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safety

Rocking and Rolling: Navigating Stairs with Ease on Rocky Road Day

May 22, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

Introduction:

On Rocky Road Day, we celebrate the joys of life’s ups and downs, both metaphorical and literal. While the occasion may evoke thoughts of indulging in delicious treats, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges we face and conquer every day. One such challenge that many individuals encounter is navigating stairs. In this article, we explore tips and techniques to make stair navigation smoother and safer, ensuring that you can rock and roll through any staircase with ease.

Understanding the Challenge:

For some, climbing stairs can be a daunting task, whether due to physical limitations, fear of falling, or simply lack of practice. However, with the right approach, stair navigation can become second nature, empowering individuals to move freely and confidently in any environment.

Tips for Safe and Efficient Stair Navigation:

1. Maintain Proper Posture: When ascending or descending stairs, stand tall with your shoulders back and your gaze forward. Avoid leaning too far forward or backward, as this can throw off your balance and increase the risk of tripping.

2. Use the Handrail: Always make use of the handrail whenever available. Gripping the handrail provides additional support and stability, especially on steep or narrow staircases. Remember to hold onto the handrail firmly and continuously throughout your ascent or descent.

3. Take Your Time: Rushing up or down stairs can lead to accidents and injuries. Instead, proceed at a steady pace, taking one step at a time. Focus on each movement, and avoid distractions that may divert your attention from the task at hand.

4. Step Carefully: Pay attention to the placement of your feet as you navigate each step. Aim to step squarely onto the center of each tread, ensuring that your entire foot makes contact with the surface. Avoid skipping steps or taking overly large strides, as this can increase the risk of stumbling.

5. Watch Your Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings as you move through staircases. Be mindful of obstacles, uneven surfaces, and changes in lighting that may affect your ability to navigate safely. If necessary, use additional lighting or assistive devices to improve visibility.

6. Consider Assistive Devices: For individuals with mobility challenges, assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or stairlifts can provide invaluable support when navigating stairs. Explore options that best suit your needs and abilities, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance if you require assistance.

7. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, stair navigation improves with practice. Take every opportunity to challenge yourself by incorporating stairs into your daily routine. With time and repetition, you’ll build confidence and competence in tackling stairs with ease.

8. Stay Physically Active: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve strength, balance, and coordination, all of which are essential for safe stair navigation. Incorporate exercises that target the muscles used in climbing stairs, such as squats, lunges, and calf raises, into your fitness regimen.

9. Seek Professional Guidance: If you experience persistent difficulty or discomfort when navigating stairs, consider seeking guidance from a physical therapist or occupational therapist. These healthcare professionals can assess your specific needs and provide personalized strategies to enhance your stair navigation skills.

Conclusion:

On Rocky Road Day and every day, mastering the art of stair navigation empowers individuals to overcome obstacles and embrace life’s journey with confidence. By following these tips and techniques, you can rock and roll through any staircase with ease, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for yourself and those around you. So, stand tall, hold onto the handrail, and take each step with purpose—your stairway to success awaits!

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: agingdisability, disability Tagged With: disability, mobility, safety

Scaling Heights: Enhancing Accessibility on World Sickle Cell Day

May 15, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

Every year, on June 19th, the world comes together to observe World Sickle Cell Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD) and advocating for better access to care and treatment for those affected by it. Sickle cell disease, a genetic blood disorder, affects millions of people worldwide, particularly those of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian descent. While significant strides have been made in understanding and managing the disease, there is still much work to be done, especially concerning accessibility to essential resources and treatments.

Understanding Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders characterized by abnormal hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Individuals with SCD have red blood cells that become rigid and assume a sickle shape under certain conditions, leading to various complications such as chronic pain, anemia, organ damage, and increased susceptibility to infections.

The impact of sickle cell disease is profound, affecting not only the individuals living with the condition but also their families and communities. Managing SCD requires comprehensive care, including regular monitoring, preventive measures, and prompt treatment of complications. However, accessibility to quality healthcare services remains a significant challenge for many affected individuals, particularly in resource-constrained settings.

Enhancing Accessibility to Care

On World Sickle Cell Day, organizations, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocacy groups around the globe renew their commitment to improving the lives of those affected by SCD. One of the key focus areas is enhancing accessibility to care, encompassing a range of initiatives aimed at addressing barriers to healthcare services and treatments.

