Moving someone in bed

Changing position regularly can help someone to feel more comfortable and prevent pressure sores.

If you regularly lift or move someone, it's best to have someone demonstrate the correct way to avoid injury to yourself or the person you are looking after.

The district nurse, GP or occupational therapist can give information about suitable equipment.

You might find it helpful to ask about:

  • bed guards and rails
  • electric or adjustable 'hospital' beds to help someone sit up
  • ‘active’ air mattresses with air pockets that inflate and deflate to help prevent pressure ulcers

A Carer's assessment from social services can help you think about what support you might need.

Your local Citizen's Advice can guide what practical and financial support you can access.

The video below shows you how to use an electric bed as an aid, how to turn someone onto their side to wash them or to change bedding or pads, and how to adjust the pillows.

Recommended Resources

Marie Curie - Moving someone in bed

Published 26th October 2023

NHS - How to move, lift and handle someone else

Published 26th October 2023

Hospice in the Weald - Online guides

Published 26th October 2023

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Adult Carer Core Support
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Adult Carer Core Support

T. 0300 303 1555

W. https://www.carersfirst.org.uk/

This free service has been commissioned to support adult carers. 

The offer includes:

  • One to one information and support to carers 
  • Support via phone, text, email or face to face visits including home visits
  • Groups and activities for carers
  • Help to get Carers Trust grants
  • Referrals to carefree breaks
  • Free SIM cards

The offer in Southend includes funding for breaks for carers, support to help carers to access their own appointments and one-off respite break funding.

Carers UK
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Carers UK offers information and support to carers across the UK. There is an online forum and local support groups for carers. 

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26th October 2023

Moving someone in and out of bed

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