Transfers

The order of the hierarchy of mobility is as follows: bed mobility, mat transfer, wheelchair transfer, bed transfer, functional ambulation for ADLs, toilet and tub transfers, car transfers, functional ambulation for community mobility, and community mobility and driving. I believe this particular hierarchy was chosen because the order starts with more basic functional skills and works up to more challenging movements and skills. It seems that each mobility skill builds on the next and is why I agree with order of this approach. The majority of my previous experience was spent in outpatient therapy clinics, where most of the transfers I witnessed were wheelchair transfers. All of the occupational and physical therapists were trained on proper technique and used appropriate equipment, resulting in every transfer done beautifully, even if the therapist was smaller than their client. Safety of our clients is our top priority and is why proper technique and knowledge of transfers and mobility is so important. While I agree with the hierarchy order, I do believe that not all clients progress at the same rate, in the same order, and that is ok. This gives us the opportunity to adapt and continue to help our clients reach their goals.