Best Stand Assist Seat Aids for Impaired Mobility
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People with impaired mobility are always looking for aids that will help them be more independent in their day to day lives.
To be able to sit and stand without relying on others for help when they are frail, and frightened of falls, can be so helpful in their lives. This is why stand assist seat aids are so important. These simple but effective assistive aids can make sit to stand transfers easier and safer for users with reduced mobility.
With the wide variety of sit to stand aids on the market, it can be a challenge knowing which one will be the most effective for your particular needs.
In this buyers guide, we will cover the different types of stand assist seat aids that are available, as well as the important factors you should consider before deciding on the right one for your needs. We will also cover the best stand assist seat aids currently on the market that can make transfers easier and safer for users with impaired upper or lower mobility, who may struggle when sitting and standing.
Stand Assist Chair Aids Comparison Chart
Able Life Universal Stand Assist | Able Life Stand Assist with Tray | Stander EZ Stand-N-Go Bariatric Stand Assist | Stand A Roo Portable Stand Assist | Carex Upeasy Lifting Cushion Plus | Carex Premium Electric Lifting Cushion | |
  |   |   |   |   |   | |
Type | Stand Assist | Stand Assist with Tray | Stand Assist | Stand Assist | Lifting Cushion | Powered Lifting Cushion |
Product Weight | 7 lbs | 25 lbs | 8.5 lbs | 3 lbs | 7.9 lbs | 13.6 lbs |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 250 lbs | 400 lbs | 350 lbs | 200 - 340 lbs | 300 lbs |
Height Adjustable | 22" - 32" | 26" - 38" | 22" - 32" | 10" - 19" | N/A | N/A |
Width Adjustable | 19" - 26" | N/A | 19" - 26" | 19" - 33" | N/A | N/A |
Depth Adjustable | 24" - 27" | 20" - 36" | 24" - 27" | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Suitable for Type of Chair | Couches, recliners and chairs (with removable and non-removable cushions) | Couches, recliners, lift recliners and chairs | Couches, recliners and chairs (with removable and non-removable cushions) | Couches, recliners and chairs (with removable cushions) | Couches, recliners and chairs | Couches, recliners and chairs |
Price |
What is a Stand Assist Seat Aid?
Stand assist aids are assistive devices that can help users transfer to and from a seated to a standing position more easily and safer, without needing to put undue strain on their lower muscles and joints.
These sit-to-stand aids are particularly suited for anyone with impaired mobility who may struggle when attempting to sit or stand from a chair or recliner. These devices can provide greater independence, as it reduces the need for users to rely on the assistance of a caregiver or loved one, to help them into and out of a seated position.
Who are Stand Assist Aids Suitable for?
Stand assist aids can prove particularly useful for those who struggle to get into and out of a seated position. Users who can most benefit from using a stand assist aid include:
- Anyone recovering from recent surgery such as knee or hip replacement.
- Those suffering with impaired mobility but have some weight-bearing ability i.e. those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis etc
- Anyone suffering with balance issues who is unsteady on their feet, or those who have suffered falls in the past.
- User’s with chronic or degenerative conditions i.e. multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s disease.
Types of Stand Assist Aids
There are a wide range of stand assist aids which can make sit to stand transfers easier. They are safer for anyone with impaired mobility and those suffering with impairments that may impact their muscles or joints.
Some are manually operated, while others are powered automatically and require very little effort to operate even by users with reduced mobility or those who are frail. The two most popular types of stand assist aids include:
Stand Assist
A stand assist consists of a metal frame that has a handle/s which the user can grab onto to help leverage themselves to and from a seated to a standing positon.
These assistive devices are ideally suited for those with good upper body strength, who are able to lean on the handle in order to help pull themselves to their feet from a seated position, without requiring the assistance of a caregiver or loved one.
Some stand assists may have one handle, while others have two handles. A two-handled stand assist offers greater stability and is better suited for anyone with impaired balance who is unsteady on their feet.
