Those with physical disabilities often require a great deal of modifications in their homes in order to move around their own space simply. Depending on the extent of the physical disability, modifications may include walk-in tubs, stairlifts, residential elevators, wheelchair ramps, and even ceiling lifts. Ceiling lifts for disabled individuals are generally designed to be used by someone with severe physical disabilities who typically require the help of a caregiver to get in and out of bed and perform other simple daily tasks. How do these lifts benefit those with disabilities? Keep reading to find out more.
When an individual requires a caregiver to transfer from their bed to a wheelchair or between other locations, each transfer presents a risk of injury to the caregiver or the disabled individual—and sometimes to both. Often, these transfers require the caregiver to bear a great deal of the person’s weight, if not all of it, which increases the risk that one or both people may fall.
The sling can be maneuvered into position while the individual is still seated in the wheelchair or on the bed, then secured and used to lift the person and maneuver them to their new position. This virtually eliminates the risk of injury to both parties. A ceiling lift provides a safer option for performing these transfers, as the sling and lifts bear the entirety of the person’s weight.
Additionally, a ceiling lift is a much safer transfer option than a free-standing lift, also known as a Hoyer lift or transfer lift. These devices perform essentially the same function, but because they’re not securely mounted like a ceiling lift, they present a risk of tipping over when used.
No matter your physical limitations, exercise is important to your overall health. Of course, if you have severe disabilities that limit your mobility, performing exercises safely can be a serious challenge. A ceiling lift can provide you with safe, secure support through the use of a standing harness so that you can exercise without the risk of falling and injuring yourself. The harness can support most of your weight as you use the track system to walk through your home, getting essential exercise to prevent muscular atrophy and other health problems often connected to a life with limited mobility.
Any device that provides you with safety and support can provide you with greater mobility throughout your home. The sling and track system can be installed anywhere in your house, which means you can get into spaces that are hard to reach with a wheelchair. This might include areas like your kitchen, narrow water closets in your bathroom, the laundry room, and other places you might not have been able to go. Though you may require the help of a caregiver to get in and out of the sling, being able to access these areas of your home can provide you with a greater sense of freedom and independence than you had before.
Being a caregiver to someone with severe disabilities is no easy task. Many individuals in these positions find themselves experiencing severe burnout, which is problematic for both the caregiver and the person receiving care. A mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted caregiver does not provide the same level of care as someone who feels more content in their duties. This means that any device that eases a caregiver’s burdens will also benefit the disabled individual. By taking some of the weight off of a caregiver’s shoulders—both literally and figuratively—a ceiling lift can provide some much-needed relief and create a more relaxed environment for everyone involved.
Individuals with physical disabilities frequently struggle with maintaining their personal hygiene. This is primarily due to the difficulty associated with getting in and out of the tub or shower and washing themselves. A ceiling lift can provide easier access to these areas of the home and even offer support when tending to personal hygiene needs. Some slings can get wet, enabling users to continue using the supportive sling when showering in bathing. Improved hygiene almost always equates to better health outcomes, regardless of your condition.
If you’re looking for ceiling lifts or other home modifications to improve your mobility in your own home, contact Southern Mobility Solutions today. In addition to having the best ceiling lifts for sale, we also offer residential elevators, stairlifts, and more and fast, professional installation for all of these products. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment and receive a quote on the mobility modifications your home needs.
