Here are some important seating safety considerations to help reduce the risk of injury when getting in and out of a recliner, sofa or seat.
The points we cover are:
- Size
- Posture
- Changing positions
- Controls for recline and lift
- Controls for less stres
Size
The height and depth of the recliner or sofa is very important in helping to stop falls when sitting down and standing up. Thinking about the dimensions and making the right choice when buying will help reduce the risk.
Getting in and out of the recliner, whether assisted or not, should be as smooth as possible. It’s not good to fall into the seat or have to exert a lot of energy to pull yourself out. For less flexible or more fragile older people, this causes unnecessary stress, strain and potential falls.
The right size recliner ensures a smoother transition.
Posture
Once seated, good posture is very important as an older adult may spend many more hours seated than a younger person.
A well designed recliner with good support will aid good posture however what’s good for one person may not be so supportive for another.
Using supports and cushions can assist with good posture if the seat isn’t perfect.
Changing positions
Being seated in the same position for hours isn’t good as it can affect the circulation. Having cushions, supports, reclining and tilt functions is important for both variety and health when sitting for long periods.
Controls for recline and lift
Having easily accessible controls for recline and lift contribute to overall comfort and safety.
A lift function enables the recliner to lift up and forward for the purpose of helping transfers in and out of the seat.
A good recline setting enables a safe place to relax and snooze without the risk of falling out.
Controls for less stress
Everyone is different and that impacts the kind of controls your recliner should have.
For anyone suffering cognitive challenges, comprehensive power controls will likely be difficult to use. This could lead to stress and the potential for unsafe transfers in and out of the chair.
It’s good to think about the most appropriate controls, whether they be manual, simple or complex.
Some key points
- The reality for a lot of people is if they suffer a fall it can have a huge impact on their lives.
- Falls from chairs and beds were among the top places to fall from, so safer seating is a must.
- Ensuring good posture when seated is important.
- Always consider the transfer in and out of the recliner, and how it can be smoother and safer.
Recliner Bitz
Our lives can change in a split of a second as we get to be older, less mobile and less flexible. An unforeseen fall can lead to hip fractures, surgery and a long road to recovery, which may never be complete. We hope you find this article useful.
Please take a moment to check our online recliner parts shop. We offer a large range of replacement parts and shipping all over Australia.
Read more about the benefits of recliners.