1. Community Outreach and Education

Raising awareness about sickle cell disease is paramount to promoting early detection, encouraging preventive measures, and dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding the condition. Community outreach programs play a crucial role in educating individuals and families about SCD, its symptoms, complications, and available resources. By empowering communities with knowledge, we can foster a supportive environment and encourage proactive healthcare-seeking behaviors.

2. Comprehensive Healthcare Services

Access to comprehensive healthcare services is essential for effectively managing sickle cell disease. This includes regular medical check-ups, specialized care from hematologists or healthcare providers familiar with SCD, and access to essential medications and treatments such as hydroxyurea, blood transfusions, and pain management therapies. Efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and expand services in underserved areas are vital to ensuring equitable access to care for all individuals living with SCD.

3. Advocacy for Policy Change

Advocacy plays a pivotal role in driving policy change and mobilizing resources to address the needs of individuals with sickle cell disease. Advocacy efforts may focus on policies related to healthcare funding, insurance coverage, newborn screening programs, research funding, and the development of national SCD guidelines. By engaging policymakers and stakeholders at all levels, advocates can influence decision-making processes and promote policies that prioritize the health and well-being of those affected by SCD.

4. Research and Innovation

Advancements in research and innovation are critical for improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals with sickle cell disease. Research efforts encompass a wide range of areas, including novel treatment approaches, gene therapy, stem cell transplantation, and strategies for disease management and prevention. Collaborative initiatives involving researchers, clinicians, industry partners, and advocacy groups are essential for driving progress in SCD research and translating scientific discoveries into tangible benefits for patients.

Conclusion: Towards a Future of Hope and Inclusion

As we commemorate World Sickle Cell Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to enhancing accessibility to care and support for individuals living with sickle cell disease. By working together, we can break down barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower individuals and communities affected by SCD to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Let us scale new heights of progress and innovation, guided by compassion, solidarity, and a shared vision of a world where everyone has access to the care and support they need to thrive.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: aging, agingdisability Tagged With: mobility challenged, safety, stairlift

Cancer Survivors Rise: How Mobility Solutions Empower Lives

May 8, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

In the realm of health battles, cancer often stands as an adversary of immense proportions. Yet, amidst the daunting challenges and profound struggles, there lies a narrative of resilience, courage, and triumph. Cancer survivors, individuals who have braved the tumultuous journey of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, stand as beacons of hope and inspiration. While their stories are as diverse as the colors of the spectrum, there is a common thread that binds many: the transformative power of mobility solutions in reclaiming autonomy and enhancing quality of life.

Cancer, with its multifaceted impacts on physical, emotional, and social well-being, can significantly impede mobility. From the debilitative effects of treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation to the physical limitations imposed by surgeries, cancer often leaves survivors grappling with newfound challenges in movement and independence. However, in the face of adversity, innovation and ingenuity have paved the way for a plethora of mobility solutions tailored to the unique needs of cancer survivors.

One of the most emblematic symbols of mobility empowerment for cancer survivors is the advent of prosthetics. For those who have undergone amputations as part of their cancer treatment, prosthetic limbs represent not only a physical aid but also a profound symbol of resilience and adaptation. With advancements in prosthetic technology, modern devices offer unprecedented levels of functionality, comfort, and aesthetics, enabling cancer survivors to navigate the world with newfound confidence and agility.

Furthermore, assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and mobility scooters have emerged as indispensable allies in the journey towards reclaiming mobility. These tools not only facilitate movement but also serve as enablers of independence, allowing cancer survivors to engage in daily activities, participate in social interactions, and pursue their passions with greater ease and freedom. Moreover, customized adaptations and accessories cater to the unique needs and preferences of individuals, ensuring optimal comfort and functionality.

Beyond physical aids, the realm of mobility solutions extends to encompass a diverse array of supportive services and initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for cancer survivors. Accessible transportation services, community-based support groups, and adaptive sports programs provide avenues for connection, empowerment, and enrichment, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among survivors.

In addition to tangible aids and services, the concept of mobility encompasses a broader dimension that transcends physical movement. It encompasses the ability to engage with the world on one’s own terms, to pursue aspirations and dreams, and to embrace life with vitality and vigor. In this sense, the true essence of mobility empowerment lies not merely in the act of traversing physical spaces but in the liberation of the human spirit from the shackles of limitation and constraint.

