Frequently Asked Questions

Question from George (2-26-2009):

I have ALS and have fallen a couple of times. I weigh 180lbs and its difficult for my wife to lift me. Are their aids/devices to help her?

Dear George,

Thank you for your question. ALS is a progressive syndrome where symptoms can vary greatly; from mild functional impairment and occasional loss of balance to severe functional impairment, requiring total assistance with all transfers and bed mobility.

Without knowing your current functional status or the relative size, strength and health status of your wife, it is difficult to recommend an appropriate aid or  device. By using leverage and good body mechanics, a smaller person can effectively assist a larger person up off the floor in certain circumstances. There are also techniques which you may be able to use to help yourself get up off the floor and I have described this in one of my articles, "Senior Safety - What You Should Do When You Fall Down and 4 Things to Do Now Just in Case."  I would strongly suggest a consult with a physical therapist to teach you these techniques in person.

If you need just a tiny bit of assistance with walking but tend to lose your balance occasionally, a simple gait belt (most medical supply companies carry them) around the waist may be helpful to add just a bit of steadying. This is something your wife can lightly hold onto while walking next to you, which is safer than holding onto your arm or clothing. I would much rather have your focus be on preventing those falls rather than what to do when you fall since, as you know, it is very difficult to lift someone up off the floor and there is a significant risk for you to be injured if you fall. I would also suggest some simple balance or strengthening exercises which will help you lessen your fall risk. If your condition has progressed to where you need lots of help with transfers and walking, you may need to be evaluated for a different walking aid or safety training.

There are devices to help lift people off the floor or help transfer dependent people out of bed. One such device is called a Hoyer lift. It involves rolling the person toward each side to place a sling under the trunk. The sling has metal rings which hook onto the device, then a hydraulic pump arm easily raises the person up to the height of the bed or chair where they can be transfered.

Learning how to use a device like this is best taught by a physical therapist, who can also instruct you and your wife in safe transfer and ambulation techniques and show you a few exercises. Ask your doctor to arrange for a consult.

I hope this information is helpful and that you will be able to be safer at home.

Best regards,

Ronna