Journal entry by Kayla Richardson —
I want to evaluate JKR falling through the chair incident, which left him unable to walk or bear any weight on his knee for about 4-5 days.
This experience was painful for JKR and a great learning experience for me.
There were many challenges in trying to care for him while be couldn't walk.
Challenges:
- JKR only has a transport chair and he wants a wheelchair which provides the ability for him to independently move himself easier
- It's impossible to get a wheelchair through the kitchen sliding glass door due to the thresh hold
- JKR spending such prolonged periods sitting in a transport chair/wheelchair makes me more aware of the potential for pressure sores
- It was extremely difficult to help JKR stand up from a wheelchair, then pivot to get into/out of bed. This was one of the most challenging problems.
- JKR needs a better doorbell button communication system to signal help from his bedroom
- It is hard for JKR to lifting his leg when getting into bed & getting into the car
Here are my ideas of ways to improve the challenges started above:
- buy JKR a wheelchair, K is working on price, what insurance does & doesn't cover, where to buy it from, etc.
- Buy a removable wheelchair ramp that fits the kitchen sliding door
- Buy a wheelchair cushion when buying the wheelchair, Amazon probably least expensive
- Learn more about various gait belt options since it will give JKR & care giver better places to hold when assisting in lifting. Laura & I had to use his belt loops, gait belt is necessary.
- Learn & discuss buying a manual hoyer lift or stand assist (expensive would require research but likely needed)
- I am researching a better doorbell system and will write a separate entry with more info
- There is this inexpensive tool called a leg lifter that we should but for JKR
There is no safe way to move JKR with only one person to assist. JKR will live fine without these but Frank & Laura will be injured caring for his mobility needs.
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