Jeff Conner

Eye health is connected to holistic health, including your mobility. Poor vision can lead to debilitating falls and injuries that are difficult to bounce back from especially for seniors. Furthermore, if you live with both physical limitations, like mobility issues and poor vision, you are at increased risk for complications as you go about your daily life and ADLs (activities of daily living).  

Don’t underestimate the effect of your vision on mobility especially if you are older or live with other medical issues. Low vision can impact mobility, which may hinder or impede the individual’s ability to care for themselves. Furthermore, poor eyesight can cause you to fall and sustain injuries; this risk is increased as a person gets older. In fact, one in four seniors fall each year in this country, and if you have impaired sight, your risk is doubled. There are precautions that you can take, including the use of quality mobility aids and equipment that enhance accessibility. 

When it comes to your eye health and mobility, here is what you should know: 

A Connection  

Poor vision can exacerbate mobility issues, so, there is a strong connection between the two. Even seemingly mild falls can have lasting repercussions on someone who is older or who has a physical disability. It is estimated that falls are the leading cause of accidental death at home among seniors. Recuperating from injuries sustained in a fall can erode mobility and create obstacles to aging in place.  

Fear of Falling 

When it is harder to see, falling can be a very real concern. This fear can cause debilitating anxiety surrounding everyday activities and it can affect how these individuals live their lives. Mobility aids, like canes, scooters, ramps, and walkers, help by enhancing accessibility and instilling a sense of confidence regarding moving, walking, and going about the day.  

Long-Distance Hurdles 

It can be tough for individuals with both poor eyesight and mobility challenges to traverse unfamiliar terrain or travel long distances. This lack of surety can precipitate a fall particularly if the individual becomes nervous, rushed, or uncomfortable. In these instances, some folks may decline to leave their home without the assistance of a caregiver, which may limit their autonomy and impact quality of life.  

Cataracts  

Did you know that around one in five seniors develop cataracts? Cataracts are a common condition that can be treated with surgery, but many people do not realize that they have it. They may think that their vision is declining or that they have a new eyeglass prescription. Cataracts are marked by blurry or foggy vision, which can greatly affect the mobility of those afflicted, making them more at risk of a fall.  

Tips that Help 

Looking out for your holistic health is one thing that you can do to protect your health- including vision and mobility. Regular eye exams can help detect issues and impairments that could affect your mobility later. Routine visits with your doctor can help curb conditions that may compromise mobility.  

Some other precautions that you can take include these: 

• Declutter the home; get rid of what you don’t need. Items in the way can cause fall hazards that could cause serious injury.  
• Create a wide path through the main areas of the home. Remove rugs, carpets, or loose flooring that could cause someone to trip and fall.  
• Wear clothing that fits properly and non-slip footwear if you have mobility challenges or are susceptible to a fall.  
• Many medications can have side effects, including a loss of balance or coordination. Talk to your doctor about any meds that you are on to reduce the chances of a nasty fall.  
• Take care of your oral health, too. Many don’t realize the detriment that tooth decay and infection can have on the rest of your body. While it may not affect your mobility, tooth loss can impact how and what you eat.  

Routine appointments are critical to maintaining holistic health, including vision. It can be closely connected to whether seniors age in place or require assisted living levels of care.  

Eye Health Observances 

So, what else can you do? Stay in the know by recognizing some eye health observances that aim to educate, advocate, and support eye health-related causes. For instance, January is Glaucoma Awareness Month; Glaucoma affects over two and a half million adults in this country. Regular screening at your eye exams can identify risk factors and symptoms of this condition.  

Here are some more dates to make note of:  

• February is designated as both Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness Month and Low Vision Awareness Month. 

• March recognizes Workplace Eye Wellness Month, as well as World Glaucoma Week in March. 
• World Optometry Day is in late March annually, as is World Optometry Week. 

