In our last blog, we offered step-by-step directions on how to safely transfer an elderly loved one from a bed to a wheelchair. But what if you’re the caregiver for someone who’s bedridden? You may think there’s no danger of injury in simply helping a bedridden senior change positions, but the risk of injury still comes into play when lifting from lying down to sitting up.
Take precautions by following these steps to maximize safety for both you and your loved one:
- Tell the person what you are going to do.
- Bend the person’s knees.
- Roll her onto her side so that she is facing you.
- Reach one arm under her shoulder blades.
- Place the other arm behind her knees.
- Position your feet shoulder width apart for stability.
- Get close to the bed and the person.
- Keep your back in a neutral position.
- Count aloud “1-2-3” and shift your weight to your back leg.
- Shift the person’s legs over the edge of the bed while pulling her shoulders to a sitting position.
- Remain in front of her until she is in a stable position.
Caring for a bedridden loved one requires 24/7 attention, which can be overwhelming for family members trying to juggle work and other obligations. Independence-4-Seniors’ caregivers can provide caring companionship, help with meals, personal care and hygiene, activities individually targeted to the needs of your elderly loved one, and much more. Call us any time at 630-323-4665 or contact us online.