Fall prevention: practical tips — and how a riser recliner chair can help

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury in later life — and they’re not “just part of getting older.” With the right changes at home, some simple strength and balance habits, and sensible equipment choices, many falls can be prevented.

Quick NHS-based actions to reduce fall risk

• Tidy trip hazards. Coil or tape down cables, remove loose rugs, fix frayed carpet edges, and keep everyday items within easy reach so you’re not climbing or stretching. Improve lighting, especially on stairs and landings.

  
  

• Do a home safety check. Work room-by-room to spot slips and trips, consider grab rails where needed, and review furniture layout so pathways are clear.

  
  

• Stay active. Gentle, regular movement helps maintain strength, balance, and confidence. Chair-based exercises and short walks are a great start.

  
  

• Plan for getting help. If you’re at higher risk, consider a personal alarm or fall detector so help can be alerted quickly if you do fall.

If you do fall and feel able to get up, NHS advice is to take your time, roll onto your side, and use a stable piece of furniture to help you rise — then sit and rest. If you’re hurt or can’t get up, call for help and try to keep warm.

Where a riser recliner chair fits into fall prevention

A properly fitted riser recliner can reduce the strain of standing up and sitting down — two moments when many falls occur. Here’s how it helps, when used correctly:

1. Assisted sit-to-stand. The powered rise function brings you to a near-standing position so you can step away steadily, rather than “heaving” yourself up (which can cause loss of balance). Combine this with good footwear and a stable walking aid placed within reach. (General NHS falls guidance supports reducing effortful transfers and optimising the environment around you.)

   
   

2. Right seat height and posture. The chair should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor, knees and hips well supported, and arms available for light support — all of which make controlled transfers safer. (NICE falls prevention guidance emphasises assessing individual risks and tailoring interventions, which includes seating and transfers.)

   
   

3. Energy management & confidence. When standing is less exhausting and more predictable, people often feel more confident moving around the home — and anxiety itself is a known falls risk. Use of simple aids and safer routines aligns with NHS advice to reduce overall risk.

   
   

4. Positioning for circulation & comfort. Elevating the legs and adjusting back support can help you rest safely between activities, so you’re not rushing when you next get up. (For complex posture or pressure-care needs, seek an Occupational Therapy assessment.)

Safety checklist for using a riser recliner

• Correct fit matters. Seat height, width, and depth should match the user. Poorly fitted seating can make transfers harder — exactly what we want to avoid. (Assessment is recommended in NICE falls guidance.)

  
  

• Keep a clear “stand-up zone.” Ensure at least a step’s space in front of the chair, with no mats, pet beds, or low tables to catch your feet.

  
  

• Cable safety. Route the power cable where it cannot be tripped over; consider a battery back-up if appropriate. Regularly check the handset and mechanism are working smoothly. (Good equipment maintenance supports safe use.)

  
  

• Handset within reach. Keep the remote on a clip or side pocket so you’re never leaning dangerously to find it.

  
  

• Use steady techniques. When rising, plant both feet, let the chair do the work, pause upright, then step away. If you feel dizzy, sit back down and try again slowly. (NHS advice is to avoid getting up too quickly.)

  
  

• Know your plan if a fall happens. Keep a phone, alarm pendant, or fall detector accessible from the chair.

Do I need a clinical assessment?

If you’ve fallen, feel unsteady, or have health issues affecting balance (e.g., blood pressure changes, neuropathy, vision problems), ask your GP about a falls assessment or referral to community services. NICE guidance recommends identifying and addressing individual risk factors (medication review, vision, footwear, strength & balance exercise) alongside home adaptations and equipment.

In some areas, you may also be able to access equipment support through local services after assessment. (Availability varies; some NHS pathways can provide or advise on suitable seating after clinical review.)

How we can help (Worthing & Sussex)

At YouFirst Chairs, we focus on correct fit and safe transfers. In our Worthing showroom you can try different Riser and recliners, sizes and mechanisms — including high-leg-lift and 4 motor — and we’ll walk you through safe sit-to-stand techniques. If you’re choosing on behalf of a relative, we can liaise with your OT where needed. https://www.youfirstchairs.co.uk/visitus

Important note

A riser recliner is one part of a wider falls-prevention plan. It does not replace medical advice. If you feel dizzy, have new weakness, or experience a fall, follow NHS guidance and seek help.

Sources & further reading:

• NHS: Falls — causes, prevention, and what to do after a fall. nhs.uk

• NHS Inform (Scotland): Preventing falls at home; what to do if you fall. NHS inform+1

• NICE NG249 (2025): Falls — assessment and prevention in older people. NICE

• Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS: Staying safe at home if you’re at risk of falling.