How to Choose the Best Ceiling Patient Lift

Ceiling lifts are an essential solution for safely transferring patients with limited mobility. They are available in various configurations, providing a reliable option for both home and clinical settings. Ceiling lifts help minimize the risk of injury for patients and caregivers, making them an indispensable tool in daily care routines.

Things to Consider

Design

While all ceiling lifts use an overhead track along which the lift can be moved, lifts typically have different options for attachment. 

• Some lifts are permanently affixed to an indoor ceiling track, meaning they are installed in one room and will remain attached to the track at all times. If you only plan to install a ceiling lift and corresponding lift frame in one room, a permanent ceiling lift is probably the better option for you.
• However, some lifts are available with portable frames and attachments, which allow a lift to be unhooked from its track and used on other ceiling tracks in other rooms. Depending on the number of rooms in which you plan to install a ceiling lift system, portable lifts can be an effective means of reducing costs! 

Lift Motor Functionality 

The vast majority of ceiling lifts use a motor system in one way or another. However, there are two common motor options among ceiling lifts. 

• The first, and typically less expensive option, is a two-function motor. These motors are used to lift and lower a patient with no more effort than the push of a button. One consideration is how they require the caregiver to manually push the patient along the ceiling track once the patient is lifted.
  

  Molift Duo Overhead Lift with Free Standing Gantry for Portable Ceiling Lifts View Product

  
  
  
• Four-function motors, on the other hand, offer the same powered lifting and lowering but also have a motorized method of moving the patient along the ceiling track.
  

  Ceiling Mounted Overhead Patient Lift System with XY Gantry View Product

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of a ceiling lift is an important consideration, and each ceiling lift has its specific weight capacity. Most lifts are capable of supporting between 300 and 450 pounds. If the user exceeds this weight threshold, there are bariatric ceiling lifts intended for these patients.

Power Ceiling Lift 800 Pound Traverse Lift for Ceiling Mounted Track by Handicare View Product

Lifting Range

• Limited: Lifts with a limited range are designed to accommodate shorter vertical distances, typically moving patients between surfaces closer in height, such as from a bed to a wheelchair. These lifts may not reach the full height of the room, making them more suitable for low or mid-height transfers.
  
  
• Extensive: Lifts with an extensive range can cover a broader vertical distance, often capable of lifting a patient from floor level to the full height of the room. This makes them more versatile for various transfer scenarios, including higher surfaces or taller patients. 

Sling Options

A crucial operating piece of any lift is a lift sling. It’s worth noting that lift slings are almost always sold separately due to varying patient and caregiver needs. These devices support the patient during movement with a lift in a variety of ways and vary depending on the way it’s made, but typically come with two, four, or six points of patient contact for every patient need. Therefore, sling fit is worth investigating before making a ceiling lift purchase. 

Additionally, in the event your lift does come with a sling, alternate slings can be purchased to improve the comfort and stability of the patient during the lifting process. For more information on choosing the right sling for you, check out our article on How to Choose the Best Patient Lift Sling! 

What is a Ceiling Lift?

A ceiling lift is a stationary patient lifting device. Mounted on a rail system and either permanently installed or freestanding, ceiling lifts help to transfer patients between a bed, toilet, or wheelchair.Given their many benefits, ceiling lifts are a wildly popular patient lifting method for both in-home and clinical care. 

How to Use a Ceiling Lift?

1. Select the correct size sling.
2. Fold the sling in half and position it between the patient's hips and shoulders.
3. Gently roll the patient away from you, tucking the sling under their body.
4. Roll the patient back towards you, then carefully pull the sling through, ensuring it's smooth and free of any loops underneath the patient.
5. Turn on the lift and lower the lift bar, keeping one hand on the bar as it approaches the patient.
6. Attach the sling’s loops to the lift bar, ensuring the sling is evenly placed and the patient’s head is properly supported.
7. Slowly raise the lift, monitoring the patient’s position to ensure they are comfortable and secure.
8. Use the lift control to transfer the patient gently to a chair or bed.
9. Detach the sling loops and raise the lift to move it out of the way.
   
   

How Much Does a Ceiling Lift Cost?

Ceiling lift prices range from $1,600 to over $9,500 depending on the type, motor functions, and weight capacity. You can explore which ceiling lift is best for your needs and budget in our article on the 5 Best Patient Ceiling Lifts.

How to Use a Ceiling Lift Sling?

When using a full-body or 4-point sling with a ceiling lift, it’s essential to ensure the sling is correctly positioned under the patient.

1. Select the appropriate size sling.
2. Fold the sling in half and position it between the patient's hips and shoulders.
3. Gently roll the patient away from you, tucking the sling under their body.
4. Roll the patient back towards you and carefully pull the sling through, making sure it is smooth and free of any loops underneath.
5. Attach the sling straps to the sling bar as directed by the manufacturer.
6. Use matching loops from each side to ensure the sling is balanced, choosing the loops that provide the best angle and position for the patient.
7. Ensure all clips or loops are secure and will stay attached as the patient is lifted, and that the straps are not twisted.
8. Make sure the patient's head and back are supported if needed.
9. Begin the transfer by carefully lifting the patient.

How Many People are Required to Use a Ceiling Lift?

A ceiling hoist can often be used by one person, especially if it is designed as a single-user hoist. However, it’s crucial to follow the specific manufacturer's instructions and any facility policies regarding its use. Depending on the model and the patient's needs, some hoists may require two people for safe operation. Always review the product information and safety guidelines before using a ceiling hoist to ensure proper handling and patient safety.