The transformative impact of mobility solutions extends far beyond the individual level, resonating across familial, societal, and global spheres. By empowering cancer survivors to lead fulfilling and active lives, these solutions contribute to the cultivation of a more inclusive and compassionate society, where diversity is celebrated, and barriers are dismantled. Moreover, they serve as catalysts for innovation and progress, inspiring breakthroughs in healthcare, technology, and social policy.

Yet, amidst the strides made in the realm of mobility empowerment, challenges and barriers persist. Accessibility issues, financial constraints, and disparities in healthcare access continue to pose formidable obstacles for many cancer survivors, limiting their ability to fully benefit from available solutions. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from stakeholders across sectors, including policymakers, healthcare providers, philanthropists, and community leaders, to ensure equitable access to mobility solutions for all.

In the journey of cancer survivorship, every step taken towards mobility empowerment is imbued with significance and meaning. It symbolizes not only a triumph over adversity but also a testament to the indomitable human spirit. As cancer survivors rise above the challenges that once sought to confine them, they inspire others to embark on their own journeys of resilience, hope, and renewal.

In conclusion, the narrative of cancer survivors is one of courage, resilience, and empowerment. Through the transformative power of mobility solutions, they defy the limitations imposed by illness and reclaim their rightful place as active participants in life’s journey. As they navigate the terrain of survivorship with grace and determination, they remind us all of the boundless potential that resides within the human spirit to rise, thrive, and soar beyond the confines of circumstance.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: safety, senior citizens, stairlift, wheelchair

Breaking Barriers: Advocating for Inclusive Environments with Stair Lifts during Developmental Disability Awareness Month

March 26, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

Every March, communities around the world come together to recognize Developmental Disability Awareness Month. It’s a time for reflection, education, and action towards creating more inclusive environments for individuals with developmental disabilities. One crucial aspect of fostering inclusivity is addressing physical barriers that limit accessibility. In this regard, stair lifts emerge as powerful tools for breaking down these barriers and promoting inclusivity.

Understanding Developmental Disabilities

Before delving into the significance of stair lifts, it’s essential to understand developmental disabilities. These conditions encompass a diverse range of impairments that affect cognitive, physical, communication, and social abilities. Examples include autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities. People with developmental disabilities often face challenges in navigating their surroundings, which can be exacerbated by inaccessible environments.

The Importance of Inclusive Environments

Inclusive environments are those that accommodate the needs of all individuals, regardless of ability. They promote equality, dignity, and independence, enabling everyone to participate fully in society. However, physical barriers such as stairs can pose significant challenges for people with mobility impairments. Without proper accommodations, they may face isolation, exclusion, and limited access to essential services and opportunities.

Breaking Down Barriers with Stair Lifts

Stair lifts offer a practical solution to the challenge of inaccessible staircases. These devices are motorized chairs attached to a track that runs along a staircase, allowing individuals to glide smoothly between different levels of a building. Stair lifts come in various configurations to suit different types of staircases and user needs, including straight, curved, and outdoor models.

For individuals with developmental disabilities who may have difficulty navigating stairs independently, stair lifts provide a newfound sense of freedom and autonomy. They eliminate the need for strenuous physical exertion or assistance from others when traversing stairs, empowering individuals to move freely within their environments. This increased mobility not only enhances their quality of life but also promotes social inclusion and participation in various activities.

Promoting Awareness and Advocacy

During Developmental Disability Awareness Month, it’s crucial to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive environments and advocate for the adoption of accessibility solutions like stair lifts. Communities can organize educational events, workshops, and outreach campaigns to inform the public about the challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities and the steps needed to address them.

Advocacy efforts should also focus on promoting policy changes and building partnerships with stakeholders to ensure that accessibility features, including stair lifts, are incorporated into building codes, regulations, and infrastructure projects. By advocating for inclusive design principles from the outset, we can create environments that are welcoming and accessible to everyone.

Case Study: The Impact of Stair Lifts in Community Settings

To illustrate the transformative impact of stair lifts, consider the case of a community center that installed stair lifts to improve accessibility for individuals with developmental disabilities. Before the installation, individuals who used wheelchairs or had mobility impairments faced significant barriers in accessing the center’s upper floors where many activities and services were located.

After the stair lifts were installed, there was a noticeable increase in participation among individuals with developmental disabilities. They could now attend classes, workshops, and social gatherings on the upper floors without difficulty, enhancing their sense of belonging and inclusion within the community. The installation of stair lifts not only benefited individuals with disabilities but also improved overall accessibility for all members of the community.

