When assisting visually impaired residents in walking, where should the nurse aide position themselves?

Positioning yourself next to and slightly behind a visually impaired resident while assisting them in walking is crucial for their safety and comfort. This setup allows the resident to orient themselves to your presence and feel secure as they walk. It gives them the confidence that they have a guide without feeling overly restrained. Additionally, from this position, you are in a better place to provide physical support if needed, while also allowing the resident to navigate their environment.

Being next to and slightly behind ensures that the aide can communicate effectively, offering verbal cues about obstacles or changes in terrain, while also preventing potential accidents. This positioning supports the independence of the resident while maintaining an appropriate level of assistance, thereby promoting their dignity and encouraging them to be active participants in their mobility.