Mobility Training

Techniques for Assisting Participants with Impaired Mobility

Participants with impaired mobility use various equipment to assist with their mobility. Using devices help support increased physical movement and independence.

Some may use, mechanical lifts, wheel chairs-manual and electric, walkers, canes and crutches.

     –   Safety is a very important factor.

     –   Communicating by talking to the participant, explaining each step helps

     –   relieve their fear and gain trust.

Mechanical lifts

     –   Are used to move those who are unable to stand on their own or whose

         weight makes it unsafe to move or lift them manually.

     –   Use two people at all times

     –   Get training from medical professional before using

     –   Move slow, follow each step in order

Wheel Chairs

     –   Trust is important when providing care. Always explain what you are planning to do. Allow the participant to help as much as possible.

     –   To prevent falls make sure both of your shoes are tied, and or you have on flat, non-skid shoes.

     –   Always use a gait belt.

     –   Ensure the person is on the edge of bed, stand with your feet 8-12 inches apart, one foot slightly forward, get close, keep your back straight, bend your knees when lifting, use your thigh muscles (rather than your back), take small steps turning your entire body in the direction you want to face.

     –   When assisting with getting out of the wheel chair, never allow the person to wrap their arms around your neck. This can injure your neck and contribute to the possibility of a fall.

     –   Slide board transfer help transfer a person who is unable to stand. The person sits on the board and slides from one surface to another.

     –   When going up and down a ramp or hill, the person faces uphill and you are behind the wheelchair. You move downhill first keeping your legs bent as you maneuver down the hill or ramp.

     –   Pressure ulcers can develop if a person in a wheel chair does not move frequently.

     –   Moving and repositioning is the key to preventing pressure ulcers.

Walkers and Canes

     –   Person using a walker or cane should have a slight bend in the elbow and wrist. This lets you know the walker or cane is the right height.

     –   Ensure the person is looking ahead, the body naturally follows the direction that the eyes are looking.

     –   The cane is used on the opposite side of the weak or injured leg in order to coordinate with the arm movement. The cane is always supporting the weak or injured leg.

     –   Always stand on the on the person’s weak side and slightly behind-this position gives you better access to the gait belt and allows you to provide support as needed.

Bathroom Equipment

     –   Raised toilet seats lessens the distance the body needs to be lowered.

     –   Shower benches are helpful for bathing.

     –   Wall mounted grab bars provide additional support and safety in the bathroom.