Durable Lift Chairs for Bariatric Users
Are you researching durable lift chairs for bariatric users?
When it comes to prolonged sitting in a durable lift recliner, bariatric users have a few more comfort and health factors to add to the list. The following information includes common things to look for in researching a suitable and durable lift chair, some of which are applicable to both bariatric and average-weighing individuals:
Here’s a list of things to look for in researching a durable lift chair.
Weight Capacity:
All durable lift chairs for bariatric users should have details about a safe working load weight capacity. Some models can hold up to 300kg as a safe working load. This means the chair isn’t at maximin capacity at this load. It is essential to purchasing a lift recliner that was designed to hold a bariatric weight capacity at a safe working load. Things to look for are, independent Australian Standards testing and manufacturer warranties. Using a lift chair for average weight will rapidly decrease the life of the chair and potentially turn into a dangerous situation and costly exercise if a new chair needs to be purchased.
Frame Build:
Look into the materials and framework details of the chair. Some frame structures are welded together while others are held together with heavy, industrial nuts and bolts. Both types have pros and cons. The benefit of having a frame that is held together with bolts is that, in the event that something in the frame requires repair, the entirety of the frame wouldn’t need replacing like it would in a welded structure. Look for manufacturer warranties when researching durable lift chairs.
Cushion Durability:
Weight capacity of the frame for bariatric users is one thing. Life and weight capacity of the cushions are a different factor. A high-quality bariatric chair can have a solid, lifelong frame while the cushions are of just mediocre quality. Research the details into what types of recliner cushion materials can withstand a greater weight capacity for years to come.
Motor Durability:
This is another important reason as to why bariatric individuals MUST use bariatric lift recliners. If a user is too heavy, then this can wear and destroy the motors. Make sure that the chair has a long-lasting motor (with a back-up battery) that will lift and lower the person all of the way without straining or losing power. The Ambassador range is available in 1,2,3 and 4 motors to suit a variety of weight capacities required.
Pad width and Depth:
One of the biggest mistakes future lift recliner users make is measuring their hips and waists in standing and comparing those measurements against the width and depth of the chair. Everyone’s hips and waists get a little wider in sitting as compared to standing. Before purchasing the chair, measure your hips and waist in sitting and then add 2-4 inches. Some people like a more form-fitting chair while others want some wiggle room. Three things could go wrong if you get a seat cushion that doesn’t fit your body: rubbing against the skin causing sores or breakdown, lack of back and hip support, and/or sliding out of the chair due to a lack of depth.
Joint Support:
Like any recliner, the user needs excellent joint support for prolonged periods of sitting or else there is no reason to keep the chair. The back support should contour well to your spine. For typical spine shapes, there should be extra padding for the lower back in order to support the curvature and fill potential gaps between the back and the cushion. Users hips and buttocks should be well-supported and symmetrically positioned at multiple angles of recline. And the shoulders should be held neutrally with a comfortable upper back support. As well as ensuring height-appropriate arm rests. It’s best to engage an occupational therapist or a disability retailer to prescribe correct seating dimensions.
Foot Elevation:
High-quality recliners should provide foot elevation at multiple heights and angles. Elevating the feet reduces stress on the lower extremities as well as the hips. Foot elevation also allows for increased circulation and reduced swelling of the legs and feet. The Ambassador range has a foot levation above hip height.
Multiple Angle Recline:
Reclined seating opens up the hip angle and reduces compression of the spine, but not every human body has the same needs. The lift chair should offer a wide variety of recline angles to meet unique sitting needs that change throughout the day. Reclining features also open up the lungs and the diaphragm in order to facilitate better breathing. Look for independent motors, as this allows the legs and back functions to work independently.
Overall Size For Home Use:
Lastly, bariatric lift chairs are going to be fairly large in order to support a greater weight capacity. This means users need to consider how the chair will fit inside their home. Delivery through doorways, placement in different rooms, coinciding with other durable medical equipment and furniture, space between the wall and back support while in recline, etc. Before making a purchase, users need to be absolutely sure of the both measurements of the chair and the measurements of the living space to see if the chair can realistically fit.
If you have a user with special medical needs paired with bariatric conditions. It would be wise to consult with a medical professional about what other considerations should be made about a durable lift recliner. This can include chronic joint problems, heart conditions, respiratory diseases, cancer, non-healing pressure ulcers, paralysis to any extent, etc. As boring as it gets, do the research first. Be thorough now in order to choose the best lift chair to last a lifetime.
Where Do I Find A Durable Lift Chair For Bariatric Users?
Hopefully the above elements have clarified what to look for in finding durable lift chairs for bariatric users. And a good Australian brand to start within your research for durable lift chairs for bariatric users is Ambassador Products. Ambassador makes premium, lift and recline chairs to help with medical and weight needs in the home and healthcare environment. Sourcing medical grade electrics, quality steel frames and industry leading warranties. With over 25 years of experience, they’re a market leader in the manufacture and supply of superior chairs for the bariatric and custom made lift chair market.
