Choosing the right bed and chair height is essential for maintaining independent living, particularly for older adults, people with disabilities, and individuals with mobility challenges. The correct height improves comfort, accessibility, and fall prevention, making daily activities such as getting in and out of bed or standing from a chair easier and safer.

If furniture is too low, it can make standing up difficult, putting strain on the knees and joints. If it’s too high, getting into position may require excessive effort, increasing the risk of losing balance. Finding the perfect height for your bed and chair can significantly improve mobility and support an active, independent lifestyle.

What is the Ideal Bed Height for Mobility and Accessibility?

A comfortable and accessible bed height allows a person to sit with their feet flat on the floor and their knees at a 90-degree angle when sitting on the edge of the mattress. This positioning makes it easier to shift between sitting and standing.

For most people, an ideal bed height ranges between 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) from the floor to the top of the mattress. However, personal factors such as height, balance, strength, and flexibility influence what works best for each individual.

How Bed Height Affects Mobility

• A bed that’s too low can make standing up difficult, especially for those with weak leg muscles or joint pain. It may require extra effort to push up from a lower position, increasing the risk of falls.
• A bed that’s too high can make it hard to sit down safely, as a person may have to "drop" onto the mattress rather than lower themselves in a controlled manner. Getting out of bed may also be harder due to the extra height.

How to Adjust Bed Height for Better Accessibility

If your bed height isn’t ideal, there are several ways to modify it for improved comfort and mobility support:

• Lowering the Bed: Remove castors or wheels, switch to a lower bed frame, or use a thinner mattress to bring the height down.
• Raising the Bed: Use bed risers or opt for a thicker mattress to increase height and make getting in and out easier.
• Investing in an Adjustable Bed: Electric adjustable beds allow users to raise or lower the mattress to their preferred height, making them a great choice for those with limited mobility.

A properly adjusted bed height reduces strain on joints, enhances stability, and supports independence, making daily movement easier.

What is the Best Chair Height for Mobility and Fall Prevention?

A well-adjusted chair height is just as important as bed height when it comes to fall prevention and comfortable movement. Chairs should be at a height that allows users to place both feet flat on the floor, with their knees at or slightly below hip level.

For older adults and those with mobility issues, a recommended chair seat height is around 17 to 19 inches (43 to 48 cm) from the floor to the seat. This height supports safe and stable transitions between sitting and standing.

The risks of improper chair height

• A chair that is too low forces users to push up with extra effort, putting strain on the knees and hips. It can also cause instability when trying to stand, increasing the risk of falls.
• A chair that is too high prevents feet from resting flat on the floor, which can lead to discomfort and reduced circulation in the legs.

How to Modify Chair Height for Better Accessibility

If your chair is at an inconvenient height, here are some solutions:

• Raising the seat: Adding a firm cushion or padded seat can increase height while maintaining comfort.
• Using chair raisers: Specialised chair risers elevate the seat without compromising stability, making it easier to sit and stand.
• Choosing a high-seat chair: High-seat chairs, often designed for mobility support, provide firm cushioning, armrests, and ergonomic back support to aid in movement.

For those who struggle with sitting down or standing up, investing in a rise-and-recline chair may be beneficial. These chairs use an electric mechanism to gently tilt forward, reducing the effort needed to transition between positions.

Why Bed and Chair Height Matters for Independent Living

The correct bed and chair height is not just about comfort, it’s a key factor in maintaining independence, preventing falls, and reducing strain on joints. Adjusting furniture height can make a significant difference in daily mobility and quality of life, helping individuals stay active and self-sufficient.

Key benefits of optimising bed and chair heights:

• Reduces the risk of falls by making movement safer and more controlled.
• Supports joint health by minimising strain on knees, hips, and lower back.
• Improves circulation by allowing feet to rest comfortably on the floor.
• Enhances independence by making it easier to move without assistance.

Where to Find Mobility Aids for Independent Living?

If you or a loved one needs mobility aids, bed risers, chair raisers, or other independent living solutions, take a look through our wide range of products designed to support safety, comfort, and independence in everyday life.