Take precautions to prevent problems related to your eye health and mobility with regular eye exams and mobility solutions that reduce the risk of a fall. Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more! 

It is estimated that each year, around one-third of seniors over the age of 65 slip and fall- and 80% of those falls are in the bathroom! Bathrooms are home to slick and slippery surfaces which can present hazards, especially for those with a mobility issue or physical disability. Fortunately, there are some amazing mobility aids that can make the bathroom a safer place to be.  

Did you know that one-third of people over 65 slip and fall every year? It’s true and 80% of those occurrences happen in the bathroom. Taking fall precautions makes sense, especially in the bathroom and there are some exciting mobility aids that could help reduce the risk.  

National Bath Safety Month in January addresses some of the inherent hazards in the bathroom, including slippery surfaces and puddles of water. During this time of commemoration, take prudent steps and precautions to reduce the risks of a fall-related incident or injury. Talk to a mobility retail professional to learn more about quality mobility aids and equipment that offer accessibility and that may protect you from a fall.  

Some mobility aids for a safer bathroom include these: 

Grab Bars 

Grab bars seem like a simple solution and they are but they are also one of the most effective. When installed properly, grab bars provide stability and support in the bathroom, or wherever you choose to put them! Grab bars are useful near the toilet, sink, and tub but make sure they are installed firmly and securely to prevent problems later. Grab bars benefit anyone and can reduce the risk of a nasty fall in some situations. When it comes to grab bars, installation is key so make sure it is done properly.  

Shower Buddy 

ShowerBuddy is the cream of the crop when it comes to creating a safe and ergonomic shower system.   The ShowerBuddy is intended for individuals that require assistance and aid to bathe or shower, and this device alleviates the heavy lifting often associated with caregivers. While there is a risk to the patient during transfers and lifting, there is also a danger for the caregiver or provider, too. The ShowerBuddy helps with these transfers, reducing slips and falls while preserving the dignity and discretion of the patient using it.  

The ShowerBuddy looks like a souped-up wheelchair, but it is so much more. Consumers should know that the ShowerBuddy is a unique all-in-one system that enables the user to bathe and toilet in one trip and a single transfer. This makes it easier for those assisting the individual, and it reconfigures the bathroom and enhances safety without the cost of renovations.  

Shower Seats  

Perhaps you don’t require the level of assistance that the ShowerBuddy provides; what then? In this case, consider investing in inexpensive shower seats and transfer benches, instead. There are many different styles and types of seats that you can buy online for delivery directly to your door and they are designed to fit a wide range of tubs and shower stalls, too. Shower seats provide a firm, stable place to sit when bathing or washing, which reduces the risk of a fall on the slick shower or tub floor.  

Consider making the trip to a mobility retail venue near you to see the shower seats and survey your options up close. It may surprise you what features and fixtures are available to you and staff is generally delighted to demonstrate any mobility aids that they sell.  

3 in 1 Commodes 

Have you heard about the 3-in-1 commode? These are adaptable aids that could make a bathroom safer in several ways. First, you can avoid treacherous trips to the bathroom at night by using the commode for bedside toileting. You can also adjust the commode to a taller height and position it over the existing toilet in your bathroom. By raising the seat with the commode, it is easier to stand and sit, with less risk of falling or getting hurt.  

You can also use the 3-in-1 commode in the shower for support and stability when bathing. These are great devices to have on hand as needed. They are super versatile and easy to use, too, so they make handy implements for anyone.  

Stairlifts 

Another way to make the bathroom safer is to make it easier to get there. Is your bathroom on the second level of the home? Ascending and descending stairs and steps is smooth and easy with a stairlift. There are many misconceptions surrounding stairlifts in the home, but they are easy to adapt to and not invasive to others using the stairs. The best way to determine if a stairlift makes sense is to speak with a mobility professional in your area.  

Consider your own bathroom- and how these mobility aids may protect you from a nasty fall-related injury. Make safety a priority when assessing the bathroom in your home- and talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more and see for yourself how these devices can improve your overall quality of life! Call or visit us today.  

