Standing Aids & Hoists
Choosing the Right Standing Aids & Hoists
Mobile hoists and standing aids are essential tools for safe, efficient patient transfers in home and care settings. They allow the person being moved to be lifted securely while minimising the strain on the carer's back. Choosing the right hoist ensures smooth transitions from bed, chair or floor while providing confidence and comfort for both caregiver and user.
Explore Standing Aids & Hoists by Type
Types of Standing Aids & Hoists
Designed for users who can bear some of their own weight, sit-to-stand hoists support a gradual rise from seated to standing positions. They combine lift assistance with balance training, ideal for rehabilitation and increasing independence.
These units handle completely non-weight-bearing transfers, lifting the user from bed, chair or floor without any effort required from the person. They are the go-to solution for frail or fully dependent clients.
Built for higher Safe Working Loads up to 300 kg, bariatric models provide the strength needed for larger users while maintaining the same compact manoeuvrability. They feature reinforced frames and larger lifting ranges.
Compact, collapsible designs make these hoists perfect for travel, small homes or temporary use. They fold into a manageable size without sacrificing lift height or load capacity.
Standing aids assist users who can stand briefly but need support to maintain balance. They offer a low-profile lift that helps the user achieve an upright position safely.
Key Features to Consider Before Buying
Each model specifies a SWL ranging from 120 kg for standard units to 300 kg for bariatric hoists, guaranteeing that the equipment matches the user's weight and safety requirements.
Lift height ranges vary by model — most standard hoists cover roughly 270 mm up to around 1.6 m, with some bariatric units reaching close to 2 m. Check the individual product's range against your bed, chair and floor transfer needs.
Narrow base widths and tight turning radii (as low as 380 mm) allow the hoist to navigate around furniture and through standard doorways, reducing the need for costly space modifications.
Lithium-ion or NiMH batteries provide between 50 and 160 lifts per charge, so carers can complete a full shift without recharging. Quick-swap battery options keep downtime to a minimum.
Product weights between 29 kg and 50 kg make the hoists easy to lift, wheel, or carry by a single caregiver, enhancing flexibility for multi-room or home-care environments.
All models accept a range of compatible slings - from standard 150 cm slings to bariatric 250 cm options - with clear attachment points and load-rated instructions.
User-friendly joysticks and clearly labelled buttons enable carers of all skill levels to operate the hoist safely, with built-in speed presets for gentle or rapid lifts.
Funding & Costs
Products in this category are commonly funded through the pathways below — always confirm eligibility and the current code with your plan manager, OT, or our team.
National Disability Insurance Scheme
- Capital Supports — Specialised — Level 3 : Standard mobile hoists — AT Specialist assessment and trial recommended. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
- Capital Supports — Specialised — Level 3 : Standard mobile hoists — AT Specialist assessment and trial recommended. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
- Capital Supports — Complex / High Cost — Level 4 : Bariatric or complex hoists — AT Specialist assessment, trial and evidence base. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
- Capital Supports — Complex / High Cost — Level 4 : Bariatric or complex hoists — AT Specialist assessment, trial and evidence base. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
Australian Government Support at Home Program
- AT-HM High Tier (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
- AT-HM High Tier (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
Statewide Equipment Program (Victoria)
- Aids & Equipment Program : Patient handling equipment is covered under SWEP's Aids & Equipment program. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), Physiotherapist, Speech Pathologist)
- Aids & Equipment Program : Patient handling equipment is covered under SWEP's Aids & Equipment program. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), Physiotherapist, Speech Pathologist)
Department of Veterans' Affairs
- Gold Card — Full Coverage (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- Gold Card — Full Coverage (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- White Card — Accepted Condition Only (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- White Card — Accepted Condition Only (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
Frequently Asked Questions
If the user can bear some of their own weight and benefits from assisted standing, a sit-to-stand hoist is appropriate. For completely dependent users who cannot support any weight, a full mobile hoist provides full lift capability. Consider the user's mobility goals and the level of assistance required.
Measure the width of the doorway and any narrow passages where the hoist will pass, as well as the clearance around furniture. Also note the required lift height for the bed or chair and compare it to the hoist's lift-height range. These dimensions ensure the hoist fits comfortably in the intended environment.
Battery life varies by model, typically delivering 50 to 160 lifts per charge depending on the hoist and battery capacity. Charge after each day of use or when the indicator shows a low level - full charges generally take a few hours, and some models support quick-swap batteries for uninterrupted operation.
While the controls are intuitive, proper training is strongly recommended to understand load limits, sling attachment, and safe lifting techniques. Training reduces the risk of injury to both user and carer and ensures compliance with workplace health standards.
Check the manufacturer's sling compatibility chart, which lists approved sling widths, lengths and weight ratings for each hoist. The attachment hooks and load-rated points are clearly marked on the unit; matching these to the sling's specifications guarantees a secure lift.
Yes, models with narrow base widths and small turning radii are engineered for tight environments. Verify the minimum clearance required in the product specifications and compare it to your hallway dimensions before purchase.