Question 1

What is a pressure care chair and who needs one?

Accepted Answer

A pressure care chair is a specialist chair designed to redistribute pressure away from bony prominences such as the sacrum, coccyx, and ischial tuberosities to reduce the risk of pressure injuries in individuals who spend prolonged periods seated. They are typically recommended for clients in aged care, hospital, or home care settings who have limited mobility, reduced sensation, poor circulation, or existing skin integrity concerns. Pressure care chairs often feature high-density or gel-infused foam, tilting or reclining functions to shift pressure loading, and supportive postural features. They are sometimes used in conjunction with a pressure care cushion for optimal protection.

Question 2

What is a lift recliner chair and is it covered by the NDIS?

Accepted Answer

A lift recliner chair, also called a lifter chair or rise-and-recline chair, is a single or dual motorised armchair with an electric mechanism that gently tilts the seat forward to help the user move from seated to standing with minimal effort. This significantly reduces the risk of falls during transfers and lessens the manual handling burden on carers. Lift recliners are commonly recommended for people with arthritis, reduced lower limb strength, Parkinson’s disease, post-surgical recovery, and a range of other conditions affecting mobility. They may be eligible for NDIS funding under the Assistive Technology support category where assessed by an occupational therapist as reasonable and necessary. Safety & Mobility is a registered NDIS provider and can assist with the quote and approval process.

Question 3

What types of chairs are suitable for hospital and aged care facilities?

Accepted Answer

Hospital and aged care environments require chairs that meet specific hygiene, durability, and functional standards. High back chairs and lounge chairs with vinyl or antimicrobial upholstery are widely used in resident rooms and day areas as they are easy to clean and provide good postural support. Mobile chairs with lockable castors are practical in ward and therapy settings where chairs need to be repositioned regularly. Dining chairs for healthcare use need to be appropriately sized, easy to clean, and stable enough to support residents with varying levels of ability. Pressure care chairs are essential for residents with elevated skin integrity risk. Safety & Mobility supplies all of these chair types to hospitals, residential aged care facilities, and community care providers across Australia.

Question 4

What is the difference between a high back chair and a low back chair?

Accepted Answer

A high back chair provides support up to and including the upper back and sometimes the head and neck, making it suitable for clients who need full spinal support or who spend long periods seated. It is often recommended for individuals with postural instability, neurological conditions, or fatigue-related muscle weakness. A low back chair supports the lumbar region and lower back but leaves the upper back and shoulders free, making it more appropriate for users who have adequate trunk control and only need light support. The right choice depends on the individual’s postural needs, functional ability, and how long they will be seated. An occupational therapist can advise on the most appropriate option for a specific client.

Question 5

What is a perching stool and when is it recommended?

Accepted Answer

A perching stool is a forward-slanting stool that allows the user to adopt a semi-standing posture, partially weight-bearing through the legs while still having a surface to rest on. This position reduces fatigue during tasks that require standing for extended periods, such as kitchen or bench work, while encouraging a more active posture than conventional sitting. Perching stools are commonly recommended in occupational therapy for people who find prolonged standing difficult but benefit from remaining upright, for example during rehabilitation, for people with lower back pain, or for those managing conditions such as COPD or heart failure. They are also widely used by healthcare professionals in clinical settings.

Perching Stool

Perching Stool with Arms

Petite Chair

Poly Top Surgeon Stool

Poly Top Surgeon Stool with Footrest

Premier A1 Bariatric Lift and Recline Chair

Premier A2 Bariatric Lift and Recline Chair

Premier A3 Bariatric Lift and Recline Chair

Premier A4 Bariatric Lift and Recline Chair

Premier Electric Recliner with No-Flip

Regent Sofa Bed

Regent Two Seater Sofa Bed

Chairs/Seating