Pacific Mobility Center

Stairlifts - Lifts - Mobility Products

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Patient Safety Is on The Top of Our List

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When consumers consider mobility aids, know that patient safety is on the top of our list- and should be on the top of the buyer’s also. Pay attention to the things that matter when shopping, like being treated with dignity and high-quality products.

Have you been conflicted about the safety of mobility aids, lifts, or equipment in your home? When it comes to mobility devices, Pacific Mobility has built their business on the safe transition and easy installation provided to their clients and patients. With over 40 years of healthcare expertise, your needs will be assessed carefully before determining the best mobility options for your distinct situation, home, and lifestyle.

Patient safety is on the top of our list.

All companies should place their patrons’ health and safety above all else- but unfortunately, many do not. Pacific Mobility sets itself apart by going above and beyond to accommodate clients and preserve utmost safety when implementing and installing mobility aids and devices. We strive for our customers’ satisfaction and safety, period.

  • Confidentiality.

Patrons can rest easy, knowing that we hold their information in the strictest confidence; we uphold confidentiality and honor client/patient rights in every interaction and transaction. We also work to gain consumers’ trust with thorough needs assessments that pinpoint the most practical and viable mobility options for them, without trying to sell equipment and devices that you don’t need. Your private medical information is safe with us, and we ensure maintaining your confidentiality.

  • Delivery. 

Since safety is key, we provide professional delivery and installation, to ensure your mobility aid performs the way that you need it to. Your technician will demonstrate the operation of your device, which prevents any mishap or injury due to user error. Sit back and relax while your technician installs your device- you know that it will be done right. This also curbs user-error that could impact the overall performance of your equipment; our technicians will instruct, demonstrate, and guide you following installation.

  • Technology. 

The team at the Pacific Mobility Center keeps staff members up-to-date on the latest home healthcare technology. The company supports learning and education through seminars and training programs, as well as offers in-house opportunities. Since trends in technology change on a seemingly-daily basis, staying abreast of current trends also helps our team assist you and your caregiver in finding the best mobility options available. We offer the highest-quality products, such as Bruno lifts, to increase accessibility, preserve independence, and improve overall everyday life.  

  • Dignity. 

Our company promotes dignity and supports autonomy among our clients. We hold respect and integrity high and are a trusted family-owned business with over 60 years of experience in the field. We foster and value the relationships made with our clients and work hard to establish trust and transparency in each and every interaction. We respect your choices, preferences, and budget- and we strive to find the best options available.

  • Support. 

Our follow-up process further sets Pacific mobility apart from any competitors in the region. We have a firm -understanding of our responsibilities to the clients served, and we reach out to determine their satisfaction and offer service after the sale. Support after the sale is something we pride ourselves on- and something that has helped to build our business for years and years. We want to be available to you- the consumer- when and if you have a question, need support, or have feedback for our team.

  • Reputation. 

Pacific Mobility is a family-owned business with over 64 years of healthcare industry experience. We have established this reputation by aiming to provide the highest quality home care and accessibility products easily and feasibly, based on our valued customer’s needs and budgets. We strive to make these devices and aids accessible and available, for consumers both in our local geographic locale and our online patrons, as well.

Celebrate patient safety and spread awareness.

Plan to honor and celebrate Patient Safety Awareness Week, scheduled for the week of March 11-17, 2018. The goal of the commemoration is to bring together healthcare providers, caregivers, and patients to share and disseminate information about patient safety. Events, programs, and speakers are some of the ways that this occurs, but individuals widely can do their part by making small adjustments, efforts, and augments to improve safety in their own environment.

Worried about the safety of mobility aids or devices in your home? Don’t be; Pacific Mobility offers an assurance of safety satisfaction with the mobility aids that they distribute and sell. Whether you are an online consumer seeking information about access, or a local patron that is ready to update or upgrade their current living situation, Pacific mobility offers the products that can preserve autonomy, increase access, and improve lives for countless consumers living with physical limitations or disabilities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobility Experts Explain the Differences Of Ramps vs Vertical Platform Lifts

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Mobility experts explain the differences between ramps and vertical platform lifts, which comes down to differences in convenience, configurations, cohesion, complexities, consumer-friendliness, costs, and curb appeal. Lifts win hands-down in most categories.