Has it been a while since you could easily use your stairway? Why not consider the many advantages of a stairlift? Stairlifts bring function back to stairs and steps for those that have physical limitations or mobility issues. They bring a sense of confidence in the user, too which inspires independence. Consider these perks of installing mobility aids in your home! 

If you struggle with using the steps and stairs in your home, it could be the perfect time to consider a stairlift. Mobility aids are some things to be thankful for when you want to remain in your own home and preserve your independence. Quality mobility aids and equipment increase autonomy it is that simple. Here are some of the other ways that stairlifts restore function to stairways in your home: 

Accessibility   

The first way that your stairlift restores function is by creating access. There is a loss of accessibility for many who experience physical challenges, limitations, or disabilities as they age; a stairlift allows for access to ascend, descend, and navigate stairs. Is your bedroom or bathroom on an upper level of the home? This is not uncommon. A stairlift makes getting there easier.  

What good are stairways in the home if you are unable to safely traverse them? Some individuals find that they must reconfigure the home to suit accessibility issues and overcome stairs. A stairlift allows you to conquer stairs. Talk to a qualified mobility retailer to learn more.  

Comfort 

Why shouldn’t comfort be a function of your stairlift? Comfortably use the stairway in your home with the assistance of a quality-brand lift. The seats offer a range of features so you can smoothly and quietly ascend and descend the stairs, as desired. Going up and down steps or stairs is not a big issue or incident with a stairlift you just do it, and you do it in comfort.  

Additionally, you have the added convenience of buying from a retailer that stands behind their product when you install stairlifts from Pacific Mobility. They offer service, support, installation, and repair plus, many of their products come with a warranty. Speak with a representative to find out more about the specific mobility aids and lifts that you are looking for.   

Safety  

This brings us to safety. Stairlifts enhance the overall function of stairs by increasing the safety on and around them. It is true stairlifts go a long way toward reducing the risk of a fall at home. Experts estimate that there are about 36 million incidents of falls each year involving seniors in this country. Falls can lead to complications and health issues that cause debilitation and deterioration from which, many never recover.   

So, what is the function of a lift, you ask? It is to safely get you from one level of the home to the next. Stairlifts make the stairs ‘work’ again for you or for anyone who struggles with mobility challenges or limitations.  

Independence 

What more important function of any mobility device is there than the independence of the user? This rings true for stairlifts they can be life-changing. Those that have the freedom to live independently can live any way that they please. If a stairlift facilitates autonomy, then it is a very prudent and practical choice. 

Stairlifts allow you to access all areas of the home environment, upstairs and down. Stairlifts can be installed indoors and out, too; plus, if you need additional support, there are other types of lifts that may be beneficial. From vehicle lifts and pool lifts to porch lifts and ceiling lifts, there are aids to make life easier. When it comes to the function of a stairlift, your autonomy is first and foremost.   

Confidence 

You should not be wary or nervous about navigating the home environment. Stairlifts foster confidence as you adapt with ease to using them each time you ascend or descend stairs in the home. A fall or injury can cause a loss of assurance when completing daily tasks or ADLs (activities of daily living); a stairlift counters this by offering a safe and simple solution to getting up or down the stairs.  

Convalescence 

Got an upcoming surgery or medical procedure? Stairs should not impede convalescence and recovery. A stairlift provides the extra support and care that you may need for fast and safe rehabilitation. If the issue is a temporary one, you may be able to rent a stairlift as you heal. Talk to a qualified mobility retail professional to learn more!  

Restore function to the stairways in your home with quality stairlifts and mobility aids from the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility. Also, consider some tips to help you adapt to your new stairlift seamlessly and increase accessibility throughout your home, too.  

