Best way to train the extremely frail
Hello Kimberly Hawkinson-Hellyar,
First, don’t call them extremely frail and then get them comfortable with the ins and outs of a walker. Try to get them to the point of understanding how the walker is there to help them, not do the work for them. Be sure to keep the scene safe; some people are stubborn about keeping the throw rugs down to protect the floor, as if the floor is more important than the person. Healthcare to repair scratches on people is always more expensive than repairing a scratch or two on the floor, not to mention, people feel pain. Work on the person’s gait ability and get up from chair work. I do not know the client’s staring point; I would definitely incorporate balance work.
Take care,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.
Hi Kimberly,
this should be done by a physical or occupational therapist. Obviously, there is a reason why this person needs to use a walker. Some event or disease process has led to this point, and I would assume that this person has been in physical therapy for it.
Natalie is correct in what she is saying but his should not fall on your responsibility.
Since you would train this person only after a physician’s approval, I would look for parameters there and hopefully get a starting point from the physical therapist.
Once all that is established, you should first look at what the person needs to do in daily life, inquire into areas that are difficult and devise a strategy to help there first. Often just getting up from a chair is the first exercise. I always preferred to do exercises standing as long as you have a location where this is safe. Depending on the circumstances, you will have to settle for what is doable rather than what is ideal.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
Hi Kimberly,
I’m with Karin on this one – the actual training on acclimating your client to use a walker should be conducted by a PT or an OT. Once they’re comfortable with getting around, he/she should be ready for some training. First off, I would get input from both their Physician & Physical Therapist regarding programming & take it from there. Good luck Kimberly!
Paul Thomas
www.homeworkoutguy.com