When it comes to access, mobility devices are life-changing. First of all, ramps can allow for autonomy throughout homes and businesses, while lifts can provide new access to consumers with physical limitations. Ramps and lifts- which is right for you?

Mobility experts explain the differences between ramps and vertical platform lifts:

Nearly seven million people in this country rely on some type of mobility device or aid for everyday living. It is estimated that around one-and-a-half million of these individuals are wheelchair-users. When using a wheelchair or scooter, often ramps are too big or too steep, while lifts may be impractical or more-costly; before making your choice between ramps and lifts, consider some the inherent features of each.

Compare and contrast- which mobility solution is best for you?

Convenience

Perhaps convenience is the biggest factor to consider when buying mobility aids, like ramps and lifts; after all, it is doesn’t add ease to daily living, why bother at all? It is important to mention that lifts are not limited to those in wheelchairs and could be more pragmatic than you think. Lifts are used by a diverse and group of consumers, including those with wheelchairs or scooters which comprises around 1.7 million Americans.

Configuration

The placement and configuration of your mobility aid can also point toward whether lifts or ramps make more sense. When you are looking to improve access outside, such as to a porch or raised space, a ramp may seem like the logical solution. The truth is that in many instances, the ramp is not practical as the rise of the step is too high, making ramps too steep. Lifts can increase access to decks, floors, and other sections of your space without this conundrum. Also, both options present distinct challenges in homes of communal areas. Pay heed to lift safety pertaining to children and pets.

Consumer-friendly

Another point to consider is how consumer-friendly lifts and ramps actually are. Ramps are stationary, requiring no real consumer effort seemingly, but is it for someone in a wheelchair with limited hand or wrist mobility? Lifts provide a better option for those living with disabilities that may not use a wheelchair, such as arthritis, heart issues, or respiratory illness. Also, portable lifts are a practical option when trying to adapt and improve accessibility at a function or event. Portable ramps are available, but often less satisfactory for a diverse group of users with different and distinct limitations.

Complexities

Among the complexities that further blur the choice between ramps and lifts involves installation. If you are dealing with a low-rise, a ramp can be ideal, serving as a rise to around 18-inches high. Know that to accommodate this ramp, you will need a lot of space. Lifts tend to be more conservative space-wise, only needing around one-third of the area required by a ramp. A downside to implementing lifts is that it doesn’t always facilitate visitors with goods, stock, or freight, while ramps usually do.

Costs

Many caregivers and consumers buy ramps, thinking it is the obvious, low-cost option, but this is not necessarily the most cost-effective approach. Depending on if you are buying for the home or workplace, your lift could pay-off over time in utility and ease, while ramps may be more pragmatic when deliveries, freight, or handcarts are involved. When figuring out costs of ramps versus lifts, take into account all these factors to find solutions that may vary in their bottom-line, but that will save you money, time, and effort in the long-run.

Curb appeal

Think about how the ramp or lift will meld into the environment that you are installing these amenities in. If your building is historic or high-end, you may prefer the sleek and subtle look of a lift over a bulkier ramp. This discreet style also may appeal to more users, and its sleek style and design may be preferred in contemporary, industrial, and modern settings.

Talk to the experts for the mobility solution that is best for you

Ramps versus lifts? The answer depends on who you ask! However, it would seem that consumers have more options and wider-access to mobility aids of all types that can change everyday living and improve the overall quality of life forever. Talk to your providers and- when you are ready- consider the benefits of both ramps and lifts in your space.

Buy mobility aids from vendors that care enough to assess your needs thoroughly and offer support as you adapt to your acquisition. Whether you invest in ramps or lifts, make sure that the seller stands behind their product- from installation to repairs- and that will be available to you as needs change and questions arise.

