As someone who is also to old and beat up to crawl around on my back
I purchased the MaxJax portable 2 post lift when Costco had them on sale last year for 1995.00 inc shipping.
If you go this route you definitely want to check your concrete slab. Once I started drilling holes I realized that my slab (typical mid 80's subdivision) was not 4" thick reinforced like it was supposed to be, so I ended up spending a grand on a 4'x12' 8" thick slab of 4000 psi concrete tied into the existing floor. Probably overkill but makes me feel better when I am under it. Also if you go this route use the epoxy anchors not the wedge style that come with the hoist.
As to the lift height, I have a standard 8' ceiling in my garage and I can get my Cuda all the way to the top (48" lift height) A side mount garage door opener gives you more clearance as well. When your done using it you can store it against a wall, or just leave it installed. Invest in a good rolling seat and your ready to go!
A full height lift might be better but this has been one of the best investments I have made to work on my AAR.
Greg