Analysis of primary caregiver to prevent ergonomic risks when transferring a person with motor disability

Abstract

It was observed that within the field of design that the Primary Caregiver (PC) for a Person with Motor Disability (PWMD) has remained both poorly understood and studied. The research and approaches in some disciplines have focussed on emotional and psychological aspects such as the evaluation of anxiety and depression based on the type of problem that their patient has, and not on the physical activities that they perform. This is why it is necessary to understand and analyze within the field of design the role played by the PC and the physical risks that they are exposed to while lifting and moving a PWMD. In addition, a review and analysis of technical aids and transfer equipment for PWMDs that are currently available in the market are made in order to propose design improvements which include relief and other benefits for the PC.