disability

Mobility is important for autonomy, and if you face physical limitations, mobility aids are key. Furthermore, mobility aids- like walkers, wheelchairs, and lifts- can provide a sense of confidence and instill peace of mind, among those using the equipment, their caregivers, and loved ones.  

Accessibility is important for autonomy and mobility aids can help. Such assistance can also increase confidence and peace of mind, with less worry of a fall or subsequent injury. This also extends to those caring for or about the individual using mobility aids, offering the assurance that they are safer with greater accessibility. Become confident and more independent with some simple solutions that improve everyday mobility and access.  

Some mobility aids that provide peace of mind include: 

Stairlifts 

Since falls are the leading cause of accidents and accident-related fatalities among seniors, it makes sense to look for ways to reduce the overall risk of a nasty tumble. For those who live in multi-level dwellings, a stairlift can improve accessibility, increase safety, and lower hazards in the home. Always buy lifts from a qualified vendor that offers professional installation and service after the sale. Stairlifts can be a big aid for seniors aging in place, or those that want to remain in their home as long as possible. Stairlifts bring independence and an improved quality of life to those who rely on them.  

Walkers 

If mobility challenges stem from difficulty walking, standing, or sitting for periods of time, a walker can help. With many different styles and features, it makes the most sense to visit qualified mobility retailers to find the best fit for your own distinct needs and preferences. From rolling walkers with seats to folding walkers that you can take along with ease, there are many options at varying price points to consider. Walkers provide a bit of stability and support that can ease the worry of a fall or a debilitating injury.  

Canes 

A cane can provide peace of mind on the go. After all, they easily fit in a bag, vehicle, or under an arm to go wherever you do. A cane can be just the right amount of support when standing or sitting down, offering the peace of mind that you will be able to rise and stand as necessary. Canes are also helpful if you live with a visual impairment; visit a mobility retail venue to learn more.  

Super Poles 

If you worry about a senior who lives alone, a super pole may be one way to alleviate stress. These are installed near the bed, assisting the individual with getting in and out of bed safely each day. This may reduce the risk of falling when seniors may be most vulnerable, after sleeping when muscles may be stiff, or at bedtime when they are most fatigued.  

Shower Seats 

Experts say that most falls occur in the bathroom. One way to lower the incidence is to get a shower bench or seat. These fit over the tub wall or inside the tub and shower for secure, stable support when bathing. Seniors may be able to bathe unassisted, but with the peace of mind that they can sit down to wash their hair or rest, as needed. Shower seats are inexpensive and do not require any special installation.  

Grab Bars 

Another way to garner peace of mind is with grab bars. Grab bars can be easily installed into the beams and studs of your walls to provide a sturdy and stable hold as needed. These are commonly found installed near stairways, steps, the toilet, sinks, and any place that you may benefit from support to reduce the risk of a fall.  

Ramps 

Coming and going is a lot easier with lower risks when you use ramps. Buyers have the choice of permanent ramps as well as portable ramps, which are a cost-effective alternative that you can take with you on the go. Ramps prevent stumbles from thresholds, risers, and steps- plus they offer a comfortable, easy entry or exit from a home. Talk to a mobility professional to find out more about the peace of mind that comes with a ramp.  

Emotional Wellness Month in October 

Emotional Wellness Month in October is the perfect time to embrace those goals and objectives that bring you greater peace of mind, as well as a positive attitude. One tactic is to pinpoint mobility aids and devices that will enhance autonomy and accessibility. When you have greater independence, it can lead to an improved quality of overall life and holistic well-being, too. Don’t let everyday stress impact and erode your health and wellness. Chronic stress and anxiety can weaken the immune system, leaving you vulnerable to all kinds of illnesses.  

Make October and Emotional Wellness Month the time to take back control of your health and well-being and seek out mobility aids that facilitate greater access and autonomy.  

For greater peace of mind, rely on quality mobility aids and equipment from Pacific Mobility. We have been serving customers and clients widely for generations; call or visit to find out more!  

Does it make sense to invest in a stairlift at this time, or is it better to rent? The answer to that question should consider factors including your medical condition, prognosis, and living situation. Another aspect to consider is cost and how insurance may defray what you pay out-of-pocket for the mobility aids that you need. Talk to a qualified mobility professional to find out more about renting versus buying when it comes to a new stairlift.  

