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Chair Exercises for Older Adults with Limited Mobility

Safe, seated chair exercises for older adults with limited mobility to maintain strength, circulation and independence at home.

Daniel Lee

By Daniel Lee

APA Titled Pain Physiotherapist

17 February 2026 5 min read
Chair Exercises for Older Adults with Limited Mobility

Exercise from a chair

For older adults with limited mobility, seated exercises are a safe and effective way to maintain strength, movement and circulation. Chair-based exercise reduces the risk of falling during the exercise itself, while still delivering real benefits.

Use a sturdy chair without wheels, sit tall, and check with a physiotherapist before starting.

Seated exercises to try

These gentle movements target the whole body.

  • Marching your legs while seated
  • Knee extensions, straightening one leg at a time
  • Seated heel and toe raises
  • Arm raises and shoulder circles
  • Seated trunk twists
  • Ankle circles to aid circulation

Building a safe program

A physiotherapist can design a seated program suited to your ability and gradually progress it as you get stronger. For those with limited mobility, home visit physiotherapy provides safe, supervised support in your own home — and can help you work toward standing and walking goals over time.

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