Valerie, an 86-year-old female with dementia and limited mobility, spent the majority of her day with her arms crossed to stabilize herself in her chair
Valerie did not communicate much throughout the day and due to the protective position of her hands and arms, she had difficulty completing small task such as drinking or eating. Valerie required assistance for these tasks, but it proved very difficult due the position of her head and her caregivers often felt worried that she would choke and her motivation for feed was quite poor. The caregivers also noted that when assisting Valerie to transfer from the chair would be quite stiff and her range of motion particularly of her uppers limbs, was restricted.
After assessing Valerie's needs, it was deemed appropriate for her to trial a Seating Matters Sorrento™ chair.
Immediately a difference a Valerie's postural alignment was recorded. As a result of using tilt in space and changing the position of the centre of gravity. Valerie was able to:
Over time and as she felt more secure, Valerie began to use the armrests and as a result of feeling much more secure and stabilised in her correctly adjusted chair, she no longer crossed or 'fixed' her arms and was able to reach out to drink a cup of tea and eat immediately.
The tilt in space feature was used in this case, not only to improve comfort and posture but also to distribute pressure evenly throughout all contact areas. By tilting the chair, weight was redistributed from underneath Valerie's sacrum and ischial tuberosities (ITs) and spread throughout her back and other load bearing areas.
She was able to attend social events taking place in the nursing home such as bingo, arts and crafts and music classes as the chair could be wheeled from room to room.
Being able to hold her head upright and look around the room without difficulty or strain had made a difference to her motivation and she became more interactive with caregivers and other residents throughout the home
It was also gratifying for those that looked after and cared for Valerie to be able to see her family when seating whereas before they would often only be able to see the top of her head, she has regained her social and personal identity.
For low mobility patients, and patients with extended stays in bed, the Sorrento is widely used in hospitals and rehabilitation units, clinically designed to reduce pressure injuries, prevent sliding, falls and safely increase early mobilization.
Take the next step to achieve clinical excellence and a 24 hour package of care for patients.
Arrange a free, no obligation seating assessment with your local Seating Specialist.
Schedule a call at a time that suits you to speak with our experts.