Wondering What Goes Into Our Recommendations?

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Prospective mobility product buyers may wonder what goes into our recommendations viewed online. Customers laud the assessment, installation, service and support of our mobility aids, as well as the quality of the merchandise sold.

Investing in mobility devices should not be entered into lightly, and many retailers have garnered a reputation based on the sales, service, and support provided among the consumer audience. Pacific Mobility has taken great care to establish themselves and enhance the overall customer buying experience, which is reflected in the online reviews and recommendations found. Be an informed buyer and do your homework in terms of reviewing online feedback to measure the satisfaction of previous consumers. This will tease-out reputable vendors and lead to longer-term satisfaction with your mobility device or equipment.

Wondering what goes into our recommendations from satisfied customers?

Have you read any of our online reviews or recommendations? While we don’t want to brag, they are definitely worth a read for anyone contemplating how mobility devices can change their lives. Pacific Mobility takes great pride in the scores of satisfied customers, as well as in the fact that these mobility solutions enhance life quality for the many consumers using them daily. Don’t take our word for it; check out the online feedback for yourself!

Some of the things that customers love about us are:

The Assessment

Anytime you plan on buying something such as medical devices and mobility aids, plan to go through an assessment process. This is something that helps potential patrons pin-point the precise solution to best suit their needs, living arrangements, and budget. Skipping a comprehensive assessment could result in ill-suited purchases, unnecessary expenses, and long-term dissatisfaction. Customers laud this as an insightful, eye-opening part of the process.

The Installation

Professional installation is the only way to go, and Pacific Mobility receives rave reviews for their skillful installation and courteous technicians. When you opt for equipment that is not professionally installed, you run the risk of malfunction, property damage, and even potential personal injury; err on the side of caution and only purchase mobility devices that come with professional installation, reinstallation, or uninstallation service provisions. Furthermore, make sure that the company you work with receives high marks for their installation process, time-frame, and courtesy before making purchase decisions.

Product Quality

All the assessments in the world and the very best installation means nothing if the product quality is not up to par; Pacific Mobility prides itself on offering customers the best in mobility aids and equipment on the market today. Top-named brands include Bruno, a benchmark of quality in the industry. Customers tout the longevity and dependability of Bruno, making it a popular choice among those buying lifts. Not sure about a Bruno? Talk to our knowledgeable team about rentals to determine the distinctions and differences for yourself.

The Service

Something else often noted in the recommendations and reviews is the reliable service of mobility equipment. When something goes wrong, you want assistance fast- and Pacific Mobility customers know that their needs will be met efficiently and effectively. No one wants to plan on a problem, but it is nice to know that should one arise, help is on the way. Fast and friendly service is something you will see time and time again in our recommendations and online reviews, and customers deserve nothing less.

Ease Of Working With Us

Another thing noted by customers is the ease of reviewing and buying mobility equipment. It should not be a complicated or time-consuming endeavor, though it is an important decision that should be made with information and insight. Let the vendor do the work- from scheduling to installing- and don’t let it interrupt your daily life. From the buyer’s perspective, it should be fairly easy.

Furthermore, note the ease and user-friendliness of the website. If the vendor website doesn’t provide you with accurate contact information, easy-to-follow tabs, and simple layouts, move on. Being able to access and navigate the vendor’s website is something else that should play into the choices that you make.

Our Support

Many vendors are excited to sell equipment, but then disappear, not providing support after the sale. Our customers know that if the customer isn’t happy, Pacific Mobility isn’t happy either. Support is available for questions, queries, or information online all the time, so you are never left waiting around. This fast response has garnered positive reviews and attention, as it provides a peace of mind that other retailers simply don’t offer. Once you buy something from us, you will never have to go it alone- and our recommendations reflect this.