Stand assist aids are easy to fit and many require no assembly. Some fit beneath the cushion or sometimes around the couch. Freestanding ones on the other hand, fit beneath the feet of the couch or recliner. This helps to keep it in place. Ones that fit beneath the cushion are unsuitable for lift recliners as they may interfere with the lifting mechanism.
Stand assists are usually height adjustable, allowing the user to customize the height of the handle to suit their particular needs. Depending on the stand assist, some models may have additional extras such as a tray or storage pouch.
Seat Lift Cushions
Seat lift cushions are portable and compact lifting aids that that can be placed on top of a chair, couch or recliner. They slowly lower or raise a user automatically from a seated position without them having to struggle. These devices can either be manually or battery/electrically powered.
Self-powered manually powered lift cushions use a hydro-pneumatic gas spring. The lifting mechanism activates as soon as the user begins to stand up, usually as the body shifts forwards slightly. The cushion will also slowly lower the user into the chair as they attempt to sit down, thus helping to reduce the strain on the user’s limbs and muscles.
In order to operate a battery or electrically cushion, the user simply needs to activate the motor on the device by pressing the button on the device or handset.
Self-powered lift cushions can lift up to 80 percent of a user’s body weight, while electrically powered ones can lift 100% of the user’s weight. This means the user requires minimal effort to get to their feet, making the device ideally suited for anyone with limited upper and lower body strength who may otherwise struggle to use a stand assist aid.
For the device to work effectively, the cushion must first be calibrated to match the user’s weight.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Stand Assist
To ensure that you choose the right stand assist that is both beneficial for the user as well as compatible for the intended seat, it is important that you consider the following key factors:
User’s Impairments
Not all stand assists are equal. Some are suited for those with good upper body strength while others are better suited for users that have impaired upper and lower mobility and who are frailer.
If the user does not have sufficient strength in their arms to pull themselves up using a standard stand assist, but they have relatively good balance, a lift cushion would be recommended in these cases. If on the other hand, the user has good upper body strength and they simply need some extra leverage to help them into and out of a chair, a stand assist would be the best option.
If the user suffers with rheumatoid arthritis or they have reduced hand dexterity, choose a stand assist that has cushioned non-slip grip handles which will be easier to hold onto, and they are generally safer to use.
Suitable for the Couch/Recliner
It is important to always check that the stand assist is suitable for the intended chair, recliner or couch. If for example you have a riser recliner, a stand assist that slides underneath the recliner’s cushions would be unsuitable, as it may interfere with the lift mechanism on the recliner. In these circumstances, a freestanding stand assist that fits beneath the feet of the recliner is a safer option. If on the other hand you have a couch with non-removable cushions, opt for a stand assist where the frame can be positioned around the actual chair.
An incorrectly fitting stand assist or lift cushion can be particularly dangerous. For this reason, it is vital that you measure the dimensions of the chair, recliner or couch (height, width and depth) to verify that it is compatible with the device.
A fully adjustable stand assist is preferable over one that is fixed. Adjustable ones can be adjusted in terms of height and width to match the size of the chair. The handle can be positioned at a suitable and safe height to provide the user with maximum support when transferring to and from a chair.
Weight Capacity
Choose a stand assist or lift cushion that is suitable for the user’s weight to ensure it is safe and will not buckle under excessive weight. Most stand assists have maximum weight capacities of between 250-300 lbs although heavy duty ones are available that are suitable for larger individuals.
Portability
If you plan on using a stand assist around the home, or you need to take it with you when you visit friends or relatives, choose one that is foldable and lightweight. Foldable stand assists can easily be moved between rooms and they are generally lighter then fixed frame stand assists.
Seat lift cushions are also another good alternative to a foldable stand assist. They are smaller in nature and they generally feature a carry handle built into the device, making them easily portable.
Best Stand Assist Aids for Seniors
1. Able Life Universal Stand Assist
Able Life Universal Stand Assist
A well-constructed stand assist that is easily customizable and is suitable for couches, chairs and recliners in different sizes that either have removable cushions or that are fixed.
