If you care for someone, you may often need to help them move around. Doing this safely is really important — both for them and for you. Carers frequently suffer back injuries, and recovery can be slow; if you are injured, who will look after your loved one? Lifting someone incorrectly can also damage fragile skin, cause shoulder and neck injuries, worsen breathing difficulties, or cause bruising and cuts.
Before you move someone, ask yourself:
- Do they really need help to move? Clear instruction and supervision may be safer.
- Have you told them you're about to move them? Keep communicating throughout.
- Are you healthy and strong enough to move them?
- Is there anyone who could help you?
- Is there enough space, with obstacles removed and good lighting?
- Are you wearing suitable clothing and shoes, especially on a slippery or damp surface?
Get an Occupational Therapist assessment
If you find it difficult to help someone move around, contact your GP or local authority to arrange an Occupational Therapist (OT) assessment. Specialist equipment, such as hoists and standing aids, can often be provided free of charge, and the OT can advise on other equipment that will help you care safely. Which? mobility guides are useful for choosing frames, wheelchairs and other equipment.
Helping someone to stand up
Helping someone stand can be difficult, especially from a low chair or sofa. Help from the side of their seat, facing the same direction they are. Bring them to the front of the chair and ask them to lean forward. Place your arm diagonally across their back and help them move forward and up, pushing gently with your arm — this encourages them to stand without you pulling on waistbands or lifting under their arms.
Safe use of a wheelchair
- Getting in: Put the brakes on. Fold the footplates out of the way. With both hands on the armrests, lower yourself onto the seat, then swing the footplates back and rest your feet on them.
- Getting up: Put the brakes on and move the footplates aside. Move forward on the seat, place both feet firmly on the ground slightly apart with one foot back, put both hands on the front of the armrests, lean forward with head and shoulders over your knees, and push up.
- Transferring sideways: Position the wheelchair alongside the chair, bed or toilet. Apply the brakes, move the footplates aside and, if possible, have someone steady the chair. Remove the armrest on the transfer side, place one hand on the armrest and the other on the surface you're moving to, lean slightly forward, push up and slide across.
- Kerbs: Wherever possible avoid kerbs — use ramps or dropped kerbs instead.
Perhaps care from Gardiner's would help your loved one to move about their home a little more safely? Get in touch to find out more.
