If you’re caring for a loved one who has trouble standing or moving on their own, you may be looking into lift devices to make daily transfers safer and easier. Two common types are Patient Lifts (often called Hoyer Lifts) and Sit-to-Stand Lifts. While they might seem similar, they’re designed for different levels of mobility and caregiving needs.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the differences to help you choose the right lift for your situation.
What Is a Patient Lift?
Patient Lifts are designed to move individuals who cannot bear weight or assist with transfers. They support the full weight of the person and are commonly used to move someone from:
-
Bed to wheelchair
-
Wheelchair to toilet
-
Chair to recliner
-
Floor to bed (in fall recovery situations)
They come in manual or powered versions and typically use a sling to lift and cradle the person.
Best For:
-
Individuals with very limited mobility or who are completely non-weight-bearing
-
Caregivers who need to safely lift someone without straining their back
What Is a Sit-to-Stand Lift?
Sit-to-Stand Lifts are designed for people who can bear some weight and have some upper body strength. These lifts gently assist with the process of standing up from a seated position, allowing transfers to and from:
-
Bed
-
Chair
-
Wheelchair
-
Toilet
They use a support strap or sling placed around the back and torso, and the user’s feet are positioned on a platform while their knees are secured against pads.
Best For:
-
Individuals who can partially stand but need help with balance or stability
-
Short-distance transfers where a full lift isn’t necessary
-
Promoting muscle engagement and maintaining some independence
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Patient Lift (Hoyer Lift) | Sit-to-Stand Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Bearing Needed | No | Yes (partial) |
| Sling Type | Full-body sling | Torso support/stand assist sling |
| Transfer Types | Full body transfers (bed, chair, etc.) | Seated to standing transfers |
| Mobility Requirements | Minimal or none | Some leg and core strength |
| Caregiver Effort | One-person operation (manual/powered) | One-person operation |
Not Sure Which One You Need?
Choosing the right lift depends on your loved one’s mobility level, strength, and medical condition. If you're still unsure, our team is happy to help guide you through your options.
Still have questions?
Call us at 888-260-4430 or start a chat.
We’re here to help.
Comments
0 comments
Please sign in to leave a comment.