Best Ceiling Lifts For Elderly

Updated: Jul 17, 2022

AgingInPlace.org keeps our resources free by working as an affiliate partner with some companies mentioned on our site. These partnerships or the commission we may earn do not affect our opinions or evaluations of the products we mention. Our reviews are solely based on our research methodology and from input from our AgingInPlace.org Advisory Board. Learn more about our ad policies.

Products carousel

Skip the Carousel

Patient, disabled, or lifts for the elderly are designed to act as a caregiver’s strength. This minimizes the physical effort and strain needed to transfer patients, therefore reducing the risk of injury to both the cared for and the caregiver.

A ceiling or overhead lift is used to help these caregivers move patients or loved ones who have limited or no mobility to and from a bed, a wheelchair, or even the restroom. This can make life far more comfortable for aging individuals who are having difficulty getting up and down on their own.

Overhead ceiling lifts come in a few basic styles, and the quality and ease-of-use of these devices have improved dramatically over the years. So, we’ve selected our preferred ceiling lifts, and ceiling track lifts to assist you or your caregiver in moving up and into places like beds and chairs. These are some of our favorite overhead and ceiling lifts modern to the market today.

How We Found the Best Ceiling Lifts

8 Reviewers
20 Products Considered
8 Hours of Research
4 Products Reviewed
3 Top Picks

Features & Specs

  • The trackis 8 feet in length.
  • Lifts per charge: 20 to 25.
  • Six-point sling.
  • Lift weighs 6.7 pounds.
  • Weight capacity of 300 pounds.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight

  • Has 90-day + standby time.

  • Audio and visual low-battery indicators.

  • Quick high-low function.

  • Soft start and stop for added comfort.

  • Ergonomic hand controls.

  • Compact design with optional carrying case

Cons

  • Not for users 300 pounds or over.

The Prism Medical P-300 Portable Ceiling Lift is an affordable option for the elderly and/or disabled, that combines durable stability with a compact design. This model weighs only seven pounds, so it’s easy for almost everyone to handle. This lift is our favorite for transferring between rooms, for travel, or for moving from a rehabilitation setting to a home care setting.

We love that the P-300 Lift can fit on several other existing track systems. The robust yet lightweight aluminum frame balances both durability and light device weight in this lift. If you can lift a five-pound hand weight with ease, this lift will be a breeze for you to handle.

The speed governor component controls the lift’s maximum speed. This makes for softer starts and stops and therefore added comfort for the user. Moreover, the built-in capacity limits and slack-tape sensor safeguard the patient’s well-being while using this lift.

Our Verdict

We love the lightweight, compact design of this affordable lift.

Features & Specs

  • Lift weighs 10.5 pounds
  • Heavy weight
  • 24 VDC
  • Pneumatic hand control

Pros

  • Weight capacity of 440 pounds

  • Durable yet lightweight

  • Has 80-inch length for low bed transfers

  • Speedgoverning control for softer starts/stops

  • Five-year limited warranty

  • Built-in load limits

  • Slack-tape sensor and emergency lowering

  • Compact for easy transport and storage

Cons

  • Higher priced when compared to competitors

The Prism Medical P-440 Portable Ceiling Lift is surprisingly lightweight for its durability and robust weight capacity. The Prism P-440 has easy-to-use controls for caregivers or users with ergonomic grips and easily visible buttons.

We think one of the best parts, aside from various safety controls, is how light this lift is considering its heavy-duty lift capacity. It weighs under 11 pounds, yet can lift up to 440 pounds, making it an excellent option for larger individuals and even some bariatric patients. It’s fantastic for the elderly who may be much lighter than the weight limit, but need all the lifting assistance they can get. This also takes the strain off of caregivers.

The lift’s 80-inch length permits for transfers to and from lower profile beds with most ceiling heights. This makes transfers easier on users and caregivers alike. The wide-width carry bar has comfortable, contoured shape we love, aiding in patient ease and grip.

Our Verdict

The high weight capacity and several built-in safety features make this our favorite heavy duty lift.

Features & Specs

  • Weight capacity of 440 pounds
  • Units weighs7 pounds
  • Measures 8.36 feet tall
  • 48.8 inches in length

Pros

  • Well rated by users

  • Can lift a patient from the floor

  • The option of 11.5-foot or 6.5-foot rail

  • Has sturdy 3-inch casters

  • Can be quickly moved around a bed

  • No need to mount into the ceiling

  • Hefty weight capacity

  • Can be used with a sling

  • Durable

  • Comes with a three-year warranty

Cons

  • Needs31 inches in furniture clearance

  • Expensive

The Liko FreeSpan™ SR with Likorall 200 Lift Motor is an excellent lift that combines the perks of an overhead lifter without the structural necessities or ceiling mounts. With durable castor wheels, this lift can be easily moved and adjusted for comfortable and proper placement over your bed. We also love that a free sling comes with this lift.

