowing you to opt for a cheaper model.
Top Lift Recliner Reviews
1. Domesis Renu Leather Wall Hugger Power Lift Chair Recliner
Domesis Renu Leather Wall Hugger Power Lift Chair Recliner
A great riser recliner that is perfect if you’re looking for one to fit in a tight space. It’s extremely comfortable and it’s ideal for lighter use such as watching TV or reading a book.
If you’re looking for a riser recliner to fit in a tight space, the Renu recliner from Domesis could be the perfect choice for you. It only requires 4-inches of clearance space for it to fully recline. As it takes only minimal floor space, you won’t need to worry about it hitting the wall when it reclines. It also only measures 30 inches wide so it should be able to fit through most size doorways.
The Domesis is fitted with a single-motor, so the leg-rest and backrest will recline simultaneously. It reclines up to 40 degrees so ideal if you’re looking for a recliner to comfortably relax in and put your feet up to watch TV or read a book. The handset has two easy to use buttons, one to recline and the other to rise so it shouldn’t prove a struggle to operate.
The chair won’t look out of place in any room with its luxurious-looking leather upholstery, it looks like the real thing so no one will ever know otherwise. It has all the advantages of leather such as being easy to clean and durable without the expensive price tag. It comes in a choice of four colours including, cream, brown, black and burgundy.
The riser is extremely comfortable, the cushions are padded with high-density foam and polyester fiber which will cushion you perfectly as you sit back and unwind. The frame is made from durable laminated hardwood and the reclining mechanism is constructed from sturdy steel.
If you never can find the remote control, or you keep losing your glasses, you will never need to worry again as it has a side pocket where you can store your essentials so they will always be easy to find.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 30″ W x 33″ D 28.75″ H
- Seat Dimensions: 20.5″ D x 18.5″ W x 20″ H
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- Single-motor
- Faux leather fabric
- Wall-hugger design
- 2 button handset
2. Ashley Furniture Signature Design – Yandel Power Lift Chair Recliner
Ashley Furniture Signature Design – Yandel Power Lift Chair Recliner
A well-constructed two-motor recliner that is both stylish and extremely comfortable with good lumbar support.
You really can’t go wrong with the Yandel life recliner from Ashley Furniture if you’re looking for a dual-motor recliner that is both stylish and comfortable.
The backrest and footrest work independently providing you with more control over its positioning. You can have the backrest in a reclined or in an upright position while the footrest can either be up or down to suit your particular needs. When it’s fully reclined it can extend to a 45 degree angle allowing you to comfortably lie-back and watch TV or take a quick nap.
It has a high-back with a bustle back for lumbar support and it is fitted with pillow top armrests that are made from foam cushions wrapped in poly-fiber. Due to this, the chair is extremely comfortable, it almost feels like you’re being hugged by the chair due to its oversized nature.
It comes with faux leather upholstery which means it’s easy to keep clean and perfect if you have any pets. A pocket can be found on the side of the recliner, where you can store your essentials so they’re within easy reach.
The handset contains four buttons, two buttons to control the backrest, and further two, to control the footrest. The buttons are a good size so they can easily be operated even for users with limited hand-dexterity.
A nice feature is it’s fitted with a battery backup which runs on two 9-volt batteries (not included). This allows you to return the chair back to its original standing position in case of any power outage which is handy for anyone with limited mobility who may struggle to get out of the chair in an emergency.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 35″ W x 40″ D x 42.5″ H
- Seat Dimensions: 21″ D x 19″ W x 20.5″ H
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- Dual-motor
- Faux leather fabric
- Battery back-up
3. Irene House Power Modern Transitional Lift Chair Recliner
Irene House Power Modern Transitional Lift Chair Recliner
A reasonable priced dual-motor infinite-position recliner that is stylish, comfortable and well-built that is backed-up with a good warranty.
The Irene House recliner is a dual-motor chair that can adopt infinite positions with a touch of a button. It’s an ideal choice if you need to take regular naps throughout the day as it can lie flat but it can also be used to watch a movie or read the newspapers.
