disability

If consumers take a look at how the Americans with Disabilities Act has improved mobility, it is hard to ignore the increase in autonomy, freedom, and quality of life impacted. It is also difficult to overlook the modifications merited due to the changing times; evolving interpretations of devices and diagnoses merit reconsideration and reinterpretation to maintain equality and autonomy for every American.

We’ve come a long way, baby… That cliché seems to aptly sum-up how the country has evolved in its views and accommodations of those with physical disabilities. Consumers are gaining entry to places, job-sites, and public areas that previously would have been challenging at-best, but often impractical to access. However, the law isn’t always as cut-and-dry as one may believe, with changes in aids, diagnosis, and demographics emerging. With the number of individuals using mobility devices rising, it makes sense to revisit the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, of 1991 to see just how far the country has come.

Take a look at how the Americans with Disabilities Act has improved mobility:

The Americans with Disabilities Act improves access and protects the liberties of those with disabilities, preserving their autonomy, rights, and entry to public spaces. This Act also mandates specifications that allow easy access for wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, and other mobility aids and equipment which, previously, was not enforced by law. This assures citizens that they will have use and utility of rented homes, access to public restrooms, and the ability to use, enjoy, and traverse spaces that could pose obstacles for those using mobility aids or devices. The law does more than that however by providing a legal precedent for individuals living with disabilities, allowing them the same entry, access, and life of those that do not require accommodations.

Modern Modifications

Twenty years after the Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted, revisions were made to specifically address the needs of citizens that use modern mobility aids. With design changes and increased offerings in mobility solutions, the original accommodations asserted by this Act was modified to encompass and protect individuals that use scooters, wheelchairs, or other adaptive equipment, aids, and devices. For instance, the original legislation was enacted before items like seg-ways appeared on the scene; the Segway is used by many with mobility issues to improve access and increase mobility. In fact, the somewhat trendy Segway is being lauded as a personal assisted device, embraced widely by consumers and protected by the law.

Expanding Definitions

Just as the need to expand on the rights of those with disabilities has evolved, so has the definition of a disability. Mental health issues plague millions of Americans in a daily struggle that can be debilitating and stigmatizing; therapeutic aids such as emotional support animals have been emerging more widely, which further complicates interpretation of the law. Just as potential landlords must comply with door width and access features, many businesses are faced with accepting support animals in their ‘no pets’ properties to comply with the ADA. A subject of wide-spread legal debate and litigation, there is still ambiguity in the laws that leaves room for confusion and conflict.

Equal Access

It would be impossible to list all of the people and protections afforded by the ADA; in essence, it preserves the right of access to anyone with a disability that could provide obstacles in accessibility. Furthermore, the ADA offers very specific protections for individuals with disabilities at work.  Accessibility hurdles at work that could prevent someone with a disability in their job performance, like stairs, handicap-accessible bathrooms, and visual cues, are mandated and asserted by this very comprehensive piece of legislation.

Improving Technology

Technology is making it easier for individuals with mobility impairments or disabilities to compete in today’s job market. From telecommute positions to meetings by Skype, technology is at the forefront of accessibility for all. This extends to mobility aids and the merchants offering these to their consumers; ask about high-tech features and devices to improve everyday living.

Community Commitment

Improving access and quality of life for those with disabilities requires a community commitment; continued efforts to update and modify existing facilities, public places, and serving as a role-model for others falls to each and every American. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991 paved the way for individuals with impairments or limitations to access the same spaces and places as those without disabilities. This legislation calls to action area groups, organizations, municipalities, employers, and citizens in an effort of protecting the rights, improving the accessibility, and maintaining the autonomy of disabled Americans widely, including those that utilize mobility aids.

Preserve your autonomy, or the freedom of someone you love, with mobility aids and devices. The experts at Pacific Mobility are here to help you assess and evaluate your needs while offering options to suit your distinct lifestyle, living situation, and budget. They can offer insight and information pertaining to the ADA laws and guidelines that will preserve and protect your accessibility, as well as your rights.

