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Supporting Safe Walking and Balance in Clients

Liezl
27.01.26 02:41 PM Comment(s)

Introduction

In this blog, we explore how caregivers support client mobility safely and confidently. Through the Mobility course on the EduNomix® Virtual eLearning Ecology (VLE), learners develop practical skills to assist clients with walking, transfers, and the use of assistive devices, while promoting independence and comfort.


This follows the previous blog, Deliver respectful body care that supports comfort and trust, where we focused on protecting client skin and maintaining dignity during daily care routines. Building on those foundations, mobility support helps clients move safely, maintain confidence, and engage fully in daily activities, forming the basis for effective physical care.

Prepare the Client and Environment

Before assisting a client to walk or transfer, you must prepare both the person and the surroundings. Ensuring a safe environment reduces risk and increases client confidence. Check footwear, clothing, and walking areas for hazards, adjust lighting, and make sure assistive devices are within reach.

Encourage the client’s participation by explaining each step and reassuring them. Emotional readiness is just as important as physical preparation, as it allows clients to engage actively in their mobility.

Assist with Standing and Balance

Supporting a client to stand requires stability, awareness, and correct body mechanics. Position the client near the edge of a chair or bed, feet flat and knees bent, while you maintain a stable stance with feet shoulder-width apart.

Use your legs rather than your back to guide movement and allow the client to use armrests or stable surfaces. Pause to ensure they feel balanced before beginning any walking.

Safe Walking Techniques

When walking with a client, position yourself slightly behind and to one side of their weaker leg. Encourage even, steady steps while maintaining communication about turning, stopping, or pace changes.

Observe for fatigue, dizziness, or unsteadiness and respond immediately. Adjust hand placement and walking speed according to each client’s comfort and ability to maintain confidence and safety.

Use Stairs and Assistive Devices

Stairs require careful positioning, clear communication, and controlled movement. Stand slightly below and to the side of the client, remind them to hold the handrail firmly, and step in sequence, stronger leg first when going up, weaker leg first when going down.

Walkers, canes, and braces enhance stability when used correctly. Ensure each device is properly adjusted, demonstrate safe use, and allow the client to lead movements where possible. Correct use reduces strain on both the caregiver and client while supporting independence.

Transfers and Gait Belts

Gait belts and transfer boards provide secure control during movements. Position belts snugly around the client’s waist, maintain a strong stance, and guide steps carefully. Draw sheets and mechanical lifts allow smooth repositioning in bed or between surfaces, protecting clients from friction injuries and caregivers from strain.

Always monitor comfort and safety, communicate clearly, and involve clients actively where possible. Being proactive prevents accidents and promotes a positive care experience.

Conclusion

Mobility support depends on preparation, correct technique, and attentiveness to both client and caregiver needs. Through the Mobility course on the EduNomix® VLE, learners gain the knowledge and confidence to assist clients safely, encourage independence, and maintain professional, person-centred care.


In the next blog, we will continue exploring mobility support and transfers in more complex environments.

Dr Pieter du Toit
Specialisation: Change Management, Aviation Management, Business Management, Human Resources, Coaching and Business Leadership