Enjoy life to the fullest! Consider tips and techniques to make the most of and improve your quality of life. From preserving vision to reducing the risk of falls and staying active to spending time with a dog, there are a lot of ways to enhance and enjoy your life each and every day. International Quality of Life Month in January offers additional suggestions and resources, too.  

International Quality of Life Month in January sheds light on how to improve quality of everyday life. You may be wondering, ‘how?’ Start with some simple suggestions that include regular healthcare visits and mobility aids and equipment to increase autonomy, but also consider adopting a new hobby- or even a pet. These strategies all contribute to quality of life and the overall enjoyment that you derive from regular activities.  

Here are ways that you might focus on the quality of your own life: 

Minimize The Risk Of A Fall 

A nasty fall can have irreversible impacts on everyday life. Falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors. Preserve health and quality of life by reducing the risk of falls and curbing subsequent injuries. Falls can have repercussions that may manifest over time, too, including mental stress, fear, and anxiety, to long-term physical implications, including illness and infection.  

To reduce your own risks, make sure to have your eyes and vision checked at least once a year to ensure you don’t stumble or fall from poor eyesight. Also, wear well-fitting and non-slip footwear around the home, keeping a clear path to easily navigate the environment. Medications can have side effects, like loss of coordination, that could cause you to fall; talk to your doctor or provider to learn more.  

Age Actively 

Active aging is a term that relates to the consideration of holistic well-being when it comes to quality of life. This mindset takes mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health into account when assessing everyday living. Experts agree that staying engaged with others and active can prevent a wide range of illnesses and health problems plaguing older individuals.   

Make Friends 

Socialization and connection to others should not be underestimated. Loneliness can contribute to health issues that eventually erode overall health and well-being. Pets can make fine companions for individuals that are able to care for and afford them. If you sense someone is alone without a lot of support, do not be afraid to reach out; if they decline your kind offers, keep trying.  

Get Moving 

Mobility aids and devices make it feasible for those with physical limitations to regain independence and move about freely. If you struggle with a disability or health issue that impedes accessibility and mobility, speak with your healthcare provider to learn more about aids that can change lives for the better.  

Hone Hobbies 

Boredom can be debilitating, particularly if you are accustomed to being busy. Now is the perfect time to develop and find hobbies that bring some welcome respite during the times when you are feeling restless or bored. Depending on what you like, hobbies are also a great way to make connections with like-minded people, fostering social interaction and friendship. Join groups, either in person or online, to chat and talk about what you love- whether it is art or books, collecting, or fishing! 

Find Purpose 

Hobbies can also help you to find purpose in life, which can contribute to overall contentment and satisfaction with quality of life. Purpose is what gets us out of bed in the morning. As we age, many of the purposes and responsibilities of younger years are no longer pertinent. Children grow, seniors retire, and friends or family lose contact. How do you find purpose in everyday living?  

Being of service to others is an excellent way to find and foster a sense of purpose. Volunteer at an organization or business that you support. Talk to Area Agencies on Aging to find opportunities in your distinct area.  

Prioritize Health 

It bears repeating that putting health first is an effective way for improving quality of life. By preserving and maintaining your own health and wellness, you can live longer and on your own terms. Aging in place refers to making your own decisions pertaining to where and how you will live out your ‘golden years’ without the added barriers and obstacles presented by health problems. Furthermore, when you are healthy, you feel better which directly impacts the quality of your everyday lifestyle. Chronic issues like pain or illness can negatively affect your mental health, too.  

How is your quality of life? Consider adopting some of these tips and tactics to improve the quality of your own life. Reach out to the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility if you have physical limitations or disabilities to learn more about devices and aids that can contribute to accessibility, and enhancing everyday living.  

If you live with a physical challenge or limitation, mobility aids may make life easier. First, they increase accessibility which, in turn, enhances autonomy. This independence can enable many to age in place and add quality to their everyday lives.  