Speak With the Experts Today

Pacific Mobility recognizes that each client has unique mobility needs, and they have made it their business to assess and assist hundreds of clients over the years. Each situation provides a new experience and valuable insight into the industry, providing their clients with the best mobility solutions for their distinct living situations. Before you invest in mobility aids, you owe it to yourself- and those you love- to only work with reputable professionals that come highly-recommended by their patrons.

How We Help Seniors Stay Independent

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Some ways how we help seniors stay independent surround accessibility, assistance, autonomy, activities of daily living, aging-in-place, and thorough assessment. Mobility aids foster independence, which can improve overall quality of life.

This February, celebrate National Senior Independence Month by fostering independence and striving to make your senior’s life better. Assisted-living facilities and caregivers offer some suggestions to enhance everyday living, and these can easily be translated and implemented into other living situations and homes, including the installation of mobility devices for those with physical limitations or disabilities. Embrace independence and celebrate by offering a helping-hand and treating older individuals with dignity and respect.

Some Ways We Help Seniors Stay Independent With Mobility Aids Are:

A little assistance is often all that is needed to improve quality of life and enhance everyday activities for a senior. Mobility aids, primarily lifts, can increase the access that a senior has around their own home surroundings; for instance, users may be able to get upstairs, drive their vehicle, or get in and out of a swimming pool! Depending on your situation, lifts can make the home more convenient and comfortable.

Mobility aids facilitate independence in the following ways:

Accessibility

Do you know what it is like to be unable to access areas of your home surroundings? Increasing access is one of the main reasons why consumers invest in mobility aids. Some popular options include porch lifts, stairlifts, and vehicle lifts, but access may also extend to widening doorways for wheelchairs and scooters, installing ceiling lifts for getting out of bed, or grab-rails for uneven or raised surfaces. Having access to the spaces you want or need to visit is, indeed, part of living independently.

Assistance

Often times, a little assistance goes a long way toward independence. A helping-hand may be all that is needed to preserve autonomy and stay in a current living situation. This helping-hand may come in the form of a visit from a caregiver, home health services, or mobility aids to increase safety and access around the home. If you are seeking assistance for a senior, check out online resources to find service providers in your area; if you are looking for quality, made in the USA mobility aids, look no further than the mobility experts.

Autonomy

Speaking of which, another way that we foster independence is by providing seniors with dignity and autonomy and allowing seniors to convey their wishes and respect their choices. This may involve creative problem-solving when a senior does not want any help and that is reticent toward changes in their living situation. Mobility aids and equipment can protect the senior from having to make these tough decisions, and allow them the freedom to stay in the home that they love. This also can make caregivers safer when assisting seniors, which leads to greater autonomy for all involved.

Activities of Daily Life (ADLs)

Part of everyday life are tasks like dressing, grooming, eating, and bathing- which are called activities of daily living (ADLs). These ADLs can present challenges for seniors with physical impairments or disabilities. Grab-bars by the sink, reaching tools in the kitchen, and a step-in shower can all facilitate consumers with their ADLs, while promoting independence and fostering self-confidence among the aged.

Aging-in-place

Another way to show support for seniors’ independence is to allow them to age-in-place. This basically refers to allowing them to live in their own homes for as long as possible and by supporting their choices- even if you don’t agree with them. This is where mobility aids, devices, and augments can make a dramatic difference in the senior’s safety and quality of life when living with a disability or physical limitation. This can also help a caregiver support and assist the senior, without fear of injury or accident when helping those with mobility issues.

Assessment

To truly determine how to best help seniors preserve their independence, an assessment of needs is warranted. This may uncover mobility aids and assistance that will be helpful and practical, while also seeking to look at ways of improving the overall quality of life. You should only buy from mobility aids vendors that offer a thorough assessment of needs and professional installation; this guarantees long-term satisfaction and support after you have brought home your mobility equipment.

Contact Us Now For Your Mobility Solutions

Don’t waste another day without optimizing access and putting the priority on independence. Whether you or a loved one lives in their own home, assisted-living, or other situation, strive to replicate how we facilitate independence to enhance overall quality of life. Contact the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility to assess your current and future needs, and to discuss installation, costs, and options.

