Helping my husband up from a fall

[colourwash]

Hello everyone,

This is my first post. Can anyone give me some advice about how to help my husband up from the floor when he falls?

He was diagnosed with MSA about 9 months ago, following a Parkinson's diagnosis in 2017. Until recently, he's been able to get onto his hands and knees and pull himself up using a chair. But he doesn't seem able to do that now. He's over 6ft and about 14 stones, I'm 5'6" and about 10 stones and have chronic back issues which I generally keep in check as long as I'm careful.

One of the problems seems to be that he can't work out what he needs to do, or to then get his body to carry it out. For instance, if I ask him to move his left leg, say, I actually have to touch it and then help him move it. Also, he was relying on his arms to do a lot of the work for him but he tells me they're now weak, too.

I'd appreciate any advice. Thank you.

[Diane831]

If you have access to a physio or OT then ask for a new assessment as they can look at the problem and give you personal advice. There are pieces of equipment that can help like this one, although I believe that there are others mangarhealth.com/uk/store/p...

But getting the right advice for yourselves is best.

[AMBD in reply to Diane831]

I had to rely on neighbours or 111. Although the inflatable chair seems a good idea I wouldn't have been able to roll my husband to get the thing under him let alone get into correct position. I thought they were for use in the bath.

[TMRC012W]

Do you have an email address. I have a picture of an assistance aid that I can’t seem to copy/paste to this reply. Or how to paste a picture.

It is an item from the Hammacher Schlemmer catalog in the USA.

Http://hammacher.com

800-543-3366

The Help me up handle

Item #xf-97749

$34.95 US

I have had PD diagnosed for 4-years and have the MSA test at a medical school on July 1, 2022. Hope for the best result.

[Lenosa in reply to TMRC012W]

Is there a test just for MSA?

[TMRC012W in reply to Lenosa]

I am new at this and you would certainly have to consult with your Dr about this. Yes, there is a definitive test. I had it this past Friday and I am waiting for the results in a couple of weeks.

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in October 2019. My neurologist has prescribed maximum medications and is further testing.

The test is an Autonomic Function Test, looking at Ataxia, Parkinson, peripheral nervous system disease, weakness and dizziness and giddiness.

The test was done by the neurology department of the Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas.

UTSW Neurologyy

214-645-8800

Http://UTSW Ed.org

They have the only testing equipment in the State of Texas. They have been doing this for many years.

There is a 2nd one being installed in Irving, Texas , a suburb of Dallas, TX

If I understand correctly, you can have Parkinson’s or MSA or both. Both is a better for life expectancy. The test takes about 1-hour and is non-invasive. It can take several months to get an appointment since there is only one machine.

[Lenosa in reply to TMRC012W]

Thank you. We have an appointment with neurologist next week. I will find out what he knows.

[TMRC012W in reply to Lenosa]

The facility name and phone number is in my previous reply. I think you could ask for information at that number. I believe you would just need a referral from your neurologist. UTSW Should know if there are other facilities in the country. When I get my results I will post.

[TMRC012W in reply to TMRC012W]

I have had the MSA test I talked about earlier. Results indicated I do have Parkinson’s. Results were not bad enough to indicate MSA at this time. My symptoms appear to be results of Parkinson’s, diabetes, and blood pressure issues so far. A blessing in disguise. Thanks to God.

[Carli_1 in reply to TMRC012W]

I have not heard before that there is special equipment for testing for MSA. I see a MSA Neurologist Specialist at The University of San Francisco. I see a neurologist that specializes in MSA. I am very interested in what the equipment and test are in Texas. How might I go about getting information regarding the tests?

I was diagnosed February 2020 with MSA. I had a battery of written, verbal, balance, and drawing tests. This was between four types of Neuroligists Specialists each in their field. This until I was referred to a MSA Neurologist.

I just found this group today and am so great full. I would love to get the information regarding the testing equipment in Texas.

I will gladly answer any questions regarding my condition.

[Hidden]

Hello, a falls assessment is a must - it should trigger assistance from OT or community physiotherapy with regard to walking aids etc to minimise falls occurring. Dad had about 60 falls before we realised this was an option, and he got away with two minor injuries in that time which is pretty lucky. He somehow taught himself to fall safely, but I wouldn't rely on that! In our area there was a community alarm bracelet specifically for falls, and a nice carer comes with their own inflatable device to get the person up again 🙂

[Hidden]

It sounds like you've reached the point, like we did when it was too difficult for anybody to get the person up without professional help and equipment because the person can't assist you anymore. Don't be tempted to keep trying. It's much better not to risk injuring yourself and them. It's hard to just throw blankets over them and wait for help but the time comes when you just have to. ❤️

[Kaye31]

OT will help.We use a blow up seat thing. It goes under the bum and lifts up in batches. I’m sure someone here will know what it’s called but that has helped no end having the same problems as yourself.

Good luck x

[Blubetty]

My parents had a Mangar Camel Inflatable chair which was a godsend - it inflates underneath them until they are in a high seated position from which they can stand (when they are ready). It is invaluable. An updated version is the raizer chair which is even easier to use and set up. Talk to your OT about it as they should be able to source one for you rather than you buying one. There are lots of youtube videos showing you how they work. Here are a couple:Mangar Camel inflatable chair: youtube.com/watch?v=-wbzdV6...(Not working as expected?)

Raizer emergency lifting chair: youtube.com/watch?v=3vLWZHH...(Not working as expected?) Good luck x

[colourwash]

Thanks so much for your advice everyone - I really appreciate it. I'm going to get in touch with the OT to see if she can source one of these inflatable chairs - or better still, a raizer chair.

[mandg]

Hi ,interesting to read the comments you have received, as I have a similar problem, not being able to get in a position to help himself up. I may ask about that chair, when we have a visit from the falls team soon.

[Polesden]

Càll 999 and they're happy to help. Seen most of our crews so often they walk in the house and yell for barney....he's my dog. They've aken him for walks, fed him, brushed him bought him treats. Hubby and I are used to playing 2nd fiddle.Seriously tho you'll hurt your back and then where will you both be

Sue xx