When it comes to mobility, every small movement matters. For many people, transferring from a wheelchair to a bed, toilet, or car can feel intimidating or even unsafe. The right transfer board can turn that fear into confidence, transforming daily movement from a struggle into a smooth, secure process.
I’m Dr. Brandy Archie, occupational therapist and founder at AskSAMIE, and I want to introduce you to one of my favorite adaptive tools — the Buckingham Glide Board Transfer Board. Designed for smoother, safer, and more dignified transfers, this OT-approved tool bridges the gap between independence and safety.
Adaptive Transfers and Independence
Transfers are one of the most important parts of daily mobility. Whether it’s moving from a wheelchair to the bed, a car seat, or a toilet, each transfer affects safety, confidence, and quality of life. Traditional transfer boards are a great starting point, but many people need a little extra help — especially if strength, balance, or endurance is limited.
That’s where glide boards come in. A glide board adds a sliding surface that reduces friction and makes each movement more controlled. It doesn’t just help you move; it helps you move with confidence. As an OT, I see the emotional side of this every day — when clients trust their ability to transfer, they regain a huge part of their independence.
👉 Related Resource: Learn how walker height adjustments can also make mobility safer and more comfortable.
What Makes the Buckingham Glide Board Different
The Buckingham Glide Board takes traditional slide-board design a step further. A standard slide board is typically just a flat piece of wood or plastic. It works well for people who can lift and push their body weight across the board — but not everyone can.
The Glide Board features a white glide strip that allows your body to move more easily across the surface. That sliding piece significantly reduces the effort needed to complete a transfer. For example, if someone can’t put weight on one arm or leg, they can still shift smoothly with less strain.
It’s also thoughtfully designed for everyday usability:
-
Lightweight yet sturdy – strong enough to support higher weights without cracking, but easy to carry.
-
Curved edges – these help hook securely onto the next surface for stability.
-
Ideal length – long enough to span most gaps, short enough for independence in tight spaces.
Every feature supports what OTs value most: safety, confidence, and dignity.
👉 Related Resource: Read our post on fall prevention for another way to improve home safety.
How to Use the Glide Board Safely
Using a glide board correctly is simple once you know a few key steps. Start by lifting one hip and placing the board underneath you, making sure the white glide surface is also positioned under your body. Square yourself up so both ends of the board are secure on the surfaces you’re moving between.
Then, using your hands or one functional leg, push up slightly and glide your body forward across the bridge. The white insert allows for a smooth motion with less friction, so you can move safely without the jerking or sticking that sometimes happens with standard boards.
One of the biggest advantages of this board is how well it performs during uphill transfers — for instance, when your wheelchair sits lower than the surface you’re moving to. That extra glide helps reduce effort and strain in these challenging positions.
Pro Tip: Always lock wheelchair brakes before beginning, and if needed, work with an OT to learn the best hand and leg placement for your strength and balance level.
👉 Related Resource: Explore our bed rail guide for more tools that make moving in and out of bed easier and safer.
Why OTs Recommend It
Occupational therapists love the Buckingham Glide Board because it solves real-world challenges that standard boards can’t. It’s a great option for clients recovering from orthopedic surgeries, managing partial weight-bearing restrictions, or living with conditions like stroke or multiple sclerosis that affect arm and leg strength.
This tool supports not only safer transfers but also emotional independence. When clients feel secure during movement, they’re more likely to attempt transfers on their own — and that builds confidence over time. As I often remind clients, independence with safe movement is a right, not a privilege.
Pairing a glide board with other adaptive tools like toilet safety rails or adaptive clothing helps create a full environment of support for daily life.
Conclusion
If transfers are a challenge for you or someone you care for, the Buckingham Glide Board can make a powerful difference. It bridges the physical gap between surfaces while also closing the emotional gap between fear and confidence. Lightweight, durable, and thoughtfully designed, it’s a reliable tool for promoting safe, independent mobility.
You can find the Buckingham Glide Board Transfer Board at AskSAMIE.com, where every product is hand-selected and OT-approved to help people live life fully and safely. Because at AskSAMIE, we believe that independence with safe movement isn’t a privilege — it’s a right.
FAQs we can add to our product listing:
What is a glide board?
A glide board is a transfer aid that reduces friction between two surfaces, helping you move smoothly and safely from one seat or surface to another.
How is a glide board different from a slide board?
A traditional slide board is flat and requires arm strength to push across. A glide board includes a moving glide strip that makes the transfer smoother and requires less effort.
Who can benefit from the Buckingham Glide Board?
Anyone with limited arm or leg strength, those recovering from surgery, or wheelchair users who need extra stability during transfers can benefit.
Can I use the glide board without assistance?
Many people can use it independently, but if you’re new to transfers, work with an occupational therapist to learn safe positioning and techniques.
Where can I buy the Buckingham Glide Board?
You can find it directly on AskSAMIE.com, along with other OT-approved adaptive tools for safe mobility.
