Lifting aids for the elderly at home
Lifting aids to help older adults stay safe at home during lifts and transfers, with assistance from experienced Care Professionals who can help to prevent falls and injuries.
What are lifting aids for the elderly?
Lifting aids are devices designed to make moving safer and more comfortable for older adults, particularly those with mobility issues or disabilities. These aids can prevent falls and reduce strain during lifts and transfers to other areas of the home, and also protect caregivers from injury. Common lifting aidsthat can help include:
- Hoists and slings to bring a person up to standing
- Transfer boards or slide sheets to make moving easier
- Lifting cushions to help people get off the floor after falls
- Electric chairs and beds for easy transfers
- Emergency evacuation equipment
Lifting aids can offer stability and a sense of safety for older adults to increase their independence, reduce the likelihood of falls and make lifting safer for caregivers.
Why are lifting aids so important?
45% of older adults in the UK have some form of disability which makes simple movements more risky and dangerous for them. More than 1 in 4 people aged 65+ falls each year, and many older people are unable to get themselves off the floor when this happens.
Studies show falls can lead to a loss of functionality, independence and confidence, so having appropriate lifting aids is vital for older adults to help to prevent injuries, protect caregivers from back issues, reduce stress on muscles and joints, promote independence, and maintain an older person’s dignity, comfort and quality of life. Training in effective moving and handling can keep everyone safe, so having an experienced caregiver around is often the best option.
How do I know if my loved one needs lifting aids in their home?
You may need to consider lifting aids for an older loved one if they are finding it difficult to move around their home, worry about doing so, or have experienced a fall in the past. Some common places people need lifting include while bathing or showering, getting in and out of bed, turning over in bed to avoid bedsores, standing, or getting into a chair or car.
Your loved one may need lifting aids if they have frequent falls, grimace when being lifted, require help to do basic movements, or if a caregiver’s health is being impacted. If you have questions about lifting aids, speak to the person’s GP or an occupational therapist who can assess and recommend suitable equipment. You can also reach out to our team to find out how we can help.
How can we help?
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Home Instead have an experienced caring team that far exceeds in quality anything we experienced from other agencies at this point of service.Steve, Client
My mum receives excellent care from Home Instead. They are all very caring, friendly, organised and help my mum to feel happy, safe and well cared for in her own home. The carers are very good at communicating with the office and in turn the office are great at communicating any concerns to me as situations arise.Jane, Client's Family
From day one Home Instead has given us a first-class professional caring service. Office staff and carers very helpful and understanding.Paul and Sandra, Clients
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How to find lifting aids
If lifting aids could benefit you or a loved one, speak to their GP for NHS advice and a referral to an occupational therapist, or arrange a Care Needs Assessment with the local council who can advise on what’s needed, how to order this, and any home adaptations that could make things easier. Your local council can advise on applying for equipment, possible grants like those available through Independence at Home, or affordable options like Age UK’s range.
If your relative is in hospital, the discharge team may offer a temporary loan of necessary equipment, or advise on where to find permanent lifting aids. You could also explore options from local charities or private suppliers who may offer installation and training on proper use.
How can Home Instead help?
It can feel overwhelming to start looking for lifting aids to make a loved one’s life easier, but professional caregivers trained in essential lifting manoeuvres can help you decide what lifting aids will make the biggest difference, and where to find them.
We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). With expertise in practices like lifting in confined spaces, moving wheelchair users in an emergency situation, and lifting outside, we can assist by demonstrating how to operate equipment, and be a helping hand as you get to grips with new lifting aids. Our Care Professionals are here to help your loved one feel more confident and safe moving at home.
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FAQs
What Are Lifting Aids and How Do They Help the Elderly?
Lifting aids are devices designed to assist elderly individuals with mobility and transfers, such as moving from a bed to a chair or standing up from a seated position. They help reduce the physical strain on both the individual and their caregiver, making daily tasks safer and more comfortable. Lifting aids can also help prevent injuries, improve independence, and enhance the overall quality of life for elderly individuals.
What Types of Lifting Aids Are Available for Home Use?
There are several types of lifting aids suitable for home use, including:
- Hoists: Mechanical or electric devices for lifting and transferring individuals, such as ceiling hoists or mobile floor hoists.
- Transfer Belts: Straps worn around the waist to assist with standing or moving between positions.
- Stand-Assist Devices: Equipment that helps individuals transition from sitting to standing.
- Slide Sheets: Low-friction sheets that make repositioning in bed easier.
- Lift Chairs: Recliner-style chairs with motorized lifting mechanisms to help users stand up.
Each type is designed for specific needs, so it’s important to choose the right one based on the individual’s mobility and care requirements.
How Do I Choose the Right Lifting Aid for My Needs?
Choosing the right lifting aid depends on several factors, including:
- Mobility Level: Assess whether the individual can partially assist with transfers or requires full support.
- Home Environment: Consider the available space and whether the aid needs to be portable or fixed.
- Caregiver Support: Determine if a caregiver will be assisting or if the device needs to be operated independently.
- Specific Needs: For example, a hoist may be ideal for bed-to-chair transfers, while a transfer belt is better for short-distance support.
Consulting with a healthcare professional or occupational therapist can help ensure you select the most appropriate device.
Are Lifting Aids Safe to Use at Home?
Yes, lifting aids are designed with safety in mind, but proper use is essential to ensure safety. Most devices come with features like non-slip bases, secure harnesses, and easy-to-use controls. To maximize safety:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Ensure caregivers are trained in using the equipment.
- Regularly inspect the device for wear and tear.
- Make sure the home environment is free of obstacles and has enough space for the equipment.
If you’re unsure, seek advice from a healthcare professional or supplier to ensure safe and effective use.
Can I Get Financial Assistance or Support for Purchasing Lifting Aids?
Yes, there are several options for financial assistance in the UK:
- NHS Equipment Loans: The NHS may provide lifting aids on loan if they are deemed medically necessary.
- Local Council Support: Councils often offer assessments through social services to determine if you qualify for free or subsidized equipment.
- Grants and Charities: Organizations like Age UK or the Disabled Facilities Grant can provide financial support for mobility aids.
- VAT Relief: Many lifting aids are eligible for VAT exemption if purchased for personal use by someone with a long-term illness or disability.
Contact your local council or healthcare provider to explore these options and find the best solution for your needs.
Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.