There are many mobility aids that add to everyday quality of living. For instance, some equipment and devices enhance accessibility, which promotes and increases independence. When an individual has the freedom and autonomy to make their own choices daily, it can improve life in general.  

Here are some mobility aids that add to everyday quality of life: 

Stairlifts 

Do you have stairs or steps in your home? When living with physical limitations or mobility issues, this can present problems. Some individuals may find that they are confined to the lower level of their home, which may greatly impact activities of daily living, or ADLs. This, in turn, may affect autonomy and the ability to age in place safely. 

A stairlift changes all that and allows you to ascend and descend stairs safely and easily. These lifts are amazing and can be installed to fit practically any stairs or step. Talk to a qualified and reputable mobility retail professional to learn more! A stairlift greatly adds to your everyday quality of life and could be a proactive step toward reducing the risk of a fall in your home.  

Shower Buddies and Benches 

Speaking of ADLs, bathing is one of the main challenges that many individuals face when living with mobility issues. Those that live alone or with limited assistance may struggle with this activity either due to physical challenges or a fear of falling. Bathrooms are the most common location of falls, and falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors in this country. By making the bathroom and tub safer and more accessible, it could reduce the risks of falls and contribute to autonomy for the individual.  

Shower buddies are essentially aids that eliminate the need for transfers and lifting when caring for individuals that have mobility issues. This makes it safer for both the individual and their caregiver. These seats eliminate hazards, like slick floors, while also preserving dignity and privacy. Don’t need that level of assistance? A shower bench is another option that provides a secure place to bathe while lowering the incidence of slips, falls, and injuries.  This sense of safety and confidence contributes to quality of life, too.  

Ramps 

There is a misconception that you only need a ramp if you use a wheelchair or scooter; that couldn’t be farther from the truth! A ramp can be an immense help to those that live with joint or knee pain, making it easier and gentler to ascend inclines in and out of the home. Ramps are also useful inside the home, making thresholds and doorways less of a stumble.  

Did you know that you can buy inexpensive, portable ramps? These are great because you can fold them up and take them with you, as needed. These provide a less permanent alternative to the ramps that you see installed on homes widely which makes them cost-friendly, too. Ramps can definitely add to the overall quality of everyday life in a positive way! 

Vehicle Lifts 

Do you enjoy driving? Some folks with mobility issues or physical disabilities give up on driving due to the inconvenience and difficulties presented. If you wish to get behind the wheel again, consider vehicle lifts. Vehicle lifts enable you to safely stash and stow your mobility equipment and smoothly access the driver’s seat of your car or truck. Vehicle lifts have allowed many to drive and maintain their independence. Some lifts may be limited to specific vehicle makes and models, so talk to your mobility retailer to learn more! 

Grab Bars and Reaching Tools 

Sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference, and that may be the case when it comes to grab bars and reachers. Reducing the risk of a fall is integral to preserving health and well-being across the lifespan. It is estimated that every four seconds, a senior falls down and around 32,000 falls result in fatality each year. How can these tragic statistics be avoided? Simple aids like grab bars and reaching tools could be the answer.  

Anyone benefits from installing grab bars near the toilet, tub, sink, or stairs. These are perfect for a bit of stability in areas that could cause a fall. As for reaching tools, these prevent the need to stretch, reach, and risk well-being when trying to access objects or items that are just ‘out of reach.’ Reaching tools prevent you from needing to bend over, climb under, or stand on tiptoe when attempting to go about your day. If you want to improve everyday living, start with simple steps like grab bars and reachers! 

Want to learn more about how mobility aids can improve your overall quality of life? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; we have over 60 years of experience in serving our customers and providing quality mobility aids and devices. Call or visit today.  

Want to stay healthier? There are some common and pragmatic habits that can help you stay healthier across the lifespan. From washing your hands to reducing the risks of a fall in the home, preventing illness and injury could be the key to maintaining holistic health as you get older.  