Increasing accessibility around your home or dwelling may come down to ramps. If you wonder when it is time to consider portable mobility ramps, the time could be now. Talk to a mobility expert to find portable ramps – as well as other aids – to increase access and preserve autonomy.

Investing in mobility devices is a big decision with life-changing consequences, so when it it time to consider portable mobility ramps? The simple fact that you are asking yourself that question could point toward it being time to discuss your options with a mobility expert. Portable ramps are the perfect first-step in increasing access, safety, and independence in the home – as well as when you leave the house! Consider the many benefits of something so basic and ask yourself what you are waiting for.

Got questions about ramps and mobility aids? Here are some answers for you:

When is it time to consider portable mobility ramps?

It is estimated that more than 15 million people use some kind of an assistive device, including ramps. Among these individuals are over nine-million people over age 65; since nobody is getting any younger, doesn’t it make sense that now is the time to think about installing ramps? Ramps offer assistance to a wide range of users, from those utilizing other mobility equipment like scooters or wheelchairs to those who walk without support but that want a gentler way of obtaining access to areas around their home.  

How do ramps help?

The argument for ramps comes down to increased access equates to improved autonomy; simple. Ramps provide a low-rise incline to assist consumers to navigate stairs, risers, steps, and elevated areas, while also providing a key tool in managing and transporting any existing medical or mobility equipment. When you shop for a scooter or chair, you may also be looking for ramps, however, even if you don’t use these devices, a ramp may be the little extra assistance you need to prevent discomfort, a nasty fall, or a subsequent injury.

What are the options?

You have ample options when it comes to ramps; some of the most common and relied-upon include threshold ramps, folding ramps, and modular ramp systems. While retailers can discuss these options in more depth, threshold and modular ramps are typically permanent fixtures. Folding ramps offer portability, which could make them more affordable and multi-functional for some consumers.

Does a portable ramp make sense?

The reason why portable ramps make sense comes down to convenience. A portable or folding ramp offers a wide-range of opportunities to use, from getting in and out of vehicles to easily entering your home. Furthermore, portable ramps offer occasional utility or could be implemented as a permanent feature of your property. Talk to mobility retailers about folding ramps, including tri-folds, for easiest storage and operation on-the-go.

What do buyers need to know?

Distinct needs require distinguished solutions; make sure that the ramp you buy offers versatility and convenience. Portable ramps allow freedom of access that may not be found with other types, but with this comes specific usage recommendations that may – or may not – meet your current and future needs. The best approach is to speak with an expert in mobility devices for a thorough needs assessment.

How do you stay safe?

The best way to ensure performance and satisfaction of any mobility aid or device is to follow the recommended usage and safety tips provided by the manufacturer and seller. However, there are some basic strategies that can curb accidents and maintain your ramp during use that merit attention.

Some tips to stay safe include:

• To ensure your ramp is at a safe degree of incline, aim for one-foot of ramp per one-inch of incline.
• Keep your ramp maintained in inclement weather to avoid slips or falls and provide some sort of traction during precipitation. Vendors may have grips or recommended strategies to keep the ramp traversable.
• Keep the landings on both ends of your ramp as flat and level as you can.
• Always pay attention to the weight restrictions for your ramp; this includes the weight of any devices, aids, or items that you may routinely carry on your ramp.

What next?

The next step should be to reach out and speak with a mobility expert in your area. They can reinforce why professional installation is key, and why it is integral to only allow qualified mobility technicians install, service, or repair your equipment. While portable ramps are easy-enough for the layman to implement and utilize, your mobility merchant can point out usage tips, manufacturer’s recommendations, and safety suggestions to ensure satisfaction over the long-term.

