CAREGIVING: I wanted to show the process for getting Kathy into her wheelchair and back into bed. It is always easier when one of the aides helps out, but here are a few photos of the procedure. I used to use the Hoyer lift to go straight-ahead into the chair. But a physical therapist showed me how to lift her over the side and to use the wall to keep the Hoyer Lift from rolling away. Our old house is tilted so topsy-turvy that it can be difficult. I am trying to move her around more and more.
A nylon sling is placed under Kathy and chains are attached to it
The Hoyer lift is a hydraulic ‘crane’ that lifts her up. The sling becomes a hammock.
I roll her across the room to her chair. Sometimes I remove the arm of the chair to make it easier.
Lowering her in
Then the chains are disconnected and I adjust her position to make sure she is safe and comfortable.
I hook up the oxygen and pad the parts of her that need it. Then a few hours later we reverse the trip. During the day, I park the lift by the bed. Once she is back in bed the lift and the wheelchair are parked in my room.