Would an increase in access make a difference in your life or the life of someone you love? If so, talk with the experts about mobility aids and equipment to increase convenience, improve autonomy, and preserve independence today. Also, use these suggestions and hints how we help seniors stay independent now!

Ceiling Lift Versus Floor Lift, The Pros and Cons of Both

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Keep safe patient handling in mind when deciding between a ceiling lift versus a floor lift. The pros and cons of both are contingent on the user, the caregiver, and the living situation.

Transporting someone with a physical impairment or disability can pose hazards to both the individual and the caregiver, as well as run the risk of significant injury. There are numerous mobility devices and aids that can make this process simpler and less-dangerous,

Make safety the priority

Safe Patient Handling refers to protecting both the patient and the caregiver with safe transport methods. Equipment and mobility aids, such as lifts, are fast-becoming an integral component of patient care in hospitals and skilled-nursing settings. Training curriculums often address the principles of good-body mechanics, which decreases the risk of an injury during transports or ADLs (activities of daily life), like bathing or dressing. Implement these same strategies at home to preserve autonomy and to enhance safety when working with individuals that have physical limitations or disabilities.

Ceiling Lift versus Floor Lift: The Pros and Cons of Both:

Talk with a reputable and certified retailer of mobility aids and devices for a thorough nneeds assessment which will indicate the most pragmatic options for you. Furthermore, resist buying second-hand devices from private sellers, as these will not be backed by any type of warranty, support, or service after the sale. Buying from a qualified vendor ensures professional installation and customer satisfaction.  Before making purchase decisions, consider the differences and distinctions of these two very-different accessibility aids.

Ceiling Lifts

Ceiling lifts are often seen in skilled nursing settings, and may be the contraption that you see installed overhead when visiting patients or sitting bedside. A tracking system is installed for the lift to run on during transfers and transports, and the tracking is usually secured to the ceiling, itself, or mounted to a wall. Some ceiling lifts are free standing systems, which often resemble a floor lift although the stabilization or support may differ. Consumers and caregivers seeking assistance with daily routines and ADLs often opt for ceiling lifts, which provide a sense of safety and peace of mind, but there are other factors that may make this device less practical for some households. Interested buyers should meet with reputable merchants for an assessment of needs, product information, and price estimates before making purchase decisions.

Some pros and cons of ceiling lifts include:

  • Ceiling lifts are deemed easier to utilize than floor lifts in skilled nursing settings where patients are routinely moved.
  • Consumers will pay for the convenience of ceiling lifts, as these are typically more expensive than floor lifts.
  • Ceiling lifts offer a wider-range of options and movement than floor lifts. Patients can be raised, lowered, lifted, and rolled using a ceiling lift.
  • Ceiling lifts- that are installed- don’t require storage space or take up room in small quarters.

Floor Lifts

Floor lifts are an interesting concept. While the name implies that the device raises and lowers the ground, what it actually does is create a hoist to raise the patient above the floor- wherever they happen to be. These devices provide a lower center of gravity and fulcrum for the transport, similar to the role of a ceiling with a ceiling lift. It always makes the most sense to discuss your options with providers and equipment vendors to ensure you are getting the right device for your needs, living situation, and budget.

Some pros and cons of floor lifts are:

  • Floor lifts require more exertion to complete the transport than a ceiling lift. Typically, it takes more than one caregiver to lift or move a patient with a floor lift as opposed to a single caregiver to assist with a ceiling lift.
  • Floor lifts are mobile, able to easily move from room-to-room, but take up more space than an installed ceiling lift does.
  • Floor lifts are cost-efficient, making it feasible to increase access and ease at a lower price point.
  • Floor lifts can be taken on vacation, during respite stays, or to another setting, in the event that the patient or user leaves their home. Ceiling lifts would require professional uninstallation and reinstallation.