The lift rail height ranges from 88.6 inches to 100.4 inches and is available in 6.6 feet or 11.5 feet rail lengths. Additionally, the charger can be either left off the unit or mounted on the charger plate on one of the side rails of your choice, giving you quick access for charging up the unit.

Our Verdict

This is a beautiful option for those who want a sturdy, moveable lift without ceiling mounts.

Features & Specs

  • Weight capacity of 440 pounds
  • Lift weighs 12 pounds
  • Lifts per charge: 10 to 30
  • Measures 5.5 inches long and 11.25 inches high

Pros

  • Extra soft stop/start for comfort

  • Rechargeable

  • Comes with a free

  • High weight capacity

  • Audible low-battery indicator

  • One-year warranty

  • Quick-release strap and emergency stop/lower for safety

Cons

  • Higher priced when compared to competitors

  • Some found the sling a bit uncomfortable

The Hoyer Voyager Portable Overhead Lifter is specifically designed to be used in conjunction with the Easytrack System. We like that the Voyager Portable Lifter is exceptionally lightweight at only 12 pounds while preserving a robust lifting capacity of 440 pounds.

The speed control soft starts and stops on this lifter are excellent for those with pain during jarring movements. This makes it a prime option for those with severe arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other conditions that cause sensitivity and body pain.

You must note, the Voyager uses a two, three, or four-posted Easytrack System. The track is sold separately. The Easytrack System is simple to install, and it does not require permanent fixtures in your ceilings or any changes to the structure of your home. The Voyager Lifter is compact, making it an excellent option for use in small bedrooms or bathrooms.

Our Verdict

The extra gentle starts and stops on this high-weight capacity lift are outstanding for painful conditions.

Deciding on a ceiling or overhead lift for the disabled, elderly, or any other caregiver situation can be overwhelming. When you’re going to spend often considerable money on a lifting device, you want to make sure you factor in the following to get the best model for your situation.

When you’re going to spend often considerable money on a lifting device, you want to make sure you factor in the following to get the best model for your situation.

Consider Your Space

A wheelchair patient lift requires much more space to maneuver than one for a patient who only needs a walker or cane. Check and double check the measurements of the lifter, the room around your bed, and the size of any wheelchairs being used. A portable ceiling lift will often require less floor space for the overhead portion of the stand. A ceiling-installed track does not take up any of your floor space. Therefore these are often the most efficient types of lifts for a home setting.

Your Ceiling

A ceiling lift is installed exactly as the name would suggest: on the ceiling. So, this is a vital aspect to consider when selecting a lift. You need to have a sturdy ceiling and one you are allowed to drill into. Ceiling-mounted options can be great for long-term, permanent care if the installation is done correctly in a firm ceiling.

However, if you live in a rental that does not allow you to install a track or the ceiling is old, damaged, or weak for the weight capacity needed, you will need to select a lift with an overhead stand/freestanding model such as the Liko FreeSpan™ SR with Likorall 200 Lift Motor. Also note, an installed ceiling track might even require a building permit in some areas. So, check into your housing restrictions.

Type Of Assistance

Temporary or shorter-term assistance is for those in a recovery period from situations such as falls, surgeries, or other injuries or illnesses. A portable lift or one that does not require mounting to the ceiling can be an excellent option in this situation.

For longer-term care, installing a permanent ceiling track is recommended for more stability if possible. A portable lift, if you prefer this option, can be removed and used at a variety of locations if needed.

Fixed Or Portable

If you’d prefer to use your lift in different rooms or even take it with you for travel or to another home, consider a portable unit. The benefit of mobile models is that they are often much lighter and easier to maneuver even when they stay in your home for a while. Just be sure the weight capacity works for you if that is a consideration that is particularly important in your circumstance.

Once you consider your budget, portability needs, ceiling or freestanding preference, and space you’re on your way to making an informed selection for your lift. Be sure any caregivers know how to use the lifter and have it installed correctly. Caregivers should read the instructions thoroughly to prevent any injuries to yourself or themselves (such as straining their back) while using a lift.

  • Was this Article Helpful ?
  • YesNo

Do you want to cite this page? Use our ready-made cite template.