How to Safely Transfer a Person With Limited Mobility at Home
Safely transferring a person with limited mobility at home requires planning, proper positioning, good body mechanics, and avoiding heavy lifting. Caregivers should explain the move first, check how much the person can help, bring the wheelchair or destination close, lock wheelchair brakes, move footrests or armrests out of the way, and keep transfer distances short. During transfers, caregivers should stand with stable footing, bend the knees, keep the back straight, pivot with the feet instead of twisting, and never allow the person to hang onto their neck. Tools such as grab bars, raised toilet seats, and transfer belts can help when used properly, but if the person cannot bear weight, has frequent falls, or transfers feel unsafe, a doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist should provide guidance.