Daily living and health
Transferring
Transferring, as an activity of daily living, means moving between surfaces, such as bed to chair, chair to standing, or wheelchair to toilet. It takes balance and strength. When a person cannot do it alone, a trained caregiver or the right equipment can help the move safely.
Why it matters for your family
Transfers are where many injuries happen, to the older adult and to the helper. Untrained family members often strain their backs. A trained caregiver uses safe body mechanics, a gait belt, or a lift when needed. An occupational or physical therapist can show a family the right method for the person's condition. A common mistake is pulling on a person's arms, which can hurt shoulders. If a person cannot bear weight, a mechanical lift may be needed. HomeCare.com advanced companion care includes transfers and walking assistance, but no medical treatment. Ask for training before taking on transfers at home.
Source: acl.gov
Read more: Personal and advanced care
Related terms
- Activities of daily living (ADLs)Activities of daily living (ADLs) are the basic self-care tasks people do each day.
- Mobility assistanceMobility assistance is help with moving around, such as standing up, walking, using stairs, and getting in and out of a bed, chair, or car.
- Lift chairA lift chair is a recliner with a motor that tilts the seat forward to help a person stand up.
- WheelchairA wheelchair is a chair on wheels that lets a person move when walking is hard or unsafe.
- Fall riskFall risk is the chance that a person will fall and be hurt.
- Hospital bedA hospital bed is an adjustable bed used at home for a person who needs help with positioning, rest or transfers.