You may only need mobility aids, like stairlifts, for a short time, such as a rehabilitation period following illness, injury, or surgery. In these cases, it may make more sense to rent a stairlift to enhance your accessibility at home. However, if you have a progressive or chronic condition with the potential of getting more severe over time, buying may be the most viable option for you. When in doubt about whether it is better to rent or buy a stairlift, talk with your providers and consider the following questions: 

• Think about how long you plan to use it: will it be permanent or temporary? 
• Are you recovering from an injury or procedure?  
• Are your mobility issues chronic and progressive, or short-term? 
• Are you permanently disabled? 
• Do you plan to age in place at your home? 
• Are you in pain? 
• How old are you? Are you a senior? 
• Do you have regular caregivers? 

Furthermore, there are some factors related to the home environment that must be addressed. For example, custom stair lifts for distinctive steps are typically not feasible for rentals. In this scenario, you would need to buy a customized stairlift to fit unique stairways.  

Buying a Stairlift 

You will probably need to buy a stairlift if you have these situations at home:  

• Spiral stairs 
• Curved staircases 
• Very long or steep stairs 
• Outdoor steps or stairs 

Additionally, you will likely need a custom stairlift if you want a power, swivel seat, backup energy source, or if you require a lift that exceeds common weight capacity, usually over 300 pounds, which means buying is best. If you are an older person who wants to remain in your own home as long as possible, buying a lift seems to be a worthwhile investment to make.  

Renting a Stairlift 

Many consumers are surprised to learn that they can rent a stairlift for a temporary period of time. These provide accessibility during recovery, rehabilitation, or recuperation after an injury, illness, or procedure. These are also a wise option when you want to ascertain if the longer-term investment for a permanent stairlift is right for you. Talk to a mobility professional to find out more about renting a stairlift.   

If you own a business or commercial property, renting a stairlift as opposed to buying one is a prudent approach if you have staff or employees that would benefit from the added accessibility. Some companies may opt to make a permanent investment and buy a stairlift for their site. Remember that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that public spots and workplaces are accessible for those with physical limitations. Bring your building up to code with permanent mobility aids, as needed. 

Installing and Removing a Stairlift 

It takes around the same amount of time to install a rental stairlift as it does a permanent one, which is between two and five hours, depending on the situation. Removal of a lift may incur a charge; talk with your mobility retailer to learn more. Depending on the complexity of the home and stairs, it can take one to several hours to uninstall your lift. Remember that there may be some small holes or slight damage left when removing a stairlift, which should be easily remedied after the uninstallation with caulk and/or paint.  

Keep in mind that you should only consider renting or buying your stairlift from a qualified and reputable mobility aids company. This ensures support and service long after you make the purchase- as well as a resource to rent a high-quality stairlift, as needed. There are safety risks associated with allowing anyone other than a certified technician to install, modify, or remove a stairlift from the home, and allowing someone else to work on the aid may nullify any warranty that you may have on the equipment.  

Buying second-hand from a private seller may seem like a good idea at the time, but weigh the pros and cons, first. For long-term satisfaction and safety, opt for a brand-name stairlift from an area seller that specializes in mobility aids and equipment, including stairlifts. Read customer feedback and reviews to determine who is reputable in your geographic location.  

Wondering about whether to rent or buy your stairlift? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility first. We have generations of experience serving the mobility needs of our valued clients across California- and beyond! Call or visit today.  

A critical illness is a serious condition whereas death could occur. During recovery from a critical illness, mobility aids help prevent further injury or complication, which is crucial during this phase of healing. Mobility aids may also make it easier and safer for patients in their rehabilitation, which may involve physical activities, walking, standing, etc.  

A critical illness is defined as a condition where death could be the outcome, and some examples may include organ failure, heart attacks, coma, and cancer. Even after coming home from the hospital, it can be a long road to recovery that requires ongoing medical interventions and treatment. Some post ICU care interventions may involve physical activity and rehab treatment, to restore physical strength and mobility, but a fall or injury can derail progress. This is why mobility aids are key to help after a critical illness as both a safety measure and a rehabilitative tool.  

Here are a few mobility aids to help following a critical illness: 

Ramps 

Ramps are easy to overlook but can be essential in getting in and out of a dwelling, through doors, or around the home safely. These offer an alternative to steps or stairs, which can be important to those recuperating from a critical illness affecting mobility and stamina. Did you know that some ramps are portable? That is, they are not constructed to fit the home but rather offer a foldable design that you can take with you wherever you go, ensuring convenience and accessibility.  

