Aspire of WNY’s Physical Therapy Department is excited to introduce its newest piece of mobility equipment: the SARA (Standing and Rising Aid) Flex Lift, manufactured by ARJO. This lift was made possible through generous grant funding, allowing the department to bring advanced, accessible technology directly into therapy spaces of the individuals supported across the agency.
This addition was funded through the Community Health Outreach Project (CHOP), a grant program supported by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation and administered by CP State. (Cerebral Palsy Association of New York State) CHOP provides financial assistance for essential equipment, services, and supports for individuals with intellectual, developmental, and other significant disabilities when no other funding options are available. The program aims to remove barriers, improve health outcomes, and promote community participation for people with disabilities throughout New York State. Through this grant, Aspire of WNY is able to expand access to specialized mobility equipment that enhances comfort, independence, and overall quality of life.
The SARA Lift offers individuals a supported and secure way to experience standing. It allows safe stretching, posture adjustments, and increased participation in therapy sessions. Staff have already observed greater engagement and autonomy during movement‑based activities. Therapists are incorporating the lift into warm‑ups, balance practice, and gentle weight‑shifting exercises, broadening the types of movement individuals can safely perform. The lift also streamlines sessions for staff, enabling more focus on interaction and therapeutic engagement. Its supportive design contributes to a calmer, more relaxed environment, helping individuals feel secure throughout their sessions.
One of the most compelling features of the SARA Lift is its adaptability. Older equipment often relied on a single universal setup, requiring staff to position individuals to fit the device rather than allowing the device to adjust to the person. The SARA Lift reverses that dynamic. With multiple positioning options and advanced accessibility features, it enhances comfort for users and simplifies operation for staff. This flexibility allows therapy teams to tailor support to each person’s unique needs, creating a more individualized and dignified experience.
The Physical Therapy Department has established a long‑term goal of making the SARA Lift available in every home where it would be beneficial. The equipment has already demonstrated significant value in both therapy sessions and daily routines, and expanding access will continue to support comfort, independence, and participation across Aspire of WNY’s programs. Funding through CHOP has opened the door to meaningful improvements in mobility support throughout the agency.
For Mike, one of the first individuals to use the lift, the impact is clear. “The SARA Lift helps me stay comfortable,” he shared. “Without it, I would be far more uncomfortable, and it’s so much faster than a ceiling track.” His experience reflects the practical benefits and enhanced quality of life the equipment provides.
The introduction of the SARA Lift represents more than an equipment upgrade. It is a significant enhancement that strengthens comfort, independence, and dignity in everyday care. Aspire of WNY extends sincere appreciation to CP State for administering the CHOP grant and supporting this important advancement in mobility services.