I would just suggest going to someplace like Staples, and sitting ;0) A chair for someone else can be so difficult. I'd had my eye on a Tempurpedic, ergonomically designed desk chair for my mother, who does need arms for rising. When I took her in to try a few, her best fit was a generic smaller chair on sale for about $85. A plus was that it was pretty with some topstitching, not revealing its modest price. That was a year ago and she still loves it.

Mine has lift away arms so I can use with or without which I really like. It is a mesh back with padded seat, I have been using it for a while now and it's held up very well. I got it from office Depot. I just looked at it and can't find a name. I had found it once online. I have seen and tried a few at Costco that were nice.

Thank you, both. We did have an Office Max (Depot?) close to me but it's gone now. I did try out their chairs earlier but they were all the same sort, with arms. I think it's more unusual to fine a decent chair without arms. Maybe I'm overthinking this. :)

look under the chairs too! Some of the chairs have arms that are removable!

This Herman Miller Aeron chair has many options, 3 sizes depending on your height & weight, type of lumbar support, arms/armless, etc., and has several adjustments.

Have it in my home & work office (w/ arms).

http://www.hermanmiller.com/products/seating/performance-work-chairs/aeron-chairs.html

My first one was bought used on ebay.

Can often find them 50% off on Craigslist.

That's a beautiful chair but yes, out of my range too. However, that is an excellent idea about looking for one on Ebay! I'll give it a try.