About Lift Chairs

There are essentially three types of lift chairs: two-position, three-position, and infinite-position. The basic difference is the degree of recline the chair offers. Two-position chairs offer a slight recline, suitable for watching television or reading. Three-position chairs offer a full recline, great for napping or sleeping. Infinite-position chairs offers the deepest recline, the best for sleeping. Most styles are either two- or three-position chairs. Each type offers a range of styles and colors, with additional features such as heat or massage available on some models.

The overall capabilities of each type of chair are identical. Most lift chairs stand you up and lift your legs to about the same height.

Most models have a weight capacity of around 375 pounds. We also have lift chairs that have weight capacities of 500, 600 and 700 pounds. Different models come in different sizes, from petite to large and extra large. Some models have additional features and accessories available, such as heat and massage, a bed option with mattress, lumbar pillow, head pillow, or hands-free speaker phone.

Here are the key differences between two- and three-position chairs:

Recline: Two-position recliners need to be placed ten inches away from the wall for the full recline of 45 degrees. While this is fine for sitting, most people are unable to comfortably nap in two position chairs. Three-position chairs need to be placed fifteen inches from the wall for a recline of 75 degrees. Feedback from customers tells us most people can comfortably nap or even sleep in their recliners.

Comfort: Two-position chairs don’t feel quite as cushioned as three-position chairs. They have an opening between the seat and leg rest, meaning the seat is firmer and there isn’t any support for the back of the legs. Three-position recliners are more plush. These models have a generous chaise lounger pad that is attached to the seat for extra comfort and extends to the back of the legs. The padding also keeps items from falling between the seat and leg rest.

Size: Two-position chairs are only of standard height and width, generally twenty inches wide arm to arm, and nineteen inches in seat depth. Three-position lift chairs are usually available in more sizes. These models can accommodate a very petite person to an extremely tall or overweight individual. The height and widths of these chairs depend upon the model selected.

Fabrics

Lift chairs are available in a variety of fabrics, vinyls and colors pre-selected by the manufacturer. Other fabrics are available as an upgrade, at an increased cost and with a slight delay in delivery. If we don't have a particular model or color you want on display at any of our locations, your chair can be ordered and delivered within fourteen working days.

Cost

Lift chairs start as low as $615 for a two-position chair. Three-position lift chairs start at around $855, with various models, fabrics and upgrades available that will affect the final cost. Your MediEquip representative will tell you exactly what the chair you want will cost.

Because lift chairs assist with mobility, they are not taxed in Missouri or Illinois.

Rentals

Vinyl recliners can be rented for as long as you need them. Should you decide to purchase a lift chair from us, the cost of one month’s rental will apply to your new chair.

Insurance

Because of the motor mechanism in a lift chair, cost of the chair may be partially reimbursed by insurance. MediEquip is a provider for Medicare and most private insurances.

In most cases, reimbursement is considered only for the motor mechanism, and the procedures for reimbursement are dictated by the insurance company. Generally, motor mechanisms are covered for someone who meets one or more of the following:

difficulty standing from a chair of normal height
ability to walk with or without a device
diagnosis of a neurological disease, or arthritis of the hips or knees
attempted some type of physical therapy

Medicare will only consider reimbursement of the motor mechanism. Medicare pays 80% of their approximate $321 allowable, no matter what model is chosen. A prescription from a physician must be on hand before delivery, but not necessarily before purchase. The chair can be bought at any time.

Depending on the illness, a certificate of medical necessity must be completed pertaining to the criteria mentioned earlier. Based on how the questions are answered, Medicare will consider reimbursement only after the lift chair is delivered and full payment is made. Medicare does not pre-approve lift motor mechanisms. Due to hygiene concerns, the chair can not be returned if reimbursement for the motor is denied.

MediEquip will work with your physician to complete all necessary paperwork, and bill Medicare. If the motor mechanism is covered, then Medicare will send the a check directly to the customer. The remaining 20% would then come from secondary insurance.

Private Insurances

MediEquip is contracted with many private insurances. Private insurances have different allowables for motor mechanisms. With a correctly completed certificate of medical necessity, the customer can pay for the difference between the motor mechanism allowable and the lift chair selected, minus co-pay.

A MediEquip representative will be happy to answer any questions you may have about Medicare or your insurance.

Power and Battery Back-up

Lift chairs need to be plugged in to an outlet in order for the motor to operate. In event of a power outage, all lift chair models have a battery backup. Using two double A batteries, a lift chair can still operate without electricity. Generally you should be able to get 2-3 lifts per pair of batteries. MediEquip will install the batteries upon delivery, and show you where the battery box is located in case the batteries need to be changed.

Delivery

MediEquip provides free delivery within a 25 mile radius of any of our stores. If you live out of our standard delivery range, then a minimum delivery charge of $40 may apply.

Upon delivery, the MediEquip technician encourages each customer to complete and mail the manufacturer’s warranty card. This ensures the serial number for both the motor and frame get recorded. All of MediEquip lift chairs have excellent warranties through the various manufacturers, with a lifetime warranty on the frame. Generally, two position lift chairs have a three year warranty on the motor, while three position recliners have a four-year warranty. Most manufacturers include labor for the first year. If labor is not included on the chair you purchase, there will be a $40 labor charge for repairs.

Service

If you should have any problems with your chair, we will send a technician out to your home to diagnose the problem. Because MediEquip stocks such a large number of recliners, we have access to many parts, and are able to repair them quickly. For your convenience, we’ll send the bad part back to the manufacturer and deal with the reimbursement. It’s that simple.

Come See for Yourself!

Come on in to one of our convenient locations and try out the selection we have waiting for you.

Then sit back and relax in the comfort and security of your new lift chair, from MediEquip.

Questions? Call us at 800.863.2619 or 314.965.9300, or email us.

Copyright 2000-2008 MediEquip, Inc., St. Louis, Missouri