The Able Life stand assist is a good choice if you’re looking for a versatile chair aid that can help you to safely transfer to and from a seated position without having to struggle.
The stand assist is highly adjustable and adjusts in terms of height, width and depth making it suitable for a full range of different sized couches, chairs and recliners. If you have a couch or recliner with removable cushions, slide the frame beneath the cushions and adjust the height. If instead you have a couch or recliner that is fixed, simply adjust the frame to match the size of the seat and then place it around the cushions.
The dual support handles are height adjustable and can be adjusted from 22 to 32 inches from the floor, providing the user with good leverage when sitting or standing and can support weights of up to 300 lbs. The handles are foam padded so they are easy to grip, making them suitable for users with even limited dexterity.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Height adjustable: 22″ – 32″
- Width adjustable: 19″ – 26″
- Depth adjustable: 24″ – 27″
- Product weight: 7 lbs
- Dual padded handles
- Suitable for Couches, recliners and chairs with removable and non-removable cushions
2. Able Life Stand Assist with Tray
Able Life Stand Assist with Tray
Provides good support and the built-in table tray can be used as a handy place to eat from, store useful items or surf the web all from the comfort of your chair.
The two-in-one device from Able Life is a stand assist as well as a convenient table tray. The bamboo table tray is fitted with a cup holder and utensil tray. It is ideal if you want to keep essential items close by. It can also be used as a laptop desk or as a handy place to eat your meals from, all from the comfort of your own chair.
The table tray is height adjustable and adjusts from 26″ to 32″ so it can be positioned at a suitable height to match the needs of the user. The tray also swivels 360 degrees, so it can easily be moved out of the way when you need to get into or out of a chair.
The stand assist fits under the feet of a couch, recliner or lift chair making it easy to install. The depth on the base adjusts from 20” to 36″ so it should be suitable for most sized couches, recliners or lift chairs. The base is fitted with rubber pads, which helps keep the stand assist in place, and stops it from moving.
The safety handle is ergonomically designed and measures 6″ by 6″ making it easy to grip and provides good support in order to make transfers easier and safer even for users with balance impairments. The handle adjusts in height from 26” to 38″ so it can easily be adjusted to provide users with maximum support.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Height adjustable: 26″ – 38″
- Depth adjustable: 20″ – 36″
- Product weight: 25 lbs
- Swivel bamboo table tray
- Table tray size: 16″ x 18″
- Table tray weight capacity: 30 lbs
- Suitable for couches, recliners, lift recliners and chairs
3. Stander EZ Stand-N-Go Bariatric Stand Assist
Stander EZ Stand-N-Go Bariatric Stand Assist
A sturdy stand assist suitable for bariatric use and with its flexible set-up it is suitable for all types and sized of couches, recliners and chairs.
The EZ Stand-N-Go bariatric stand assist is suitable for heavier users, with its reinforced frame, the assistive seating aid can support weights up to 400 lbs.
With its flexible set-up, the stand assist can be slid underneath the cushions, alternatively for a fixed recliner or couch, it can be placed around the cushions. As the stand assist is width and depth adjustable, the frame can be adjusted to fit a full range of different sized chairs, couches or recliners.
The ergonomically designed cushioned handles are comfortable to grip and provides good stability, allowing the user to easily leverage themselves on and off a chair without requiring assistance from loved one or caregiver. The handles are height adjustable (22“ – 32“) so they can be positioned at the correct height to provide the user with maximum support, thus helping to reduce the risk of falls.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Product weight: 8.5 lbs
- Height adjustable: 22″ – 32″
- Width adjustable: 19″ – 26″
- Depth adjustable: 24″ – 27″
- Suitable for couches, recliners and chairs (with removable and non-removable cushions)
4. Stand A Roo Portable Stand Assist
Stand A Roo Portable Stand Assist
A portable but durable stand assist that can easily be used throughout the home or taken with you when you visit friends or family.