Walkers 

When it comes to walking and navigating the home, one aid that can be invaluable is a walker. There are numerous types and designs, with four to zero wheels, and certain styles may suit different users. Walkers are typically lightweight and bring a source of stability to the user when walking, standing, or sitting. There are knee walkers, rolling walkers, and stationary walkers- all intended for mobility assistance. Another perk is that walkers are often covered by insurance plans and are relatively inexpensive to buy out-of-pocket.  

Canes 

If a walker won’t work in your living situation, or if you are stepping down from reliance on a walker, a cane can help. A cane can be adjusted with grips that help the user hang on firmly, or a simple walking stick may be all that is necessary for a bit of support when sitting or standing. Canes are often used by those with visual impairments to help navigate their surroundings, too.  

Shower Bench 

A nasty fall on a slippery bathroom floor can derail progress and set patients back in their recovery from a critical illness or condition. Lower your risk of a fall in this area of the home with a shower bench or seat. These are widely found and inexpensive to purchase, and they offer a source of support during bathing, showering, and washing. Some fit over the tub wall, while others are freestanding for a shower stall environment. They keep the user secure and comfortable during this activity of daily life (ADL) while they rehabilitate.  

Super Pole 

A super pole installed securely near the bed can help patients recovering from debilitating conditions get in and out of bed safely. Depending on where they are placed, a super pole can also offer stability for the patient as they navigate and move about the home. Want to learn more? Talk with a mobility retail professional about a Super Pole today.  

Lifts 

Talk with your healthcare providers about installing a lift in the home. These provide the dual benefit of assisting the patient with accessibility while also protecting the caregivers from injuries as they help. Stairlifts provide easier access to upper levels or entries, while ceiling lifts help carers transport and transfer patients more securely and with less risk involved. Some patients may not be able to return home without aids like lifts to make it a viable and safe living option.  

National Critical Illness Awareness Month 

Observe National Critical Illness Awareness Month in October to honor both those living with the impacts of a critical illness as well as their caregivers. There is a lot to navigate when leaving the hospital after a serious illness, injury, or condition, and there are resources that can help. The needs of the patient can evolve and change, but in the process, do not overlook the needs of those caring for them. Not all carers are paid professionals; many may be family members or friends who are unfamiliar or unequipped for their new circumstances. This national observance provides the opportunity to learn, network, and access resources that may help along the way.  

Mobility aids like these are an important tool for those recovering from a critical illness, for safety, comfort, and health prevention. Visit or call Pacific Mobility to learn more about adaptive aids that can assist you in your rehabilitation and recovery. 

Wondering about installing a stairlift in a rental home? It can be done, but there are some steps that you should take first to ensure a smooth installation and utilization of your new lift. A stairlift is a life-changing mobility aid that fosters independence, autonomy, and safety. Call or visit to find out more today!  

When it comes to mobility aids, there are few that change lives the way that a stairlift can. Stairlifts enhance safety, accessibility, and convenience, while being easy to use and non-intrusive to others in the home. Do you rent your home? If you rent, it is still feasible to enjoy and embrace what a stairlift offers. Consider the following tips to install a stairlift in your rental home without incident.  

Here is what you should know about installing a stairlift if you rent: 

Speak with your Landlord  

Stairlifts should only be installed by a qualified and professional mobility aid technician, which is why you should buy from a reputable seller. Installing a lift properly involves making some adaptations to the property, but should not damage the structure in any way. Because of this, speak to your landlord for permission and to ensure you are not penalized or evicted for breaching any rental rules. Failure to discuss this with your landlord or site manager could result in termination of your lease, leaving you to find a new place to live.  

Consult with and seek permission from the landlord first before moving forward. Be clear when discussing the stairlift with your landlord as well as with what it will entail: installation of a track, involving some bolts in the adjacent wall and stairs. This should be easy enough to recover and modify when you move, but it is still imperative to discuss this with your landlord if you do not own the premise.  

Get It in Writing 

Did you receive your landlord’s permission to install a stairlift? That is great! Now, make sure that you get this consent in writing to protect yourself, and your landlord, too. Verbal agreements, like phone conversations, mean nothing if you are unable to prove you had permission to install the lift later. Remember, that if installing or using the stairlift causes any damage to the rental home, you are likely going to be held responsible. It is also feasible to document your discussions regarding the lift agreement through email correspondence. Many mobility retailers will require written permission from the property owner before installing equipment in a home, much like you would expect if you were installing cable television or making other changes to your abode.  

