Why exoskeletons are the future
Lifting aids in care
Lifting and transfer tasks are part of everyday life in the Care and represent a considerable physical burden for carers. Back problems are one of the most common causes of absenteeism in the care sector. Although traditional care lifts have proven their worth, they often reach their limits in terms of flexibility and efficiency. Exoskeletons open up new possibilities here: They support carers when lifting without the need for time-consuming preparations or a large amount of space. This article looks at exoskeletons as a promising alternative to conventional lifting aids and shows how they can relieve the burden on carers and patients alike.
Why lifting aids are indispensable in care
Physically demanding activities, such as transferring and lifting patients, are unavoidable in nursing care. Lifting aids such as classic patient lifts protect carers from overexertion and secure the patient during the transfer. Despite their advantages, however, these devices require careful handling and are often inflexible, as they require sufficient space, for example. This is where exoskeletons can fill a crucial gap. They offer dynamic support by being worn directly on the body and are therefore ready for use in any situation. Models such as the Auxivo LiftSuit 2.0 or the Paexo Back provide targeted relief for the back muscles and are therefore a forward-looking solution for everyday care.
The types of lifters and their areas of application
Lifting aids play a central role in care, especially for physically demanding tasks such as repositioning or transferring patients. Classic lifting aids can be divided into three main categories: mobile, stationary and electric lifts. Each of these variants has specific areas of application and features that make them suitable for certain care situations.
- Mobile lifters are characterised by their flexibility and can easily be used in different rooms. They are particularly suitable for transfers, for example from bed to wheelchair, and are equally popular in care facilities and home care. Despite their mobility, they require sufficient space to be manoeuvred safely.
- Stationary lifts on the other hand, are permanently installed and specially designed for frequently used transfer points, such as beds or bathrooms. They offer a high level of stability and reliability, but are Application limited to fixed locations, which makes them less flexible.
- Electric hoists make lifting heavy patients considerably easier with motorised support. They make life noticeably easier for carers, especially when carrying out demanding lifting tasks. However, like the other variants, they are dependent on space and infrastructure, which can make them difficult to use in confined spaces.
In order to better understand these different approaches and to evaluate their advantages and disadvantages, you will find a direct comparison of these classic lifting aids with exoskeletons in the following table.
| Feature | Mobile lifters | Stationary lifts | Electric hoists | Exoskeletons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Mobile, but dependent on sufficient space | Permanently installed, can only be used at certain locations | Limited mobility, requires infrastructure | Portable, independent of infrastructure or available space |
| Ergonomics for carers | Limited relief, as positioning is necessary | Good relief, but complex to operate | Good relief, but time-consuming | Optimum relief through targeted support of the back muscles |
| Patient experience | Unnatural movements, possibly uncomfortable for patients | Very stable, but not very customised | Stable, but also mechanical | Natural movement sequences, less stressful for patients |
| Time required | Positioning requires time | Maximum effort due to fixed installations | Less, but still time-consuming | Ready for immediate use, no preparation required |
| Space requirement | Requires sufficient room to move | High space requirement | Space requirement depending on size and design | No additional space required, suitable for confined spaces |
| Costs | Lower acquisition costs, regular maintenance required | Lower acquisition costs, higher maintenance costs | Higher acquisition costs, longer service life | Higher acquisition costs, lower maintenance costs, worthwhile in the long term |
| Long-term efficiency | Limited application possibilities | Limited to specific areas of application | High efficiency with regular use | Versatile, ideal for various care tasks |
| Possible applications | Ideal for transfers (e.g. bed to wheelchair) | Only for fixed stations | Effective for severe patients | Use for transfers, lifting heavy loads, general care tasks |
| Innovation & future prospects | Technologically mature, but not very innovative | Outdated in many areas | Advanced technology, but limited flexibility | Increasingly widespread, trendsetting for the care sector |
Classic lifting aids in care and their limitations
In day-to-day care, there may be situations in which classic lifting aids such as patient lifts face challenges. Safe handling of a lift can become a problem, particularly in confined spaces. In addition, the use of a classic lift requires careful positioning and operation, which can be time-consuming in the busy daily care routine. This can put additional strain on carers and slow down work processes.
These aspects show why exoskeletons are a useful addition and alternative. Portable and space-saving, they can be used flexibly and provide direct support for the back muscles. They not only improve working conditions for carers, but also enable natural movements when handling patients.
Advantages of exoskeletons - a flexible and innovative alternative
Lifting aids play a central role in care, especially for physically demanding tasks such as repositioning or transferring patients. Classic lifting aids can be divided into three main categories: mobile, stationary and electric lifts. Each of these variants has specific areas of application and features that make them suitable for certain care situations.
- Mobile lifters are characterised by their flexibility and can easily be used in different rooms. They are particularly suitable for transfers, for example from bed to wheelchair, and are equally popular in care facilities and home care. Despite their mobility, they require sufficient space to be manoeuvred safely.
- Stationary lifts In contrast, the transfer points are permanently installed and specially designed for frequently used transfer points, such as beds or bathrooms. They offer high stability and reliability, but their use is limited to fixed locations, which makes them less flexible.
- Electric hoists make lifting heavy patients considerably easier with motorised support. They make life noticeably easier for carers, especially when carrying out demanding lifting tasks. However, like the other variants, they are dependent on space and infrastructure, which can make them difficult to use in confined spaces.
In order to better understand these different approaches and to evaluate their advantages and disadvantages, you will find a direct comparison of these classic lifting aids with exoskeletons in the following table.
5 tips for back-friendly lifting with exoskeletons
- Use training courses and briefings: The effective use of exoskeletons requires a thorough introduction. Carers should be familiar with the functions and benefits of the devices in order to use them optimally in their day-to-day work. Regular training sessions help them to use the technology safely and ergonomically.
- Integrating exoskeletons into everyday working life: Exoskeletons realise their full potential when they are considered as part of the daily work routine. Whether for transferring patients or for general lifting and carrying tasks, these aids offer flexible support that noticeably reduces strain.
- Promote teamwork and exchange of experience: Openly discussing the use of exoskeletons within the team not only increases acceptance, but also efficiency. Carers who share their experiences benefit from practical tips and tricks from their colleagues.
- Observe ergonomic lifting techniques: The right technique is also crucial with exoskeletons. For example, carers should always lift from the legs, hold the load close to the body and avoid sudden twisting movements. Exoskeletons such as the Auxivo CarrySuit specifically support these ergonomic movements.
- Promote long-term health: Studies show that exoskeletons can reduce back strain by up to 36 kilograms. This not only prevents acute pain, but also long-term damage. Devices such as the Paexo Neck and the Auxivo LiftSuit 2.0 are particularly helpful and provide lasting relief in the care profession.
Conclusion
Classic care lifts are firmly established in the care sector and provide valuable support. However, they reach their limits in some areas, such as space requirements and flexibility. Exoskeletons offer a modern alternative here. Portable and versatile, they effectively support carers by providing targeted relief for the back muscles and enabling natural movement sequences.
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