Ceiling lifts are equipped with tracks on the ceiling that help people move around the home freely. Their attachment mechanisms are unique, and they come with a variety of operating options. So, how to choose the best ceiling patient lift that you or your loved one needs?
Some ceiling lift models are fixed to the ceiling of a room and cannot be removed. Others can be moved to different rooms because they come with frames and attachments. Portable lifts can be more affordable if you keep provisions in multiple rooms. However, the permanent ones would be preferable if you only use one in a room.
Today, we are going to explore how you can find the perfect ceiling lift for your home, what major issues to think of, and the benefits that your right decision will fetch you!
How to Choose the Best Ceiling Patient Lift: Features to Consider
When selecting the best patient lift, several critical components must be carefully reviewed to ensure that they fit the needs of both the patient and caregiver. The key elements to think about are as follows:
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Design: Portable or Permanent?
All ceiling lifts have an overhead track that can move along, although the attachment possibilities vary depending on the lift. Certain elevators are built in a single room and are permanently linked to an indoor ceiling track. This means they will never be removed from the track.
A lift can be detached from its track using the portable frames and attachments that come with that particular model. These can be utilized on different ceiling tracks in different rooms. The number of rooms you want to install a portable ceiling lift system will determine how much you can save with portable lifts. Nonetheless, a permanent ceiling lift is most likely preferable if you intend to install the lift and matching lift frame in one room.
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Lift Motor Functionality
Motors in ceiling lifts assist in raising and lowering patients. Two types of motors are frequently used in ceiling lifts. The first kind is a two-function motor. These less expensive motors can raise and lower a patient with merely a button. However, after the patient is lifted, the carer must physically push them along the ceiling track.
The second kind removes the extra work of pushing being a four-function motor. It has buttons for raising and lowering the patient, just like the two-function motor. The plus is that the patient can automatically be moved around the ceiling track using the additional two functions.
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Weight Capacity: Standard or Bariatric?
It is essential to examine the weight capacity of a ceiling lift. Every lift has a maximum capacity, typically ranging between 300–450 pounds. However, there are lifts specifically designed for those who weigh more than that. These are called bariatric lifts. It’s crucial to confirm the weight restriction of a ceiling lift before installation for optimal performance.
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Lifting Range: Limited or Extensive?
Similar to ground hydraulic patient lifts, ceiling lifts can reach a range of heights. The maximum height reached by each lift varies. While some people can lift as high as the ceiling, others cannot. Measure the height at which the lift user needs to reach to ensure that the ceiling lift suits your space precisely.
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Sling Options
The lift sling is a crucial component of any lifting apparatus. These slings offer assistance to people being lifted and moved. Depending on the method of manufacture, they are available in various forms. Therefore, when purchasing a ceiling lift, ensure the sling fits appropriately.
Additionally, if your lift comes with one, you can purchase additional slings to help the patient feel more steady and comfortable during the lifting process.
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ceiling Patient Lift
There are several other crucial elements to consider when purchasing a ceiling patient lift system in addition to basic functionality.
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Price
Your accessibility device must be reasonably priced. When budgeting, consider usage and maintenance, but never neglect the significant support it will provide. A professional dealer can help you select a model that fits your budget.
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Space
The main benefit of ceiling lifts is that they provide remarkable mobility assistance without consuming a lot of floor space. They don’t require extra items on the floor to clutter your area because they operate by following rails on the ceiling. Furthermore, portable ones also take up less space because they are suspended from the ceiling rather than on the ground.
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Safety Features
Make sure the ceiling lift you choose has all the safety features needed to move patients securely. Look for items such as emergency buttons, sensors, locks, hand controls, and battery-operated lights. These ensure everything operates safely and smoothly.
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Ceiling Track
The ceiling track functions as a sort of pathway where the specialized machine, the ceiling lift, can move. Occasionally, additional material is also added to this track system. A long strap comes in handy while getting in and out of low beds as well.
What Else Do You Need to Know About Ceiling Lifts?
Patients with difficulty moving independently can be transferred from one location to another using ceiling lifts. They are excellent at securely moving people and are incredibly safe.
Lifts come in various forms, but one of the best features regarding ceiling lifts is that they may cross objects on the ground in contrast to wheeled lifts. Because of this, they won’t become stuck on underlying items, which is fantastic. When purchasing ceiling lifts, several customers noticed how handy it is to store them in small spaces and how it keeps things organized.
How Would a Ceiling Lift Benefit You or Your Loved One?
If you need to move a patient, ceiling lifts are better than wheelchairs. They hang from the ceiling, keeping them out of crowded spaces. Additionally, they move in a different manner, requiring less effort from carers and patients alike.
Many people enjoy using different types of patient lifts at home or in hospitals because they are simple and comfortable to use. Patient transfer between locations such as a bed, chair, or toilet is made secure and relaxing with a ceiling lift.
There are luxury and convenient hotels now that save a ton of money by purchasing just one portable ceiling lift to serve numerous rooms on a floor.
The safety of patients and carers is one of the main benefits of ceiling lifts. They reduce the risk of back, shoulder, and arm injuries to carers while providing patient care.
Summing Up
The right tools can make all the difference in providing care. If you’re planning to get a ceiling lift, the security and comfort of your loved one depend on making the right choice. Every element matters, from weight capacity to installation simplicity.
Call Before You Fall aims to give you the resources you need to live a safer, more self-sufficient life. Visit our website for a wide selection of best-quality assistive devices that can improve your home safety and encourage more independence. Reach out to us and let us help you choose the right ceiling lift or any other device you may be seeking for you or your loved one.
