Help and advice

The ideal height of a chair depends on the individual using it. If your hips are lower than your knees when you are sat down then your chair may be too low, and you may find it easier to stand if the chair was a little higher. However, some chair raisers will not fit certain chairs.

Some individuals, such as those who have just had a hip replacement, need to take care what height the chairs they sit on are as this could affect their hip. Consequently, we recommend you arrange an individual assessment. You can contact your local social services and ask about an occupational therapy assessment. You can find their contact details using the direct.gov.uk website.

Chair raisers increase the height of the chair's legs or base (if the chair has no legs) making it easier for you to stand up and sit down. The overall increased height will depend on the type of legs of the chair and the product used. Many chair raisers are adjustable within a range. These are often supplied by social service departments or the NHS following a hospital discharge.

Chair raisers can be used on dining chairs to sofas depending on the type and shape of chair leg and chair raiser used. With a larger sofa additional interconnected parts of a raiser may be needed, e.g. if it has six or eight castors.

Chair raisers have a maximum weight limit and are available in different materials some of which are more discrete than others.

Interconnected chair raisers tend to be more stable but the linking parts can get in the way of vacuums. Chairs that are placed on blocks can be quite difficult to move - you will probably require assistance with fitting chair raisers or if moving the chair for cleaning. After moving a chair you should always check that the chair is still correctly positioned on the chair raisers before sitting down.

Read more advice on:
- Raising a chair
- Standing from a chair.