Transfer into and from a vehicle to a walking frame

Getting out of a car using a walker 

For this transfer, have a walking frame ready. The procedure requires one carer and one slide sheet. 

1. Slide the car seat back as far as it will go to allow maximum space to lift the legs out 

2. Check the seat back is fully upright 

3. Ensure the client’s walker is close by but out of the carer’s way 

4. Ask the client to lift their legs out of the car. It is generally easier to move in small movements and move one leg at a time. If they have difficulty doing this, you can place a scrunched‑up slide sheet under the buttocks to reduce friction 

5. Get them to move forward until their feet are flat on the ground 

6. The client will need to hold on to something as they stand. They can push using the car seat or backrest. Alternatively, wind the window down and the client can use the door for support while the carer uses their body weight to prop the door for safety* 

7. Once standing, the client transfers their hands to the walker (with brakes applied) 

8. If they are unable to stand and step around, another technique or aid should be considered. This will require the client to be referred to a therapist and have a technique tailored to them 

* Advice on specially designed handles to help clients in and out of cars can be given by a health professional and they can be purchased if necessary 

Getting in a car using a walker

1. Slide the car seat as far back as it will go – if it is an electric seat, you can make it higher, or place a cushion on the seat if the seat is low 

2. Ask the client to walk backwards until they can feel the car seat with the backs of their legs. Get them to put their hands on a suitable place on the car; if it is the door, prop the door with your body weight to keep it still and get them to sit as far back onto the car seat as they can 

3. Move the walker out of the way 

4. Get the client to move back into the seat as far as they can – you can use a scrunched‑up slide sheet to reduce friction if needed 

5. Ask them to lift their legs into the car – they may find it easier to get one in at a time. They can use a walking stick to push against the floor of the car to make it easier