A method and apparatus for assisting persons from a lying position to a sitting position comprises a mechanical support support board for supporting a body of the person while lying in bed. An extension of the support board reaches away from the bed to accommodate the legs and thighs of the person. The support board is pivoted and tilted upwards in order to move the person from a lying position to an upright and sitting position. The support board assists caregivers with lifting a patient in and out of bed while minimizing both risk of injury to the caregiver and physical and emotional discomfort to the patient.
