Motor Neurone Disease (MND/ALS) changes things gradually. One day you’re walking around just fine, and a few months later you might find yourself leaning on furniture for support. Eventually, even simple things like standing up or rolling over in bed can take more effort. It’s a tough journey, no doubt — but there are ways to make life easier. With the right support, tools, and planning, it’s possible to stay safe, stay at home, and hold on to your independence for as long as you can.
Getting help early
Many people wait until a fall or crisis before asking for equipment. But occupational therapists and physios say getting advice early makes a world of difference. In New Zealand and Australia, they can assess your home and help you plan for what’s ahead – with things like grab rails, shower chairs, or transfer aids that take the strain off you and your caregiver.
Early planning doesn’t mean giving in. It means choosing what works for you while you still can. The right support keeps you – and your caregiver – safer, happier, and more confident at home.
When standing gets harder
As MND progresses, you’ll notice transfers becoming trickier. Getting from your wheelchair to the toilet, or from bed to chair, might start to feel risky. Some people stop going out because of the effort involved. That’s where good equipment comes in.
In the early stages, simple aids such as a slide board or raised seat can help. But once standing isn’t safe, a hoist or seated transfer system may be needed. These are designed to do the heavy work for you, reducing the chance of falls or injuries.
Why the Kera sit2sit was designed
The Kera sit2sit was created in New Zealand after a Christchurch hospital asked engineers to find a safer way to move people. It’s a compact, mechanical hoist that moves you gently from one seat to another – from wheelchair to toilet, or bed to chair – without needing to stand.
For families living with MND, that’s huge. It means one caregiver can handle transfers safely, without heavy lifting or waiting for outside help. It’s quick, quiet and keeps you supported in an upright position, so you feel secure and part of the process, not a passenger in it.
People often describe it as “life-changing” because it restores dignity to daily routines. You’re lifted smoothly, not swung in a sling. Your partner’s back gets a break, and you keep control over where and when you move.
Kathy and Paul – managing transfers at home without moving to a sling hoist
Kathy was hesitant to start using a hoist as her MND (ALS) progressed. She found the Kera online and recognised that it could delay the need for a full sling hoist. With the Kera, her husband Paul could continue caring for her at home on his own, without the physical strain of manual lifting.
Together, they’ve been able to manage daily transfers safely and comfortably. As Kathy’s condition has changed, they’ve worked with HT Systems to add accessories and small modifications to keep the Kera meeting their needs – helping them stay living together at home for as long as possible.
Staying independent, together
The right equipment can slow the loss of independence that comes with MND. Talk to your occupational therapist about when a sit-to-sit hoist might suit you. For many, it bridges the gap between standing aids and full hoists – helping you stay at home longer, with one trusted caregiver and a bit more freedom in each day.
Use this guide to start those conversations early, and give your clients real choices about how and where they want to live.
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Contact us to find out about a Kera sit2sit hoist
Hapai Transfer Systems Ltd., Richard Shepherd
1 September 2025Share this post
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