Want to stay healthier as you get older? There are some common practices and smart habits that may keep you healthier as you age. Keep yourself free from illness and injury with these tips and talk to a reputable retailer about mobility aids that can help you age in place gracefully and healthfully. 

Consider these 5 habits to help you stay healthier: 

1. Wash Your Hands 

The first thing that anyone can do to protect their good health is to wash their hands, a lot. National Handwashing Awareness Week in early December brings attention to the wide host of infections and illnesses that can come from the germs on unwashed hands. Clean hands can prevent many different sicknesses that could compromise overall health and well-being. Teach children at a young age to wash thoroughly and often.  

2. Move It or Lose It 

This next healthy habit should come as no surprise: exercise every day. Have you heard the adage, move it or lose it? It is true failure to get physical activity can make you stiff, sore, and less flexible, which is the ideal mix for a nasty fall. Plus, about 20 minutes of brisk activity or exercise daily like walking or dancing- can stimulate feel-good neurons in the brain to improve mood.  

If you suffer from joint pain in your knees or ankles, try something low-impact to get your exercise in. Some good options involve anything in the water, like aqua aerobics or simply swimming. These are gentler on joints while still providing the therapeutic and health benefits of resistance training. It is a win-win! 

3. Get Your Flu Shot 

Also, in early December is National Influenza Vaccination Week, which brings us to our next healthy habit: getting your flu shot.  This observance strives to spread and disseminate information pertaining to the value of getting vaccinated for the flu as well as the health risks of influenza for all demographics. Talk to your doctor or practitioner about getting your flu shot and maintaining protection against certain types of this difficult illness. While the influenza vaccine does not protect against every strain of the flu, it may help you prevent the most common and transmittable, which can also help to keep you healthier over time.  

4. Care for Your Teeth 

A lot of people often overlook oral and dental hygiene as being a critical component of holistic health and well-being. This is a mistake. Oral care and the condition of your teeth and gums can impact and reflect overall wellness. If you have an infection in your teeth or gums, it can travel to other parts of the body. Bacteria, plaque, and tartar can spread from your mouth to major organs, causing a heart attack, stroke, and clots all dangerous and deadly. Protect yourself with visits to your dental provider, at least once a year but more often as recommended. Brush regularly, floss daily, and eat a range of whole foods to protect your teeth and prevent gum disease, which is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.  

5. Reduce Fall Risks 

Around 36 million falls are sustained by adults each year- and of these, around 32,000 resulting in death. In fact, falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors.

Use these suggestions to lower your own risk of a fall: 

• Feeling unsteady on your feet? Inform your doctor right away. Also, if you have taken a fall, let your provider know.  
• Talk to your provider and/or pharmacist about your current medications and whether any of them could make you feel unsteady, dizzy, or tired.  
• Another cause of falls is vision impairment. Make sure to have your eyes checked each year and wear corrective lenses, as recommended by your eye doctor. Annual exams can also detect cataracts or glaucoma, both of which can impair sight and contribute to a fall. 
• Wear proper footwear, not just socks, in the home to help minimize slips and falls. 
• Maintain a clutter-free path through the home environment. Keep it wide and clear.  
• Install grab bars in your bathroom, near the toilet, sink, and tub.  
• Enhance lighting around stairs, doors, and thresholds anywhere that there is the potential for a fall.  
• Talk to your doctor or practitioner about mobility aids and equipment that enhance access around the home, while reducing the risk of falls and subsequent injuries. 

Remember that every second, someone over the age of 65 sustains a fall. It is estimated that in this country, one in four seniors fall every year. 

Use these tips and practice these five habits regularly to stay healthier across the lifespan. If you are worried about a debilitating fall, talk to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility; we offer quality mobility aids and equipment that make the home more accessible, while also reducing the risk of a nasty fall.  

Adjusting to a new stairlift doesn’t take long in fact, you may be surprised by how quickly you acclimate to the ease and convenience that these mobility aids provide. There are a few useful tips as well as troubleshooting tweaks that can make the transition even smoother. Here is what every stairlift owner needs to know! 