Consider Both Patients and Caregivers

Keep in mind that mobility aids are intended for both consumers and those providing care for them, further reinforcing the prudence and practicality of such purchases. These expenditures will enhance access, autonomy, and quality of life for the user, while also providing reassurance, convenience, and safety for caregivers and loved ones.

Floor lifts versus ceiling lifts? The choice is ultimately up to you. Remember that the key for long-term satisfaction is to buy mobility aids from dealers who will stand behind their product and guide you as you adapt and adjust to mobility aids. Accessibility equipment, such as lifts, are a win-win situation!

How Our Certifications Give You Peace of Mind

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Seniors and those with physical disabilities can buy mobility aids with confidence, knowing how our certifications give you peace of mind, service, and support throughout your recovery, rehabilitation, and journey.

Making the decision to buy mobility devices is a significant event that can have life-changing impacts. You want the transition to be smooth and enhance convenience- not deter or impede the user. This is why it is integral to only buy from reliable and reputable vendors that offer a guarantee of satisfaction, professional installation, and service after the sale. Look for merchants and distributors that have been certified by state and federal organizations as being a qualified, professional, and consumer-friendly source of accessibility devices.

How our certifications give you peace of mind:

Don’t buy used equipment or patronize vendors that are not licensed and experienced in mobility aids; the repercussions can include property damage, personal injury, and overall dissatisfaction with your investment. Also, don’t allow uncertified or unqualified people repair or augment your mobility devices; this should only be done by a professional. Ask any prospective vendors or technicians for their certifications before making buying decisions and preserve convenience and maintain safety by only making purchases from highly- qualified merchants.

Some of our specific certifications include:

Certified Environmental Access Consultant

Professionals that offer living solutions, mobility devices, and services can apply for certification to become a Certified Environmental Access Consultant (CEAC). This credential is a recognized certification with a mission to help consumers be more independent and allow them the opportunity to age-in-place.  This certification should demonstrate to potential patrons that the company supports autonomy and will provide service to the consumer. This group aims to look at holistic aspects of living and all of the things that contribute to overall life quality; for seniors, this can restore independence and- in turn- build confidence and purpose. It is these elements of everyday living that contribute to overall life satisfaction and personal fulfillment, particularly among the aging demographic.

Home Access Professionals

Home Access Professionals (HAP) is a highly credentialed and experienced network providing of members that create life-changing refurbishments for those with physical disabilities. This group only permits membership for highly-skilled accessibility contractors and vendors, which then assess and customize accessibility features for the population that they serve. This is a highly-esteemed group that displays the members’ commitment to the needs of the consumer- and that shows empathy in the work that they do and the lives that they change routinely.

Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry

The Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA) is a non-profit organization that has met the needs of mobility device manufacturers, vendors, and consumers since 1990. Membership to this exclusive group requires application, a vote, and approval- before becoming a vested member with voting rights and equal input into the group’s activities. Membership demonstrates an awareness and insight into the needs of the population requiring assistance with mobility and/or access.

California State Licensing Board

For consumers in California, the California State License Board and the Contractors State License Board are also credentials worth paying attention to. Qualification for this prestigious organization provide an assurance of reputation, that can protect buyers with regulations made to the construction industry. The goal of this certification is to promote safety, health, and the best interests of the public when it comes to home remodels and accessibility augments. Pacific Mobility has earned this certification, operating under license #744414. Buy your mobility aids and devices from this local vendor, who also promises customers with service, professional installation, and support when you use your new equipment. Furthermore, their thorough assessment of needs at initial contact makes it easy to find the right devices for your distinct situation and home.

Credentials for those with the mission of supporting seniors and those with disabilities live independently should include CAPS certification. CAPS is comprised of professionals that have insight and expertise into the aging process, and these members have been deemed to be Aging-in-place specialists. This can parlay fears and set-aside worry for those consumers that live in their own homes or that are trying to preserve as much independence as possible, despite a physical limitation or disability. The bottom-line is that CAPS certified vendors will look out for your interest and support your wishes to remain in your own home, which can be very reassuring.

