Choosing a lift chair is one of the most important comfort and mobility decisions a senior or their family can make. A well-chosen lift chair can dramatically improve daily quality of life — making it easier to stand up, sit down, sleep comfortably, and reduce strain on arthritic joints.
The wrong chair, however, can be uncomfortable, unsafe, or simply not serve the purpose you bought it for. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Step 1 — Choose the Right Position Type
The position type determines how far back the chair reclines and how independently the back and footrest move.
| Position Type | How It Reclines | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Position | Upright + TV watching position only | Basic lift assist, limited budget |
| 3-Position | Upright, TV watching, and near-flat napping | Most seniors who want to nap in the chair |
| Infinite Position | Back and footrest move independently to any angle including zero gravity | Anyone who sleeps in the chair or needs therapeutic positioning |
| Twilight (Golden) | Chair tilts as one unit — maintains body alignment through full recline | People with back pain, circulation issues, or post-surgery recovery |
Step 2 — Choose the Right Size
Lift chair sizing is critical. A chair that's too small is uncomfortable and potentially unsafe. A chair that's too large doesn't provide the proper support to help you stand.
| Size | Best For | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Petite | Users under 5'3" | Up to 375 lbs |
| Small/Medium | Users 5'3" – 5'7" | Up to 400 lbs |
| Medium/Large | Users 5'7" – 6'1" | Up to 400 lbs |
| Tall | Users 6'1" and above | Up to 400 lbs |
| Bariatric Wide | Users needing wider seat | Up to 600 lbs |
The proper seat height should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor with your knees at approximately 90 degrees. Come into our showroom and we'll measure you properly — sizing a lift chair incorrectly is one of the most common mistakes buyers make online.
Step 3 — Choose the Right Fabric
Golden Technologies lift chairs come in two fabric options. The choice matters more than most people realize.
Standard Fabric
Soft polyester and microsuede blends available in 22+ colors across the Tucker, Torres, Anli, Sinda, and Microsuede fabric families. Comfortable, warm, and attractive. The Tucker fabric includes a stain-resistant treatment. This is the right choice if appearance and comfort are your top priorities.
Brisa Fabric — Lifetime Warranty
Brisa is a 100% waterproof, wipeable material that looks and feels like premium leather. It cleans with mild soap and water and comes with a lifetime warranty — the only fabric Golden Technologies offers this coverage on. We strongly recommend Brisa for anyone with incontinence concerns, anyone who eats or drinks in their chair frequently, or any caregiver who needs easy cleanup. The additional cost over standard fabric is worth it for the peace of mind.
Step 4 — Consider Key Features
Depending on the user's needs, certain features can make a significant difference in daily comfort and safety:
- Power headrest — adjustable neck support independently controlled. Essential for people who sleep in the chair.
- Power lumbar — adjustable lower back support. Critical for people with chronic back pain.
- Zero gravity positioning — elevates legs above heart level to improve circulation. Beneficial for people with edema or cardiovascular conditions.
- Wireless charger and cup holder — practical convenience for daily use.
- Heat and massage — available on premium models like the PR525. Excellent for arthritis and muscle tension.
- Battery backup — allows the chair to operate during a power outage so the person is never stuck in a reclined position.
Step 5 — Rent First If You're Unsure
Not sure whether a lift chair is the right solution? We offer short-term and long-term lift chair rentals delivered and set up in your home. Many of our customers rent for a few weeks after surgery to try before committing to a purchase. We'll credit your rental toward a purchase if you decide to buy.
The 9 Golden Technologies Models We Carry
As an authorized Golden Technologies dealer in La Palma, we carry the complete MaxiComfort lineup. View all models and pricing here, or call us at (714) 868-8544 and we'll match you with the right chair based on your needs and budget.