If you are wondering when the time for ramps is or other mobility aids, it could be now. Take time to discuss options, benefits, and costs with a mobility professional, and see for yourself how much convenience and autonomy a simple, portable ramp can bring to your lifestyle. Got questions about mobility options? Keep these answers in mind and speak with an expert today!

When shopping for your new lift, make sure to take a closer look at the seat on your new stair chair. Since this will be different for each and every consumer, it makes sense to buy chairs and lifts from companies that offer features to suit your distinct preferences.

Think about it: you want your lift seat or stair chair to be something that you can easily use and adapt to. For this reason, stair chairs merit a little extra attention. Think about your investment as something that you will have for years to come – which makes satisfaction with the seat especially important. Talk to mobility experts to find the right chair – and lift – to suit your needs, preferences, and living situation.

Let’s take a closer look at the seat of your new Stair Chair, shall we?

Design

Examine the design of the chair and factors such as the shape of the arm-rests and height of the back when buying. Be cognizant of weight recommendations to ensure smooth operation and safety. Look for high-end details that could add convenience and overall satisfaction, such as quality materials and padding. Consider aspects such as where you will be primarily using the device if there is terrain to be concerned and any existing physical limitations that may point toward the best options.

Comfort

Speaking of padding, comfort is key when shopping for your stair chair. If possible, take a seat and try it out; if not, read customer reviews and feedback to assess the overall level of satisfaction with the comfort of the style. No consumer ever thinks ‘I wish I had gotten a less comfortable chair’ but often wish they had kept comfort in mind before buying.

Maintenance

Is your new stair chair going to be easy to clean and maintain? When buying devices and aids, it is always recommended that you purchase from a retailer that stands behind their product, offering service, support, and installation. Keeping this in mind, routine maintenance may involve inspections and servicing from a qualified mobility professional. To have a company that supports consumers after the sale is integral and pays for itself in overall maintenance convenience.

Versatility

Another aspect to consider when contemplating your options is versatility; is the seat adjustable at all? This could be prudent when seats are used by more than one person, or when you are making an investment for the long-term, such as for a stairlift. The more options, features, and details that you have to consider in your stair chair, the more likely you are to be satisfied with it for many years to come.

Brand

What’s in a name? Well, when it comes to mobility equipment, quite a bit could be riding on the brand and manufacturer. This is not the time to opt for obscure names that may offer an alluring price point; stick to the companies that have been relied on by consumers for generations like Bruno, Mac’s, and Pride products. These names have earned a reputation for performance, longevity, and quality over the years – with clients just like you!

Thinking of increasing accessibility? Tips before you buy

There are a lot of things to consider when shopping for mobility aids, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and research your options first. Since the primary goal is to increase access, any idiosyncrasies or characteristics that impede use or deter the user defeat the whole purpose of utilizing mobility aids; keep some basic buying tips in mind to ensure you are satisfied after the sale:

• Some mobility aid retailers offer equipment for consumers to rent; this could provide you with the option of trying various aids before you buy a new one.
• Make sure that the company you choose to shop with assesses your needs before selling you equipment. This may include a brief discussion, questions, and some information relevant to providing you with the best mobility options for your distinct situation.
• Be wary of buying mobility aids from second-hand sources, such as from private individuals. These devices won’t be backed by service and satisfaction guarantees and could potentially pose safety hazards if not installed professionally. It is simple: buy new.

Pay some extra-attention to where you will be sitting when buying mobility aids, and don’t afraid to sit for a spell to find the best fit. Discuss options with mobility experts, who can assess your distinct needs, to find you the best stair chair for your home. Accessibility aids only help when they are utilized, so make sure that the seat of your lift doesn’t impede, hinder, or deter you from using the device once installed in your home or dwelling. After all, the goal is to find devices that fit in with your lifestyle and habits; buying the right seat or stair chair is a fine start to increasing access and preserving autonomy for those with physical limitations or disabilities.

