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Getting out of a chair

Standing up from a chair is something we do every day, so it's crucial to do it safely. If you assist someone, it's important to know how to help them without risking injury to yourself or them. In this video, we show the proper technique for getting out of a chair smoothly and safely.
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01
Before standing, if you use a walking stick, make sure it is within reach. If you use a Zimmer frame or wheeled walker, ensure it is in front of you.
02
Use the chair's arms to sit upright and shuffle your bottom to the end. Be careful not to move too far forward that you might fall off.
03
Bring your heels against the chair. Place your feet flat on the floor.
04
Move your head forward (nose over toes).
05
Push your feet down onto the floor and push up with your hands on the chair's arms.
06
Look up as you stand. Find your balance and any walking aid you need before you start to walk.
01
If they have a walking stick, make sure it is within reach. If they use a Zimmer frame or wheeled walker, place it in front of them.
02
Stand beside them. If you need to move any bulky item out of the way, bend your knees to avoid injuries.
03
Remind them to use the arms of the chair.
04
Ask them to shuffle forward. If needed, assist them with a hand on their shoulder blades or lower back.
05
Remind them of the correct positioning of their feet.
06
Your front foot needs to be next to their feet.
07
Place an open hand on the front part of their shoulder...
08
...and the other hand across their back on their hip.
09
Remind them to lean forward (nose over toes).
10
Use verbal and tactile prompts to facilitate standing, like asking them to rock backwards and forwards a few times while saying “ready, steady, stand”.
11
As you support them to stand, bend from your knees to avoid injuries.
12
If needed, ensure the walking aid is in the correct position before they start walking.

Meet our experts

Bansari Bhadra

Bansari is an experienced MCSP and HCPC registered physiotherapist, currently working at Nightingale Hammerson in London. With an MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice (Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation) from Brunel University London they have a diverse background in musculoskeletal and neuromuscular rehabilitation. They have worked across care homes, hospitals, and physiotherapy clinics, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to design individualised treatment plans, and ensure comprehensive patient care. Passionate about improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing patients’ quality of life, Bansari also actively promotes fall prevention and therapy services within care home settings.

Sanniha Saeed

Sanniha completed a 5-year degree in Physiotherapy in Pakistan, followed by a 6-month hospital placement. She gained diverse experience, initially working in neuro-physiotherapy for a year at a private hospital, and later as a musculoskeletal physiotherapist for 3 years at a clinic. After moving to the UK, she joined Nightingale Hammerson in March and is currently working as a physiotherapist there.

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