If you are caring for your mom or dad and they have mobility challenges, you need to be very careful when helping them get in and out of bed. If you aren’t careful when you are helping a senior parent get up or change their position, you could end up hurting them, and you could also get hurt. Personal care at home service can help.
There are ways that you can help your mom or dad transfer safely, but you need to be trained in how to transfer someone who may not be able to assist you. You also may need to learn how to use transfer and mobility aids that can make it easier to transfer your mom or dad safely.
Personal care is specialized care for seniors who are living alone. The personal care providers have experience and training in delicate tasks like helping seniors with transferring, bathing, and getting dressed. A care provider who knows personal care at home can help keep your mom or dad safe while they are transferring, showering, or getting dressed.
Personal care professionals can help you use tips like these to transfer your mom or dad safely on your own:
Plan the Movement
Before you start the transfer know exactly what movements you’re going to make and where exactly your mom or dad will end up. Tell your parent each of the steps and what you’re going to do so they are aware. Even if they can’t assist you they will be more comfortable when they know what the plan of movement is.
Use Proper Body Mechanics
You can get hurt trying to transfer your mom or dad, especially if they can’t physically move their body to assist in the transfer. To avoid straining your back, bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and use your legs to lift. Stay close to your parent and avoid twisting your body during the transfer.
Use Assistive Devices
There are many different types of assistive devices that can help you transfer your mom or dad safely. Don’t be embarrassed to use any of these devices. They can help make the transfer safer for both of you. If your parent can’t assist you by moving their body much, or if they are much larger or heavier than you, use a transfer board, gait belt, or mechanical lift to facilitate a safer transfer.
Safety First
Before you start the transfer, make sure that the floor is dry and there are no obstructions that could cause you or your parent to trip. This is very important if you’re transferring them into the shower so they can sit on a shower chair. Move the soap, sponges, and other tools out of the way, and don’t start the water until your mom or dad is safely on the shower bench or chair.
Take It Slow and Steady
Move slowly and deliberately during the transfer. Rushing can cause instability and increase the risk of falling. Ensure your parent feels secure throughout the process.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care in Berlin, CT, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services of Hartford, CT, today. Call (860) 969-3134
At Talem Home Care & Placement Services of Fort Hartford, CT, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in Hartford, Avon, Berlin, Bloomfield, Cromwell, East Hartford, Farmington, Glastonbury, Kensington, Manchester, Middletown, New Britain, Newington, Rocky Hill, Simsbury, South Windsor, Wethersfield, Windsor and surrounding areas in Connecticut.
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