Maintaining independence in daily activities is crucial, especially when it comes to personal care tasks like using the toilet. Balancing and transferring oneself on and off the toilet at home and in public requires technique, practice, and sometimes, the use of assistive devices. Here, I share my personal approach to managing these tasks efficiently and safely.
Balancing and Walking on My Bottom
One of the techniques I use to move around when necessary is “walking on my bottom.” This involves sitting on the floor and using my hands and upper body strength to lift and shift my body forward. It’s a method that provides stability and control, especially in tight spaces or when transitioning to different surfaces.
To walk on my bottom, I follow these steps:
- Sit Upright: Start by sitting upright with legs extended or slightly bent for better control.
- Use Your Hands: Place your hands firmly on the floor beside your hips.
- Lift and Shift: Lift your bottom slightly off the ground using your hands and move it forward. Repeat this motion in a steady rhythm.
- Balance: Keep your upper body balanced by engaging your core muscles and maintaining a straight posture.
Transferring On and Off the Toilet at Home
At home, where the environment is more controlled, I use specific strategies and tools to aid in safe transfers.
- Positioning the Wheelchair (if used): Place the wheelchair or seating device close to the toilet, ensuring the brakes are locked for stability.
- Using Grab Bars: Install grab bars around the toilet for extra support. These provide leverage and stability.
- Transfer Board (if needed): Sometimes, a transfer board can be useful. Position one end of the board under your thigh and the other on the toilet seat.
- Slide Over: With hands on the grab bars or the wheelchair arms, lift and slide onto the toilet seat.
- Adjust and Balance: Once on the seat, adjust your position for comfort and balance.
To transfer off the toilet:
- Prepare for Transfer: Make sure your wheelchair or seating device is in position and stable.
- Use Grab Bars: Hold onto the grab bars for support.
- Lift and Slide: Push up with your arms, lift your bottom slightly, and slide back onto the transfer board or directly into the wheelchair.
Transferring On and Off the Toilet in Public
Public restrooms often present more challenges due to space constraints and varying designs. Here’s how I manage:
- Choose Accessible Stalls: Always opt for the accessible stall, which is equipped with grab bars and more space.
- Positioning the Wheelchair: Position the wheelchair as close to the toilet as possible, ensuring it’s locked and stable.
- Use Grab Bars: Utilize the grab bars installed in the stall to support your transfer.
- Transfer Board (if carried): If you use a transfer board, place it as you would at home.
- Lift and Slide: Carefully lift and slide onto the toilet seat using the grab bars for support.
To transfer off in public:
- Stabilize Yourself: Ensure your wheelchair is in place and locked.
- Grab Bars: Use the grab bars for support and stability.
- Lift and Slide: Lift yourself and slide back onto the transfer board or wheelchair.
Conclusion
Balancing and transferring oneself on and off the toilet, both at home and in public, involves a combination of techniques and assistive tools. With practice and proper support, these tasks can be performed safely and independently. Whether you’re walking on your bottom or using a transfer board, the key is to maintain stability, use available supports, and move with confidence.
