Personal Transportation for Seniors: Benefits of Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities benefit from the hard work of patient transport, which contributes to fewer injuries, increased safety, improved comfort, and overall reduced risk factors. Transporting patients is something that requires skill and physical ability; whether transporting a senior safely to an appointment or helping someone with a mobility issue bathe, this is a task that – if not done properly- can lead to serious injury. Caregivers and individuals that transport patients are often referred to as the ‘feet’ of a facility, and this is an accurate misnomer; visit and browse online resources to find transport professionals, qualified caregivers, and healthcare organizations in your region.

Patient transport creates access

A common reason why seniors stay at home and socially withdraw has to do with transportation hurdles. The obstacles facing many who live with mobility issues or disabilities can confine them to their home and decrease social interaction. It is estimated that over 500,000 seniors never leave their residence because they don’t have a means of transportation. When it comes to a lack of adequate transportation, 31% of individuals with physical disabilities indicate problems getting where they need to go compared to 13% of the general population voicing this same complaint.

Assisted Living Facilities Benefit from the Hard Work of Patient Transport

Transporting patients is not as simple as showing up with a vehicle; many may require lifts, rails, or other safety measures to ensure injury doesn’t occur. Healthcare facilities assert that transporting any patient is a critical moment in care- and one that should never be underestimated or harried. assisted living facilities typically train and invest resources in providing skill-sets to staff that prepares them for safe transports. Proper patient transport eliminates many hazards and complications that can arise when trying to move someone with a mobility issue or disability:Protects the patient. Naturally, the goal of safe patient transport is to protect the person being transported. Safe handling practice and techniques are taught in healthcare settings to reduce risks to the patient, as well as to familiarize transporters with equipment and devices, such as lifts.Keeps staff safe. Staff can become injured when transporting patients, particularly if protocols are not followed. Injuries leave healthcare settings short-staffed, can drain resources, and cause professional caregivers to leave the field. Devices and mobility aids are as prudent in protecting the transporter as the patient.Curbs caregiver injury. Additionally, many caregivers and loved ones may attempt to move, transport, or accompany seniors with disabilities or mobility issues, which can result in injuries. If the caregiver is not trained and qualified to transport, they should reach out to services and aides in the area for assistance. The risks to caregivers could be life-altering accidents which result in pricey injuries and painful repercussions.Prevents property damage. Anyone using transport devices, like ceiling lifts or vehicle lifts, should be trained thoroughly to avoid any potential damage to the equipment. Comprehensive instruction regarding the utility of lifts and supports will reduce the incidence of damage or deterioration.Reduces overall risks. Seniors and consumers with disabilities are not the only ones who utilize transport; critically ill patients may also require this level of care and support when attending routine appointments, engaging with others, or simply completing ADLs (activities of daily living). Critically ill patients are at an even higher risk of harm from transport, which in some instances, may include death. The chance of infection jumps every time a vulnerable person leaves the confines of a home or hospital setting; make sure that they are transported with the utmost care.

Observe National Patient Transportation Week in November

National Patient Transportation Week is an observation each November that pays attention and tribute to those that provide transport, care, and support to individuals living with disabilities. This annual observance recognizes the dedication of those that work in the field of patient care and lauds transporters who contribute to keeping patients safe across the US. This is the perfect time to call out those that support and assist you or your loved one regularly, as well as a great opportunity to dedicate some time and donate efforts to someone living with a mobility issue or physical disability. Make this year’s observance be your cue to give something back.

Get help finding thoughtful, caring transport services and assistance

Do your homework and refer to online resources when seeking reliable and reputable transport services to assist your loved one, client, or consumer get where they need to go. Narrow-down the field of services and practitioners with client feedback, online ratings, and reviews to find professionals in your geographic area to assist in the transport of someone with a mobility issue or physical disability.Let Senior Living Experts guide you in the right direction and help you find qualified patient transport, practitioners, and healthcare in the region. From the comfort of home, review feedback, reviews, and contact information for service providers that will help your loved one maintain autonomy and quality of life. Transport is one piece of assisting seniors with mobility issues and disabilities, and it is an integral one; recognize the dedication that professionals in this field possess by observing National Patient Transportation Week in November.