Help and advice

These chairs allow you to change your position while sitting in the chair. A slightly reclined position may allow you to relax more. However, if you have lost the ability to shift your weight within the chair on a regular basis you can slide forward, which may lead to the development of pressure ulcers (due to the resulting friction or shear). This risk can also increase with a higher body weight.¹ Using a footrest may reduce some of this risk, but check the weight capacity of the footrest before use.

It is important to know your weight before you purchase one of these type of chairs. If not, particularly if you haven't weighed yourself for a while, you may not be aware of your current weight which means there could be safety implications - especially if you are using a chair near its maximum weight capacity.²

The fit and comfort of a chair is a personal thing. As a heavier person or person with high body fat, your weight distribution will vary. You may either carry the additional body weight around your middle or on the hip and thigh area.^2,3,4 This will primarily determine the furniture requirements you have, for example, you may require a deeper chair rather than a wider one. Measuring needs to be carried out by an Occupational therapist or Information on physiotherapy or an experienced supplier to ensure a good fit.

If you would like a chair with a greater degree of backrest recline or an integral footrest see our sections on heavy duty recliner chairs or heavy duty riser recliners.

A chair in the recline position requires more effort to get out of. Try adjusting the recline mechanism to a more vertical position before standing up as this may help. Ask for an assessment by a Physiotherapist if you are uncertain of this technique, or if your weight is affecting your ability to sit to stand.

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.

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 through local authorities and direct payments.

For further information you may wish to read our:
- Choosing equipment for the heavier person factsheet.