How to Choose the Best Lift Recliner Chair: An Occupational Therapist’s Guide in Perth
Why the Right Lift Recliner Chair Matters?
Choosing the right lift recliner chair can make a world of difference to comfort, safety, and independence at home. Whether it’s for yourself, a parent, or someone you care for, finding the right fit can support better posture, easier transfers, and long-term wellbeing.
The wrong chair can cause discomfort, poor posture, or even injury. The right one will:
Support safe transfers in and out of the chair
Reduce the risk of pressure injuries
Promote independence and confidence
Provide comfort for everyday use
As Occupational Therapists in Perth, we often support clients through funding such as the Support at Home Program previously known as Home Care Packages, and NDIS to find a chair that suits both current and future needs. Choosing with the help of an Occupational Therapist (OT) ensures your chair fits your needs, supports your health, and meets funding requirements.
Factors your OT will assist you to condsider:
1. Size and Fit
Getting the right size is the most important step.
A good fit means:
Hips are all the way back in the seat
Feet rest flat on the floor
Heels sit just off the end of the leg rest when raised
Elbows rest comfortably on the armrests
The head and neck are well supported
Tip: Always trial the chair in person with your OT to check comfort and safety before purchase. Sit in the chair for at least 20 minutes so you relax into your usual sitting position.
2. Motor Options
Lift recliner chairs come in different motor types:
Single motor: Backrest and leg rest move together
Dual or multi-motor: Back, leg, head, lift and lumbar supports adjust independently
An OT can help you choose based on mobility, comfort, function and funding guidelines.
3. Remote Control Ease of Use
Things we consider:
Can the user operate the remote independently?
Are the buttons large and easy to see or press?
Is the layout simple, or are multiple functions preferred?
Simple remotes suit those with limited hand movement reduced vision, or cognitive changes while advanced ones suit those wanting more control over positioning.
4. Backup Battery
A battery backup ensures the chair can still operate during a power outage. This is an important safety feature so the user can return to a safe upright or standing position.
5. Materials:
When choosing your chair, fabric is something to be taken into consideration. Your OT will help guide you on what fabric may be best suited for comfort, pressure care, longevity and safety.
Fabric
Soft, warm, and comfortable
Does not feel sticky in summer
Increased ‘grip’ when using lift function
Can stain more easily and harder to clean
Vinyl
Easy to wipe clean and budget-friendly
Suitable for incontinence or spills
May be slippery during transfers
May feel firm or cause sweating
Leather
Durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean
Can feel hot in summer and cold in winter
May be slippery during transfers
May feel firm or cause sweating
6. Pressure Care Considerations
For people sitting for long periods, pressure care is essential. Your OT can assist to determine the need for future pressure care planning in your chair.
Choose a chair that supports posture and skin integrity
Ask if custom pressure cushions can be added now in the future
Ensuring the chair is the correct size and feet are supported on the ground
Review fit regularly as needs change
7. Accessories to Consider
Over-chair table for meals, hobbies, or reading
Seat pads for incontinence
Chair covers to protect and extend chair life
Head and neck cushions for added support
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Recliner
Choosing based on colour or looks alone
Purchasing based on material alone
Buying the cheapest chair without considering support or durability
Not trialling the chair before purchase
Not having enough adjustment in the chair e.g. one versus two motor
Ensuring it fits in the space and there is power to plug into
Ignoring independence — can the user manage controls?
Forgetting to plan for future needs, such as pressure care
Final Thoughts
The right lift recliner chair supports comfort, safety, and independence at home. A well-fitted chair reduces falls risk, prevents pressure injuries, and makes daily activities easier.
At Star Therapy Services, our Perth-based Occupational Therapists can help you trial and select the most suitable lift recliner chair.
Looking for local suppliers? See our next blog post for stores we commonly visit for lift recliner chairs throughout Perth.
Contact Star Therapy Services today to arrange an assessment and find the best lift recliner chair for your needs.