When it comes to grab bars, do you know the proper placement and usage? This extends to the use of any aids to daily living that are intended to increase accessibility and autonomy around the home. A lack of information can lead to problems when adapting to these life-changing implements.

When you think of mobility devices, your mind likely goes to scooters and lifts but there are many assistive aids you may not be considering. Consider, for instance, grab bars and other aids to daily living that can reduce the risk of fall and prevent injury around the home. The key is to opt for medical aids and equipment sold by merchants who offer service and support to ensure satisfaction and an increase in accessibility once installed.

When it comes to grab bars, do you know the proper placement and usage?

Don’t underestimate the installation of a grab bar in the home, and never settle for something secured with suction cups. This is an accident waiting to happen! When you need aids to daily living, treat it just as you would when looking for a wheelchair or scooter. Patronize professional mobility retailers that put your needs first and that offer support to their customers.

Where do you put the grab bar?

Probably the most common placement of a grab bar is in the bathroom, near or next to the commode. This often provides access and support at the sink, too, since the plumbing is often entwined. Another option is to have a grab bar near the tub, but there are other bathing and showering aids that could prove more pragmatic for your distinct bathroom space.

When is the right time for a reaching tool?

Anyone can benefit from a reaching tool; these ‘grabbers’ can be effective ways to avoid the risks that lurk in kitchens, bathrooms, pantries, and closets. As individuals age, balance can be compromised which can increase the risk of a fall. Make any room of the home a safer place to be for anyone with physical limitations by investing in reaching tools that can be used anywhere, at any time.

Do you – or someone you love – need bed rails?

Bedrails do far more than give a nudge upon waking; these discreet fixtures can provide a buffer to help restless sleepers from falling out of bed. They can also help reduce the stress and strain on joints when retiring at night, by offering a support that makes it easier to recline. Many styles can be locked in place and lowered as needed, which makes changing bedding and linens simpler.

What does a super-pole do? 

For innovative assistance that is helpful when standing, shifting, or transferring. The distinction between this grab bar and other devices is the floor-to-ceiling bar, offering stability and security that canes or walkers may not provide. Ask your mobility expert about this award-winning device to increase autonomy and mobility in your home space. These adjustable aids offer both seniors and caregivers the added assistance that may prevent injuries during activities of daily living.

Does a seat make sense?

It is estimated that around 95% of hip fractures among the elderly are the result of a fall; it is further reported that around 13% of senior falls occur in the bathroom, including in the shower. Does a seat make sense in your bathroom shower? Even if the consumer prefers to stand independently while showering, a seat can be an excellent way for the senior to navigate getting in and out of the tub. While the sides may prove challenging, even a fall-risk for seniors with poor balance, sitting on the seat positioned over the tub side-wall can allow them to swing their legs in rather than lift and lower. Additionally, this may be a safer approach on wet and slippery surfaces – like the tub, shower, and bathroom floors.

Would a tray-table help?

They have been used in hospitals and healthcare settings for generations, but what is the deal with tray-tables? The sleek style and stability of tray-tables can transform a favorite chair into a convenient and useful space. The casters allow for locking and keeping the table in place, and the adjustable height will fit any chair, bed, or spot that you choose to place it in. Make sure that you buy medical-grade tray-tables to ensure you are getting the same quality seen in healthcare institutions, hospitals, and rehab settings widely.

Don’t write off mobility aids as being restricted to scooters and wheelchairs; sometimes the smallest bit of assistance can make the biggest difference in everyday life. Consider how a grab bar, or other aids to daily living, could increase safety, enhance access, and lessen worry when it comes to protecting someone that you love. Talk to the experts in mobility aids, devices, and equipment about a needs assessment and more information pertaining to simple solutions for daily challenges.

A wheelchair or scooter enhances access, but how will you navigate the often-tricky terrain of everyday life? Battle the obstacles with a mobility lift, but which vehicle lift is best for my scooter or wheelchair? Consider the variances that will pinpoint the best option for your needs.

