People nearing the end of their lives will be more comfortable after a ceiling lift was installed at the Elk Valley Hospice.
The hospice started fundraising for the $15,000 piece of equipment 18 months ago before their goal was realized last week.
“The ceiling lift will significantly help reduce discomfort and help the ease of care for patients,” said hospice administrator Sandra Boer.
With a lifting capacity of 450lbs or 204kg and the ability to move hospice clients around the room, the permanent ceiling lift will also improve staff safety.
The hospital’s head of patient care Julie Gort said the equipment had been on the hospice’s wishlist for many years.
“I’ve been here since 2008 and one of the big things we were missing in the palliative care room was a ceiling lift, predominantly for patient comfort,” she said.
“If people are in the end stage of life, the last thing you want to be doing is having to manhandle them to get them into the shower or the bathroom.”
Located in the Elk Valley Hospital, the hospice is painted in soft tones with a couch and kitchenette to make it a welcoming environment for family and friends.
Trained volunteers visit hospice clients on a regular basis to offer support and provide companionship, and respite to their families.
Next on the hospice’s wishlist is a renovation to the existing shower to make it wheelchair accessible.
It is preparing for upcoming fundraising events, including a spa day in May and yard sale in June.