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Portable patient lifts allow you to take your stand assist device on the road or maneuver it more effectively in your house. With lightweight frames and compact designs, they put less strain on you and your carer. So, which model should you choose for your home?
The overall best portable patient lift for home use is the Invacare 9805P Portable Hydraulic Patient Lift. This model is incredibly affordable, lightweight, and easy to maneuver in the house. It is also adjustable and compatible with various patient lift slings.
This detailed article covers the best portable patient lifts for home use. We review the leading models and help you decide if they suit your needs. We also discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a model for home use.
What Is a Portable Patient Lift?
A patient lift is a stand assist device that your carer positions and uses to transfer you to a different place. Portable patient lifts are lightweight and transportable versions of this tool, often with a folding frame that you can disassemble easily.
Portable patient lifts can be hydraulic or electric. They can also vary wildly in price, with many available from the leading brands. These devices are designed to be used by your carer, with little to no input from you.
At a Glance: Best Portable Patient Lifts
Image | Name | Length | Width | Height | Weight | Best For | Header |
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Invacare Painted Hydraulic Lift | 46.75" | 20" | 64" | 68 lbs | Safer Transfer situations | ||
Joerns Healthcare Hoyer Patient Lift | 39.3" | - | 66.5" | 87 lbs | Medical alert | ||
Bestcare PL400EF Portable Patient Lift | 41.7" | 32.7" | 67" | 90 lbs | Portable & Foldable | ||
Molift Smart 150 - Portable Lift | 47.3" | 26" | 10-66" | 58 lbs | Easy Transport & Storage | ||
Hoyer Voyager Portable Overhead Lifter | 5.5" | 17.5" | 11.25" | 20 lbs | Long lasting battery |
Best Portable Patient Lifts
Best Portable Patient Lift for Home Use (Overall): Invacare 9805P Portable Hydraulic Patient Lift
Invacare Painted Hydraulic Lift | |
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Length | 46.75" |
Width | 20" |
Height | 64" |
Weight | 68 lbs |
Pros
Cons
The Invacare 9805P is the overall best portable patient lift for home use. Its low price makes it an affordable choice for most people. Furthermore, it is also incredibly lightweight at just 68 pounds (30.8kg). Despite this, it can support up to 450 pounds (204.1kg), one of the highest weights for non-bariatric models.
It is easy to assemble and disassemble in just minutes. Therefore, you can break it down into individual pieces for travel or long-term storage. Even if you are inexperienced with patient lifts, it shouldn’t pose too many issues.
The patient lift has a six-point swivel bar that you can use with all kinds of slings and straps. It also has a rotating hydraulic pump, making it easier for your carer to operate the mechanism. However, it is more strenuous to use than an electric model.
It has a high clearance height of 6.5 inches (16.5cm). Therefore, it may not be suitable for some couches or low beds. Overall, it is an affordable and lightweight model with essential functions. If you’re on a tight budget, it could be an excellent choice.
We recommend this portable patient lift for: people who want a budget-friendly and lightweight model.
Best Portable Electric Patient Lift: Joerns Healthcare Hoyer Advance Portable Patient Lift
Joerns Healthcare Hoyer Patient Lift | |
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Length | 39.3" |
Width | - |
Height | 66.5" |
Weight | 87 lbs |
Pros
Cons
The Joerns Hoyer Advance is the best portable electric patient lift. This mid-range option is very lightweight, weighing 69 pounds (31.3kg). It also has a fully electric lift mechanism, taking any strain off your caregiver’s body.
It is compact and also folds down. This allows you to store the patient lift in small spaces like your wardrobe or under your bed. You can also fit it inside a car trunk or other transport if you need to travel or move house.
It has unique swan-shaped legs that your carer can adjust with the foot pedal. This design allows them to get closer to you during transfers and reduces the risk of falling or other accidents. However, it can only support 340 pounds (154.2kg), lower than the average.
The portable patient lift has extra-wide handles and smooth caster wheels, making it easier for your carer to maneuver around the house. You can also use it with many kinds of slings. However, it is more expensive than similar models, so you should consider if it fits your budget.
We recommend this portable patient lift for: someone looking for a mid-range model with user-friendly features.