A new stairlift can enhance access and improve everyday living for many but how do you adjust to a new lift and make it work smoothly in the home? As with any mobility aids, people tend to acclimate over time but there are some tips, tricks, and tweaks that can make the adjustment to stairlifts fool-proof.  

Got a new stairlift? Here are some tips to make it work better for you: 

• New lifts have seatbelts installed for a reason, it is crucial to buckle up for safety. Always use the seat belt and secure it on any ascent or descent to prevent a potentially serious fall and injury.  
• Remember that a stairlift is not a toy and should not be used, played around, or climbed on by children. Adults should always supervise children and pets around mobility equipment, including and perhaps, particularly when it comes to stairlifts. 
• Take a look around to ensure no pets or obstructions are in the way before using the lift to ascend or descend your stairs or steps. While most contemporary stairlifts are equipped with obstruction sensors that will stop the lift from moving when there is something in the path, make a habit of looking and making sure that nothing is in harm’s way before operating your lift. 
• Loose or flowing garments, clothing, and accessories can become trapped underneath the lift and cause serious harm. Not to mention, these loose items and subsequent issues can cause damage to your lift, also. Keep loose-fitting clothing clear from the lift before you operate it.  
• Do not try to transport open bottles or cups containing liquids. Liquids and stairlifts do not mix! In fact, liquids can do serious and irreversible damage to a stairlift so avoid drinking and open beverages near or around the lift, too.  
• Remember that all stairlifts are designed to carry just one person at a time. Furthermore, stairlifts have a very specific weight limit. Do not carry passengers, kids, or pets when using the stairlift. Exceeding the weightlift can cause serious damage to the lift and could potentially cause you to fall or sustain an injury. This extends to carrying heavy loads up or down the stairs; do not do it. Check the lift’s owner’s manual for the exact weight restrictions for your make and model.  
• Regular maintenance by a qualified mobility professional is key to the longevity and smooth operation of your stairlift. If you experience issues with any of the functions or features of your lift, contact the mobility retailer where you bought it. Do not attempt to use it if you are experiencing issues with any of the safety features, or if the lift itself is acting oddly. Never attempt to repair, fix, or modify the lift on your own; allow only qualified technicians to work on your stairlift. More on that later! 

Got a question or an issue with your lift? Try these tweaks when troubleshooting the problem: 

• Is the master switch turned on? Check this before you proceed. Remember that all switches must be activated and in the ‘on’ position for the lift to operate.  
• Check the position of your stairlift’s key. The key must be fully pushed in and turned to the ‘on’ position on the lift.  
• Is the charger for the battery plugged in? Stairlift batteries have a long life, but they must be charged to prevent draining over time.  
• What about the batteries in your stairlift remote? If these are dead, change them and check the function of the lift once more.  
• If there is an obstacle in the way of the safety sensor, the lift will not operate. This is a great safety feature- particularly if there are kids or pets in the home. Clear the path, remove anything that could be in the way, and try again.  
• If the seat is not swiveled into place and locked, the lift will not operate. The seat should make a clear ‘click’ sound when it is locked into the riding position- but ask your mobility retailer to find out more regarding your distinct lift safety features.   
• When in doubt, always refer to the lift’s owner manual. This is an excellent resource and the best way to figure out and troubleshoot an issue.  

Perhaps the best advice of all is to call a Professional when you have issues or questions regarding your new stairlift.  Remember: only allow a qualified mobility technician to install, service, repair, or work on your lift. That is the safest approach- also, allowing someone else to perform these tasks may nullify any warranty that you have on your equipment. At Pacific Mobility, we stand behind, support, and service the aids and stairlifts that we sell. Call or visit us to learn more today!  

