Transfer aids help a person move between two seated surfaces, such as a bed and a wheelchair, a wheelchair and a car seat, or a chair and a commode. The three most common are the transfer board, which bridges the gap so the person can slide across while seated; the gait belt or transfer belt, which goes around the waist and gives a caregiver something secure to hold; and the pivot disc, which turns underfoot so a person who can stand can rotate without stepping. Which one fits depends on whether the person can bear weight, how much help they need, and the surfaces involved. A physical or occupational therapist can show you and your caregiver the right technique.
Transfer aids compared
| Aid | How it is used | Best fit | Examples we carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer board | Bridges two surfaces; the person slides across while seated | People who cannot stand for a transfer but can sit up and shift their weight | Slide On Over hardwood boards (8 x 24 and 8 x 30 inch); SafetySure flexible plastic boards (23 and 30 inch); SafetySure 29-inch double-notched wood board |
| Gait belt / transfer belt | Fastens around the waist so a caregiver can steady the person | Standing, sitting, walking and car transfers with a caregiver | Blue Jay Gait Belt with Safety Release; Easi Care vinyl gait belt; Safety Sure Transfer Belt in small, medium and large |
| Pivot disc | Rotating disc under the feet | People who can stand but cannot easily step or move their legs | SafetySure Transfer Pivot Disc, 15 and 18 inch |
Transfer boards
Hardwood boards such as the Slide On Over Transfer Board have rounded corners and tapered ends, and are rated to 300 lb. They come solid or with hand cutouts for gripping. The SafetySure Flexible Plastic Transfer Board flexes to bridge the gap without tipping up, even over a wheelchair wheel, and is offered in 23 x 12 inch and 30 x 12 inch sizes. The SafetySure 29-inch Double-Notched Wood Board has a notch on each side so it can sit around the wheelchair wheel on either side. Longer boards bridge wider gaps; shorter ones are easier to handle and store.
Gait belts and transfer belts
A standard gait belt is a 2-inch-wide strap. The Blue Jay Gait Belt with Safety Release is 60 inches long, made of cotton webbing, and fits waists up to 56 inches. The Easi Care Gait Belt has vinyl-covered webbing that wipes clean. Wider transfer belts with built-in handgrips, like the 4-inch Safety Sure Transfer Belt, come in small (23 to 36 inches), medium (32 to 48 inches) and large (42 to 60 inches). Measure the waist where the belt will sit and pick the size that covers it.
Pivot discs
The SafetySure Transfer Pivot Disc is for people who can stand but cannot easily move their legs. It has a non-slip surface on top and bottom and comes in 15-inch and 18-inch sizes. SafetySure recommends using it together with a transfer belt for more control.
Checklist before a transfer
- Weight capacity: check the rating on the board and choose one above the user's weight.
- Lock and level: lock wheelchair and bed brakes, and get the two surfaces as close in height as you can.
- Clear the path: remove the wheelchair armrest and footrest on the transfer side if they lift off.
- Belt fit: the gait belt should be snug over clothing, not loose enough to slide up.
- Get trained: a therapist can teach the safest method for your situation, including how the caregiver should lift with their legs.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a gait belt if I use a transfer board?
Many caregivers use both: the board to bridge the gap and the belt to steady the person. Ask the care team what they recommend.
What length transfer board should I get?
Measure the gap the board has to bridge, such as from the wheelchair seat to the bed, and allow enough length to rest securely on both surfaces.
Are transfer aids FSA or HSA eligible?
Transfer aids are commonly FSA/HSA eligible. Check with your plan administrator for your specific plan.
Shop all transfer boards, gait belts and pivot discs. Related: bed rails and trapezes, bedside commodes compared, transport chair vs wheelchair and what size wheelchair do I need.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, nurse or therapist about what is right for you.