Powered standing assist devices, also known as "sit-to-stand lifts", assist patients in standing when they cannot stand reliably on their own. The devices assist with:

• Toileting and clothing changes.
• Assessing wounds.
• Weight bearing.
• Maximizing mobility.
• Transferring patients between seated surfaces.
• Maintaining dignity during transitions or transfers.
• Weighing patients in wheelchairs.

In order to use a powered standing assist device, the patient must be able to:

• Grip with at least one hand,
• Follow directions,
• Maintain sitting balance, and
• Handle the weight bearing as they stand with the device's assistance.

Those who are not able need to use full body lifts.

Powered standing assist devices use standing slings, although other options may be available.

• Some sit-to-stand lifts can be modified for ambulation, by removing the foot plate and in some cases adding walker handles.
• Some sit-to-stand lifts have extra slings or accessories to assist patients who need more help standing.