A lift mechanism for a chair device, such as a wheelchair (12), that is intended to engaged the frame of the wheelchair (12) and lift and lower the wheelchair (12) between a ground engaging position and an elevated position. The lift mechanism (242) includes a lift arm having one end secured within and moveable with respect to a vehicle (244). The lift arm (246) has another end which can extend outwardly of the vehicle to engage the chair device. The lift arm (246) has a lift plate disposed adjacent the other end of the lift arm, which is intended to mate with or couple the frame of the wheelchair (12). The lift arm (246) is in communication with an actuator which controls the movement of the lift arm (246) between the ground engaging position and the elevated position. The lift mechanism utilizes a universal coupling system to effectuate elevation in vehicular transportation or architectural setting.