Weighing just 3 lbs the lightweight Stand A Roo stand assist is extremely portable and can easily be used around the house or taken with you when you go and visit friends or family.
The stand assist is easy to fit and requires no assembly. In order to fit it, unfold the arms, adjust the width to match the size of the couch or recliner and adjust the height to suit the needs of the user. Finally slide it underneath the cushions. Please note that the stand assist is only suitable for couches or recliners that have removable cushions.
The stand assist is width adjustable 19″ – 33″ making it suitable for different sized couches and recliners. The frame is constructed from durable anodized aluminum so it has good weight capacity of up to 350 lbs. The non-slip foam handles provide the user with increased safety when transitioning to and a seated position.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Height adjustable: 10″ – 19″
- Width adjustable: 19″ – 33″
- Product weight: 3 lbs
- Suitable for couches, recliners and chairs (with removable cushions)
5. Carex Upeasy Lifting Cushion Plus
Carex Upeasy Lifting Cushion Plus
A manually powered lifting cushion ideally suited for anyone with limited upper body strength who is unable to use a standard stand assist.
For users with impaired upper mobility, a lift cushion can be a better alternative to a stand assist. The Carex Upeasy lift cushion lifts up to 70% of the user’s bodyweight so it is suitable for anyone who is frail or for those who may struggle or are unable to use a traditional stand assist.
The cushion is self-powered, so it doesn’t require any batteries or for it to be plugged in order for it to work. It uses a hydro-pneumatic gas spring which automatically and gently lifts the user safely out of the chair providing extra leverage and slowly lowers them into the chair, helping to reduce the strain on the user’s lower limbs and muscles. The cushion is suitable for anyone weighing between 200 to 340 lbs.
The device works on most types of recliners, couches and chairs although it is unsuitable for wheelchairs or any seat that has non-lockable wheels. In order to fit the lift cushion, slide the lifting arm to the correct slot that closest matches the user’s weight, and then simply place it on top of the seat.
The device weighs just 7.9 lbs so it’s relatively lightweight. With the built-in carry handle it makes the cushion portable so it can easily be used throughout the home as well as taken out with you when you visit friends or family.
The cushion is molded to fit the body contours and it is constructed from elastic memory foam which makes it extremely comfortable to sit on. This makes it ideal for anyone who needs to spend prolonged periods sitting down. The pressure relieving properties can also help reduce the risk of pressure sores.
Key Specs:
- Cushion lifts up to 70% of the user’s weight
- Self-powered
- Weight capacity: 200 – 340 lbs
- Product weight: 7.9 lbs
- Suitable for Couches, recliners and chairs
- Seat constructed from Visco elastic memory foam
- Washable seat
6. Carex Premium Electric Lifting Cushion
Carex Premium Electric Lifting Cushion
An electrically powered lifting cushion suitable for users with impaired severely impaired upper and lower mobility who require extra assistance when transferring to and from a seated position.
The Carex Premium electrically powered lifting cushion is ideally suited for those with severely impaired mobility. Unlike the previous lift cushion which lifts up to 70% of the user’s bodyweight, this cushion lifts the user’s full body weight up to 300 lbs without them needing to move a muscle.
The cushion essentially converts a traditional couch or recliner into a powered recliner, without the increased cost of having to purchase one.
The lifting mechanism is controlled via a simple to operate handset which can be stopped by the user at any height. The powered motor gently and smoothly lifts and lowers the user without any jerky movements, and the slip-resistant base helps keep it in place, and stops it from sliding.
The memory foam cushion which is ergonomically designed, is comfortable to sit on. It has a removable cover which is machine washable so it can easily be cleaned when needed. The chair measures 17″ in width, although a wider 20″ lifting cushion is available if required.
Key Specs:
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Product weight: 13.6 lbs
- Electrically powered lifting cushion
- Lifts 100% of the user’s weight
- Ergonomically designed cushioned seat
- Machine washable cover
- Suitable for Couches, recliners and chairs
