Lift Chairs For Senior Independence

You’re at an age now where you’ve earned the right to enjoy life’s little comforts. One of those comforts can be as simple as sitting down or getting up without any pain or strain. This is where lift chairs for seniors come into play. In essence, a lift chair is a motorized recliner that assists you in smoothly transitioning from sitting to standing, and vice versa.

Do not think of it as a sign of frailty, rather, view it as a tool of empowerment, independence, and convenience. The beauty of lift chairs lies in their simplicity, offering invaluable support without compromising on style or the feel of your home. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about lift chairs and how they can make your golden years truly golden.

Understanding Lift Chairs

First things first, what exactly is a lift chair? Think of your favorite plush recliner. Now, imagine if it could seamlessly tilt forward to assist you to a standing position, or gradually descend you into a seated or reclined position. That’s a lift chair for you.

These chairs come equipped with a simple remote control for smooth operation. They’re designed to offer you safety, convenience, and, most importantly, maintain your independence. Furthermore, lift chairs have evolved with time, matching pace with your diverse needs. Now they come with several additional features such as heat and massage functions, storage pockets, cup holders, and even backup battery systems for power outages.

Understanding the importance of aesthetics, manufacturers have started offering lift chairs in a variety of styles, materials, and colors to match your home decor. So you don’t have to worry about your new chair clashing with your beautiful living room setup.

Selecting the Right Lift Chair

Choosing the right lift chair can be a game changer. It’s important to take into consideration your physical needs, the chair’s size, its features, and its fit within your home.

First, consider the size. Lift chairs come in a variety of sizes: petite, small, medium, and large. Your height and weight should dictate the size of the chair you choose. Next, consider the different types of lift chairs: two-position, three-position, infinite position, and zero gravity. The best choice for you depends on your desired level of recline and the activities you’d like to do while seated.

Moreover, pay attention to the additional features. Are you looking for a simple lift and recline functionality, or do you want something more? Perhaps a chair with heat and massage functions for added comfort, or one with a backup battery system to ensure it operates even during a power outage.

Lastly, don’t forget to factor in the chair’s aesthetic appeal. Ensure the style, color, and fabric of the chair fit seamlessly with your home decor.

Lift Chairs and Medicare

If you’re wondering whether Medicare pays for lift chairs, the answer is Yes. However, there are some stipulations. Under Medicare Part B, lift chairs are considered “durable medical equipment” (DME), which means they can be covered if they’re medically necessary.

To qualify for coverage, you must have a doctor’s prescription stating that you have a medical condition such as severe arthritis or a neuromuscular disease that affects your mobility. Furthermore, you must also demonstrate that you are unable to stand up from any chair in your home, but once standing, can walk independently.

It’s important to note that Medicare only covers the lift mechanism, not the chair itself. Therefore, you’ll be reimbursed only for the mechanical parts of the chair. The coverage also falls under the 80/20 rule, which means Medicare covers 80% of the cost and you’re responsible for the remaining 20%.

Maintenance of Lift Chairs

The longevity of your lift chair depends on how well you maintain it. Clean the chair regularly based on the manufacturer’s instructions. If your chair has a fabric cover, vacuum it regularly and clean spills immediately. For leather chairs, wipe with a damp cloth and use a leather conditioner every few months.

Keep the mechanical parts in check. Ensure the lifting mechanism is working smoothly. If the chair isn’t operating as it should, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Instead, call a professional or contact the manufacturer to avoid any damage.

Remember to check and replace the batteries of the remote control regularly. A powerless remote can leave you stranded, defeating the chair’s purpose.

Conclusion

Incorporating a lift chair into your living space is about preserving your independence and enhancing your comfort. It’s about ensuring that age or mobility issues do not prevent you from enjoying the simple pleasures of life. A lift chair isn’t just a piece of furniture; it’s a companion that assists and supports you.

While cost and Medicare coverage can be important factors in your decision, remember the true value of a lift chair comes from the convenience, independence, and comfort it offers. With a variety of sizes, styles, and features available, you can find the perfect lift chair that fits not only your needs but also complements your home. It’s time to sit back, relax, and let your lift chair take care of the rest.