Transfer

III. Transfers

A. Procedure of transfer

1. Procedure of transfer from a chair by the individual

The person should slide forward in the seat of the chair and place their feet a few inches apart and positioned slightly behind their knees. Place the hands (palm side down) on the chair's armrests or on the seat next to thighs. Push down with your hands and legs and bend your head and upper body forward over your knees. Straighten your knees and back until you are standing erect. It is always important for the person to maintain good posture to avoid improper weight distribution and over-stretching ligaments which can lead to pain and fatigue. Wearing shoes with low heels with non-slip soles are recommended to prevent the feet from slipping. (Need filming)

2. Procedure of transfer of care recipient by a caregiver

Before transferring anyone, the caregiver should be aware of their limitations. When in doubt, do not lift alone. If the lift can be made alone, the caregiver should maintain a broad base of support by standing with their feet apart about shoulder width, knees bent slightly, and one foot slightly forward for support. The caregiver's head and trunk should be in an upright position. Lift, carry or support the care recipient as close to the body as possible to maintain your center of gravity. The caregiver should always lift with their legs, not with their back. The caregiver should move their feet to turn, and do not rotate their spine. (Need filming)

It is important to remember that a transfer gait belt should be used for all transfers if the person requires caregiver assistance to complete the task.

The caregiver needs control of the person's body movement during the transfer to control the speed at which the person sits as well as to avoid pulling on arms, hands or shoulders or clothing. If the caregiver must hold on to the person requiring assistance, support them with an open hand around the back. The caregiver should be sure the person they are transferring knows in advance the transfer procedure. That will eliminate any confusion about how the transfer will take place and help to avoid injuries.

The assistive devices listed below are valuable in assisting the elder care recipients and their caregivers perform transferring activities: The key point to remember is that safety comes first to reduce incidence of injuries. If the care recipient is able to transfer independently safely, with super vision, or with the aid of a device; allow them to do so. By performing this activity will help them stay mobile longer and will put less burden or stress on the caregiver.

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