A patient lifting device comprises a plurality of pneumatically inflatable bladders or air bags 21, each bladder being confined within a container having a base 32, vertical side members 33 and a lifting member 22 adjustable between upper and lower positions. The lifting members are arranged to be raised or lowered as the bladder is inflated and a hoist member 19 with an attachment 16 for a patient harness or support extends from each lifting member. The lifting device includes an air pump, preferably a low pressure air compressor, a pneumatic conduit 31 connecting the pump to the bladders, and a pressure regulation valve. Optionally, the lifting member has a horizontal face engaging a bladder. The side members may be guide rails which engage channels in the lifting members. Optionally, a sheet of low friction material which may be of annular shape is present between the each bladder and its container.
