What Is a Hoyer Lift Used For? Guide to Patient Transfers at Home

If you're caring for someone with limited mobility, or planning for home recovery after surgery, chances are you've heard about Hoyer lifts. These helpful devices make it easier and safer to move someone from a bed to a wheelchair, a toilet, or even a shower chair,  all without heavy lifting.

What Is a Hoyer Lift?

A Hoyer lift, also called a patient lift, is a mechanical device used to help transfer a person who can’t move safely on their own. It gently lifts someone using a fabric sling and transfers them to another spot  like a bed, wheelchair, or toilet with comfort and security.

➤ Common Terms You Might Hear:

• Patient lift

• Mobility lift

• Hydraulic lift (manual)

• Electric lift (battery-powered)

• Standing or sit-to-stand lift

How Does a Hoyer Lift Work?

It’s actually quite simple. Here’s how:

1. A sling is placed under the person needing help.

2. The sling connects to the lift’s arm or cradle.

3. The caregiver uses a manual pump or electric remote to gently lift the person.

4. The lift is rolled to the new location (like a chair or toilet).

5. The person is slowly lowered, and the sling is removed.

👉 Whether it’s a manual Hoyer lift or a Joerns electric Hoyer lift, the process is smooth and secure.

Why Choose a Joerns Hoyer Lift?

Joerns Healthcare is a leading brand known for safe, reliable Hoyer lifts. The Joerns Hoyer Lift are widely used in hospitals, care homes, and private homes for a reason:

✔️ Trusted Quality: Durable construction designed for daily use

✔️ Variety of Options: Manual, electric, bariatric, and portable lifts available

✔️ Smooth Transfers: Designed with patient comfort in mind

✔️ Easy for Caregivers: Smart designs reduce physical strain

If you're looking for a Joerns Hoyer lift for home use, you're choosing safety, ease of use, and long-term reliability.

Who Should Use a Hoyer Lift?

A Hoyer lift is helpful for anyone who can’t move from one surface to another without full assistance. This may include:

• Elderly individuals with limited strength

• People recovering from surgeries like hip replacements

• Patients with paralysis, ALS, Parkinson’s, or muscular dystrophy

• Children or adults with special needs

Who Should NOT Use a Hoyer Lift?

Avoid using a Hoyer lift if the person:

• Can safely transfer on their own

• Has difficulty understanding or following instructions

• Is combative or anxious during transfers

• Has a medical condition that limits lifting (check with a doctor)

Benefits of a Hoyer Lift at Home

Thinking of using a Hoyer lift at home? You’re not alone. Here’s why thousands of families choose them:

1. Safe Transfers

Prevent falls or injuries during movement between surfaces.

2. Less Strain on Caregivers

No need to lift — the lift does the hard work.

3. Better Comfort & Dignity

The person being lifted feels secure, relaxed, and respected.

4. Ideal for Daily Use

From the bed to the toilet to the recliner — it simplifies daily life.

5. Portable Options Available

Portable Hoyer lifts fold up for easy transport and storage.

What About Hoyer Lift Slings?

Hoyer lift slings come in many shapes and sizes. Choose the right one based on:

• Task: Full-body sling, toileting sling, bathing sling

• Material: Mesh (quick-drying), padded, or breathable fabric

• Fit: Get the right size for comfort and security

Not sure what you need? Many suppliers offer sizing guides or customer support to help.

Safety Tips for Using a Hoyer Lift

Whether you're new or experienced, these tips will help you use your Hoyer lift correctly:

• ✔️ Check the lift is working and charged (if electric)

• ✔️ Always use the correct sling size and type

• ✔️ Widen the base before lifting for more stability

• ✔️ Move slowly and talk to the person you’re transferring

• ✔️ Never exceed the lift’s weight limit

• ✔️ Store the lift safely when not in use
  
  

🛡️ Want a Complete Safety Guide?

For a deep dive into patient lift safety, check out the official FDA Patient Lift Safety Guide. It’s packed with tips on proper use, sling selection, maintenance, and what to avoid.

👉 Download the Full FDA Safety Guide (PDF)

How to Choose the Right Hoyer Lift for Home Use

Here’s what to consider:

• ✅ Weight capacity — Standard or bariatric?

• ✅ Home space — Do you need a compact or folding lift?

• ✅ Transfer needs — Bed-to-chair only? Or bathing too?

• ✅ Caregiver support — Will one or more people be helping?

• ✅ Budget — Manual is cheaper; electric is more convenient

Need help? Our team is happy to recommend the best Hoyer lift based on your needs.

Where Can You Get a Hoyer Lift?

You can buy or rent a Hoyer lift from trusted medical supply stores and online retailers (like us!). Joerns offers both new and used models, and we’ll help you find what works best, whether it’s for short-term recovery or long-term care.

Hoyer Lift FAQ

Final Thoughts

A Hoyer lift is one of the best tools for safe, easy transfers — whether you're a caregiver or someone recovering at home. And when you choose a Joerns Hoyer lift, you're getting quality, comfort, and peace of mind.