- Daily care need first; diagnosis or product category second.
- Fit is checked before quote or final configuration.
- Sollevita does not replace medical or professional assessment.
What the open side actually changes
With an armrest in place, moving between a wheelchair and a chair usually means standing, turning and lowering back down. Take that armrest away and the whole side opens up, so the person can shift sideways along one level instead. For anyone who cannot stand reliably, that single clear side is often the difference between a transfer being manageable and being impossible.
Line the two seats up before you start
Bring the wheelchair alongside the Sollevita chair on the side you have opened, as close and as parallel as the space allows. Set the brakes on both, and if a bed is involved, position it so the person is moving towards the open side rather than across the room. A short, straight sideways path is safer and far less tiring than a long or twisting one.
Match the seat height to the wheelchair
The sideways slide works best when both seats sit at roughly the same level, so nobody is fighting an uphill or downhill step. A Hi-Lo base lets you set the chair to the wheelchair rather than the other way round. Ask the occupational therapist or physiotherapist to confirm the height that suits the person and the room.
Adding a slide board on the open side
A slide board bridges the small gap between the two seats and gives the person a firm surface to move along. It pairs naturally with an open side and a matched seat height. Because technique and hand placement really do matter here, have the care team or a therapist demonstrate it in person the first time, and let them check that everyone helping is doing it the same way.
Give the armrest a home, and refit it straight away
The armrest lifts out as a single piece, which keeps things simple. Decide on one consistent spot for it — the same wall, hook or shelf every time — so it is never left underfoot during the transfer. As soon as the person is settled, slot it back in. A refitted armrest keeps the floor clear and gives support again for sitting, resting and getting comfortable.
When a simpler chair is enough
Not every situation needs every feature. If the person still stands and pivots comfortably with light help, a fixed armrest may serve them better as something to push up from. Removable armrests earn their place specifically where a seated, sideways transfer is the sensible route — so it is worth being honest about which one you actually have.
If you are not sure whether removable armrests, a Hi-Lo base or a slide board suit your day-to-day, book a free fit check first. We will look at the room, the wheelchair and how transfers really happen with you, and only then put a quote together.