Read, Research, and Review 

With your landlord’s permission for a stairlift in hand, or via email, it is now time to find the perfect stairlift and mobility solution for your needs. This is where it pays to do your homework- read, research, and review others’ experiences to find a reputable and trustworthy seller as well as the right brand and model for your home.  

For example, many consumers rely on Bruno stairlifts for accessibility. This brand comes highly regarded and recommended by a wide range of users. Stairlifts offer a variety of features and ‘extras’ depending on what you are looking for. It may help to sit down and compose a list of your reasons for installing a stairlift. It also helps to read the online reviews of past customers to assess and rate the level of service, support, and satisfaction that the customers have. Word of mouth is a powerful tool, so take advantage of it and access online feedback to learn more.  

Further Steps that you Can Take  

Most landlords are going to consent or concede to the installation in situations that merit it, but if you have an issue, you may need to find a new home or discuss your rights with an attorney. The Americans with Disabilities Act makes accommodations for those with physical disabilities, and a legal aid service or lawyer should be able to provide further insight into your distinctive situation. Anytime that you must hire legal representation, there is the possibility that it could become a costly pursuit.  

The best approach is to discuss the matter honestly and promptly with your landlord, and express interest in their perspective, too. It may be as simple as asking permission to begin the process of installing a new, life-changing lift in your home environment! 

Thinking about a stairlift? These bring an element of freedom and safety to the home that can increase autonomy and improve quality of life. In Southern California, speak with the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility; they bring generations of experience and expertise to the table. Use these tips to move ahead with installing a stairlift in your rental home- and call us for quality mobility aids, unsurpassed service, and support after the sale.  

Balance and coordination are key in reducing the risk of a nasty, often injurious, fall especially among seniors. So, how can you improve balance and lower the hazard? Balance training has some surprising benefits for those who live with limited mobility or physical disabilities. Here is what you need to know! 

If you live with physical limitations or if you are getting older, balance is more important than ever. A loss of coordination or balance can precipitate a nasty fall and accidental falls are the leading cause of death by injury among seniors over 65. While mobility aids can help you with accessibility and safety, there is more that you can do. For example, observe Balance Awareness Week during September to find out more about what is causing your falls or lack of balance to keep yourself safe.  

So, what exactly is balance training, and perhaps more importantly, how can it help? 

Sense of Balance 

Balance is related to the body’s center of gravity, and sensory responses from the brain. Many things can impact your sense of balance, from medical issues, mobility challenges, weak muscle mass, and aging. A loss of balance can result in symptoms like vertigo, dizziness, and headache, but perhaps the most hazardous repercussion of poor balance is an increased fall risk. When a senior takes a fall, it can be debilitating and impacts the ability to perform activities of daily life, like bathing or walking. In some instances, a fall can be fatal, as many never recover from their injuries or contract infections.  Preserving and improving a sense of balance has numerous health benefits and advantages.  

Balance Training  

To improve your sense of balance, try balance training which can easily be added to your everyday routine. Athletes perform these exercises to enhance their performance; seniors may use balance training as a means of reducing their risk of a fall. Young and old alike can benefit from postural exercises that lengthen and strengthen the body’s core.  

Some examples of balance training exercises are standing on one leg, jumping, hopping, and climbing steps or stairs. These will gradually increase and improve balance, while also enhancing holistic health and wellness. Talk to your healthcare provider or trainer to gently and gradually get started.  

Balance Training Benefits 

There are some compelling advantages of regular balance training but always do so with the endorsement of your health provider. Many of these activities can be modified to suit your level of fitness and mobility.  

Some of the predominant benefits of integrating balance training exercises into your routine include: 

• Lowering your risk of a fall or fall-related injury 
• Helps to improve posture, which may reduce chronic back pain 
• Helps to increase and improve your overall strength 
• Increases flexibility, which also helps reduce risks of falls 
• Improves balance and coordination when standing and walking 
• Helps to improve your ability to resist and protect yourself during a fall 
• Can help hasten motor responses 
• May enhance confidence surrounding autonomy, and reduce anxiety surrounding the fear of falls 

Ideally, seniors should plan balance training exercises three times weekly, optimally for periods of 30-45 minutes per session for best results. Again, talk to your health provider to find out more about balance training recommendations.  

