Hoyer Advance 340: A Lightweight, Flexible, and Smart Patient Lift Designed for Home Care

Among the numerous patient lift models under the Hoyer brand, the Advance 340 is a classic variant optimized specifically for home and small-scale care settings. Manufactured by Drive Medical—a world-renowned producer of medical assistive devices and the current owner of the Hoyer brand—the Advance 340 has become the top choice for long-term home care in North America and many other regions globally, thanks to its compact design, lightweight structure, and excellent cost-effectiveness.

It is important to note that despite the inclusion of "Hoyer" in its name, "Hoyer" now functions as a product line under Drive Medical rather than an independent company. The Advance 340 stands out as a flagship model in this product line tailored for home users.

This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the core value and practical details of the Hoyer Advance 340.

I. Product Positioning: Why Is It Suitable for Home Use?

The Advance 340 is not designed for high-intensity use in hospitals; instead, it focuses on home scenarios where 1–5 transfers are needed daily. Its key features include:

Sliding Leg Base Design: Easily slides under most standard hospital beds or home beds;

Lightweight Construction (Approx. 36 kg): Convenient for movement and storage;

Simple Operation: Hydraulically driven, no power supply required, making it easy for the elderly or caregivers to use;

Affordable Price: Costs over 40% less than fully electric models.

✅ Ideal Users:

Individuals recovering from hip replacement surgery;

Elderly people with partial disability after a stroke;

Home caregivers with limited physical strength who need support for safe patient transfers.

II. Core Functions and Technical Specifications

Item Specification

Model Hoyer Advance 340 (Drive Medical Model: 12034)

Drive System Manual hydraulic pump (handle pressing required for lifting/lowering)

Maximum Weight Capacity 340 lbs (approx. 154 kg)

Boom Lifting Height Approx. 178 cm (70 inches), compatible with most wheelchairs and beds

Minimum Lifting Height Approx. 23 cm (9 inches), suitable for low-position transfers

Folded Base Width Approx. 61 cm (24 inches), accessible in narrow spaces

Base Type Sliding Legs (can be extended/retracted without lifting the device)

Casters 4 × 5-inch swivel casters with dual brakes

Sling Compatibility Standard 4-point hooks, compatible with all Hoyer sling series

III. Analysis of Key Advantages

1. Sliding Base: A Lifesaver for Small Spaces

The most prominent feature of the Advance 340 is its support legs that can slide open without lifting the device. Simply step on the pedal, and the base automatically slides outward to provide stable triangular support; reverse the operation to retract it. This design greatly simplifies operations beside beds or in bathrooms.

2. Low Insertion Height for Strong Compatibility

With a base height of only approx. 8–10 cm from the ground, it can easily slide under:

Most electric/manual hospital beds;

Home care beds without under-bed crossbeams;

Even the edges of some sofas (for emergency transfers).

3. Ergonomic Handle

The position of the hydraulic handle is adjustable, with a comfortable grip that reduces wrist fatigue; the lowering control valve is sensitive, enabling slow and controlled descent.

4. Quick Assembly and Portability

Assembly can be completed within 30 minutes after unboxing; the entire device can be disassembled into 3 main components (column, base, boom), facilitating transportation or storage.

IV. Examples of Applicable Scenarios

Bedroom: Transfer from a hospital bed to a wheelchair;

Bathroom: Transfer to a shower chair when used with a waterproof sling;

Living Room: Assisting with moving to sit beside a sofa or walker;

Short-Term Rehabilitation: Safe transfers during the 6–8 week post-surgery period when weight-bearing is prohibited.

⚠️ Note: The Advance 340 is a manual hydraulic model and is not suitable for patients who are completely unable to cooperate or whose weight exceeds 154 kg. For such cases, electric models (e.g., Hoyer Elite or Pro 600) should be considered.

V. Recommended Common Accessories

Full-Body Sling (Model 12034-SLG): Basic configuration, suitable for most transfers;

Toileting Sling: Features an open hip design for easy clothing removal/putting on;

Disposable Waterproof Sling: Used for bathing or incontinence care;

Sling Storage Bag: Hangs on the column to keep slings clean and organized.

VI. Maintenance and Safety Tips

Monthly Inspection: Check for hydraulic oil leaks, loose casters, and worn slings;

Before First Use: Press the handle repeatedly 30 times to bleed air, ensuring smooth lifting/lowering;

Overload Prohibition: The 154 kg capacity includes the total weight of the patient, clothing, and sling;

Always lock the casters during transfers and ensure the base is fully extended.

VII. How to Obtain It in China or Asia?

Although the Hoyer Advance 340 is primarily sold in North America, it can be obtained through the following channels:

Cross-Border E-Commerce: Amazon US and eBay support international shipping (note voltage and after-sales service);

Domestic Agent Brands: Domestic patient lift brands such as Yuwell and Hubang offer similar narrow-base hydraulic models with functions comparable to the Advance 340;

Medical Device Importers: Authorized distributors in some cities provide the full range of Drive Medical products;

Rental Services: High-end elderly care centers in first-tier cities may offer short-term rentals of this model.