Transfer from a Wheelchair: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction: Moving Made Easier

Greetings, I’m Dr. Shawn, your PT guy! Our videos, blogs, and tips help you move better and stay independent, so you can enjoy life without worrying about tricky transfers.

Today, we’re tackling a common challenge: moving from a wheelchair to a couch or recliner (or bench on the beach) safely. Whether you’re using a walker or not, I’ve got you covered—with a few laughs along the way.

Step 1: Prepare Your Environment

Before doing anything, clear your space. You want your wheelchair as close as possible to the surface you’re transferring to.

• Check leg rests: Swing them out or remove them so they don’t get in the way.
• Position the chair: The closer, the safer—no one likes a mid-air mishap.

Step 2: Transfer Using a Walker

Here’s the method for those who use a walker:

1. Lock your wheelchair. Safety first!
2. Place the walker in front of you.
3. Scoot to the edge of the wheelchair. Feet under you, knees slightly apart.
4. Nose over toes: Lean slightly forward and use momentum to stand.
5. Step to the walker and transfer over to the couch or recliner.
6. Reach back, sit down slowly, and enjoy the comfort.

Pro Tip: When standing from a low or “sinking” couch, be cautious—old couches can surprise you by swallowing your legs like a soft trap.

Step 3: Transfer Without a Walker

No walker? No problem. The trick is creating a safe triangle:

1. Position the wheelchair at a slight angle to the chair, creating a triangle.
2. Scoot forward so the distance to travel is minimal.
3. Decide where your hands will rest during the transfer. This is critical: your hands should stay in place to maintain stability. Place one hand where you're transferring to, and one hand stays on your wheelchair.
4. Lean forward, stand, reach, and sit—hands never move. Stability is king.

Repeat the same logic when returning to your wheelchair: set your hand on a firm surface and let it guide your movement safely.

Safety Tips

• Lock your wheelchair every time before transferring.
• Hand placement matters: Keep a firm point of contact for stability.
• Check chair height: Low or soft couches can make transfers trickier.
• Avoid rushing: Take your time; momentum is your friend, but control is essential.

Final Thoughts

Transferring from a wheelchair to a couch or recliner doesn’t have to be scary. By preparing your environment, using proper hand placement, and creating safe angles, you can do it safely—whether you have a walker or not.

Equipment I recommend:

• Wheelchair with flip-back armrests and cushion elevating leg rest
• Transport Wheelchair
• Drive Front-Wheeled Rolling Walker with Trigger Release

Q: How else can I reduce fall risk?
A: Excellent question. I already talked about the Fall Proof webinar, but if you're interested in specific ways to reduce fall risk at home, my book, Don't Fall reveals 101 ways to reduce your fall risk at home.