There’s a moment a lot of people recognise.
Getting out of your favourite chair starts to take a bit more effort. You pause, steady yourself, and think twice before standing. Over time, that small change can affect your confidence and even become a fall risk.
A lift chair helps take that pressure off.
At the press of a button, it gently tilts forward and supports you to stand, safely and smoothly. No straining, no second-guessing.
This guide walks you through how lift chairs work and how to choose one that actually fits your needs and your day-to-day life.
How Does a Lift Chair Actually Work?
At first glance, a lift chair looks just like a regular armchair. Nothing complicated, nothing clinical.
The difference is built inside.
There’s a motor tucked into the base, controlled by a simple handheld remote. When you press the button, the chair gently tilts forward and lifts upward, guiding you into a near-standing position.
So instead of pushing yourself up and putting pressure on your knees or hips, the chair does the hard part for you.
Most lift chairs also recline, so you can lean back and put your feet up when you want to relax. Depending on the model, you can adjust how far back you go, from sitting upright through to a near-flat position.
How much control you have over those positions comes down to the motor setup, which we’ll get into next.
Choosing the Right Motor Configuration
This is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when choosing a lift chair.
The motor setup controls how the chair moves, how much you can adjust it, and how comfortable you’ll feel using it day to day. Get this right, and the chair works with you. Get it wrong, and it can feel limiting pretty quickly.
1. Single Motor
A single motor moves the backrest and footrest together.
When you lean back, your legs come up at the same time. It’s straightforward, easy to use, and usually the most budget-friendly option.
This works well if your main goal is help getting in and out of the chair, and you’re not too concerned about adjusting your position throughout the day.
Just keep in mind, you won’t be able to move your back and legs separately. So if you like sitting upright while elevating your legs, or making small position changes for comfort, this setup can feel a bit restrictive over time.
2. Dual Motor
With a dual motor chair, the backrest and footrest move independently.
That means you can sit upright and raise your legs, or recline back without lifting your feet. It gives you a lot more flexibility to find a position that actually feels good, not just one that the chair allows.
If you spend a fair bit of time sitting during the day, whether it’s watching TV, reading, or just relaxing, this added control makes a noticeable difference.
For most people, this is the sweet spot. You get comfort, versatility, and ease of use without overcomplicating things.
3. Quad Motor
A quad motor chair takes things a step further.
You can adjust the headrest, lumbar support, backrest, and footrest all separately, which gives you very precise control over how you sit and recline.
This is especially useful if you:
- Spend several hours a day in your chair
- Need specific positioning for recovery or ongoing conditions
- Want proper support for your neck and lower back
It also means you can make small adjustments throughout the day as your body starts to feel it, rather than being stuck in one position.
If you’re leaning towards a quad motor setup, the Royale Chadwick range at Platinum Health Supply is a strong example of what that level of control looks like in practice.
You get four independent motors, so you can fine-tune your position without compromise, along with a smooth lift that helps you stand safely and steadily.
It also includes a few features that make everyday use easier:
- A simple hand control with a one-touch “home” button to reset the chair
- Backup power, so you can return to a safe position if there’s an outage
- Supportive cushioning and premium upholstery options
- A sturdy build that meets Australian standards
If you’re using your chair daily, or for longer periods at a time, these details start to matter more than you might expect. View Royale Chadwick Lift Chairs at Platinum Health Supply
Getting the Size Right: Mini vs Standard
Size isn’t just about comfort here. It directly affects how well the chair supports you and how safely the lift function works.
If the chair doesn’t fit your body properly, it can feel awkward to sit in and less stable when standing up. So this is one area you don’t want to guess.
The Royale Chadwick range comes in two sizes:
Chadwick Mini
Best suited if you’re 167cm (5'6") and under
- Seat height: 44cm
- Seat width: 45cm
- Seat depth: 51cm
Chadwick Standard
Best suited if you’re 167cm (5'6") and above
- Seat height: 50cm
- Seat width: 56cm
- Seat depth: 50cm
Why getting the right fit matters
A chair that’s the wrong size can cause more issues than you’d expect.
