Transfer Aids
Lifting and moving someone into and out of a wheelchair or chair is one of the most strenuous activities required of a care partner. These patient transfer devices are compact, easy to use, and significantly decrease the physical strain of caregiving.
Transfer Belt (Estimated Cost - $90)
For someone who is not strong or steady enough to walk independently, a transfer belt is a simple piece of patient transfer equipment a caregiver can use to assist with standing and walking short distances. Also called a gait belt, a transfer belt is put around the patient's waist while the caregiver holds the end or a handle for assistance and support when moving between a bed, chair, wheelchair, or car.
Transfer Board (Estimated Cost - $250)
Also called sliding boards or smooth movers, transfer boards help individuals with limited upper body strength to move from one place to another while lowering the risk of falls and reducing the risk of leg or back injuries for the caregivers. While sitting on the board, the patient's upper body is supported by the care partner, who slides the patient from one seat to another, without any lifting.
Pivot Discs (Estimated Cost - $85)
For a wheelchair user who has good weight-bearing ability but can't move their feet to turn or change positions, using a pivot disc facilitates safe transfers. A pivot disc, also called a pivot aid or a turntable, is positioned flat on the floor in front of the patient and very near the destination chair, wheelchair, or bed. The patient rises to stand on the disc, a care partner turns the patient via the pivoting disc, and the patient lowers onto the bed, chair or wheelchair.
Transfer Sling (Estimated Cost - $75)
A Transfer Sling is a sit-to-stand transfer aid that is usually snugly positioned under a patient's bottom and/or around the midsection to provide caregivers with a handhold to help pull the patient up and provide stability once the patient is standing. These transfer devices help caregivers maintain their grip during transfers.
Disclaimer: The Parkinson Association of Alabama (PAA) does not endorse or recommend any specific product or brand for purchase. It is to each person's discretion what products to purchase. The PAA cannot be held liable if the product does not produce its desired solution.