For someone who struggles to get out of a chair, a lift recliner can be one of the most useful pieces of equipment in the house. A motor tilts the whole chair forward to help you stand, and it reclines for comfort the rest of the time. But there are big differences between models, and prices range from under $1,500 to well over $5,000. Here’s the plain-language guide.
The Three Main Types
Single motor chairs move the backrest and footrest together. They’re simpler, usually cheaper, and easy to operate, which makes them a good choice for someone with memory loss who might find more buttons confusing.
Dual motor chairs move the backrest and footrest separately, so you can raise your legs while sitting upright, or recline the back without lifting your feet. They suit people who sit for long periods or need to elevate swollen legs.
Clinical or tilt-in-space chairs tilt the whole seat back while keeping your hip and knee angles the same, which shifts pressure off the bottom. They’re designed for people at risk of pressure injuries or with complex postural needs, and usually need a detailed assessment.
What They Cost
Across Australian suppliers, lift recliners typically range from about $1,400 for an entry-level single motor chair to $5,500 or more for clinical seating. Most standard chairs support around 150 kg, many dual motor models go up to 250 kg, and bariatric chairs are available up to around 400 kg.
Getting the Fit Right
A chair that doesn’t fit can cause more problems than it solves. Feet should sit flat on the floor with knees roughly level with the hips. The seat should be deep enough to support the thighs without pressing behind the knees, and wide enough to sit comfortably. Many models come in petite, standard and large sizes for exactly this reason. Check you have room for the chair to recline and a power point nearby, and ask whether it has battery backup in case of a power cut.
Who Can Help Pay
Lift recliners can be funded as assistive technology through several programs, usually after an occupational therapist assessment. For NDIS participants, many lift recliners cost more than the $1,500 low-cost threshold, so they generally need advice from an assistive technology assessor and must be reasonable and necessary. For older Australians on Support at Home, the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications scheme can fund a lift chair where an assessment shows it’s needed, as our AT-HM scheme guide explains. Eligible veterans may be able to get help through DVA.
Before You Buy
Try before you buy, ideally in a showroom where you can test sitting, reclining and standing. Ask about warranty on the motor and frame, delivery and setup, and how easy the remote is to use. And if funding is involved, get the OT assessment first, since buying before approval can mean paying yourself.
The Bottom Line
Lift recliners help people stand safely and sit comfortably, with single motor chairs suiting simple use, dual motor chairs suiting long sitting and leg elevation, and clinical tilt-in-space chairs suiting pressure care. Expect to pay from about $1,400 to $5,500 or more. Get the fit right, try before you buy, and check whether the NDIS, Support at Home or DVA can help pay. This is general information, not medical or occupational therapy advice.
Epik Wire covers assistive technology in plain language for older Australians, people with disability and their families. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed.
