Patient lifts and slings are an essential part of home health care when a person requires help getting out of bed, getting up from a sitting position or when they need help moving from one spot to another. Installing patient lifts and slings can prove invaluable to the comfort of both the caregiver and the patient, increasing the quality of life for those who have advanced mobility issues, and enabling those who are temporarily or permanently disabled to remain in their homes rather than having to relocate to a nursing home.

However, there are many types of patient lifts and slings available, and choosing the right one depends on several factors. For example, there are specific patient lifts and slings available for toilet transfers while others are designed for additional head support. The patient’s size, weight and medical condition should always be considered when considering the purchase of a patient lift or sling.

With so many variables at play, choosing the right patient lift can be a daunting task and an uninformed purchase can cost time and money. Luckily, we’ve put together a guide to help you choose the right lift for any user’s unique needs.

Floor Based Patient Lifts

Floor based patient lifts can be moved from room to room and are spatially economical. We offer several models ranging in price and designed to support a wide range of weight. The Hoyer Deluxe Power Patient Lifter features handle grips to reduce back strain and a mechanical lever for non-powered lowering. This model also provides the patient with more leg-clearance and comes equipped with castor bumpers to prevent wall and furniture damage. This patient lift is designed to support up to 400 pounds, folds for compact storage and can easily be moved from room to room.

If you require a standing lift with the utmost support, the Reliant Stand-Up Patient Lift is ideal. This lift supports up to 350 pounds and the adjustment features adapt to a range of body sizes. This patient lift features multi-functioning slings that allow for quick toilet transfers, stand assist and full supported seated transfers.

Permanent Patient Lifts

Another great in-home lift is the BHM Voyager Duo. It has a lifting capacity from 220-440 pounds, enabling care givers to easily perform safe lifting with less effort, keeping them from getting injured themselves. The Voyager motor works very quickly and efficiently, but moves the patient along at a comfortable, smooth pace. Also, an easy to reach pull cord can be used to stop the lift and lower the user in an emergency, making the BHM Voyager Duo one of the safest lifts on the market.

A new track installation method anchors the lift directly into the wooden structure of the ceiling, offering support you can really count on. Long term users can expect several benefits from installing a permanent lift, such as saving space since you don’t need posts to support the lift, and the ability to design custom tracks to more efficiently take care of routine tasks. For example, a track could be installed along the ceiling between the bed and the bathroom, making transitions back and forth safer and easier.

Tension Mounted Overhead Patient Lifts and Slings

A tension mounted overhead patient lift a great option for users who are seeking a non-permanent option or a rental. One of our favorite portable frames is the Easytrack Lift System, whose innovative pressure fit frame comes in 2, 3, or 4 post options. It’s incredibly easy to set up and take down, and one person can have it ready anywhere in minutes with no tools required.

Once you have the frame, get things moving with the Voyager Portable Overhead Lifter. It’s not only easy to carry and store, but can also support up to 440 pounds. The battery pack can be recharged in less than 2 hours and the strap can be easily detached for quick and safe suspension and removal of the lift. This lift is ultra light, weighing only 12 pounds and comes equipped with a universal carry bar. It also has soft start and stop functions and easily accessible controls.

Free Standing Gantry Patient Lifts

Free standing gantry lifts like the Easytrack FS Lift System are a versatile solution for all types of point-to-point transfers anywhere a lift is needed. This model has a weight capacity of 440 pounds and is designed to allow patients with mobility impairment to enjoy normal activities in the comfort of their own homes. This model features a lightweight aluminum base, adjustable levers and extendable rail that can easily span a king size bed. This version of the Easytrack Lift System is designed for use with the Voyager lifter (sold separately) and requires no tools or permanent installation. It is portable and can be set up and taken down in minutes. This model fits most standard ceilings and features an extendable rail with trolley, 2 standard posts, 2 top plates, 2 foot plates, rail caps and finishing strips.

Patient Slings

There are a variety of slings available for rent or purchase depending on patient needs and the type of lift you decide on. Both the BHM Hammock Sling and the BHM Hammock 6 Sling were designed for use with BHM Medical ceiling and floor patient lifts. Both of these slings provide full head and neck support and double padding for comfort, and are machine-washable. They are made of quick-drying mesh fabric, making them ideal for bathing, and both feature positioning handles and strong nylon and polyester straps specially designed to prevent falls. The Hammock 6 Sling was designed with additional straps to prevent falls of agitated or non-cooperative patients.

For those who opt for a Hoyer lift, there’s the Quick Fit Sling. It’s made with extra fabric in the seat, so it offers unparallelled support and comfort without the need for side suspenders. Since it’s not as restrictive, it’s great for patients who are still able to get by with minimal assistance. Also, as the name suggests, it’s quicker and easier to use than many more complicated slings that need to be re-adjusted and re-adjusted to find that perfect fit.

Renting Or Buying Patient Lifts and Slings

If you temporarily need patient lifts and slings you may prefer to go with patient lift rentals. Many of our patient lifts and slings are available to rent as well as purchase. We are always here to answer any questions you may have while choosing or installing patient lifts and slings that best suit your needs. It is always crucial to investigate the options and familiarize yourself with the safety features of your patient lifts and slings before purchase. And remember to contact us with any further questions, we are always here to help.

Tags: ageing at home floor based lifts free standing lifts lifts overhead lifts patient lifts and slings safety slings