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A lift chair looks like a regular recliner, but a motor tilts the whole chair forward to help you stand up and sit down. The right one fits your body, your room, and the way you like to rest.
How a lift chair works
A lift chair has a motor and a lifting base under the seat. When you press a button on the hand remote, the chair slowly rises and tilts forward. This brings you close to a standing position, so your legs and arms do less work.
Most chairs also recline. How far they recline, and how much control you have, depends on the type.
The four main types
2-position
This chair sits upright and reclines a little, about enough to watch TV or read. The back and footrest move together. It is simple and usually takes the least space.
3-position
This chair reclines further, into a napping position. The back and footrest still move together on one motor. It is a common middle choice.
Infinite-position
This chair can recline nearly flat. It usually has two motors, so the back and footrest move on their own. You can raise your legs while sitting upright, or lean back without lifting your legs. This is helpful for people who spend many hours in the chair or sleep in it.
Zero-gravity
This is a type of infinite-position chair that can tilt you back with your legs raised to about the level of your heart. Some people find this eases pressure on the back. If swelling in the legs is a concern, ask your doctor how high your legs should be raised.
| Type | Recline | Motors | Good for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-position | Slight | Usually one | Sitting, TV, reading | Not for napping or sleeping |
| 3-position | Napping angle | Usually one | Daytime rest and naps | Back and legs move together |
| Infinite-position | Nearly flat | Usually two | Long hours or sleeping in the chair | Needs more room behind and in front |
| Zero-gravity | Legs raised, body tilted back | Usually two | People who want legs raised | Ask a doctor about leg position |
Single motor vs. dual motor
A single-motor chair moves the back and footrest at the same time. It is simple to use, which can be easier for someone with memory problems. A dual-motor chair lets you control the back and footrest separately. That gives more comfort choices, but the remote has more buttons. Think about who will use the remote and how easily they learn new things.
Getting the size right
A chair that is the wrong size can be uncomfortable and harder to get out of. Many chairs come in petite, medium, large, tall, and wide sizes. Check the maker's size chart against the user's height and weight.
What to measure
- Seat height: When seated, feet should rest flat on the floor with knees at about a right angle. Shorter people often need a petite size so their feet touch the floor.
- Seat width: There should be a little room on each side of the hips, but not so much that the user slides around. Wide or bariatric chairs have a wider seat.
- Seat depth: The back of the knees should not press hard against the seat edge. Taller people often need a deeper seat.
- Back height: The head should rest on the headrest, not hang above or below it.
Weight capacity
Every lift chair lists a maximum weight. Choose one well above the user's weight. Heavy-duty and bariatric chairs have stronger frames, wider seats, and sturdier lift motors.
Room space and wall-hugger designs
A lift chair needs space in front for the footrest and for the forward tilt. Standard recliners also need space behind them to lean back. A wall-hugger (also called wall-saver) design slides the seat forward as it reclines, so it can sit closer to the wall. This is helpful in small rooms. Measure the room with the chair fully reclined and fully lifted, using the size listed by the maker. Leave a clear walking path around it.
Battery backup for power outages
Lift chairs run on household power. If the power goes out while the chair is reclined or lifted, the user may be stuck. Many chairs include or offer a battery backup that lets the chair return to a seated position. Check that the batteries are fresh and replace them as the maker suggests. This small feature can prevent a scary situation.
Fabrics and cleaning
Choose a cover that fits real life. Easy-clean fabrics, such as performance or microfiber fabrics, resist stains and wipe up more easily. If bladder leaks are a concern, vinyl or faux leather is easier to wipe clean and does not soak up liquid. A washable, waterproof chair pad adds another layer of protection. For more help, see our incontinence supplies guide.
Heat and massage: nice, not necessary
Some chairs offer heat pads or vibration massage. These can feel good, but they do not make the chair safer or easier to use. They add more buttons and more parts that can break. If you choose heat, ask the user's doctor first if they have diabetes, nerve damage, or trouble feeling heat. Low settings and short use are safest.
See lift chair battery backups
Safety tips for everyday use
- Keep the remote cord out of the lift mechanism. Many chairs have a side pocket for the remote.
- Wait until the chair stops moving, then stand fully and get your balance before you walk.
- Keep a walker or cane within reach if the user needs one. See our rollator guide.
- Keep pets and small children away from the space under and behind the chair while it moves.
- Do not let anyone sit on the footrest or the arms while the chair is lifting.
Does Medicare cover lift chairs?
Medicare treats the chair and the lift part differently. According to Medicare, Part B may help pay for the seat lift mechanism if your doctor orders it and you meet certain medical criteria. In general, this means you have a condition such as severe arthritis of the hip or knee, or a neuromuscular disease, you cannot stand up from a regular chair on your own, and you can walk once you are standing. The supplier must be enrolled in Medicare.
Medicare does not pay for the chair itself, such as the frame, cushions, and fabric. These are seen as furniture. Your usual Part B costs, such as the deductible and coinsurance, apply. Rules can change, so verify with Medicare or your plan before you buy. Learn more in our guide: Does Medicare cover home medical equipment?
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to sleep in a lift chair?
Many people nap or sleep in infinite-position or zero-gravity chairs. If you plan to sleep in one every night, talk with your doctor, especially about breathing, swelling, or skin pressure. A hospital or adjustable bed may be a better long-term choice for some people.
What happens if the power goes out?
Without power, most lift chairs stop moving. A battery backup lets the chair return to a seated position so the user is not stuck.
Will Medicare pay for my lift chair?
Medicare Part B may cover only the seat lift mechanism if you meet the criteria, have a doctor's order, and use an enrolled supplier. The rest of the chair is not covered. Check with Medicare to confirm.