If the seat is too deep, you won’t be able to sit all the way back comfortably. That means you miss out on proper back and lumbar support, and the lift motion won’t guide you into a natural standing position.
If the seat is too shallow, your thighs aren’t properly supported, which can get uncomfortable pretty quickly, especially if you’re sitting for longer periods.
When the fit is right, everything feels easier. You sit back properly, your feet rest comfortably, and the lift helps you stand in a smooth, stable way.
Not sure which size to go with?
If you’re unsure, it’s worth getting a bit of guidance before you buy.
An Occupational Therapist can assess your height, posture, and mobility, and recommend the right size, especially if you’re accessing funding through NDIS or a Home Care Package.
If you have the chance, trying a chair in person can also help. It gives you a feel for how it supports your body and how natural the lift motion feels.
Platinum Health Supply can help you find showroom or trial options, so you can choose with confidence.
Upholstery Options: Fabric vs Leather
This comes down to how you use your chair day to day, not just how it looks.
All three options in the Royale Chadwick range are designed to be comfortable and durable, but each one suits a slightly different lifestyle.
1. Oxford plush leather
If comfort is high on your list, this is the premium option.
It has the durability and easy clean-up of leather, but with a softer, warmer feel that’s more comfortable for long periods of sitting. It doesn’t have that cold, stiff feel some people associate with leather.
A good choice if you want something that feels a bit more luxurious without giving up practicality.
2. Genuine leather
This is the most practical, no-fuss option.
It’s durable, breathable, and easy to wipe clean, which makes it especially useful in homes where spills or accidents are a concern, or in aged care settings.
If you want something low maintenance that holds up well over time, this is a solid pick.
3. Soft touch fabric
Fabric gives you a warmer, more relaxed feel.
It’s breathable, comfortable, and a good option if you don’t love the feel of leather, especially during colder months. It also comes in a wider range of colours, so it’s easier to match with your space.
If your priority is comfort and a homely look, fabric is a great fit.
Which one should you choose?
Think about how the chair will be used every day.
If easy cleaning and practicality matter most, leather options are usually the better choice. This becomes even more important if you’re managing incontinence, where being able to wipe down the surface quickly makes life a lot easier.
If comfort and feel are your main priorities, and spills aren’t a concern, fabric can be just as enjoyable to use.
There’s no single “best” option here, just what works best for your routine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Lift Chair
These are the things people often wish they knew earlier.
If you can avoid these, you’ll save yourself a lot of frustration and end up with a chair that actually works for you.
1. Focusing on price instead of how you’ll use it
It’s easy to go for the lower price tag, especially when the chairs look similar at first glance.
But the motor setup makes a big difference to how the chair feels day to day. For example, if you want to sit upright with your legs raised, you’ll need at least a dual motor. A single motor won’t give you that flexibility.
A better way to choose is to think about how you’ll use the chair each day, then match the features to that. It usually leads to a much better fit.
2. Getting the size wrong
This one comes up more often than you’d expect.
A lot of people go for the larger chair because it looks more comfortable in a showroom. But if it doesn’t match your height and proportions, it can feel awkward pretty quickly.
If the seat is too deep, you won’t be able to sit back properly. If it’s too wide, reaching the armrests can feel like a stretch.
A well-fitted chair should support your back properly, let your feet rest comfortably, and help you stand in a smooth, natural way.
3. Not thinking about space at home
Lift chairs need room to recline.
Most standard models require around 30 to 45cm of space behind them. If the chair is too close to the wall, you won’t be able to use the full recline function.
If space is tight, it’s worth looking into wall-hugger designs. These move forward as they recline, so they need much less clearance behind them.
4. Overlooking backup power
This is one of those details that’s easy to miss, but really important.
If you rely on the lift function to stand safely, a power outage can leave you stuck in the chair.
Some models, like the Royale Mobility Furniture range, include backup power so you can return to a safe position if the power goes out. Not all chairs have this, so it’s worth checking before you buy.
What to Look For When Trying a Lift Chair
If you get the chance to try a lift chair in person, it’s well worth it.
A few minutes in the chair can tell you more than any spec sheet. The key is knowing what to pay attention to while you’re sitting in it.
