Caregiver Guide to Safe Senior Transportation

Old age poses a challenge not only for the individual, but also their family. One good example is transportation. It can be fairly frustrating for an adult to be unable to drive a car. They would have to rely on other family members or public transport. 

The problem is that very few people have enough time these days to cater to the needs of their aging loved ones. For this reason, many families look for reliable homecare, whether they live in Studio City or elsewhere in Los Angeles. 

There are some ways that you can make their life easier. For example, you should learn the right technique on how to transfer them to the backseat of your car, or how to make their ride more enjoyable. Keep on reading to learn how.

How can I help the elderly get in the car?

Many seniors have a problem with mobility or coordination, which takes away a significant part of their independence. This is the primary reason why they’ll need support when entering a vehicle. Luckily, there’s a way in which you can safely transfer them from a wheelchair, walker or other mobility aid to the car seat. 

Follow these steps to make this transition as painless as possible: 

• Check around the car. Make sure that the surrounding area is safe.
• Wear proper footwear. Your shoes should have a firm grip to the ground.
• Position your body correctly. Keep your feet separated at shoulder width.
• Be careful with the upper half of your body. Stand upright, holding the torso straight.
• Move at your hips and knees. Lean toward your client, using your knees and hips to lift them
• Don’t hurt your hands or your back. During the transfer, carry the better part of the weight with your forearms
• For additional safety, use various car aids, for example: car cane standing accessories, step stools, transfer boards, seat belt reacher handles, holders and extenders, etc. 

When exiting the car, use the same body position. Make sure to gently lean their head forward, to prevent them from hitting the door frame. Make a short standing pause, just to check that you’re both balanced and then continue lifting them. 

How do you make a long car ride comfortable for seniors?

Taking a ride to another city or to a nearby resort can be quite beneficial for your elderly relative. However, getting there can be tedious and stressful. So you should try to make it pleasurable, and minimize potential inconveniences. 

1. First things first, check the health status of your senior passenger before taking a longer ride. You should take all precaution measures and make sure that you bring all the necessary medication.
2. Make sure that you bring enough food and water, plan breaks to have a meal and take medication. Have a supply of healthy snacks, just in case that you get stuck in traffic. 
3. Take care about all safety precaution measures. Always check and adjust the seat belt. Avoid sitting them next to you, as air-bags can pose a hazard, so it’s better to place them on the back seat. 
4. Obtain a handicapped permit for the car if your elderly passenger has limited mobility. This will save you a lot of time and stress, while you look for a designated parking space. 
5. Consider the comfort itself. Many seniors need some additional back support, so you should adjust the car seat and provide additional cushions if necessary. In addition, bring a blanket, in case that your senior will need some rest. 
6. Don’t forget to consider entertainment. People of all ages deserve to have some fun and relax while they travel. Play a list of their favorite music, or their preferred radio station, or an interesting podcast. 

Where can I find dependable homecare in Studio City and surrounding communities? 

Here at A Better Way in Home Care, we have a team of skilled and trustworthy caregivers with the necessary expertise and experience to help out your elderly relatives in Studio City and beyond. They will act in the best interest of your loved ones by helping them run everyday errands, prepare their meals, drive them to doctor’s, tend to their emotional and social needs, and many more. Our goal is to make your senior relatives feel respected and empowered. 

With more time at your hands, seize the opportunity to have a family get-together in the lovely nature of Santa Monica Mountains or elsewhere in California. With the right assistance, your elderly ones will enjoy your family excursion as well. 

To check all the advantages we can bring to your household, reach out to us today!