How to Move a Disabled Person from Bed to Wheelchair

How to Safely Transfer a Person from Bed to Wheelchair

Moving a person from a bed to a wheelchair is one of the most common daily care tasks for carers, family members, and support workers. However, poor transfer techniques can place both the patient and caregiver at risk of serious injury, especially when the person has limited mobility, balance issues, paralysis, weakness, or is recovering from surgery.

Occupational Therapists recommend using proper transfer techniques, mobility equipment, and safe manual handling practices to reduce the risk of falls, shoulder injuries, and back strain. In some cases, transfer aids or patient hoists may be necessary for safe movement.

At Gilani Engineering, we recommend assessing the person’s physical strength and mobility level before attempting any transfer independently.

Why Safe Transfers Are Important

Unsafe transfers can result in:

• Falls and fractures
• Back injuries for caregivers
• Shoulder and arm injuries
• Skin tears and bruising
• Loss of independence and confidence
• Hospitalisation due to falls

Using appropriate mobility equipment can make transfers safer and more comfortable for everyone involved.

Related products:

• Electric Wheelchairs
• Manual Wheelchairs
• Lightweight Wheelchairs
• Folding Electric Wheelchairs
• Mobility Aids

Before Moving the Person

Before starting the transfer, Occupational Therapists recommend assessing whether the person can safely assist during movement.

• Can the person support their own weight?
• Do they have upper body strength?
• Are they dizzy or unstable?
• Would a transfer aid or hoist be safer?
• Is another caregiver required?

If the person cannot safely assist with the transfer, do not attempt to lift them alone.

Prepare the Environment

Preparing the environment properly reduces the risk of slips, falls, and injuries.

• Explain the transfer process clearly before starting
• Remove rugs, cords, and obstacles
• Ensure adequate lighting
• Position the wheelchair close to the bed
• Lock the wheelchair brakes
• Remove or swing away the footrests
• Use non-slip footwear or socks

Step-by-Step: Bed to Wheelchair Transfer

1. Help the Person Sit Up

Assist the person into a seated position on the edge of the bed.

• Ask the person to roll onto their side facing you
• Support the shoulders and upper body
• Gently swing the legs over the edge of the bed
• Allow them time to adjust before standing

Occupational Therapists often recommend pausing briefly before standing to reduce dizziness and balance problems.

2. Prepare for Standing

Correct positioning protects both the patient and caregiver.

• Keep your back straight
• Bend using your knees
• Keep the person close to your body
• Avoid twisting movements
• Use a transfer belt if recommended

3. Assist the Person to Stand

• Ask the person to lean slightly forward
• Support around the torso or transfer belt
• Lift using your legs instead of your back
• Encourage the person to assist where possible

If the person becomes unstable, carefully lower them back onto the bed.

4. Pivot Towards the Wheelchair

• Slowly pivot towards the wheelchair
• Keep the wheelchair close behind the legs
• Ask the person to reach for the armrests if able
• Lower them slowly into the seat

Never allow the person to drop suddenly into the wheelchair.

5. Reposition for Comfort

After seating the person:

• Adjust the footrests and armrests
• Ensure hips are positioned fully back
• Check posture and comfort
• Apply positioning supports if prescribed

Correct seating can help reduce pressure injuries and improve comfort during long periods of sitting.

Wheelchair to Bed Transfer

The same safety principles apply when transferring a person from a wheelchair back to the bed.

• Position the wheelchair beside the bed
• Lock the brakes securely
• Remove footrests from the way
• Assist the person to stand carefully
• Pivot slowly towards the bed
• Lower them gently onto the bed

When a Hoist or Transfer Aid May Be Needed

Occupational Therapists may recommend transfer equipment if the person:

• Cannot stand safely
• Has severe weakness
• Has neurological conditions
• Has a high falls risk
• Requires full assistance
• Is bariatric or difficult to transfer manually

Attempting unsafe manual lifting can result in serious injuries to both the patient and caregiver.

Common Transfer Mistakes to Avoid

• Pulling under the person’s arms
• Lifting using your back
• Not locking wheelchair brakes
• Rushing the transfer process
• Attempting unsafe solo transfers

Occupational Therapist Recommendations

An Occupational Therapist can assess:

• Transfer safety
• Wheelchair suitability
• Pressure care needs
• Manual handling techniques
• Home accessibility
• Transfer equipment recommendations

If transfers are becoming difficult or unsafe, a professional assessment is strongly recommended.

Explore Mobility Equipment

Gilani Engineering provides a wide range of mobility and wheelchair solutions designed to improve independence, comfort, and safety.

• Electric Wheelchairs Australia
• Manual Wheelchairs
• Portable Folding Electric Wheelchairs
• Mobility Aids and Daily Living Equipment

Using proper transfer techniques together with suitable mobility equipment can help improve safety, reduce injuries, and support long-term independence.