When selecting a lift chair for use in your home, it's important to consider the purposes for which you'll be using the chair. There are several different lift chair configurations available, and the amount of time spent and type of activity intended will influence your purchase decision.

The most basic lift chair configuration is a two-position chair. A two-position lift chair will recline backwards to an angle of about 45 degrees. Such a lift chair is ideal if you want a comfortable seat for general purposes and short-term use. These chairs are sometimes referred to as "TV lift recliners", and are great for watching a ballgame or relaxing with the morning paper.

Three-position lift chairs offer a bit more versatility than two-position models. They will recline backwards to a laying position that allows the body to rest nearly horizontally. If you want to rest comfortably or nap for extended periods in your lift chair, a three-position chair may be a better option than a two-position model.

Infinite-position lift chairs can be reclined to nearly any angle, including a fully horizontal position. In addition, an infinite-position lift chair's backrest and footrest operate independently of one another, which allows for a much wider range of positions to ensure maximum comfort when seated. For disabled individuals who spend a great deal of time seated during the day, an infinite-position lift chair may be preferable to maximize comfort, allow for extended periods of restful sleep, and prevent stress on joints and muscles resulting from being locked into a single position for an extended period of time.

Zero-gravity lift chairs are very similar to infinite-position lift chairs, except that they also allow you to elevate your feet above the level of your head and heart - this pose is known as the Trendelenburg position. This position may be recommended to you by your doctor as part of a treatment plan for certain medical conditions such as low blood pressure. Additionally, zero-gravity chairs are designed to remove tension and pressure from the lower back of the user. This feature is of particular benefit to people with severe lower back pain due to conditions such as arthritis or spinal disc herniations.