Conclusion

As we observe Developmental Disability Awareness Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. Stair lifts represent a tangible means of breaking down physical barriers and promoting accessibility for individuals with developmental disabilities. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and investing in accessible design, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and belong.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: aging, agingdisability, disability Tagged With: disability, elderly, safety, senior citizens

Aging Gracefully at Home: Enhancing Senior Mobility with Stairlifts

February 27, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

As we age, the desire to maintain independence and continue living comfortably in our homes remains a priority. For many seniors, navigating stairs becomes a challenging aspect of daily life. However, thanks to advancements in assistive technology, aging at home gracefully is not only possible but increasingly convenient. In this article, we will delve into the role of stairlifts in promoting senior mobility, allowing individuals to age with dignity and independence within the familiar confines of their homes.

Understanding the Challenge:

As individuals age, mobility can be significantly affected by various factors such as arthritis, muscle weakness, and joint pain. Stairs, once an inconspicuous part of the home, can transform into formidable barriers, limiting access to different levels and compromising the overall quality of life. The challenge of stairs often triggers safety concerns, leading many seniors to explore solutions that facilitate easy and secure navigation within their homes.

The Stairlift Solution:

Stairlifts have emerged as a transformative solution for seniors facing mobility challenges related to stairs. These devices are designed to transport individuals up and down staircases effortlessly, providing a safe and comfortable means of accessing different levels of the home. The user-friendly design and customizable features make stairlifts a practical addition for those seeking to age in place.

Promoting Independence:

One of the key benefits of installing a stairlift is the preservation of independence. Seniors can maintain autonomy and freedom within their homes without the need for constant assistance. The ability to move between floors without relying on family members or caregivers fosters a sense of self-sufficiency, contributing to a positive and dignified aging experience.

Safety First:

Safety is a paramount concern for seniors, and stairlifts are specifically engineered with this in mind. Equipped with secure harnesses, intuitive controls, and reliable braking systems, stairlifts ensure a smooth and safe journey up and down stairs. This eliminates the risk of falls or injuries associated with navigating stairs independently, providing peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.

Customized Comfort:

Modern stairlifts are designed with user comfort in mind. They come with customizable features such as adjustable seating, armrests, and footrests to accommodate individual needs. Additionally, the compact design of these devices ensures minimal disruption to the aesthetics of the home. Seniors can tailor the stairlift to their preferences, creating a personalized and comfortable experience.

Installation and Integration:

Installing a stairlift is a relatively straightforward process, and the devices are designed to seamlessly integrate into various types of staircases. Whether your home has a straight staircase or a curved one, there are stairlift models available to suit different architectural configurations. The installation process is typically quick and minimally invasive, allowing seniors to start enjoying the benefits of increased mobility in their homes promptly.

Financial Considerations:

While the initial cost of a stairlift may raise concerns for some, it’s essential to view it as an investment in long-term independence and safety. Many seniors find that the expense is justified when compared to the potential costs of assisted living or relocating to a single-story residence. Additionally, some insurance plans or government programs may provide assistance or coverage for mobility aids, helping to alleviate the financial burden.

Enhancing Mental Well-being:

The psychological impact of maintaining access to all areas of one’s home should not be underestimated. Stairlifts contribute significantly to the mental well-being of seniors by reducing feelings of isolation and dependence. Knowing that they can move freely throughout their homes fosters a positive mindset, reinforcing the sense of control and agency in their lives.

The Emotional Aspect:

The decision to install a stairlift often involves thoughtful discussions within families. For many seniors, accepting assistance or incorporating mobility aids can be emotionally charged. Open communication and understanding are crucial during this process. Explaining the benefits and emphasizing the positive impact on daily life can help alleviate any apprehensions, fostering a supportive environment for embracing the technology.

Conclusion:

Aging gracefully at home is a shared aspiration for many seniors, and the availability of assistive technologies such as stairlifts plays a pivotal role in turning this dream into a reality. By addressing the challenges associated with stairs, these devices empower seniors to maintain their independence, enhance safety, and navigate their homes with ease. As we continue to explore innovative solutions for aging in place, the role of stairlifts stands out as a beacon of hope, ensuring that seniors can embrace the comforts of home for years to come.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: aging, agingdisability Tagged With: agingracefully, mobility, mobility challenged, safety

Technological Innovations in Accessibility

May 1, 2017 By Jeff Conner

A disability is any physical, sensory, or cognitive impairment that makes daily activities more difficult. Many people are born with a disability. Others acquire a disability later in life, from an accident, an illness, or the aging process. Many older individuals are diagnosed with chronic conditions that lead to functional or cognitive disabilities. Pacific Mobility Center specializes in products that give those with disabilities freedom and independence.

