How can current transfer devices be improved?

The benefits of lift and transfer devices are considerable. For instance, they greatly reduce the risk of injury to both caregiver and care receiver associated with lifting (patient lifting is the leading cause of back injuries in the healthcare field, accounting for many millions of dollars in lost productivity and workers compensation).

Yet their current limitations contribute to the fact they are underutilized, even in institutional settings.

Research is ongoing to address these critical issues:

When possible, individuals should be able to operate the device themselves in the absence of a caregiver. When caregiver assistance is required, it should be minimal, fast, and close to effortless. (An important caveat here is the obvious liability concern connected with using such a device without a caregiver present.)

The device should eliminate swaying by providing continuous rigid support to the user.

The device should eliminate the need for a sling or hammock style support which tends to encumber the user, is difficult to position, and often awkward to enter and exit.

The device should provide the user with a feeling of independence, confidence, and security.

CALI is currently discussing research sponsorship opportunities with the leading transfer and lift device manufacturers:

Waverley Glen Systems, Ltd., of Concord, Ontario, Canada
Barrier Free Lifts, Inc., of Manassas, Virginia, USA