When mobility becomes limited, everyday care tasks like transferring from bed to chair or bathroom can turn into safety risks for both patients and carers. This is where patient lifters—also known as hoists or transfer lifters—come in.
But here’s the real question: does every home or care setting actually need one?
At Assistive Tech Hub, we help Australians make informed decisions about assistive technology—ensuring every purchase improves comfort, safety, and independence, not just convenience.
The Importance of Safe Patient Handling
Manual transfers, especially when done repeatedly, put significant strain on carers’ backs, shoulders, and wrists. Patients, on the other hand, face risks of falls or improper positioning.
Using the right patient lifting equipment promotes dignity and safety for both parties. It reduces injury risk, encourages smoother transfers, and allows carers to assist patients confidently—especially in homecare and aged care settings.
If you’re setting up a home environment for long-term care, you can browse our Patient Lifters collection for reliable, NDIS-compatible solutions.
What Are Patient Lifters and How Do They Work?
A patient lifter is an assistive device designed to help move a person with limited mobility between surfaces—such as from a bed to a wheelchair, toilet, or shower chair—without physical strain.
The lifter typically includes a frame, sling, and hydraulic or electric mechanism that raises and lowers the patient safely. Modern lifters are engineered to be stable, ergonomic, and easy to operate—even for a single carer.
Some models, like our featured portable patient lifter, are compact and lightweight—ideal for home environments where space and flexibility matter most.
Different Types of Lifters: Sling, Hoist, Sit-to-Stand, and Portable
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to patient lifting equipment. Each type serves different mobility levels and care requirements:
- Sling Lifters (Full Hoists) – Used for patients who are fully dependent and unable to bear weight.
- Sit-to-Stand Lifters – Designed for users who can partially bear weight and need assistance standing.
- Ceiling or Track Hoists – Permanently installed systems for high-dependency care environments.
- Portable Lifters – Lightweight and foldable for transport or small home spaces.
Choosing the right model depends on mobility level, transfer frequency, and care environment—something best assessed with your occupational therapist or physiotherapist.
For example, our Patient Lifters range includes sit-to-stand and foldable portable lifters that meet both homecare and clinical-grade standards.
Assessing the Need: When a Patient Lifter Is Essential
You may need a lifter if:
- The patient requires assistance for all transfers (e.g., from bed to wheelchair).
- The carer experiences difficulty or strain during manual lifts.
- There’s a high fall risk or recent history of unsafe transfers.
- The patient’s condition involves progressive weakness (e.g., motor neuron disease, stroke, or spinal cord injury).
- You want to maintain independence and safety at home without relying on multiple carers.
However, not every situation requires a full hoist system. Some individuals benefit more from sit-to-stand devices or adjustable support aids instead of heavy-duty lifters.
Consulting an allied health professional helps determine whether a lifter is truly necessary—or if a simpler solution will do.
Funding Options: NDIS, SWEP, and Local Support
Good news—patient lifters are often NDIS-funded if they are deemed essential for daily living and mobility.
Under the NDIS Assistive Technology category, participants can access support for both electric and manual lifters when recommended by a registered therapist.
For residents of Victoria, SWEP (State-Wide Equipment Program) provides funding assistance for approved patient lifting devices and related accessories.
If you’re unsure about eligibility, our Assistive Tech Hub team can help you explore options and identify NDIS-approved patient lifters suited to your care environment.
Safety Considerations and Occupational Therapist Recommendations
Even the best equipment is only safe when used correctly. OTs often recommend:
- Choosing the right sling size and material for comfort and pressure management.
- Ensuring proper floor clearance and stability before lifting.
- Regularly checking mechanical and battery components for wear or malfunction.
- Receiving hands-on training for carers before independent use.
Following these steps not only prolongs the equipment’s lifespan but also ensures patient confidence during every transfer.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice for Patient Safety and Independence
A patient lifter can transform care delivery—reducing physical strain, preventing injuries, and maintaining dignity for patients and carers alike. But they’re not a universal solution. The right choice depends on individual mobility needs, clinical advice, and home setup.
At Assistive Tech Hub, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Explore our range of Patient Lifters and other Mobility Aids, or Contact us for expert guidance on choosing the right lifting equipment for your home or care setting.
