The Independence Chair™ by VELA enables people to get back to doing the things they love with confidence and allows them to safely conduct their normal routines without assistance.
An innovative solution like no other, the Independence Chair™ equips users so that they are empowered and excited to take on the world.
The user-friendly Independence Chair™ provides dynamic solutions to discover newfound freedoms. Users experience increased self-reliance around the home and peace of mind, knowing they are safe and capable.
Our special chair locks in place when needed to avoid unwanted rolling and allow users to make transfers without worry. Our power height adjustment makes reaching those hard-to-get-at places much easier. For users who crave independence and confidence in their daily lives, the Independence Chair™ is the answer.
With the Independence Chair™, everyday life becomes easier, safer, and more comfortable than ever before.
Independence Chair™ Manual
Independence Chair™ Electric
Independence Chair™ Plus
*The foot ring pictured on the Independence Chair™ Plus is sold separately.
We offer three different Independence Chair™ models, so you can find the features and benefits ideal for your unique needs at a price point that supports your wallet. There’s no need to settle for traditional, one-size-fits-all devices.
FEATURES |
Independence Chair™ Manual | Independence Chair™ Electric | Independence Chair™ Plus |
Leg Design Why is this important?
With a 5-leg star configuration, one leg is often interfering with foot propelling, which limits movement and can risk heel damage. A raised 4-leg configuration allows the user to move safely and easily with free foot motion. The 4-leg flared design features a welded steel frame that disperses weight evenly across the chair, ensuring the user is centered, stable, and safe.
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Raised 4-leg flared configuration | Raised 4-leg flared configuration | Raised 4-leg flared configuration |
Wheel Castor Height Why is this important?
Higher castors and rubber wheels are of exceptional quality further ensuring the comfort, safety, and movement of the Independence Chair™.
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4" | 4" | 4" |
Seat Design Why is this important?
Waterfall-front seats curve down along the front edge, opening the area behind the knee for easier foot propelling. Standard seat designs can put pressure behind the knee and limit circulation to lower legs.
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Waterfall | Waterfall | Waterfall |
Anterior Seat Why is this important?
A slight anterior tilt supports the posture needed to safely and comfortably propel the chair. This feature also opens up the diaphragm, allowing for better pulmonary function and proper organ alignment while preventing hyperextension of the neck.
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6" Tilt | 6" Tilt | 10" Tilt |
Wheel Locks Why is this important?
Wheel locks allow the user to keep the chair in place when exiting and entering the chair, preventing unsafe movement and migration of the chair. They also provide extra support for weight-bearing activities.
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Included; optional foot pedal | Included; optional foot pedal | Included; optional foot pedal |
FEATURES |
Independence Chair™ Manual | Independence Chair™ Electric | Independence Chair™ Plus |
Height Adjustment Why is this important?
Expanded height adjustment options bring users safely within reach of items in the highest and lowest corners of their home—without risk of fall or injury. Users with limited grasp or arm strength can opt for an electric model, where height is controlled by a switch underneath the armrest. This switch is interchangeable and available to use on the right or left sides.
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Manual, expanded range | Electric, expanded range | Electric, expanded range |
Armrest Why is this important?
Adjustable armrests can provide greater support customized to users of many sizes without compromising safety. They can also be lowered out of the way for lateral transfers in and out of the chair.
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Adjustable vertically and horizontall | Adjustable vertically and horizontall | Adjustable vertically and horizontall |
Back Position Adjustment Why is this important?
Height-adjustable back cushions provide users of all heights with maximum comfort and support.
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Included | Included | Included |
Back Angle Adjustment Why is this important?
By altering the angle of the back cushion, users can adjust to their ideal seat depth and provide comfortable support to the spine.
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Up to 6º | Up to 6º | Up to 22º |
Reclining Position Why is this important?
While reclined, users can rest or nap comfortably while maintaining safe pelvic and spinal alignment.
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— | — | Up to 22º |
Posterior Seat Adjustment Why is this important?
The adjustable posterior tilt allows users to support their pelvic areas comfortably while remaining secure in the seat.
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Up to 3º | Up to 3º | Up to 15º |
Seat Cushion Material Why is this important?
Standard foam and fabric styles are not designed for extended use and can absorb moisture and odors. Higher quality foams, such as closed-cell foam, will hold up to frequent use for up to 15 years and sustain postural control and support. Closed-cell foam also maintains maximum comfort without absorbing moisture or odors. Premium fabric, such as the 57,000 Martindale featured on the Independence Chair, can endure 57,000 rubs before it needs to be replaced. Based on average, sustained use, this fabric would last about fifteen years. Fabric is available in five color choices: midnight blue, onyx black, ruby red, dove grey, and charcoal grey. |
Closed-cell foam and long-lasting fabric; optional waterproof seat protector | Closed-cell foam and long-lasting fabric; optional waterproof seat protector | Closed-cell foam and long-lasting fabric; optional waterproof seat protector |
Built-In Lumbar Support Why is this important?
Lumbar support provides relief and support for the spine, encouraging users to maintain proper posture and opening up the diaphragm for better pulmonary function.
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Included | Included | Included |
FEATURES |
Independence Chair™ Manual | Independence Chair™ Electric | Independence Chair™ Plus |
Base Material Why is this important?
The base of your chair is integral to providing superior support throughout its lifetime. Nylon-based chairs can warp and weaken with extended use while steel-based chairs can withstand years of frequent use without degradation.
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Steel (lifetime warranty included) | Steel (lifetime warranty included) | Steel (lifetime warranty included) |
Frame Material Why is this important?
Standard chairs are often insufficient for regular movement; the frame and wheels may begin to scrape and wear down as the chair ages from persistent use. Brass castor journals and stainless steel bearings are designed to provide smooth, safe movement—even on uneven surfaces.
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Brass and stainless steel | Brass and stainless steel | Brass and stainless steel |
Seat Cushion Material Why is this important?
Standard foam and fabric styles are not designed for extended use and can absorb moisture and odors.
Higher quality foams, such as closed-cell foam, will hold up to frequent use for up to 15 years and sustain postural control and support. Closed-cell foam also maintains maximum comfort without absorbing moisture or odors. Premium fabric, such as the 57,000 Martindale featured on the Independence Chair, can endure 57,000 rubs before it needs to be replaced. Based on average, sustained use, this fabric would last about fifteen years. Fabric is available in five color choices: midnight blue, onyx black, ruby red, dove grey, and charcoal grey. |
Closed-cell foam and long-lasting fabric; optional waterproof seat protector | Closed-cell foam and long-lasting fabric; optional waterproof seat protector | Closed-cell foam and long-lasting fabric; optional waterproof seat protector |
“My husband absolutely loves it! It is so well constructed, better than I could have hoped for, and is sturdy and safe for him to use. We are absolutely thrilled with our purchase!”
—RuthAnn Batchelder
“Now it's easy to move around the office. I just can't wait to get one for my home.”
—Susan, Independence Chair user with muscular dystrophy
The Independence Chair™ can be yours right away. For more information or to place an order today, fill out the form—we’ll connect you with one of our Quality of Life Experts.