Gait Belts/Transfer Belts

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A Gait belt is an assistive device which can prevent falls and can really be of benefit when you or your loved one requires extra care. The gait belt provides a handle that allows the caregiver to easily grasp the belt and stabilize the patient if they lose balance. Gait belts are used during physical therapy, in hospitals, nursing homes and home health care. Using a gait belt is much safer than holding hands or relying on other forms of assistance.

There are several different kinds of gait belts available in the market. Generally, a gait belt is about 1½ to 4 inches wide and 54 to 60 inches long. Gait Belts are made of canvas, nylon or leather with a buckle at one end.

How to use a Gait Belt?

  1. Ask the patient to move forward in the chair or bed so the gait belt can be placed around their waist.
  2. Make sure the belt is positioned over the clothing and the buckle/clip is in front for easier adjustments.
  3. Insert the end of the belt through the open end of the buckle. Pull on the loose end of the belt to tighten it to the proper tightness.
  4. The belt should fit snugly, but it shouldn’t be too tight. At least two fingers should fit between the belt and body.
  5. Ask the patient to slide forward to the edge of the seat or bed and make sure both feet are placed flat on the floor.
  6. Place your fingers between the gait belt and the patient to grasp the gait belt.
  7. Ask the patient to stand as you lift the belt and guide him/her to the transfer location.
  8. Help the patient to safely sit down on the transfer location and ask him/her to slide back a bit.
  9. Once the patient is safely seated on the transfer location, remove the gait belt.

Precautions to take while using Gait Belts

  1. Always use a gait belt that is large enough to fit around the person you are going to be moving.
  2. The gait belt should not be too tight. At least two fingers should fit between the belt and body.
  3. The dangling end should be tucked into the belt to prevent trips or tangling.
  4. Try to find a belt with multiple fabric handles to make the transfer easier.
  5. If possible, ask another person to help you while transferring.
  6. Walk on the weak side of the patient’s body if they are using crutches or a walker.
  7. Don't twist your body when you are lifting or moving the patient. Improper lifting could cause you a back injury.

Where to buy Gait Belts Online?

Gait Belts help with the transferring of patients from hospital beds and other furniture. Patient room offers a complete portfolio of Gait or Transfer Belts. Our range has premium devices that assure safety and reliability. Top manufacturers like Posey, Humane RestraintMedline IndustriesPatterson Medical, Mobility Transfer Systems many more lend their names to these products thereby ensuring their quality and benchmark. We have gait or transfer belts and many other transfer aids plus their accessories.