Activities of Daily Living 

A loss of coordination or balance can impact how you perform your most basic activities of daily living. This includes but is not limited to things like: 

• Dressing 
• Bathing 
• Grooming 
• Toileting 
• Preparing meals 
• Climbing steps, stairs, or walking 
• Getting to and from necessary appointments and engagements 

It may also dramatically affect your ability to participate in social or leisure activities that you enjoy. This can have a negative impact on overall quality of life and satisfaction. Some goals of a balance training regimen can include resuming these endeavors, while in turn, improving overall physical function and quality of life for the individual.  

Are you a candidate for balance training? Get started today! 

A good sense of balance is helpful for anyone, but are you a particularly good candidate for getting started? If you walk, dress, bathe, or complete any other activities of daily living, the answer is a resounding ‘yes’! We all benefit from having better balance, which in turn can help prevent falls. Some groups that are at greater risk of falls and related injuries from a loss of coordination and balance include these individuals: 

• Seniors 
• Anyone with a physical disability or mobility issue 
• Individuals with neuromuscular health conditions, like Parkinson’s disease or a history of stroke 
• Those with dementia  
• Those recovering or rehabilitating from serious conditions, including Cancer 
• Individuals who are amputees 
• Overweight or obese individuals 
• Anyone who lives with chronic pain conditions, including back, hip, or leg pain 

Want to find out more about the surprising benefits of balance training? Speak with your physician or physical trainer to learn how. Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility for mobility aids that can reduce your own risk of a fall, while also improving your overall quality of everyday life.  

Looking for mobility aids to make life more accessible? You have a lot of options, which do you choose? You may want to consider what others with similar situations or conditions have chosen, and why they made those buying decisions. As always, discuss potential solutions with your healthcare provider and visit a reputable area mobility retailer to find out more about popular mobility aids. 

It is true that mobility aids have the potential to change lives for the better, but which one is right for you? The best approach to shopping for mobility aids, like walkers and stairlifts, is to visit a reputable mobility retailer in your area to view, try, and discuss your options. When it comes to high-quality, reliable mobility solutions, you have a lot to choose from.  

Consider these popular mobility aids and why they can improve your accessibility, while increasing your quality of life, too: 

SuperPoles 

Have you heard of the ‘SuperPole™’? This modular support system is intended to provide stability and support when standing up, moving, or transferring in and out of bed. Those who struggle with physical limitations may find that these sturdy poles installed near their sleep space allow for independence and ease.  

The SuperPole takes very little time to install, though it does require the expertise of a mobility professional. This aid is a grab bar, of sorts, extending from the floor to the ceiling of your home. The pole is pressure-mounted and provides a measure of safety to all who use it. Some other places in the home where you may find a SuperPole are the bathroom alongside the toilet or in a living space next to a couch or chair. It typically features foam grips for a better grasp.  

Stairlifts 

When it comes to improving access, a stairlift is a very popular option. Bruno stairlifts is a recognized and reputable brand that is touted for quality, longevity, and performance; talk to a mobility retail professional to find out more.  

Stairlifts are not exclusive to the main staircase in a home. Many use these lifts indoors, but also outside, too. Lifts can be installed to get you off and on a porch or outside entry to the home, as well as in and out of a swimming pool or your vehicle. When contemplating the viability of a stairlift, speak with your healthcare provider to determine out-of-pocket costs, as insurance may provide some relief, depending on your diagnosis or disability.  

Shower Seats and Benches 

Most accidental falls in the home occur in the bathroom. This is probably not surprising given the slick surfaces and nature of this area of the home environment. So, how can you make it safer? Shower seats and benches are a cost-effective approach to reducing your risk of a fall and subsequent injury, and they are widely available. These offer support in and around the tub and shower, with a range of styles to suit the primary user’s preferences.  

Grab Bars 

Sometimes the most effective solutions are the simplest. That may be the case with grab bars, which are easy-to-install grips that offer sturdy support when and as needed. Some ideal places for grab bars include near sinks, toilets, and thresholds, which could present fall risks ordinarily. Make sure that these are expertly installed to ensure stability and optimal support.  

Bed Rails 

A simple but popular mobility aid is a rail for the bed. Bed rails provide assistance in getting in and out of bed. These are usually installed between the mattress and the box spring of the bed securely, with an anti-slide grip for a firm hold. These are unobtrusive and discreet, often in styles intended to meld with your bedroom décor.  

