Bedroom lifts and hoists

Maintaining independence in your home often hinges on your ability to move safely and efficiently around your bedroom. However, age-related changes in mobility, strength, and balance can make transferring from bed to a chair or wheelchair a daunting task. This can lead to reliance on others, frustration, and even an increased risk of falling.

Common scenarios and concerns	Lifestyle and equipment options to help you
Difficulty transferring from bed to chair or wheelchair: Reduced mobility or weakness can make independent transfers challenging and increase fall risk. This can lead to increased reliance on others, frustration, and the potential for injuries.	Bedside hoists: Electric or manual hoists that assist with safe and effortless transfers from bed to chair or wheelchair.
Limited upper body strength: Difficulty pulling yourself up in bed or manoeuvring during transfers can lead to frustration and dependence. This can lead to an increased need for assistance and the potential for back strain on carers.	Ceiling hoists: Provide full overhead support throughout the bedroom, allowing for effortless transfers to various locations.
Fear of falling: Apprehension about falling, especially when getting in and out of bed, can restrict movement and reduce independence. This can lead to decreased mobility and the potential for social isolation.	Standing hoists: Offer support and stability for standing transfers, promoting a sense of security and confidence.
Weight limitations of carers: Assisting with transfers can be physically demanding, especially for carers with limitations. This can lead to the potential for injury to both the care recipient and the carer.	Hoists with high weight capacities: Ensure the hoist can accommodate your weight for safe and comfortable transfers.

Common challenges with bedroom transfers

Here are some everyday situations where bedroom transfers can become difficult:

Transferring from bed to chair or wheelchair: Reduced mobility or weakness in your legs can make independent transfers challenging.
Difficulty pulling yourself up in bed: Limited upper body strength can make it difficult to raise yourself from a lying position.
Fear of falling: Apprehension about falling, especially when getting in and out of bed, can restrict movement and decrease confidence.
Weight limitations of carers: Assisting with transfers can be physically demanding, especially for carers with limitations.

Types of bedroom lifts and hoists to enhance your independence

Here's an overview of different bedroom lift and hoist options to consider:

Bedside hoists

These compact, electric, or manual hoists are positioned next to your bed. They provide support for safe and effortless transfers from the bed to a chair or wheelchair placed beside the bed.

Features of bedside hoists:

Booms: These extendable arms allow for reaching different positions on the bed.
Slings: Specialised slings made of comfortable and secure materials support your body during transfers.
Weight capacity: Ensure the hoist has a weight capacity that accommodates your needs.

Ceiling hoists

These track-mounted systems are installed on the ceiling, offering full overhead support throughout your bedroom. They allow for transfers to various locations within the room, such as a wheelchair, bathroom, or dressing area.

Benefits of ceiling hoists:

Increased independence: Provides the ability to move independently to various locations in the bedroom without assistance.
Flexibility in transfers: Allows for transfers to different areas besides the bedside.
Reduced carer strain: minimises the physical demands on carers during transfers.

Standing hoists

These mobile hoists offer support and stability for standing transfers. They are particularly helpful for individuals who have some leg strength but require assistance with initial standing or balancing.

Choosing the right bedroom lift or hoist

Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a bedroom lift or hoist:

Your specific needs and limitations: Evaluate your level of mobility, strength, and the type of transfers you require assistance with.
Bedroom layout: Ensure there's sufficient space for installing a ceiling hoist track or manoeuvring a mobile hoist.
Weight capacity: Choose a hoist with a weight capacity that safely accommodates your body weight.
Ease of use: Opt for a hoist with user-friendly controls or features that allow for some degree of self-operation if desired.

Additional things to consider

Professional assessment: Consult with an occupational therapist for a personalised assessment. They can recommend the most suitable lift or hoist type based on your needs and living environment.
Installation and training: Ensure the hoist is installed by a qualified professional and that you or your carer receive proper training on safe operation and maintenance.
Safety precautions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use of the hoist. This includes using the appropriate sling type for each transfer and ensuring the weight capacity is not exceeded.
Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks for your hoist to ensure its functionality and safety.

Where to buy equipment to help you move safely and efficiently around your bedroom

Plymouth City Council, NHS Devon, and Livewell Southwest have jointly commissioned NRS Healthcare to deliver the Safe+Well service, and they have over 2,500 daily living aids that you can purchase by mail order, telephone, or online.

View the Plymouth Safe+Well website

NRS has a dedicated phone line with a trained team of specialists who can answer any questions you might have. Just call 0345 6461860.

Other places to buy equipment from:

Free assessment tool: Select the area of difficulty that is relevant to you. You will then be asked a few questions to guide you towards helpful daily living aids.
Free telephone advice line: Complete the online form, and we will contact you to arrange a convenient time to call.