1. Start with how it feels to sit
Sit all the way back in the chair with your back against the backrest.
Your feet should rest flat on the floor, and the seat shouldn’t dig into the back of your thighs. If it does, the seat height or depth might not be right for you.
It should feel natural and supported, not like you’re adjusting yourself to fit the chair.
2. Try the lift function
Use the remote and let the chair guide you up.
The movement should feel smooth and steady, not sudden or jerky. As it lifts, you should feel supported all the way through, and when you reach the top, it should be easy to step away without hesitation.
If it feels awkward or unstable, it’s worth trying a different model.
3. Check how stable it is
If the chair has castors, give it a gentle push and see how it behaves on the floor.
You don’t want it shifting unexpectedly, especially on timber or tiles. It should feel secure and stable when you’re sitting and standing.
4. Look at the remote
This might seem like a small thing, but you’ll be using it every day.
Are the buttons easy to understand? Can you read them clearly? Do they feel simple to use without thinking too much?
If you have limited hand strength or vision, this becomes even more important.
5. Ask about noise
Motors aren’t completely silent, but they shouldn’t be distracting either.
If you’re using the chair in a quiet space, especially at night, it’s worth asking how noisy it is during movement.
NDIS & My Aged Care Funding on Lift Chairs
If you’re worried about the cost of a lift chair, there’s a good chance you won’t have to cover it on your own.
Lift chairs are often funded as Assistive Technology under the NDIS, and they can also be supported through My Aged Care Home Care Packages. In some cases, DVA card holders may be eligible as well.
How the process usually works
It might sound a bit formal, but the steps are fairly straightforward once you get started:
1. Have a chat with your GP, OT, or support coordinator
They’ll help determine whether a lift chair suits your needs and if you’re eligible for funding.
2. Get an assessment
An Occupational Therapist will assess your mobility, comfort, and daily needs, then provide a recommendation.
3. Request a quote
You’ll need a formal quote from a supplier. Platinum Health Supply can provide quotes that meet NDIS and Home Care requirements.
4. Submit for approval
The quote is sent to your plan manager, NDIS planner, or Home Care Package provider.
5. Order and delivery
Once approved, your chair is ordered and delivered to your home.
A small tip that makes a big difference
If you’re going through NDIS or My Aged Care, getting the right documentation early on can speed things up quite a bit.
Working with a supplier who understands the process also helps avoid back and forth, especially when it comes to quotes and requirements.
Platinum Health Supply is an NDIS-registered provider and can assist with quotes for plan managers and support coordinators, so you’re not figuring it all out on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lift Chairs
How long does a lift chair last?
With normal daily use, a quality lift chair is built to last for years.
The Royale Chadwick range comes with a 2-year warranty on electrical components and a 5-year structural warranty, which gives you a good sense of how it’s designed to hold up over time.
Simple things like keeping the mechanism clear and staying within the weight limit will help it last even longer.
Can you sleep in a lift chair overnight?
You can, depending on your needs.
Quad motor chairs like the Chadwick can recline to a near-flat position, which makes them suitable for overnight use, especially if you’re managing things like reflux, breathing conditions, or recovery after surgery.
If you’re planning to use it for long periods, adding a pressure-relief cushion can help keep you comfortable and protect your skin.
What happens if the power goes out?
This is a really important one to check before buying.
The Royale Chadwick range includes a backup power supply, so if the power goes out, you can still return the chair to a safe position.
Not all lift chairs come with this feature, so it’s always worth confirming.
Do lift chairs need professional installation?
No, it’s pretty straightforward.
Lift chairs are delivered assembled and just need to be plugged into a standard power point. The delivery team can usually position it where you want it, so you’re ready to go.
Find the right chair for your day-to-day life
Choosing a lift chair isn’t just about features. It’s about how you feel using it every day.
When the fit is right, getting up feels easier. Sitting feels more comfortable. And you don’t have to think twice about something as simple as standing up.
If you’re still deciding, take your time. Think about how you’ll use the chair, what kind of support you need, and what will make you feel most at ease in your own space.
And if you’d rather talk it through, that’s completely fine too. Getting a bit of guidance can make the decision a whole lot clearer.
