Moving your loved one from the bed to a wheelchair can feel like a big step, especially if you have not done it before. Taking it slowly and focusing on safety makes the experience more comfortable for both of you. This kind of transfer works best when your loved one can help, even just a little.

If you have not yet read the first article in our Safe Movement at Home series, you may want to start with Part 1: Getting Started — it covers a few general safety habits that apply to every transfer.

Before You Begin

• Position the wheelchair as close to the bed as you can, ideally at a slight angle.
• Lock the brakes on the wheelchair.
• Move the footrests out of the way to create a clear path.
• Make sure your loved one is wearing rubber-soled shoes or non-slip socks.
• If possible, ask another caregiver to help.

Step by Step

1. Let your loved one know what you are about to do.
2. Help them scoot to the edge of the bed so their feet are flat on the floor. Pause briefly here to help prevent dizziness.
3. Stand close with a stable footing — one foot slightly in front of the other.
4. Gently position their feet under their knees so they can push up more easily.
5. Encourage them to lean forward slightly — sometimes called “nose over toes” — before standing.
6. With your arms supporting their lower back or waist, guide them to stand on a gentle count. Use your legs, not your back, and keep your body close to theirs for support.
7. Pause once they are standing. Make sure you both feel steady.
8. Staying close, take small steps together to pivot toward the wheelchair. Moving slowly, almost like a gentle dance, helps you both maintain balance.
9. When your loved one feels the chair behind their legs, encourage them to reach back for the armrests if they are able.
10. Gently lower them into the chair, bending your knees as you go.
11. Help them shift back fully into the chair, and take a moment to make sure they are comfortable and well-positioned.

It is okay if this feels awkward at first. Over time, it will start to feel more familiar.

If a transfer feels unsafe, please pause.

If at any point your loved one feels unsteady, or you do, it is okay to stop and rest them back on the bed.

In the next article, we look at a smaller but equally important movement — helping your loved one sit at the edge of the bed.

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At MJHS, we value both personal and professional caregivers and recognize the critical work you do. That is why we have created these online caregiving resources to help you through this crucial time in your life.

If you need additional help and support caring for your loved one, please feel free to contact MJHS. We can recommend other care options available to you through one of our programs.