Over a billion people globally have some form of disability: 360 million people worldwide have moderate to profound hearing loss; 285 million people are visually impaired (39 million of whom are blind) and 75 million people need a wheelchair (of which, only 5-15 percent actually have access to one).

In recent decades, new and innovative technologies have helped lower the barriers that people with disabilities encounter in their daily lives, helping them with tasks that able-bodied people take more or less for granted, such as speaking, travelling, reading, and writing. These new technologies can be classified as assistive, adaptive, or accessible.

Assistive technology

Assistive technology is technology designed specifically to improve a disabled person’s functional capabilities, and includes a wide range of devices and services, including IT-enabled prosthetics and implants, custom computer interfaces, and accessible communication tools. Adaptive technology provides a mechanism that allows people with disabilities to use technology that would otherwise be inaccessible to them. Text-to-speech technology, for example, helps users with vision impairments to be able to “read” materials that are written. Computer screen readers and screen magnifiers help make computer output accessible for visually impaired users. Accessible technology helps remove barriers and make the world more accessible for people with disabilities. Speech recognition software, for example, has many uses such as dictation or automated telephone systems; however, the technology can also provide independence for quadriplegics by allowing them to control a computer with their voice. Consumer Electronics Shows annually feature these types of products.

While there remains a long way to go before all new technologies are made accessible to people with disabilities, in recent years there has been a great deal of progress. Mainstream technologies are becoming increasingly adaptable, and specialist technologies have, in many cases. become increasingly affordable.

Some examples of innovative new products that further help disabled people function more easily, while acquiring more independence, include:

• Dot: the world’s first Braille smartwatch
• Talkitt: an innovative application that translates unintelligible pronunciation into understandable speech
• The Sesame Phone: designed to be used with small head movements, tracked by its front-facing camera
• Uni: a tool that detects hand and finger gestures that it converts into text
• The Finger Reader: a wearable tool that can scan a text and give real-time audio feedback of the words it detects
• Be My Eyes: an application that connects blind people with volunteers from around the world who can help with simple tasks
• AXS map: an app that carries information about wheelchair-accessible ramps and restrooms in public places
• Transcence: an app that converts spoken words into text in real time for group messaging
• Liftware: a self-stabilizing handle on which one can attach an eating utensil like a fork or spoon for patients who suffer from Parkinson’s disease or other forms of motion disorders that causes hand tremors.

Some other new and/or emerging technologies include:

• Driverless cars
• Smart glasses that include facial recognition software which interprets facial expressions and tells the wearer how the person in front of them is feeling. This could be particularly useful for people Asperger’s Syndrome, for instance, who struggle to interpret facial expressions unassisted
• Prosthetic limbs that allow wearers to “feel” touched objects, while offering better control and efficiency
• All terrain wheelchairs, capable of scaling uneven surfaces
• Smart belts that can detect when a person is falling in order to deploy air cushions prior to impact
• Medical exoskeletons which can be used to assist people who have trouble walking
• Smart canes that can alert a user’s relative is there is any unusual use or movements of the cane

Contact Pacific Mobility Center with any questions about how you and/or your loved ones can benefit from the best accessibility products available today: Stairlifts, Residential Porch Lifts, Vehicle Lifts, Ceiling Lifts, Shower Buddy, Electric Door Opener, Ramps, Scooters, Lift Chairs, Wheel Chairs, Power Electric Wheel Chairs, Walkers, Turning Automotive Seats, Automotive Hand Controls, Pool Lifts and Other Aids to Daily Living.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: Blog Posts Tagged With: disability, disabled, driving aids, elderly, grab bars, grab rails, innovation, manual wheelchair, medicare, mobility, mobility assistive equipment, mobility challenged, mobility impaired, power wheel, safety, scooter, senior citizens, stairlift, stairlifts, technology, wheelchair

Driving Adaptations

December 1, 2015 By Jeff Conner

In this day and age, travelingby automobile is virtually a necessity for the majority of American adults. Most of us use our cars daily to commute to and from work, to go shopping and complete other chores, to chauffeur our children to their activities, to visit our friends and family members, or merely to get away for relaxation or vacation.

