http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=250x3505Oh my.
SujiwanKenobee (204 posts) Tue Dec-16-08 09:57 AM
Original message
What are the best techniques to assist an obese person who has fallen to rise?
Hi,
I've been looking all over the internet for information, but can only find out about fall prevention.
My Mom (74) is dealing with a lot of physical issues that include diabetes, kidney failure, congestive heart failure and swelling of the lower legs from lymph system destruction. She has become basically a chair potato and has gained a great deal of weight despite the fact that she eats sparingly--around 280 pounds.
She has started to have problems with balance and she's weak from a recent hospital stay. Despite using a walker, she fell on the way to her bedroom--probably in the hallway. It took 6 people working together to get her up, according to my Dad.
Once she is down, it is really hard to get her back to her feet and it doesn't help that she has shoulder problems and very little strength to help herself.
What is the best way to help someone in this situation to rise from a position on the floor to standing again?
You know, the other week, when buying gasoline, I met a dietician from a local hospital.
I didn't get this information from her; I discretely inquired of her boyfriend.
She was 5'5" and 375 pounds, bell-shaped.
elleng (1000+ posts) Tue Dec-16-08 10:02 AM
Response to Original message
1. Did you observe how she was cared for in hospital?
Your home care should probably be similar to theirs, involving regular professional care.
In addition to other things, check with local Hospice services for help and advice.
frogcycle (1000+ posts) Tue Dec-16-08 10:04 AM
Response to Original message
2. You need to talk someone trained for this
I met a lot of very knowledgeable and skilled people as my dad aged. They have answers to this stuff; can demo and coach you.
Check in to whether she is entitled to medicare-funded physical rehab those are the people who know. They teach stuff like putting on shoes with a long-handled shoe tongue, picking up stuff using the "golfers stance" etc. They can get you good answers. call a local hospital and ask for names.
madrchsod (1000+ posts) Tue Dec-16-08 10:09 AM
Response to Original message
3. she needs a lift/sling
my wife works at a facility that takes care of people who are bedridden and basically can not assist in their movement. they use two people and a lift to lift them into a wheel chair move them to bathrooms and dining room.
depending where you are there should be an organization that can help you assist your dad and mom with her problems. my wife is`t here at this time but i will ask her what actually they use. the biggest problem is that most if not all houses are not built with wide enough hallways and doors..
