As myself and Dad have power of attorney, can we request that my mum, who has fallen out of her wheelchair, use the belt? She’s in a care home in Glasgow. I have made it clear that I would like her care plan changed so that the belt, although it’s classed as restrictive, can be used, given that she has already fallen due to her having hallucinations and onset of dementia.
My advice would be for you and your dad to request a meeting with the care home to discuss your mums care plan. Whilst it is true to say lap straps can be restrictive, they are also designed to provide a necessary level of support and safety to keep people safe whilst in a wheelchair.
They help provide stability and can reduce the risk of slipping and tipping in people with poor independent postural control. The wheelchair should only be used to transport your mum.
You may wish to view the risk assessment which has been devised to assess if your mum would benefit from use of lap belt.
Your mum should be consulted in this decision, even if you think the lap belt is a good idea. If she refuses, you must respect her wishes.
If however, she lacks capacity due to her dementia she should have a Section 47 certificate of incapacity which means decisions can be made for her. I hope you get this resolved with the provider.
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