And the good news is that modern technology has offered people with physical impairments, who might not believe they can navigate a car safely, the opportunity to remain independent and mobile. Almost every automobile manufacturer, as well as a vast number of after-market product suppliers, has created a wide variety of automobile adaptations that can place almost every impaired, disabled, or mobility-challenged adult behind the wheel and on the road.

For example, pedal adaptations are available for individuals who have lost the use of their right leg and cannot utilize the standard accelerator. Left foot accelerators can be fitted to the left of the brake so that accelerating with the left foot becomes possible. For individuals who cannot reach the pedals at all when driving, pedal extenders can bring them closer to the driving seat.

For individuals who have lost the use of both legs, there are many ways in which a car’s traditional pedal functions – braking and accelerating – can be accomplished with hand controls. Push-pull hand controls allow the driver to operate the brake and accelerator functions by pushing and pulling a lever. There are various hand controls available from most manufacturers and suppliers, but the basic function is the same across most models. They range from more basic mechanical push/pull systems to electronic or air compression systems. Most can be fitted with “cutting” devices which automatically cut the accelerator when the brake is applied. And some can even be mounted on different locations inside the car. Some variations of the electronic hand control system include:

• The Trigger Accelerator – With a trigger accelerator you pull with your finger to accelerate, and push away to brake.
• The Over Ring Accelerator – The over ring accelerator is fitted in front of the steering wheel. You push it down toward the steering wheel to accelerate.
• The Under Ring Accelerator – The under ring accelerator is fitted behind the steering wheel. You pull it towards the steering wheel to accelerate.
• The Ghost Ring Accelerator – The ghost ring accelerator is fitted behind the steering wheel. You control the speed by using your fingers in side to side movements.
• The Twist Grip Accelerator – The twist grip accelerator is comparable to the hand grip accelerator on a motorbike. You twist it to accelerate and push it forward to operate the brake.

The bottom line is this: there is absolutely no reason for a disabled, but otherwise competent, adult to believe that he or she cannot safely operate an automobile. Here at Pacific Mobility, we can help you choose the most appropriate driving adaptation to meet your needs. Call or visit us today and allow our mobility experts to get you into the driver’s seat.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: Blog Posts Tagged With: auto hand controls, driving, driving aids, mobility, mobility assistive equipment, mobility challenged, mobility impaired, safety

Help I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up.

October 30, 2015 By Jeff Conner

I've fallen

The catchphrase “Help, “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up!” was made famous many years ago in a television commercial for a medical alarm company called LifeCall. LifeCall sold pendants that seniors and disabled individuals could wear around their necks and use to make emergency medical calls after a fall or other accident left them immobile and unable to reach a telephone.

Although the commercial portrayed a potentially dangerous situation for a senior, and one that could have dire consequences, the phrase found its way into the popular culture as a comedic punch line, undercutting the serious nature of the circumstances that lead to 35 million falls each year by Americans over the age of 65.

In fact, seniors in this country are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more than they are for injuries from all other causes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) lists falls as the leading cause of accidental death for seniors. And considering that one half of all people who fall require assistance from someone else to get up, it’s no wonder that a senior living alone has the odds stacked against him or her.

The New England Journal of Medicine reports that after a fall or other emergency, 90 percent of people who get help within one hour can continue to live independently, but after 12 hours without any help, 90 percent are no longer capable of living alone at home. According to the Yale University School of Medicine, nearly one half of the older adults who incur a serious injury never fully recover and many lose their ability to function independently for the rest of their lives.

While fragile seniors run a very high risk of falling due to the degeneration of muscle strength and loss of balance over the years, anyone of any age can become the victim of a heart attack. And if someone who suffers from cardiac arrest falls and cannot get help, or get to a hospital within an hour or so, their chances for survival are greatly diminished. Each year, 1.5 million Americans have heart attacks; one third of them are fatal.

At Pacific Mobility, we sell products that help seniors and others get the help they need if they’ve fallen and can’t get up, or are faced with any other urgent situation, such as a fire, a home intrusion, or a CO gas emergency. Getting assistance in a timely manner can make a major difference in preserving one’s quality of life; indeed, personal 911 call systems can help save a life, or the life of a loved one.

Call or visit us today and let us show you our full line of personal call systems. The truth is, there’s nothing funny about somebody who falls and can’t get up.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: Blog Posts Tagged With: elderly, safety, senior citizens

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