Caregivers work with many types of clients including immobile clients. Mobility can become more difficult as we age. Sometimes individuals are diagnosed with a disease that causes mobility issues. This creates a need for special precautions and routine adjustments including requiring a caregiver.
There are many walking support solutions available. These include the following: walkers, rollators, canes, hoyer lift, gait belt, slide board, and other specialized equipment. This is always outlined in the care plan and should never be tested by a caregiver. Only approved devices can be used to help with walking. Using anything else like a piece of plastic can cause a fall risk instead of providing proper support. Training of mobility devices is always done either by family or specialized support. Always utilize proper body mechanics during walking and transfers while allowing the client to do as much work as they can. While falling, help the individual requiring assistance down to a sitting position before helping them up again to remain as safe as possible. Clearly explain what you are planning on doing. Take your time with your routine to ensure safety for everyone.
When transferring a client from bed to wheelchair always use proper body mechanics. Use tools when you need to like a gait belt that provides additional leverage while supporting the client. The wheelchair should always be placed on the individual's stronger side and the footrests should be removed or folded out of the way. The bed should be adjusted to the most comfortable height or slightly higher than the chair. These are the guidelines that our PCA certified caregivers receive and know well. The Care Academy logo on our home page is an indicator of meeting compliance for the State of Ohio for caregiver training. If you have mobility issues and would like help visit our custom hours page by clicking on the custom hours tab. Adjust the quantity to the hours that meet your needs and place your order. It's that easy. Another option is to complete a care plan form found by clicking on this link.