Gone are the days when lift chairs looked like hospital equipment. Today's new styles of chairs are both fashionable and functional, and will fit in perfectly with any type of room décor. The new designs, fabrics and even options for models are sure to provide a perfect match for both your decorating themes as well as specific needs in providing assistance to get from the seated to the standing position. These chairs really can improve the quality of life for anyone with mobility problems, back or neck injuries or even chronic pain and leg problems. Since the chairs can be operated by the individual there is no need to have another person to help, giving more independence and freedom.

There are several different types of lift chairs available. Most look like recliners and come in a variety of upholstery options and designs. Colors range from black and brown through to blues, greens, reds, golds, creams and virtually every color in between. Most chair models have several different upholstery colors that can be ordered with the chair, ensuring the right color combination in every room.

Besides just color options, different chair manufacturers, brands and models offer different styles of headrests, armrests and even footrest options. Wing back styles that provide security and comfort are very popular and also look terrific in bedrooms, living rooms, dens and in family and game rooms. Very modern and sleek styles of designs are also available in many of the chairs, providing options for even the most modern decorating styles.

There are actually four different styles of lift chairs, each of which has its own unique features and functions. All are designed with durability, comfort and style in mind. The four options include two and three position chairs, infinite position chairs and zero gravity chairs. Since there are differences between the four, it is important to understand the basics before selecting the model that is best suited for your needs.

Two position chairs will have far more than two positions, but there are really two distinct positions, the fully upright to a forty-five degree inclined position. This is the perfect incline for easily watching television, reading or resting. These chairs range in weight capacity from 300 to 600 pounds, and most are comfortable for individuals between five foot two inches and six foot one inches in height.

Three position chairs offer all the positions of a two position chair but they also can be reclined into the nearly flat position. These chairs are ideal for people with less mobility or those that prefer sleeping in a chair to a full bed. The chairs are designed similarly to the two position chairs with the same range of weights and heights recommended, again with each model offering different minimums and maximums.

Infinite position chairs add on to the options of the three position models, allowing for the chair itself to become completely flat when fully reclined. As with all models the footrest works with the reclining motion, however, on infinite position chairs the footrest can also be used even if the chair is upright and not in the reclining position. This is a great option for people with leg and lower back problems.

The final option is a zero gravity chair which allows for several different independent positions providing the greatest flexibility of the chair. This ability to position these styles of lift chairs as required is terrific for those with breathing and respiratory problems or those with back or circulatory issues. Since the spine is securely held in the optimum position there is very little downward pull on the spine, regardless of the position of the patient.