Seat hoists, lifts and transfer aids

Maintaining independence in your home often hinges on your ability to move safely and efficiently around your living space. However, age-related changes in mobility, strength, and balance can make transferring from a seated position, between locations, or in and out of the bath or shower a daunting task. This can lead to a reliance on others, frustration, and even an increased risk of falling.

Common scenarios and concerns	Lifestyle and equipment options to help you
Difficulty transferring from sitting to standing: Reduced leg strength or balance issues can make it challenging to rise from a seated position independently. This can lead to increased reliance on others, frustration, and the potential for falls.	Seat lifts: Electric or battery-powered devices that gently lift you from a seated position to a standing position.
Limited mobility for transfers between locations: Difficulty moving from a chair to a bed, wheelchair, or toilet can restrict independence. This can lead to reduced independence, frustration, and the potential for carers to strain themselves during transfers.	Standing hoists: Mobile lifting devices that provide support and stability for standing transfers in various locations within your home.
Challenges with transferring in and out of the shower or bath: Limited mobility or fear of falling can make bathtub transfers hazardous. This can lead to an increased risk of falls, dependence on others for bathing, and the potential for decreased hygiene.	Shower chairs or benches: Provide a stable and comfortable seat within the shower or bath, promoting safe and independent bathing.
Weight limitations for carers: Assisting with transfers can be physically demanding, especially for carers with limitations. This can lead to the potential for injury to both the care recipient and the carer.	Hoists with high weight capacities: Ensure the hoist can safely accommodate your weight for comfortable and secure transfers.

Common challenges with transfers in the home

Here are some everyday situations where transferring can become difficult:

Difficulty rising from a seated position: Reduced leg strength or balance issues can make it challenging to stand up from a chair or sofa independently.
Limited mobility for transfers between locations: Moving from a chair to a bed, wheelchair, or toilet can be difficult without assistance.
Challenges with transferring in and out of the shower or bath: Limited mobility or fear of falling can make bathtub transfers hazardous.
Weight limitations of carers: Assisting with transfers can be physically demanding for carers, especially those with limitations.

Types of seat lifts, hoists, and transfer aids to enhance your independence

Here's an overview of the different transfer aids to consider:

Seat lifts

These electric or battery-powered devices are installed next to your favourite chair or armchair. They gently lift you from a seated position to a standing position, promoting independence and reducing the risk of falling.

Features of seat lifts:

Weight capacity: Ensure the lift has a weight capacity that accommodates your needs.
Swivel function: Some models offer a swivel function for easier transfers.
Remote control: Allows for operation with a convenient remote control.

Standing hoists

These mobile lifting devices offer support and stability for standing transfers. They are particularly helpful for individuals with some leg strength who require assistance with initial standing or balancing.

Benefits of standing hoists:

Increased independence: Provides the ability to transfer to various locations within the home without assistance.
Flexibility in transfers: Allows for transfers beyond the bedside, such as from a chair to the toilet or shower.
Reduced carer strain: minimises the physical demands on carers during transfers.

Transfer aids for bathing

Shower chairs or benches: Provide a stable and comfortable seat within the shower or bath, promoting safe and independent bathing.
Transfer benches: Portable benches with grab bars assist with transferring from a wheelchair or shower chair to the toilet safely.

Choosing the right transfer aid

Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a transfer aid:

Your specific needs and limitations: Evaluate your level of mobility, strength, and the type of transfers you require assistance with.
Home environment: Ensure there's sufficient space for manoeuvring the transfer aid, especially for mobile hoists.
Weight capacity: Choose a device with a weight capacity that safely accommodates your body weight.
Ease of use: Opt for an aid that is user-friendly and easy to operate independently if desired.

Additional things to consider

Professional assessment: Consult with an occupational therapist for a personalised assessment. They can recommend the most suitable transfer aid based on your needs, living environment, and individual strengths.
Installation and training: Ensure the transfer aid is installed by a qualified professional and that you or your carer receive proper training on safe operation and maintenance.
Safety precautions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use of the transfer aid. This includes using the appropriate weight capacity and ensuring the transfer path is clear of obstacles.
Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks for your transfer aid to ensure its functionality and safety.

Where to buy equipment to help you move between seats

Plymouth City Council, NHS Devon, and Livewell Southwest have jointly commissioned NRS Healthcare to deliver the Safe+Well service, and they have over 2,500 daily living aids that you can purchase by mail order, telephone, or online.

View the Plymouth Safe+Well website

NRS has a dedicated phone line with a trained team of specialists who can answer any questions you might have. Just call 0345 6461860.

Other places to buy equipment from:

Free assessment tool: Select the area of difficulty that is relevant to you. You will then be asked a few questions to guide you towards helpful daily living aids.
Free telephone advice line: Complete the online form, and we will contact you to arrange a convenient time to call.