Investing in mobility aids is a turning-point in the lives of those with physical limitations or disabilities. Ensure the process is a pleasant and positive one by only purchasing equipment from certified, qualified professionals. Talk with our experts and let us assess your needs to find the perfect options for you, your living situation, and lifestyle- and to gain peace of mind that you will receive the service and support that you deserve.

Tools That Can Help to Break the Bonds of Codependency

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Those with physical limitations may feel reliant, even codependent, on caregivers and others. Learn the tools that can help to break the bonds of codependency, and improve overall quality of life.

Individuals who live with physical limitations or disabilities may develop a sense of codependency on caregivers, loved ones, or others. This feeling of reliance can impact and impede overall well-being and leave many with a decreased quality of life. Invest in mobility devices that aid and assist the individual in daily living, which can build confidence and lift spirits.

Tools can help to break the bonds of codependency

Did you know that almost every person in the country feels some type of codependency on someone else? It is estimated that around 96% of the population struggle with this in varying degrees. Utilize pragmatic tools to combat this epidemic, and to break the burdensome bonds that codependency creates:

  • Empower

Don’t let those with physical limitations or disabilities feel like they are less than they are; make sure to allow them to make choices, tackle situations, and preserve autonomy. Give your loved one the chance to try before lending a helping hand.

  • Reassure

Reassure your loved one- and yourself- that you can do it. Remind them of past trials and tribulations, as well as successes and achievements. This will demonstrate that you have faith in them- even when they don’t have faith in themselves.

  • Reinforce

Model and demonstrate behaviors for those with challenges, which can reinforce how something can be accomplished. For instance, when trying to move from one spot to another, show them how to move to stand or access their mobility aids; when helping your loved one with hygiene, show them how to hold a brush or grooming-tool, as needed.

  • Accommodate

Make every attempt to accommodate the distinct needs of your loved one with mobility aids, devices, and equipment to help keep them independent and safe. Something as simple as providing rails near the bath or reacher-tools for the kitchen can help prevent falls and subsequent injuries, debilitating incidents for seniors. Have the home evaluated by a caregiver or agency to determine areas that may be beefed-up in terms of access and accommodation.

  • Support

Another tool for consumers struggling with their feelings of codependency- and those that love them- is support. Observe National Codependency Awareness Month in January and do something to empower yourself or others, whether that is advocating for someone else or calling up an old friend. Reach out and garner some support for what you are going through, and learn how others deal with feelings of reliance or dependency. Sometimes, it can help to know that there are people that understand.

Aid in providing access and autonomy to those living with physical disabilities

There are a lot of things that you can do around the home to help foster independence while keeping your loved one safe and comfortable. Beyond fixtures and devices, there are some things that you can do to show that you support their autonomy- and that won’t cost a dime.

Do something to provide increased access and autonomy for someone with physical limitations:

  • Listen

When is the last time that you truly listened to what your loved one was trying to tell you? Take time and make it a point to really listen and to hear what they say. It is not always easy to ask for- or decline- assistance, yet it can make the difference in autonomous living and a life of depending on others.

  • Advocate

Another way that you can facilitate and foster self-reliance is to step-up and say something when the occasion arises or when you see your loved one’s wishes being refuted. This extends beyond your own circle and applies to the community of people in this country living with physical disabilities. Do something, volunteer, or speak to enact laws, make changes, and improve life for everyone impacted by physical impairments.

  • Support

Be there to support your loved one, but also pay attention to your own needs as well. Get support from others to take time out when needed, and to prevent compassion fatigue when caregiving for someone with a physical disability or impairment. Support is a two-way street: it pays to seek out resources for both caregivers and their client, consumer, or loved one, to provide better care and to maintain the patience and perseverance to strive toward autonomy.

  • Facilitate

Call today for a thorough needs-assessment and find the mobility aids and devices that counter the challenges of everyday living. From lifts to walkers, chairs to railings, there are simple solutions to everyday tasks that can go a long way in establishing and maintaining independence.