Best Portable Patient Lift for Travel: Bestcare PL400EF Portable Patient Lift
Bestcare PL400EF Portable Patient Lift | |
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Length | 41.7" |
Width | 32.7" |
Height | 67" |
Weight | 90 lbs |
Pros
Cons
The Bestcare PL400EF is the best portable patient lift for travel. You can fold down the frame or disassemble it entirely into three different parts. Therefore, you can put the compact shape or individual pieces in your car, bus, or even plane luggage for longer trips.
It is fully electric and has a backup battery. Therefore, you can have one battery charging while using the other one, making sure that it is always ready for use. The electric operation also minimizes pressure on your carer or family member.
The lift has an excellent lifting range from 18.3 to 67 inches (46.5 to 170.2cm). It also has a low clearance height of 4.7 inches (11.9cm), allowing you to use it under a sofa or low bed. Therefore, it can be suitable for a variety of transfers inside the home.
The main downside of this portable patient lift is its weight. When fully assembled, it weighs around 90kg (40.8kg). Therefore, we recommend disassembling it to make the pieces easier to carry, transport, and lift.
Overall, this is one of the most affordable portable patient lifts. It is straightforward and user-friendly, making it an excellent option for people who are not familiar with these stand assist devices.
We recommend this portable patient lift for: anyone who wants affordability and a broad lifting range.
Best Lightweight Portable Patient Lift: Molift Smart 150 Portable Lift
Molift Smart 150 - Portable Lift | |
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Length | 47.3" |
Width | 26" |
Height | 10-66" |
Weight | 58 lbs |
Pros
Cons
The Molift Smart 150 is the best lightweight portable patient lift. Weighing in at only 55 pounds (24.9kg), it is one of the lightest options on the market and folds down into a more compact shape. Therefore, your carer can maneuver it easily and also transport it with minimal effort.
Unlike many other models, the Molift model allows you to control the speed of the lifting mechanism. This feature could be essential if you have anxiety or fear of falling when suspended above the ground. The faster speeds can be helpful if you are dealing with time pressure.
It is straightforward to use because of its electric mechanism and hand controls. In case of a power cut or malfunction, the patient lift has an emergency stop button and a manual lowering mode. Therefore, it is one of the most secure options.
You should be mindful that the lift can only support 350 pounds (158.8kg). This is one of the lowest weight capacities on the market, so make sure that it is enough. This is also one of the priciest models, so you should factor that into your budget.
We recommend this portable patient lift for: people who want to invest in a lightweight and high-quality model.
Best Portable Overhead Patient Lift: Hoyer Voyager Portable Overhead Lifter
Hoyer Voyager Portable Overhead Lifter | |
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Length | 5.5" |
Width | 17.5" |
Height | 11.25" |
Weight | 20 lbs |
Pros
Cons
The Hoyer Voyager is the best portable overhead patient lift. It is one of the most lightweight options at just 12 pounds (5.4kg) because it doesn’t have a freestanding frame.
Unlike freestanding lifts, overhead models don’t need floor space because they lift from above. Therefore, they can work well in tight areas. However, you will need to install the tracks in every room that you will need to use the device. Thankfully, the Voyager EasyTrack system doesn’t require permanent fixings in your ceiling.
It has a smooth motor with a slow start and stop system that avoids hurting or startling you. It also has a rechargeable battery that can perform 20-30 lifts on a single charge. Overall, it has sophisticated and reliable electronics.
One drawback of this model is its price. Especially considering the cost of the EasyTrack system, this option will be a significant investment. However, it could be worth it for the quality of the system.
We recommend this portable patient lift for: someone who needs long-term care and has limited floor space.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Portable Patient Lift
What Are the Best Brands of Portable Patient Lifts?
These are some of the most popular manufacturers of portable patient lifts:
What Is the Price Range of Portable Patient Lifts?
You can find budget-friendly portable patient lifts, like the Invacare 9805P, for around $500. You can spend over $4000 on a premium model like the Hoyer Voyager at the top end of the scale. There are also many mid-range models around $2000.
Tips for Choosing the Best Portable Patient Lift for Your Needs
Consider these factors when choosing a portable patient lift:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Invacare 9805P Portable Hydraulic Patient Lift is the best portable patient lift for home use. We love its affordability, lightweight frame, and ease of use for you and your caregiver.
Portable patient lifts can be an excellent option if you are looking for maneuverability and need to travel with your device. These machines are lightweight, often foldable, and can navigate narrow spaces in your home.
When choosing a portable patient lift, consider how easy it will be to store and transport the unit. You should also ensure that it can support your weight and has enough adjustability for your transfer needs.
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