Around 39 percent of the US population has mobility issues, which makes it difficult for them to get around without help. It has been reported that 1 in 7 adults have problems with tasks such as walking and climbing stairs. Different products can aid mobility and improve the quality of life for physically challenged people. Lift chairs and chair lifts are common mechanisms that can help with mobility. 

Lift Chair vs. Chair Lift 

A lift chair is different from a chair lift. In this article, you will learn the key differences between both options. 

What is a Lift Chair?

To the average person, a lift chair resembles a traditional recliner, but doctors prescribe it. It has a motorized mechanism powered by electricity, and it helps people get up when they sit and stand.Depending on the type, lift chairs can be adjusted to different positions to suit the needs of the user. Different controls are dedicated to the backrest and leg rest with the infinity position model. This means that they work independently, allowing you to put them in various positions. 

How Does a Lift Chair Differ from a Stair Lift? 

While a lift chair is built for people who have issues with their balance and the ability to sit and stand, a stair lift is an aid for people who find it hard to walk up the stairs. Some variations of electric stair chairs are used to help wheelchair users take their wheelchairs to higher altitudes in the homes they own. It could also be useful in a commercial setting. 

While a lift chair may look like any old recliner, a stair lift cannot be mistaken for a recliner. There are different models of stair lifts on the market, each with a different function. For example, the Stannah curved model is used when staircases have sharp ninety-degree turns or spirals built into the device. 

How Much Does It Cost?

Because it can be prescribed by a medical professional, a lift chair is typically covered by insurance in the United States. The cost, however, varies as there are many types to choose from depending on your needs. A budget chair can go for between $300 and $800. Depending on the brand, a more expensive chair could be as expensive as $2000. 

Who Can Use a Lift Chair? 

Lift chairs are suitable for people who have disabilities, physical or otherwise. Anyone that is recovering from injury or surgery can use it. They are also useful for older adults who may be suffering from arthritis or some other condition that limits mobility. 

What to Consider Before Purchasing a Mobility Aid 

Conducting research before purchasing a mobility aid is a wise decision. Here are some things to consider before purchasing one:

Power 

Some chairs get their power from external batteries that you have to change occasionally, while others are rechargeable because they have internal batteries. Others use a combination of both. Another option is electric stair chair. 

Reinforced or Standard 

Many chairs can carry as much as 500 pounds. If you’re on the heavier side or just someone who likes to carry many things, consider a model that can easily hold more weight. 

Budget 

Even though these can be covered by insurance, investing in one of these chairs is still a big expense for those who do not have insurance. Give some thought to how much you are willing to spend, and check which models fit your budget. 

Conclusion

So many products can help with mobility for those who need it. Whether you are a business owner who is trying to make your building more accessible or an individual who needs a mobility aid, you need to know the difference.