When it comes to mobility devices, there are many things to consider before buying. Ease of use, installation, available features, and service provision can be factors that play into your purchase decision. Brand-names may be part of the equation, as satisfied customers remain a valuable testament when making your choice. While Bruno remains a benchmark of quality and reliance in the mobility aids realm, there are other viable brands that warrant a closer look. Talk to the mobility experts for more information and options.

So, the question is: Which vehicle lift is best for your scooter or wheelchair?

Often the answer to this question comes down to who you ask; however, there are some specific features and highlights of some popular lifts that could narrow the field and make the decision easier. This also helps to ensure you will be satisfied with your vehicle lift after the sale, with the reassurance of service and support later.

Some options in vehicle lifts include:

The convenient Curb-Sider

For effortless convenience, check out the Curb-Sider vehicle lift. Made with performance in mind, this device does the heavy lifting for you. This lift enables lifting and lowering near the side of your vehicle, with a telescopic head that clears your bumper; this lift stores itself, so you aren’t faced with additional obstacles. This device is lauded for its space-saving technology and optimal visibility when in use. This is an excellent choice for consumers with mini-vans, which makes it viable for a wide range of drivers.

The versatile Joey

With the touch of a button, the Joey lift will lift and store your scooter or chair inside a conventional-sized van for you. This model features a convenient platform that is textured for additional stability. Straps add to the safety features of this fully-powered, industry-tested device. The Joey is great for consumers that already have a vehicle that they want to adapt to their lift, without requiring extensive modifications or costs. It can also be uninstalled and reinstalled in the event you change vehicles.

The Outdoor Meridian

The Outdoor Meridian also features fully-powered, one-button technology, making it essentially effortless to lift and store your scooter or wheelchair when driving.

This particular model holds up to rough and rugged terrain and offers buyers a 100k lifespan, backed with an assurance that the lift holds up to extreme conditions and environmental factors. The accessibility platform folds up and into itself when not being used, and security belts heighten safety during operation. No modifications are needed for this lift, which is suited to your class II or class III hitch, which can be purchased and installed separately. Lighting features make the lift visible and safe in traffic.  The best vehicles for the outdoor Meridian include vans, Sports utility vehicles, pickups, and full-size, four-door cars.

The truck Out-Rider

If you miss driving your truck, isn’t it time to invest in an Out-rider truck lift? This fully-powered lift lifts and stores any type of wheelchair or scooter with ease, stowing it in the bed of your truck for you. You don’t even need a bed cover as the Out-Rider is made to hold up to harsh elements. These are easily removed and re-installed so it is an investment that will stand the test of time. The Out-Rider adapts to both the driver’s side or passenger side of the vehicle and is the best choice for a wide-range of pickup trucks.

Want even more options? 

Don’t forget: you have plenty of other lift options to augment your vehicle lift. For instance, porch lifts or freestanding equipment can make getting to your car or truck much more feasible and autonomous. The most pragmatic approach to transforming your life with mobility equipment is to first speak with a mobility aids merchant, with the expertise to assess your distinct needs and discuss your available options. This will prevent you from investing in devices that don’t really suit your home, lifestyle, or budget.

Aim for optimal accessibility

Remember that mobility aids are an investment – an investment into you and your loved one’s independence. For optimal accessibility options, have your needs evaluated by an expert in the field and only buy from qualified vendors. Make sure that installation, service, and support is involved before agreeing to make a purchase. Quality merchants will offer these provisions to the consumer.

Make sure that whatever lift you buy, you go with brand-new equipment that is sold and serviced by a mobility expert. Accessibility and autonomy are part of everyday life which makes mobility aids a prudent investment; talk to the professionals now for your thorough needs assessment.

When considering mobility options and aids, let’s talk about mobility scooters. Before consumers invest in a scooter, know the pros, cons, and suggestions that can make your scooter more practical and for your distinct situation.