Lift Chairs 

Lift chairs provide a gentle nudge to help individuals up and down in a comfortable recliner-style chair. These are motorized and ideal for those who may have difficulty or discomfort standing and sitting. These are often found in rehabilitative environments for those recovering from injuries or surgeries. These chairs typically feature a remote control and come in a wide range of sizes and styles to suit your distinct décor. Lift chairs make a great gift idea, too.  

Ramps 

Have you given any thought to getting a ramp? Different kinds of ramps are also popular mobility aids that come in door threshold, folding, modular, and fixed styles. Also, consider portable ramps which are a convenient option that is ready to go where you are with a price that is compelling. Ramps go a long way to reducing the risk of a fall injury, while also creating a more accessible home environment for you, and whoever visits your dwelling.  

Want to find out more about some popular mobility aids? Come see us at Pacific Mobility today! 

So, you have decided to get a stairlift- what happens next? Buying a stairlift is a big decision that will change your life and accessibility for the better. When buying from a qualified mobility retail venue, expect personal service and attention to ensure a smooth transition into using your mobility equipment. Here is what you can expect on installation day when you decide to get a stairlift. Congratulations! 

If you are looking for mobility aids that enhance accessibility, while creating a safer home environment, a stairlift may be the best option. Stairlifts can foster independence and convenience that lend to aging in place, an overarching goal for many older Americans. Stairlifts provide a safety net for many seniors or individuals living with physical limitations by reducing the risks of falls going up and down stairs in the home. Whether your steps are indoors or outdoors, curved or straight, steep or shallow, a stairlift may be a viable option for you. 

Congratulations on your decision to get a stairlift! Here is what you need to know: 

Installation Day 

When installation day comes, know that it is OK to be home when the technician comes to install your new stairlift. There is no need to plan to be away if you prefer not to. In fact, this ensures you get some one-on-one time to ask questions that you may have. The process does involve the use of power tools, so it may be noisy and there could be some dust. Are you sensitive to sound or dust? No problem: your technician can install the lift and clean up so that when finished you can come home to your new stairlift. The choice is yours! 

Installation Time 

It can take anywhere from a couple of hours to all day to install a new stairlift. The installation time depends on many factors, including complexity, brand and model, and the distinct shape and size of your stairs. Typically, Bruno stairlifts, a widely recognized and reputable leader in mobility aids, takes around two to three hours. If your staircase is curved, very steep, or unique in some other way, it can take longer. For an approximate timeline, curved stairlift installations often take around five hours.  When scheduling your installation appointment with the mobility retailer, they will give you an approximate timeline so that you can plan accordingly.  

It is important to mention that custom stairlifts are available to accommodate any staircase or stairway that you may have. Do not assume it will be cost-prohibitive or impossible to install a stairlift in your distinct home; talk to a qualified stairlift retail professional to find out more.  

After Installation 

When the installation has been completed, the technician will demonstrate how your new stairlift works. They will show you how to operate, ascend, and descend on your lift while answering any questions that you might have. They will show you how features like the sensors, safety belt, and fold-in seat work, too. When you buy from a reputable mobility retailer, your confidence and satisfaction are key. The installation technician will not leave if you are not comfortable with your new equipment.  

Stairlift Support 

After the technician has left, the service and support do not end. Customer satisfaction and feedback are key to a mobility retailer; the ability to call and receive assistance is important for customers with new mobility aids. At Pacific Mobility, we pride ourselves on our service after the sale and have been providing it to our clients for generations.  

Stairlift Installation Requirements 

If you want to keep the process short, sweet, and simple, there are a few things that you can do prior to the mobility aid technician arriving to install your lift. How can you prepare for your stairlift installation? 

Here are a few tips: 

• Remove obstacles from the stairs, like plants or objects, including things hanging on the wall, like photos, if possible.  
• It is a good idea to remove anything that is in the way of your new lift including leaving a clear path to and from the stairs.  
• Take a photo of the stairway just prior to having your new lift installed. This ensures that if any damage accidentally occurs, you have pictures available of the ‘before’ and ‘after’. Rest assured, mobility technicians are very careful and considerate of their clients’ homes.  
• Remember that you will need a nearby outlet for your new lift. An appointment with a mobility retail professional will help pinpoint and address this. While your lift operates by battery, an outlet ensures an easy and convenient charge that should extend the life of your battery.  

