Prescribing the right care chair is only the beginning. Ensuring that the seating solution continues to support safety, function, and comfort over time requires two essential components: proper training and ongoing reassessment.
Without them, even the most advanced chair can lead to poor posture, increased risk of pressure injuries, or unsafe transfers. Here’s why these steps are non-negotiable in specialist seating.
Training: The Key to Safe, Effective Seating
A specialist chair’s clinical benefits rely entirely on correct daily use. This makes training essential—not just for clinicians, but for caregivers and users wherever possible.
What Should Training Cover?
- Safe transfers (especially when hoists are used)
- How to adjust postural supports such as lateral supports, backrests, and footplates
- Proper use of tilt and recline functions
- Daily maintenance and safety checks
- Monitoring for early signs of discomfort or pressure issues
Tilt vs. Recline: A Critical Distinction
- Tilt-in-space preserves joint angles while redistributing pressure—ideal for managing skin integrity and posture.
- Recline changes the seat-to-back angle. If misused, it can cause shear, increasing the risk of skin breakdown.
Many care chairs now include clinician-controlled recline lockouts to reduce misuse. Carers should be trained to use tilt before reclining the backrest for pressure management.
Monitoring and Reassessment: Why It’s Not One and Done
A specialist chair that fit perfectly at the time of prescription might not be effective six months later. Clients’ needs evolve. That’s why regular monitoring and formal reassessments are essential to keep seating safe and functional.
When Should Reassessment Happen?
- Every 6–12 months as standard best practice
- Sooner if the client’s health is deteriorating or unstable
What Changes Should Prompt a Review?
Physical Changes
- Weight gain or loss: affects pressure distribution and seat fit
- Postural changes: progression of spinal curvature, new contractures
- Skin issues: new redness, pressure injuries, or discomfort
Functional Changes
- Reduced mobility: new dependence on hoists or transfer aids
- Improved function: rehabilitation progress requiring posture changes
Environmental Changes
- New living environment: changes in flooring, access, or space
- Different carer routines: altered staffing or support levels
Who Should Be Involved in Reassessment?
- Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists – to lead clinical evaluation and decision-making
- Nurses and Care Staff – to provide daily observational feedback
- Seating Specialists – to make mechanical or modular adjustments
- The User and Their Family – to ensure comfort and satisfaction
Tools like a Seating Passport or daily log can track posture, pressure risk, and carer insights between formal reviews.
The Impact of Ongoing Training and Reassessment
When done well, these practices lead to:
- Reduced risk of pressure injuries
- Safer transfers for clients and carers
- Better long-term posture
- Greater user comfort and engagement
Conclusion: Specialist Seating is a Process, Not a Product
Prescribing a chair is just step one. What ensures its success is how it's used, who’s trained, and how often it’s reviewed.
At Enable Lifecare, we don’t just provide intelligent care chairs—we support you with ongoing training resources and expert guidance for safe, effective long-term use.
Ready to improve outcomes through better seating care?
Explore our range of recliner chairs and care chairs
Download This Monitoring and Reassessment Checklist
Download our Clinical Guide to Specialist Seating for full best practice recommendations