It comes in a range of upholstery options from soft breathable leather to fabric. The fabric option comes in a range of five different colours, so you will no doubt be able to find a suitable color to match your home décor.
It is a stylish but classic chair so it won’t look out of place in your living room or bedroom. The over-stuffed pillow back and armrest design make it a very comfortable chair and provides great lumbar support which is perfect if you suffer with a bad back.
It’s fitted with a good quality German branded Okin motor which is both silent and reliable. The motor is backed with a 1 year warranty while the upholstery is covered with a 2 year warranty and the reclining mechanism and wood frame has a 3 year warranty providing you with extra piece of mind.
It has good weight capacity of up to 300 lbs and it has side pocket where you can conveniently store items such as your remote control, a book or reading glasses.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 33” W x 38.5” D x 42.5″ H
- Seat Dimensions: 22.5” D x21” W x 20” H
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- Dual-motor
- Linen or leather options available
- Infinite positions
4. Mcombo Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair
Mcombo Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair
A feature rich chair that is not only reasonable priced, but well-constructed. It’s particularly suited to users that suffer with muscular conditions who will find the massage and heating features extremely useful to soothe their aches and pains.
If you suffer with back ache or a painful muscular condition, and you’re looking for a recliner to help alleviate muscle stiffness or your aching joints, you may want to consider the Mcomo riser chair.
It features both massage and heating features helping to soothe your painful limbs and improve circulation. It has 8 vibrating nodes that are located around the chair and the waist area is where the heating feature is located. There are different modes with 5 different intensities that you can choose from. The heating or vibrating functionality can be turned off in fixed time intervals (10/20/20 minutes).
Apart from the heating and vibrating features, it also has dual USB charging ports, perfect to charge your smartphone or tablet and there are two side pockets to store items for easy reach. It also has two cup holders located on each armrest which means you won’t need to keep getting up for a drink.
The recliner features a quiet operating motor that can recline up to 140 degrees. While it doesn’t recline fully flat it’s perfect for taking a nap, watching the television or reading a novel.
It comes in a range of five different coloured faux-leather fabrics. The headset is padded providing you with good neck and shoulder support and the overstuffed armrests allow you to rest your arms comfortably.
The base has an anti-back tipping safety feature that prevents the chair from toppling over which is great to see on a recliner.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 34.6″ W x 30.7″ D x 41″ H
- Seat Dimensions: 20.5″ D x 17.7″ W x 20.00″ H
- 320 lbs weight capacity
- Dual-motor
- Faux Leather
- Vibrating, heat features
- Dual USB ports
- 2 cup holders
5. Mega Motion Infinite Position Lift Chair Recliner
Mega Motion Infinite Position Lift Chair Recliner
A good quality infinite position recliner, while slightly pricier than the Irene House Lift recliner, it does have a higher weight capacity and it also has a battery backup in case of a power outage.
The Mega Motion is an infinite position recliner like the Irene House riser that we reviewed earlier. It allows you to recline completely flat as well as being to adjust to a range of other positions. It allows you to elevate your legs above the heart which helps in relieving pressure as well as assisting in promoting a better posture.
It has a dual-motor which means you can control the backrest and the footrest individually with a simple touch of a button.
It has a classic design with padded wings, a padded chaise seat and roll arms that will allow you to unwind in total comfort. The side pocket will allow you to store your essentials so you won’t need to get up to access them.
In case of a power outage, it has an emergency battery backup so you can safely get out of the chair.
It has a durable hardwood base with a heavy-duty steel lift mechanism and a weight capacity of 325 lbs. The lift mechanism has a lifetime warranty and there’s a 2 year warranty on parts.
Key Specs:
- Dimensions: 34.00″ W x 42.50″ D x 43.50″ H
- Seat Dimensions: 21.50″ D x 21.00″ W x 20.00″ H
- 325 lbs weight capacity
- Dual-motor
- Polyester knit fabric
- Infinite positions
- Back-up battery
