A gait belt, also referred to as a transfer belt, is a safety device used by the carer to help an individual to stand up and safely move, such as from the bed to a chair or wheelchair. The gait belt is also used to help hold those who are too weak to walk on their own and helps prevent a fall. It also decreases the caregiver’s risk of a back injury while helping the person move or walk.
The gait belt is often used for safe handling and mobility at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or homes. A gait transfer belt is used when an individual is cooperative, partially ambulatory, and has some weight-bearing capacity. The transfer belt allows the caregiver to assist the patient with performing routine tasks such as walking and rising from a sitting position.
The gait belt is wrapped around the waist and allows the caregiver to grasp the belt and helps in the movement of the patient. HPFY provides a huge collection of sturdy and durable gait belts from top brands like Sammons Preston, FabLife, ProCare, and many more.
A gait belt is necessary for patients with limited mobility or who have severe health issues. Here are some of the benefits of using a transfer gait belt:
According to a CDC survey, 18% of adults aged 18 or above find difficulty in walking or climbing stairs. In the case of seniors and the elderly, the numbers would be even more. A gait belt is crucial for people having trouble making movement. One can use the gait belt in the following manner:
Do not use a transfer gait belt if an individual:
Material of the transfer gait belt: The transfer belt is made of different materials like canvas, nylon, leather, cotton, etc. Choose a transfer belt that is comfortable on the skin and helps prevent irritation.
A gait belt is a great tool for a secure transfer of a person from the bed to a chair or wheelchair, as well as to assist in sitting, standing, and walking. When used appropriately, the gait belt protects the care recipients from falls and the caregivers from harming their backs. HPFY offers high-quality gait belts from top manufacturers like Performance Health, Humane Restraint, Posey, Skil Care, Essential Medical, etc., at affordable prices.
Using a gait belt while transferring or walking a patient provides the care giver and the patient increased safety and security. The caregiver can control a patient’s balance and keep the patient from falling with the help of a gait belt. It also decreases the chances of hurting your back.
Be sure to use proper body mechanics to decrease the chance of hurting your back:
A gait belt must not be placed on the abdomen in case of:
Place the gait belt higher on the trunk at the level of the armpits. It still needs to be snug and may need to be tightened when the patient stands. If the patient is female, be sure it is not over her breasts.
You can minimize the risk of falling by using gait/transfer belts with handles that permit the safe assist of a person who retains some weight-bearing capacity. Raising and lowering a patient becomes much easier with these walking belts and gait belts for patient mobility.