Safe Transfers: Tips for Caregivers Helping a Loved One Move

Helping a loved one move from a bed to a wheelchair, from a chair to standing or between other surfaces can become a regular part of caregiving. Transfers may seem straightforward, but they can also be physically demanding and stressful for both the caregiver and the person receiving assistance.

A safe transfer starts with recognizing that your loved one should be an active participant whenever possible. The right approach will depend on their strength, balance, mobility and ability to follow instructions. If you are unsure what type of assistance your loved one needs, ask a physical or occupational therapist to demonstrate the safest technique for their specific situation.

Here are some tips to keep in mind.

Tell your loved one what you are going to do

Give your loved one a moment of warning before beginning a transfer. Explain what you are going to do and give simple instructions one step at a time.

Even someone with limited mobility may be able to contribute to the transfer by shifting their weight, pushing with their legs or using their arms for support. Giving them an opportunity to participate can also help preserve their sense of independence and control.

If your loved one is resistant to being moved, pause rather than immediately trying to force the transfer. They may be frightened, confused, uncomfortable or simply unsure of what you want them to do. A calm explanation and extra time may make the process easier.

Plan transfers whenever possible

Transfers are sometimes necessary to help someone get out of bed, use the bathroom, eat meals or participate in activities. But planning ahead can help avoid unnecessary transfers.

Think about your loved one’s typical day and consider when they will need to move from one surface to another. Can you arrange activities or meals so that fewer transfers are required without limiting their quality of life?

At the same time, maintaining appropriate movement is important. A physical or occupational therapist can help determine how much activity and movement is appropriate for your loved one.

Protect your own body, too

Caregivers can injure themselves when attempting to lift or move someone whose weight they cannot safely manage. The CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health notes that lifting and moving people can put caregivers at risk for musculoskeletal injuries. Assistive devices can reduce the physical demands of some transfers.

Avoid pulling your loved one up by their arms. Keep your feet stable and, when assisting manually, stay close rather than reaching or twisting. Most importantly, don’t attempt a transfer that is beyond your physical ability.

The appropriate equipment also depends on how much weight your loved one can bear and whether they can cooperate with the transfer. CDC guidance describes different approaches for people who can fully bear weight, partially bear weight or cannot bear weight, including transfer belts, seated transfer aids and mechanical lifts.

Slow down

Rushing can make a transfer more difficult and increase the risk of a fall. Give your loved one time to complete each step.

For example, after they sit up in bed, pause before asking them to stand. If they have been sitting for a while, give them a moment to place their feet securely and make sure they are not dizzy. Once they are standing, allow them to regain their balance before beginning to walk or pivot.

If your loved one becomes dizzy, weak or unsteady, stop and reassess rather than trying to push through the transfer.

Make the home easier to navigate

The environment around your loved one can make transfers easier, or create additional hazards. Look at the areas where transfers happen most often and remove obstacles that could cause a trip or interfere with your ability to assist.

Chairs should be sturdy and provide appropriate support. Remove loose rugs and other tripping hazards, and make sure there is enough space around beds and chairs for safe movement. Depending on your loved one’s needs, equipment such as grab bars, transfer benches, bed rails or other assistive devices may also be appropriate.

The National Institute on Aging’s home safety resources offer additional guidance for making a home safer and more accessible.

Know when to ask for help

There is no reason for caregivers to figure out transfers alone. If your loved one’s mobility changes, or you find yourself struggling to move them safely, ask their health care provider about a referral to a physical or occupational therapist. A professional can evaluate their abilities and demonstrate appropriate transfer techniques and equipment.

The goal isn’t simply to get your loved one from one place to another. A good transfer protects both of you while allowing your loved one to participate as much as they safely can. Taking time to plan, communicate and use the right assistance can make an everyday caregiving task safer and less stressful for everyone.