Mobility & Independent Living
Hospital emergencies: Tips for caregivers
Planning for a hospital stay is just one way carers can plan ahead and help reduce the stress involved in caregiving. A visit to the hospital is not uncommon for people living with chronic disease or dementia. It can be a very traumatic time for all the family.
10 questions to consider before you lift a person
Lifting and transferring a frail older person is one of the most strenuous tasks a caregiver can do. Nurses are often put in positions placing them at risk of injury. Incorrect lifting practices is one of the most common causes of back injury.
How can I ensure my mum gets the physio she needs after a broken hip?
My mum has just returned to the nursing home following an operation for a broken hip. Despite her arthritis she was in good condition before her fall. I was told she will make a good recovery if she gets the physio she needs. How can I ensure she gets the care required?
Unfortunately many older adults fall in nursing homes every year. Falls and falls related injuries can be extremely debilitating for a frail older person.
Don't use a walking frame as support to stand up
Grabbing hold of a walker in this way will cause the walking frame to tip and tumble. The person can become unbalanced and fall backwards, increasing the risk of injury.
Encourage the person to position themselves at the front of the chair with their feet on the ground and push up from the wheelchair (ensure the brakes are on).
Lifting and transferring - What not to do!
Caregivers can injure not only themselves but people in their care if they lift or transfer a person incorrectly.
Older adults often don't have the strength to lift up on their own from a chair. Chairs that are too low, without arm rests or on wheels can pose problems for people with rigidity, dementia and arthritis.
It can be tempting to quickly lift a person out of a chair but it's important that carers take a moment to think about correct lifting techniques and using any equipment at their disposal.
Dementia care: Tips to help prevent falls
As we age we are more susceptible to falls. Impaired gait and balance, medications, cardiovascular and vision problems along with the environment can all contribute to falls.
How can home care aids help with transfers?
Poor mobility and difficulty weight-bearing can pose many problems for carers. Carers can be at risk of injury if they attempt to lift someone or transfer a person incorrectly.
Bed rails: Are they safe?
If you are caring for a loved one that is at risk of falling out of bed you may be considering using bed rails.
Knowing a loved one is safely tucked up in bed at night can give a caregiver that extra peace of mind. But caregivers need to way up the risks as well as the benefits of using bed rails.
What is a shower chair?
Shower chairs are designed to help make showering easier and safer. Showering can be difficult for many older people with a disability or chronic illness.
Making life easier with home modifications
Home modifications are adaptations that are made to the home to allow people with physical limitations and their carers to live safely and independently.
Disclaimer: This site is for information purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem, nor as a substitute for professional advice with a qualified health professional or doctor.
