Home safety

Do you have casters under chairs which makes them likely to slide as you get up?

Casters make furniture easier to move but can cause a problem if they slide back just as you are getting up. Either remove the casters or fit cup shaped carpet savers underneath.

Can you get in and out of your chair safely?

If your chair is too high or too low it may need adjusting to make it easier to get in and out of.

Make sure you prepare yourself to stand easily and safely.

• Move your bottom to the front of the chair,
• Use your hands on the arms rest,
• Lean forwards, nose over knees
• Using your leg muscle, and hands for balance, stand.

If you sit on a sofa, make sure you sit near the arm rest, to help you get up.

Do you have other chairs in your house which are a better height for you?

Get someone to swap them over for you.

The safest way to raise a chair is with special raising equipment underneath the chair, please seek an assessment for this. Adding too many cushion to the chair makes the chair soft and unstable, and reduces the effectiveness of the arm support.

Are you sitting comfortably?

It is important that you maintain a good posture in your chair, make sure you back is supported, by pushing your bottom all the way back in the chair. Try not to slouch too much by letting your bottom slide forward, as good posture helps your movement and balance. 

Do not sit too long, activity little and often is best.

 

Do you have to lean or reach to open windows or curtains because furniture is in the way?

Ask someone to help you re-arrange the furniture so that your windows are more accessible, or consider curtain draw rods or easy reach aids.