With Australia’s ageing population, design functionality and universal design is becoming increasingly important.

Australia's population is changing, with the ABS expecting the proportion of Australians aged over 65 to rise from 14% in 2012, to 22% in 2061. Furthermore, the percentage aged over 85 is predicted to reach 5% by 2061.[1]

This has seen a shift in the industry towards universal design – a concept based on allowing everyone, to the greatest extent possible and regardless of age or disability, to use a product, building or environment.[2]

Ceiling hoists play into this trend, as they can be adjusted depending on an individual’s needs, but there are a few choices to make when deciding what system to install. The first step is considering the style of system you require.

Choosing the right hoist system

There are three types of Guldmann ceiling hoist systems. A Single Track System is installed in a fixed location with the main purpose of a transferring from point A to point B, for example, from the bathroom to a bed. For more flexibility, a Room Covering System provides maximum coverage of the room. It consists of two fixed parallel rails and a connecting traverse rail. It provides the possibility of transferring anywhere within the room. A Fully Integrated, Multi-room system uses a range of components to cover multiple rooms with a single system including traversing doorways, hallways and corridors.

Hoist units

Guldmann offers four hoist units: GH1 system, GH1 F system, GH1 Q system and the GH3 system. The newest, the GH3 system is a modular design concept with a classic yet contemporary appearance, helping it blend in with new and existing architecture and interior design.

With lots of different modules available, it is easy to adjust to match individual functionality, specifications and budget needs. The GH3 system is always ready to use, and is designed for heavy-duty use.

Track systems

The GH3 system offers three different types of rails, each specially designed to tackle particular spans and lifting weights. Combining these appropriately makes for a comprehensive and easy-to-use system. The rails can be mounted on the ceiling, on walls or on supporting pillars - or any combination of these.

The latest designs of the Guldmann system allow for an installation that is virtually impossible to see until the equipment is required to be used. This is achieved through clever use of recessed rails, cupboards and bulkheads.

Slings and accessories

HLS Healthcare offers 14 different sling options, ranging from the Sit-On Comfort High, which is suitable for persons who remain on the sling for long periods, to the Active Trainer, which is for persons with reduced body balance, but who may need to do walking training, or need support standing upright. There is also 11 accessories to choose from, to ensure the system is perfectly suited to its user.

Guldmann: lasting design

A Guldmann ceiling hoist system represents over 50 years of knowledge and experience of installing thousands of track systems in different environments and conditions all over the world. With built-in power sources and rapid, effective recharging, a Guldmann ceiling hoist system is always ready to use as soon as it is needed. The systems are designed to withstand the tough conditions encountered in professional care environments, with the added peace-of-mind that the optional ten year warranty brings.

HLS have been supplying and installing Guldmann ceiling hoist and track systems since 2000, making them one of the most experienced suppliers of ceiling hoist systems in Australia.

To find out how a Guldmann ceiling hoist could fit in with your design, head to www.healthcarelifting.com.au.

Click here to download this free whitepaper that looks at the challenges of designing for the ageing population and innovative ways to maximise independence of the person and minimise the risk of potential.

[1]Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2013). Population Projections, Australia, 2012 (base) to 2101. Australian Bureau of Statistics. http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/3222.0main+features32012%20%28base%29%20to%202101
[2]The Council of Australian Governments. (2011). National Disability Strategy 2010-2020. Commonwealth of Australia. https://www.dss.gov.au/

Architecture & Design Team

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