If you care for a loved one at home who has limited mobility, you will already be well aware of the physical and emotional demands this can place on you. There sometimes comes a point when you can’t do it all alone, and you need an extra pair of hands or specialist equipment.
If you do decide to go down the mobility aids route, there’s plenty of information about what funding and support you may be entitled to on websites such as Age UK. In the first instance, it may be that your local authority will arrange for an occupational therapist to visit your home and make a needs assessment.
In their report, they will identify and make recommendations for any disability living aids and home adaptations that could improve the safety and quality of the patient’s care. As a carer, you are also entitled to a needs assessment. Here are some signs that your loved one may be in need of a device such as Molift raiser mobile patient lift.
They are unsteady on their feet or cannot support themselves
If your loved one is no longer able to bear their own weight or is finding this increasingly difficult or painful, then a patient lifter will give them the support they need and reduce the risk of accidents.
Falls or near misses have occurred
If your loved one has fallen, or had a near miss, while transferring or attempting to self-mobilise, then it’s a sign to take action before a serious injury is incurred.
You are cutting down on transfers
If you find yourself avoiding transfers because the physical strain is getting too much, then it’s a strong sign that you need lifting equipment. Reducing transfers will lead to a decline in your loved one’s health and wellbeing.