Want to help break the bonds of codependency for someone that you love? Talk to the experts about mobility aids and strategies to make the home a safer and more accessible place, while also building the esteem and autonomy of the individual living with a physical limitation, disability, or medical issue. Quality of life is contingent on a person’s self-worth and self-love, both of which can be improved with simple augments and accommodations around the home- and in the way that you interact with your loved one.

stairlift Safety for Children and Pets

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When you install mobility aids, pay attention to stairlift safety for children and pets in your home. A key tip is to teach others to stay clear of the lift when it is in use and to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for usage.

A stairlift can provide increased access and improve the quality of life for users, but how do you prevent problems when kids and pets are around your mobility devices? Talk to the seller of your new lift to determine the guidelines and recommended standards for use, and then reinforce behaviors in the home that curb the contact children and pets will have with your new device. Also, installation experts may provide tips that make everyday utility easier and that create a smoother transition to the home.

Pay attention to maintain stairlift safety for children and pets in your home

stairlifts are intended to make the home more accessible and safer; make sure that you are following the manufacturer’s guidelines for use before installing, sitting on, or using your lift:

Teach them early

Start teaching your children and pets to simply stay away from the lift when it is operating, and to keep the surrounding area around the lift clear. Just as you would teach a toddler to steer away from hot surfaces, reinforce that they should step away from the lift when it is being used.

Move obstructions and risks

Make a policy that obstructions and objects are to be kept off the stairway, and subsequently, away from the lift. Don’t simply rely on the sensors to let you know when hazards lurk, but make it a general practice to look for such dangers, such as pets, toys, or shoes, before using the lift.

Carefully consider the position

Work with the installer to find the right position for your lift. This could impact any gates that you use around the stairs to prevent children or pets from having access. While this may require some creative thinking, it is not a valid reason to abstain from the access your new lift will provide.

Use sensors 

Make sure that the lift you buy is outfitted with sensors, for detecting objects and obstacles that could interfere with transport. The sensor prompts the lift to stop- until the item or obstacle is removed from the path. Sensors may also prevent a nasty injury to a pet that could run in the path of the lift, and that could potentially injure you both.

Pay attention when exiting 

It seems that getting-off the stairlift presents the most risks, as transferring from the lift to the floor or landing can be challenging for those with mobility issues. This is when pets or small children underfoot can cause problems, so be vigilant about protecting the ‘landing-spots’ in some way.

Keep it locked 

Look into a locking mechanism for your lift, which requires a key for the unit to operate the lift. This will deter curious kids or accidental incidents when there are others around your lift in the home.

Invest in a swivel-seat 

When customizing your new stairlift, select seats that swivel for more range-of-motion. These types of features can also make the sometimes-precarious exit off the lift easier. The swivel-action can improve the user’s balance when using the lift, which can reduce the risk of a fall, especially when there are unruly pets around!

Re-think buying a used-lift

A used stairlift may seem like a prudent investment, but it makes much sense to work with a qualified and experienced vendor that can provide a guarantee and service in case you run into an issue. These merchants will also be able to provide repairs, information, and support to you as you adapt to your mobility device.

Arrange for service

Plan on getting your lift serviced regularly to be confident that the safety features, sensors, and lift are in full and fine working condition. Talk to your vendor about the frequency of these visits when buying your stairlift.

Always follow the safety guidelines recommended by your stairlift manufacturer

Make sure to follow all safety guidelines and the manufacturer’s recommendations for utility when operating the stairlift. If you follow these standards, you should be able to enjoy the access and autonomy that lifts provide- without the worry of harm to children or pets in the home.

It is true: mobility aids increase access and improve quality of life for the thousands of households using them. Use these suggestions to keep your lift free from damage wreaked by kids and pets, and to keep users safe on and off their lift when there are others about. Talk with your mobility expert to find other strategies that will curb safety issues when you live with children or pets.