24 April 2020
Healthcare Pro prides itself on providing a quality range of moving and handling aids, such as handling belts, hoists and transfer cushions, all of which are designed with the carer and user fully in mind.
The most important thing to consider when choosing such equipment is that it is essential to carry out a professional assessment before deciding to purchase. This is crucial in order to ensure that the equipment you choose is compatible, safe and usable for both the carer and the person who needs to be moved.
Aids for Independent Transfers
If it’s safe and suitable to do so, independent transfers can be achieved with the use of a turning aid. Basic turning aids consist of two surfaces that turn against each other while the aid is being used; the base remains in the same position and the upper surface smoothly rotates the person using it. The Transfer and transport aids can be used independently and effectively to rotate someone and help reduce uncomfortable twisting.
Standing Transfers
If a person can support their own weight for a short amount of time, and use their leg muscles to initiate the sit to stand transfer, a standing transfer aid can be a good choice for carers to help move the person they are caring for from one seat to another. Some varieties of standing aids, such as the Atlas 3, can be used for people who can lift themselves up to participate in the transfer, while others require more support from the carer and can be used with a belt to lift someone into a standing position.
Standing transfer aids include a strong base for the person to stand on during the transfer and wheels to allow the carer to manoeuvre the aid. They often feature knee supports and can be used with a handling belt if someone needs support when rising out of a seated position to standing, or during the standing transfer.
Handling Belts
Handling belts comprise of a strap, which fits around the person who is being cared for, and feature hand grips on the outside of the belt for the carer to hold. On its own, a carer may use a handling belt, such as the Handling Belts, for additional grip when repositioning, or supporting the person to transfer. Using the belt, the carer can provide support to the person they are moving without gripping onto them or their clothing, making the transfer more comfortable for both individuals. Other belts may be used in conjunction with a standing aid to assist anyone who cannot lift themselves into a standing position.
Hoists and Slings
Although some people may be able to participate in standing transfers, others may need to be lifted entirely during a transfer. Hoists and slings work together to facilitate safer and more comfortable transfers from either a seated or standing position. Many hoists can perform transfers from a bed, chair and from the floor, but other varieties are designed for specific purposes, such as toileting and pool transfers. Mobile hoists, such as the Birdie EVO Mobile Hoist are versatile, manoeuvrable and can be of great assistance in the transfer of a person from a bed to a chair or from a wheelchair to a toilet. A hoist should be used in conjunction with assessment by an occupational therapist, and as part of a moving and handling plan if you are employing carers, either through statutory services or independently.
Whatever moving or handling equipment you choose, do ensure that you consider the needs of both the carer and the person being cared for, as well as ensuring that you request a professional assessment before you buy. View our full range of moving and handling equipment for more information and to browse all the options available to you.
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