When it comes to individuals with disabilities or physical limitations, mobility devices preserve autonomy and increase access. Of these aids, it is estimated that nearly two-million Americans depend on a wheelchair or mobility scooter daily. Would you – or someone you love – benefit from the use of a scooter? Before you invest your time and money, there are some things that you need to know.

Let’s talk about mobility scooters

Before you buy your new device, let’s talk about mobility scooters and acknowledge various user tips that may lead to greater accessibility, satisfaction, and performance.

Pros:

• Four-wheeled scooters offer stability which is important for very-active or larger users. Three-wheeled styles may work best in outdoor conditions for individuals with experience navigating a mobility scooter.
• Third party insurance often covers the cost of mobility aids – including scooters. Talk to a mobility expert regarding your eligibility and cost.
• Most mobility scooters are easy enough to use, but reputable dealers and vendors will train and familiarize consumers with the equipment that they are purchasing. Some may even offer leasing options to ensure you are getting a scooter that will work for you and your distinct situation satisfactorily.
• Highly-rated merchants and retailers will offer a thorough assessment of your distinct needs to ensure you are buying a device that will increase accessibility and that is pragmatic for your living situation. Be wary of vendors that do not offer this personalized service.
• Another perk of buying a mobility scooter from a reputable retailer is the service provided after the sale, including rescue and repair service providers. Make sure to ask about such offerings when browsing your mobility options.

Cons:

• Unless users also consider vehicle lifts, it can be difficult to transport a mobility scooter easily. It also may involve some challenges when used on public transportation services, such as buses or trains.
• There is a potential hazard for others in shared living spaces when residents use mobility scooters, particularly if the user has hearing or vision deficits. Scooters are silent, so speak to merchants about bells, signals, or horns if this is a concern.
• Storing a mobility scooter can be difficult for individuals that live in communal or shared living spaces. Leaving a scooter in a hallway, communal corridor, or outdoor areas could present a fall hazard to other residents or neighbors. Furthermore, leaving scooters in these shared spaces could be a violation of rental terms in some instances.
• Charging a scooter could present problems in some living arrangements. Try to figure out how and where you will facilitate a charging cord or station before buying.

Consumer suggestions

There are a lot of features and factors to consider before you buy your mobility scooter. From seats to straps, wheels to weight-limits, make sure to discuss distinct needs with the vendor before making your purchase. Also, inquire about return policies and terms in the event you are dissatisfied with your acquisition when you get it home.

Some things to think about when looking at scooters include:

• How is the seat? Consider opting for extra-padding or adjustable options.
• Is it easy to put together? Ask vendors about installation or assembly service provision at the time of the sale.
• How long does the battery last? Assess whether the battery and operating range be adequate for your needs.
• How does the scooter turn? Make sure to try the scooter out to determine how it makes sharp corners or navigates tight spaces.
• Will you use the scooter inside or out? If you plan on using it outside, discuss lifts and transport tips with your merchant.
• How big of a scooter are you looking for? It is not unusual for consumers to have more than one mobility scooter; typically, a smaller scooter for outdoor or occasional use and a larger one for routine, inside utility.
• Weight-limit. How much does the primary user weigh? Most scooters can accommodate around 300-pounds, on the average.

Meet with mobility experts

Still feeling like a scooter is the right choice for you? Make sure to meet and talk with mobility experts regarding your options, preferences, and costs. Also, consider learning more about how vehicle lifts can make life much easier for a scooter-user. More about lifts next week!

When you are ready to make a change and invest in something that will increase access – and that has the potential to improve life – contact the mobility aids professionals. Learn more about the best model for your distinct lifestyle and take the time to review vehicle lift options to transport your mobility scooter with ease.

There are so many gardening benefits for those with disabilities and seniors, including a sense of purpose and fresh produce. Consider creating more access to a green space in honor of Garden Meditation Day on May 3^rd, 2018.  

