Car Transfer Aid

Keep the correct equipment within easy reach.

Use a gait or transfer belt during transfers. Never substitute another object if the transfer board is not nearby.

Move slowly and carefully.

Pay close attention to your movements and body position as you transfer across the board.

Try to transfer between surfaces of similar height.

Or transfer to a slightly lower surface. This makes the transfer easier.

Protect your skin.

This means keeping your skin from getting pinched or rubbed during the transfer. For instance, don’t drag your buttocks on the board. And always wear clothing or use a transfer sheet. This is a fabric sheet that helps ease movement during transfers.

Keep yourself in the correct position.

Keep your feet flat on the floor throughout most types of transfers. As you move across the board, stop as needed and reposition your legs and feet. Do this one leg at a time, keeping each foot in line with the knee. To prevent stress on your wrists and hands, try making your hands into fists. Support your body weight on the flat surface between the knuckles. Never put your hands or fingers under the board during a transfer.

Wear any orthopedic devices you have while transferring.

And wear sturdy shoes when possible.

If you have decreased strength or sensation in your upper body, work with a caregiver to help you transfer.

As you get used to using a transfer board, you may learn to transfer without a caregiver. At this point, you may use special transfer board equipment that can help you transfer by yourself.