How Tall of a Ceiling Do You Need for a Lift?

Most ceiling lifts require a ceiling height of 7 to 8 feet. However, most lifts have adjustable components or extension straps to accommodate varying ceiling heights.

What is the Weight Limit for Ceiling Lifts?

The weight capacity of a ceiling lift varies by model, with some bariatric lifts supporting up to 1,000 pounds. Be sure to review the manufacturer's product specifications to confirm that the lift meets your specific requirements.

What is a Ceiling Lift Track System?

A ceiling lift track system is a motorized unit that operates along a ceiling-mounted track, designed to assist in moving and transferring individuals with limited mobility. Whereas a portable system is a freestanding, mobile unit that can be easily moved between locations, offering flexibility without the need for permanent ceiling installation.

Ceiling Lift Track System with Portable Lift by Mackworth - CP440P - Full Ceiling Mounted or Gantry Lift Kit View Product

What is a Portable Ceiling Lift?

A portable ceiling lift is a motorized device used to safely transfer a patient from a bed or wheelchair to another location along an overhead track. These lifts are designed for easy setup and mobility, making them convenient for use in different rooms or even for travel.

Handicare Portable Ceiling Lift - Savaria Overhead Patient Lift System for Home or Hospital Use View Product

What are the Different Types of Ceiling Lifts?

Fixed 

A fixed ceiling lift is permanently mounted to a ceiling track, providing continuous, stable patient transfers in one room.

Handicare Ceiling Mounted Lift C-450 Manual Traverse Lift View Product

Portable

A portable ceiling lift offers the flexibility of being used on multiple ceiling tracks, making it ideal for multi-room use. They can also be disassembled for travel.

Portable Overhead Lift System - Traxx Titan 500 Patient Lift View Product

Track Systems 

Track systems involve installing rails along the ceiling for the lift to move along. They can be straight, curved, or multi-room setups, offering customized patient transfer routes.

Ceiling Lift Track Systems For Overhead Patient Lifting with 600 lbs. Weight Capacity - TX600 by Mackworth View Product

Who Needs a Ceiling Lift?

A ceiling lift can be an effective, beneficial tool for any patient with limited independent mobility. From patients who are paralyzed to elderly patients who do not feel steady on their feet, these devices are proven to significantly reduce the risk of injury to the patient while also increasing a patient’s comfort during movement. 

Why Choose a Ceiling Lift?

Ceiling lifts bear a variety of advantages over traditional, wheel-based lifts. Their ceiling-mounted nature prevents difficulties with maneuvering around cluttered rooms or tight doorways, and their multiple motoring options notably decrease the amount of physical exertion required by patients and caregivers during transfers. 

It’s also important to note ceiling lifts provide a degree of safety, not just for patients, but for their caregivers as well. The support and ease with which ceiling lifts transfer patients drastically reduces the risk of caregivers injuring their backs, shoulders, or arms while providing care. This reduction in injury risk is essential, as strain related to lifting or moving patients is one of the most commonly reported healthcare-related injuries. 

Does Medicare Cover the Cost of a Ceiling Lift? 

Lifts are considered to be durable medical equipment (DME), so Medicare Part B covers most patient lifts provided the lift is prescribed by a doctor. 

It is always recommended you discuss the best patient lift for you or your loved one’s needs with your doctor before making a purchase decision. This will help you more fully understand the process of being approved by Medicare, and also provide you with valuable insight into your product selection. 

Does Private Insurance Cover the Cost of a Ceiling Lift?

While all policies are different, private insurance companies often follow the lead of Medicare. We recommend you look into your policy’s specific coverage to make sure before purchasing. 

Ceiling Lift vs Hoyer Lift

Ceiling Lift: A ceiling lift is mounted to an overhead track, freeing up floor space and reducing caregiver strain during patient transfers. These lifts free up space and move smoothly making them safer for patients and caregivers.

C-450 Power Traverse by Handicare for Ceiling Mounted Lift Systems View Product

Hoyer Lift: Hoyer lifts are mobile floor-based units designed to safely transfer patients from a bed to a wheelchair, toilet, or stretcher. While they can be moved between rooms, they may be more cumbersome than ceiling lifts and can be difficult to maneuver in tight or cluttered spaces.

Hoyer HML400 Hydraulic Manual Lift View Product

Ceiling Lift Installation

We offer assembly services for portable ceiling lifts but not for permanent ceiling installations. For in-home or in-clinic assembly, email assembly@rehabmart.com to request a quote. We provide a high-touch concierge service, guiding you through our five-step, five-star quote-to-assembly process. Our certified, bonded, and insured technicians ensure that your product is assembled safely and professionally at a time that is convenient for you.

Ceiling Lift Scale

Some ceiling lift models offer optional weight scales that attach to the lift strap, making it easy to weigh your patient during transfers.

Power Ceiling Lift 800 Pound Traverse Lift for Ceiling Mounted Track by Handicare View Product

Final Thoughts

The purchase of a ceiling lift is an important step toward ensuring the safety and comfort of you or your loved one during the process of transferring between indoor locations.By reducing the physical strain on both the caregiver and the patient, ceiling lifts provide a more secure and efficient way to handle mobility challenges, promoting greater independence and peace of mind.

You can compare ceiling lifts to other types of patient lifts in our article How to Choose the Best Hoyer Lift. Whether you are researching on Caregiver University which product is best suited to meet your needs, or placing your product order, we are here to help!