Hoyer Lifts for Seniors

Last Updated on January 5, 2024 by Rachel

Caring for seniors can sometimes be challenging, especially when they are suffering from mobility issues, and therefore need more help moving from place to place. Even a normal person faces trouble getting in and out of bed every day. So older adults facing mobility problems find it extremely difficult to cope, and those taking care of them need help, lest they burn out. Hoyer lifts do just this – saving seniors and caregivers from their everyday stress of moving around.


What are These Hoyer Lifts?

Hoyer lifts are devices that caregivers or family members use to lift and move seniors with mobility issues around. They can also be used in hospital facilities by healthcare practitioners to move elderly patients from one spot to another. Initially, they were referred to as patient lifts, but since Hoyer, produces some of the most popular models, they are referred to as Hoyer lifts. These lifts are mainly used to move seniors who are bedridden due to chronic illnesses, including Parkinson’s disease or advanced dementia. The devices come in different shapes and sizes. Some can be free-standing, on wheels, and others are secured to walls or ceilings.

What to Consider When Buying Hoyer Lifts for Seniors

The Type of the Lift

  • Hoyer lifts come in different types, and older adults should choose one, depending on their needs. They include:
  • Electric Hoyer Lifts: Electric Hoyer Lifts require power to operate. Some operate by plugging into the wall, while others depend on rechargeable batteries. The ones powered by rechargeable batteries are the most convenient and easiest to work with. The average cost of Electric Hoyer Lifts is $3,000.
  • Manual Hoyer Lifts: Also known as hydraulic Hoyer Lifts, Manual Hoyer Lofts are operated manually using a hydraulic pump. While they are considered relatively easy to use, they are more challenging to use than the electric lifts, which only need someone to press a button. The average cost of Manual Hoyer Lifts is $500.
  • Sit-to-Stand Hoyer Lifts: These devices are perfect for older adults who can bear a bit of weight. The devices support them in pulling themselves up to assume a standing position. Most of the Sit-to-Stand Hoyer Lifts can withstand up to 300 pounds, and each comes with unique features, intended to make it easier to care for elderly persons. These lifts can be expensive, but families should opt for models they can afford, while not compromising the quality at the same time. The average cost of these lifts is $1,000.
  • Ceiling Hoyer Lifts: These lifts give a long-term accessibility solution, as it gives caregivers the convenience of moving older adults from one spot to another without having to transfer them in and out of their wheelchairs. These types of lifts can come as free-standing or attached to the ceiling. The average cost of these lifts is $20,000.

Movement Frequency

How often will you need to move around? The answer to this question will help seniors or their loved ones decide if they are buying portable lifts or have the devices attached permanently to the wall. If moving from one spot to another is necessary, then seniors or their loved ones should opt for portable lifts. Older adults who stay in one particular room can have the devices installed into their room ceilings or walls.

Size and Weight Capacity

The size of the lift matters a lot when trying to purchase one. Older adults should choose one that fits their space. Some lifts can withstand up to 300 pounds, so one can choose one, depending on their weight.

Adjustability

It is important to consider if the Hoyer lift is adjustable to different heights to fit different circumstances.

Check for Mechanical Features of the Hoyer Lift

Seniors or their loved ones should ensure they check for the mechanical features of the Hoyer lifts to see if they match their needs and circumstances. Can it accommodate a lift chair or a wheelchair? Does the base open to allow easy transfer of seniors? Can the Hoyer lift move an older adult right from the floor? Does it come with locking casters? This stabilizes the lift when transferring seniors from place to place.

Paying for a Hoyer Lift

Seniors having trouble paying for their Hoyer Lifts may get help from Medicare or Medicaid programs because they are considered Durable Medical Equipment (DME). So, either of the health insurance programs may help. Older adults looking to cover the cost of Hoyer Lift through private insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid must have a prescription from a doctor. Find out more about the Medicare program at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/patient-lifts. Find out about Medicaid at https://www.assistedliving.org/medicare/medicaid-its-not-blanket-coverage/.

Some Veterans Affairs programs, depending on the locations of seniors, may help the pay or have access to Durable Medical Equipment (DME).

Renting Hoyer lifts from local medical supply stores is another option for acquiring these helpful devices. Some shops sell refurbished devices, which come at lower prices than brand-new ones.

Best Hoyer Lifts to Buy in the Market

Hoyer by Joerns Healthcare: Hoyer by Joerns Healthcare deals with more than 10 Hoyer Lift models. They offer manual, ceiling, and powered lifts.

Lumex by Graham Field: this company sells over six models of Hoyer lifts, each coming with unique features. They offer manual & power lifts and power active lifts.

Drive Medical: With over nine different models of Hoyer lifts, Drive Medical is one of the best brands in the market. The company sells manual & power floor lifts and powered active lifts.