Help and advice

You may find it easier to stand from a chair if you modify your technique, read our advice on standing from a chair.

Raising a current chair using chair raisers can be an alternative or a short term solution before purchasing an alternative chair.¹

Read our advice on the essential measurements when choosing a new chair.

If you are petite, some of these chairs may be too large for you. If so, you may want to look at:

• Fixed height high back chairs
• Chairs with an adjustable seat height or
• Chairs with small or extra narrow seats.

It is worth trying out a chair before purchase. Assist UK is the national network for advice on independent living equipment and has a network of Disabled Living Centres. You could contact Assist UK and ask if there is a centre near you where you can try out some chairs.

It may be important that you have an individual assessment as there are many factors that may affect what is appropriate for you. For example, some chair raisers will not fit certain chairs, and some individuals, such as those who have just had a hip replacement, require chairs to be a minimum height.²

You may be eligible for an assessment and equipment from your local authority. If you are eligible the equipment will be provided on a long-term loan basis. Alternatively, you may be eligible for a direct payment from your local authority to purchase something suitable. View more information on equipment provision via your local authority and the direct payments scheme.

For further information you may wish to read our:
- Choosing a chair and chair accessories fact sheet

View references and sources of further information ‣