Transferring someone from a wheelchair to a car, and then back again, is a common part of daily care for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. Transferring should be done in such a way that both the care recipient and the caregiver are well protected from risk of accident and injury. The following steps outline how caregivers perform these transfers correctly.
Wheelchair to Car Transfer
Step 1: The wheelchair is positioned beside the passenger door. The person is given an explanation about what is to happen and the talk is continued throughout the process.
Step 2: The wheelchair brakes are locked.
Step 3: The person is helped to move their legs off the footrest.
Step 4 : The footrest is set aside to prevent tripping hazards.
Step 5: The transfer begins with standing close, legs apart with theirs positioned in between. Arms are placed securely under their armpits, hands resting flat on their back. Knees are bent, the back kept straight, and the lift is done with the legs to bring them to a standing position.
Step 6: Small steps are taken backward until they are beside the seat. If support is needed, they hold onto the side of the car, avoiding the door.
Step 7: They are gently turned so their back faces the seat. The left arm is placed under their right armpit, while the right hand supports behind the head to prevent contact with the roof. With knees bent, they are lowered carefully into the seat.
Step 8: Once seated, their legs are guided into the car using the right arm, while the left continues to support the back.
Step 9: The seat belt is buckled, assistance provided if necessary, and it is ensured that hands, arms, and legs are safely inside. The wheelchair is folded, the footrests secured, and it is stored in the trunk, completing the transfer.
Car to Wheelchair Transfer
Step 1: The wheelchair is unfolded and placed securely beside the passenger door, with the brakes locked.
Step 2: The door is opened, the seat belt unfastened, and the steps are explained before beginning.
Step 3: The left arm is positioned under the person’s right armpit with the hand flat on their back, while the right arm is placed under their legs.
Step 4: Their legs are swung out of the car, with their back kept supported.
Step 5: The left arm remains under their right armpit, and the right hand supports behind their head. Knees are bent, the back is kept straight, and the lift is done with the legs.
Step 6: Once standing, the right arm is repositioned under their left armpit. Small steps are taken backward until their legs touch the wheelchair seat.
Step 7: They are slowly lowered into the wheelchair, with the back straight and knees bent.
Step 8: The footrests are reattached.
Step 9: The footrests are lowered, and their feet are helped into position.
Step 10: The brakes are unlocked, and the transfer is complete.
The Importance of Proper Transfers
Safe transfers are essential in senior care routines. They help maintain comfort and dignity for the person being assisted while protecting caregivers from strain or injury. Following the correct steps also reduces the risk of falls and accidents, making everyday activities safer for everyone involved.