At Pacific Mobility, we believe that stairlifts change lives for the better. Call on our team to install and service your new stairlift. Call or visit for scheduling that is most convenient for you- and start using your new stairlift right away!  

Yoga can improve flexibility and reduce chronic pain among those who practice regularly. Since National Yoga Awareness Month in September is upon us, it makes sense to look closer at yoga and how it may benefit your holistic health and well-being, particularly if you have limited mobility or physical disabilities. 

National Yoga Awareness Month observes and celebrates the many benefits of yoga. Since 2008, Americans have participated in National Yoga Month through learning and engaging in this ancient practice. This observance is meant to shed light and motivate consumers to try yoga and reap the health rewards of consistent practice. Don’t think you can do yoga due to physical limitations? Try these yoga exercises instead:  

• Chair yoga for those who have mobility issues 

• Yoga pose modification for individuals with knee-replacement 
• Adaptive yoga poses for individuals with cerebral palsy 
• Pranayama yoga and breathing for those with multiple sclerosis 

Typically, National Yoga Month is observed with events, classes, and educational opportunities, but check your local calendar and civic groups for more information pertaining to your region. Also, consider mobility aids to enhance accessibility. 

Adaptive Yoga for All  

These various and modified practices are known as adaptive yoga. This type of yoga considers all different bodies, skills, abilities, and mobility levels. These groups are typically accessible to all with poses taught to be adapted to the participant’s distinct ability and conditioning. Some practitioners call these ‘accessible yoga’ practice.  

If you have ever had the opportunity to attend an adaptive or accessible yoga class, you likely noticed that they are smaller with more individual attention than perhaps a larger, more conventional fitness class may be. These classes tend to work more slowly, providing more time for each pose and allowing for additional instruction or guidance, as needed. However, these adaptations should not be mistaken as less rigorous, as these types of yoga still provide a great workout.  

Rather than a specific way of doing each pose or exercise, this yoga practice puts the emphasis on adapting the move to the individual. One way that this is achieved is with Chair yoga, for instance, but more on that soon! 

Benefits of Adaptive Yoga 

So, what is the purpose of adapting yoga poses and putting in the work? Many experts suggest that there are holistic advantages of yoga, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Plus, regular yoga practice can increase and improve mobility with consistency, among other compelling perks. What are some other benefits of adaptive yoga? Well, according to health experts, there are a few, including these: 

• Chair yoga is a gentle and low-impact way to reap the benefits of this exercise. It helps gradually strengthen the mind and body, according to research.  
• Yoga- including chair yoga can also help subdue chronic pain among participants.
• Studies show that chair yoga and other adaptive practices can reduce the swelling, inflammation, and pain associated with osteoarthritis. Furthermore, participants with physical disabilities report less interference and issues with everyday activities when engaging in yoga at least twice weekly.  
• Yoga can improve coordination and increase balance among seniors which may result in fewer adults falling or experiencing injuries related to a fall. Regular chair yoga can improve confidence and stability so that falls are less often and less severe. Since falling is the leading cause of injury and accident-related fatality in the US, this is a compelling reason to advocate for adaptive yoga practice.  
• Yoga and deep breathing exercises can be effective ways to combat anxiety and lower stress. Thus, this may help improve and boost mood, too.  
• Yoga offers many yogis relief from the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Regular yoga can lower inflammation in the body, which can reduce chronic pain of various types.  
• Yoga has been shown to lower the incidence and progression of health conditions, including heart disease.  
• Participating in yoga classes or groups, albeit small ones, can provide the same benefits of regular socialization. Social engagement is key to healthy aging; make yoga one way that you meet and interact with others! 

From chair yoga to deep breathing, the benefits are most notable when you practice regularly. Consistency is key to unlocking a wide range of health perks including those that are mentioned here. Make the commitment to do yoga daily throughout September, National Yoga Month, this year. Regardless of conditioning, age, mobility, or other medical issues, these benefits are yours with regular and routine yoga practice. Talk to a yoga instructor or engage other ‘yogis’ in your area to find out more and improve your mind-body wellness right now.  

Could yoga improve your mobility? With regular practice and consistency, it can! As always, talk to your healthcare provider before embarking on a new health or fitness regimen, and talk to the team at Pacific Mobility about everyday mobility aids to make life easier and more accessible.