With spring weather comes gardening season; do you know a senior that likes to garden? There are so many benefits for people to engage in this pastime, and physical limitations should not impede you in getting out, gardening, and growing something! Talk to your provider about how mobility devices can make your outdoor spaces more accessible and convenient.

Gardening benefits those with disabilities in a myriad of ways:

Do you spend any time outside gardening? Even if you lack the green space to have a large plot of produce or plants, you can still observe Garden Meditation Day May 3rd this year. Take part in cultivating or nurturing a living thing – like a potted plant, windowsill herb garden, or window-box of flowers – and see how spending time in the garden can benefit you in a myriad of ways.

Some gardening perks include:

• Physical fitness. Gardening is an enjoyable form of exercise for all fitness levels, that gets seniors up and out of the home regularly.

• Fosters flexibility. Getting down and in the dirt increases mobility and flexibility. It can help work tired or aching joints, which may ward-off some types of arthritis.

• Motivates movement. Gardening encourages the use of all motor skills, again, keeping joints and muscles limber and flexible.

• Enhances endurance. Daily gardening chores can improve your endurance and build strength over time.

• Wards-off illness. Regular activity, like gardening, helps prevent diseases like osteoporosis, which can have debilitating physical impacts on a senior.

• Reduces stress. Spending time in the garden is peaceful and it reduces stress levels. Furthermore, it promotes relaxation, which can help with mood, sleep, and overall well-being.

• Encourages a new hobby. Gardening provides stimulation and can inspire an interest in nature and the outdoors. A new hobby is a healthy coping strategy, particularly for aging individuals.

• Facilitates socialization. Another perk of gardening is that it facilitates social interactions with others. This Improves well-being as people are inherently social creatures. When many seniors may isolate or withdraw, gardening can engage them with other like-minded individuals.

• Supplies produce. A thriving garden can provide nutritious, home-grown produce. This is a win-win situation all the way around!

• Offers a sense of purpose. Taking care of a garden can offer a sense of purpose to aging people that may feel estranged or disenfranchised. Taking care and nurturing something else, like a plant or a pet, can give many seniors the motivation and reason to get out of bed each day.

Making adaptations for the gardener

Perhaps an additional benefit of gardening is that it is feasible for adjustments and adaptations to equipment and tools for the gardener. This extends to raised planters, vertical beds, and trellis gardens; some garden retailers offer retractable hanging baskets and pots on casters to increase ease for gardeners with physical limitations. Some other tips to encourage seniors to garden include:

• Wrap tools with foam and heavy-duty tape to improve grip and make them easier to handle.
• Look for lightweight, plastic gardening tools for increased ease.
• Make sure to provide a shady spot for taking breaks when gardening in hot weather.
• Rig up a tap or hose to make watering convenient and less-hazardous for the gardener.

Staying safe outside

While gardening offers a gamut of benefits, it also merits taking a few safety precautions to reduce the risk of a fall or injury when spending time outside. Some common-sense tips for the would-be gardener include:

• Tend to any cuts, scrapes, or bites immediately to avoid infection.
• Use power tools with care, and according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Clear and maintain paths or walkways that could pose a fall risk.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade when gardening on hot days and use care to prevent dehydration.
• Protect yourself with sunscreen, a brimmed-hat, and long sleeves when gardening outside.
• Always wear gardening gloves when working in the dirt.
• Skip the cocktails; alcohol can be a diuretic which can make you more vulnerable to dehydration and heat.

Don’t forget about Gardening Meditation Day this May 3^rd, 2018 – get outside and plant a pot, bed, or bounty of fresh flowers, greens, produce, and herbs this summer! If you – or someone you care about – lives with physical disabilities or limitations, talk to the experts about how mobility aids can improve accessibility and enhance the overall quality of life today. A team of mobility experts is waiting to assess, evaluate, and offer solutions that can resume independence and freedom to everyday living.