You need to be careful when attempting to define disabilities, assumptions can be careless and often unjust. Many disabilities are invisible, hidden, and not physically evident which is what International Day of Persons with Disabilities strives to convey and commemorate. Can you define what a disability is? It is not as simple as you may think.  

This December, pay homage to those living with challenges, including physical and invisible disabilities.  International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3^rd provides an opportunity and platform to learn more about what others are experiencing.  

A disability is typically defined as any condition that makes it more difficult for a person to do certain things. While broad, this includes cognitive, developmental, intellectual, mental, physical, sensory, or any combination of challenges, difficulties, or hurdles. These may be factors from birth or something that more recently manifests. Disabilities may be easy to spot, or invisible to the eye. Many disabilities may be aided and made easier with things like mobility aids or other adaptive devices.  

Defining a disability is not as simple as you might think; here is what you should know: 

Physical Disability 

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) of 1990 defines someone with a disability as an individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities or that has a record or history of such an impairment.  It may be easy to recognize an individual with a physical challenge, limitation, or disability. Sometimes it may be gleaned from the support, caregivers, or adaptive aids that the individual has with them.  

Some individuals with physical disabilities may utilize devices and equipment, such as a wheelchair, walker, or cane which may make it easier for onlookers to identify. However, these aids are not exclusive to those with obvious physical limitations.  Keep reading to find out more about individuals living with invisible disabilities.  

Invisible Disability 

It is easy to make assumptions regarding what is and is not a disability. For this reason, it may be more challenging to live with an invisible disability, than any other type of obstacle. Sometimes the judgment is made that the individual is not truly disabled despite the severity or symptoms suffered.  

An invisible disability is not always evident to others visually, and some may or may not impede conventional work situations. Some living with these obstacles may work while others do not. Some examples of invisible disabilities include these: 

• Chronic or debilitating pain 
• Fatigue 
• Dizziness or vertigo 
• Cognitive dysfunctions 
• Traumatic brain injuries 
• Learning differences  
• Mental health disorders 
• Hearing and/or visual impairments 

Some invisible disabilities may range from mild to severe, requiring supportive care, while others may implement aids of some kind. Use empathy and try to not make assumptions regarding the abilities, capabilities, and appearance of others.  

Adaptive Devices 

So, what kind of aids and devices would help someone with a disability, invisible or otherwise? There is a full range of equipment available, much of it offered by providers, practitioners, and occupational or physical therapists widely. Simple items like specialized cutlery or dressing aids (for example, reaching tools) can be just the right amount of assistance for individuals to complete ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) independently. This autonomy may enable many to maintain quality of life and age in place.  

Mobility Aids 

Mobility aids are often associated with the aged or those that have a physical disability. Wheelchairs and walkers point to physical limitations, but what other aids are available for consumers? Some of the most common and popular choices include these: 

• Stairlifts 
• Freestanding lifts 
• Walkers, rolling walkers, knee walkers 
• Wheelchairs and scooters 
• Canes and walking sticks 
• Grab bars and reaching tools 
• Shower seats and benches 
• Raised toilet seats 
• Shower Buddies 

One must be quite careful when assessing and assuming others for disabilities or limitations. Individuals with invisible disabilities like mental health, chronic pain, or vision impairment may not ‘appear’ to have any challenges, but looks can be deceiving. Always give others the benefit of the doubt and make spaces, spots, and sites accessible to all who use them. A slip, fall, and subsequent injury can be debilitating and life-changing for anyone but can put those with existing medical issues or disabilities at increased risk. Just as you do not want people assuming things about your overall health and well-being, be cognizant and courteous of those that may face distinct challenges when living their own lives, too.  

Do you live with a disability, either visible or invisible? Pacific Mobility can help. Top-rated mobility aids and equipment can help increase accessibility, which in turn, can improve quality of life. We are a family-owned business with over 60 years in the industry. Come and talk with the mobility professionals today- for generations, our main objective is to serve the needs of our clients. Call or visit today!