When caring for people it is important to also look after yourself - How can live-in care workers avoid occupational injuries?

Image source:Foreign National Labor Rights Portal

Live-in care workers are often a care recipient’s main provider of care and required every day to help a senior or disabled person move between their bed, wheelchair and bathroom. As such, it is not uncommon for such workers to suffer, head and neck, waist and back musculoskeletal injuries.

When lifting do not place all the pressure on your waist

•Bend the knees to lower your center of gravity and use the strength of your buttocks and legs when lifting a care recipient

•If you do need to bend, use one arm to support your body and minimize the pressure on your waist

Use protective gear and assistive devices

•If necessary wear a waist protector or wrist protector to reduce risk of injury.

•Use a transfer board or support belt to help move a care recipient.

Exercise regularly

•Exercise regularly as strong muscles protect your joints and skeleton, reducing soreness and pain.

Article Source:Foreign National Labor Rights Portal

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