Seats of different heights and sizes bring comfort to patients with mobility problems

Realising that some of their patients struggled to manage chairs that are a standard size, many hospitals, care homes and GP surgeries provide a variety of chairs that are different widths and different heights.

Varying the height does not necessarily mean buying new chairs. Simple gadgets exist that can be placed onto the legs of a chair to raise its height.

This simple gesture can make the world of difference to someone trying to sit in the chair safely. Often, the extra height is even more useful when the patient wants to leave the chair as the height enables that person to get to a standing position with considerably less effort.

Always seek professional advice before adapting chairs in a hospital. Some patients are deliberately encouraged to sit on harder chair as they feel better supported.

Others may benefit from the comfort of a chair that tips back. But, this kind of chair is not always suitable for everyone as getting out of it, without help, can be very tricky.

It may be possible for a person with certain disabilities to be helped by a special cushions that relieve pressure on areas of skin.

If you feel the patient's own pillow or cushion will add both comfort and support, please check with the nursing staff before putting it in place.

Jill