Mobility expert reveals how standard office chairs endanger seniors

A physiotherapist has revealed why standard office chairs pose significant safety risks for older adults, contributing to falls that affect millions of seniors annually.

Thea Johansen, physiotherapist at VELA Chairs, points out that office chairs designed for workplace settings can create serious hazards when used by seniors or people with mobility challenges at home.

The statistics on falls underscore the importance of proper seating solutions. CDC data shows more than one in four older adults experience falls yearly, with serious consequences for many.

"Most standard office chairs come with wheels to help movement, but this feature can be dangerous for seniors," she said. "The wheels can roll away when a person tries to sit down or stand up." This simple design flaw increases fall risk tremendously for those with balance issues or neurological conditions.

Johansen explained another common problem affects daily mobility. "The wheelbase often rotates or shifts, creating conflict with the user's legs."

This rotation makes simple movements exhausting for seniors. Standard chairs present additional dangers due to their construction. Johansen noted that typical office chairs have a high center of gravity. They tip over easily when users lean or reach for objects.

"Unlike specialized mobility chairs, standard office models lack essential safety features such as brakes, stable armrests, or powered functions," she added. These missing elements make regular chairs ill-suited for seniors requiring extra support during daily activities.

CDC research from their falls data reveals the scale of this public health challenge. Falls result in approximately three million emergency department visits and one million hospitalizations among older adults each year.

"The right chair can be a game-changer in fall prevention," Johansen said. "It provides necessary support and empowers individuals to maintain an active lifestyle safely."

CDC findings show multiple risk factors contribute to falls. These include difficulties with walking and balance, vision problems, and home hazards. Proper seating solutions address many of these factors directly.

"Addressing fall prevention requires a holistic approach," Johansen stated. "Through education, proper seating solutions, and empowering individuals to take control of their mobility, we can reduce fall risks and enhance quality of life for seniors."

Sources - VELA Chairs: https://vela-chairs.com/
Sources - CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/index.html

VELA Chairs /Enable Me
5452 West Crenshaw Street,
Suite #5, Tampa, FL 33634
United States

Press contact:
Casper Østergaard Thomsen / casper@vela-chairs.com

VELA Chairs designs specialized mobility chairs that empower people with physical disabilities to remain independent in their own homes. With over 50 years of experience and more than 500,000 users worldwide, VELA is a recognized leader in assistive mobility solutions. The chairs combine ergonomic support, safety, and easy mobility, and are widely used by individuals living with Parkinson's, MS, arthritis, or age-related challenges. Trusted by institutions like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Johns Hopkins, VELA Chairs help users live active, dignified, and self-reliant lives every day.

This release was published on openPR.