Ceiling Hoist vs. Mobile Hoist
There are multiple benefits to both types of hoist and ultimately, the best type of care equipment for each patient depends on their circumstances and requirements, along with the resources available to the care provider. Here we compare the key elements to consider for each type of hoist and the pros and cons of each.
Ceiling Hoists - Key Pros and Cons
Ceiling hoists tend to increase independence for users by enabling them to move freely with less support from caregivers.
This is because the product incorporates a flexible and innovative ceiling track system, which can be operated by the ceiling hoist user by themselves or with aid from a caretaker.
Features of these hoists can include capacitive touch handsets, in-rail charging and turntables as part of the track system to enable users to change direction easily.
A comprehensive track system throughout a care environment not only can improve patient independence but reduce manual handling requirements and make care giving more efficient. They also increase the available floor space in comparison to mobile and wheeled hoists, which can conflict with other care equipment and reduce floor space. Floor-based hoists can also collide with existing items of furniture, potentially leading to the damage or breakage of belongings.
However, as this kind of hoist requires a track system in place, these systems are often more costly and require more planning and resources to implement correctly. This may make a ceiling hoist system unsuitable for certain care environments with limited resources or interior design or infrastructure that prevents a ceiling track from being installed.
Mobile Hoists - Key Pros and Cons
Mobile hoists are portable hoists which allow for the safe movement of patients from one place to another.
They are commonly used for smaller journeys and lifts, for example, from a bed to a chair, or to get a patient in and out of a bath. A more versatile product, it can be used anywhere and in any room, whereas ceiling hoists are limited to areas where the tracks are installed.
Mobile hoists are usually cheaper to purchase and can be delivered quickly, whereas ceiling hoists are a permanent fixture to a care environment and therefore involve much more planning and resources to install.
However, you can expect more manual handling from carers, as the patient is unable to independently move using the mobile hoist, commonly needing the assistance of at least two caregivers during a move or lift.
Comparison of Ceiling Hoists and Mobile Hoists
See our table below for a quick summary of ceiling hoists vs mobile hoists:
| Ceiling Hoist | Mobile Hoist | |
|
Cost |
£2,500 - £3,500 | £600 - £2,000 |
| Independance for Patients | ✓ | |
|
Ease of Use |
✓ | ✓ |
| Permanent Fixtures | ✓ | |
|
Manual Handling Requirements |
✓* Less risk | ✓ |
| Flexibility | ✓ | ✓ |
| Portability |
✓* Available with GoLift Portable |
✓ |
Ultimately, the type of hoist that you choose depends on your individual circumstances, resources and patient requirements.
If you’re not sure what to choose or would like to submit a quote, get in touch with our expert team today, or give us a call on 0845 658 8411 and we’d be more than happy to advise on the best solution for your needs.
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