With Americans living longer, the younger generations are taking care of their grandparents and parents. The older generation has more control over their time and activities; however, sometimes aging means less independence and mobility. Less mobility can mean confinement to a wheelchair and that assistance is needed for everyday activities, such as sitting in a chair or on a bed. Learn safely transfer someone out of a wheelchair.
Instructions
1. Place the wheelchair facing the object on which the person will be sitting, such as a chair or bed.
2. Lock the wheels of the wheelchair.
3. Turn the footrests so they are facing away from each other and out of the way of the person's feet.
4. Remove any obstacles that could cause someone to trip or fall.
5. Stand beside the wheelchair facing the person, and secure him under his arm.
6. Bend at the knees, and lift the person out of the chair using the knees.
7. Place your hand on the person's back for extra security. Ask if he is secure. If yes, move the wheelchair away from the person. If no, give him a moment to get balanced, then move the wheelchair and any other obstacles away.
8. Step slowly, and rotate the person around to sit on the bed or chair. As he takes small steps, take small steps also.
9. Guide the person slowly to sit on the bed or chair.
Tags: away from, move wheelchair, small steps, wheelchair facing