Jeff Conner

Nobody is getting any younger and many may be noticing changes in mobility or health needs. How can individuals plan now for this later? It makes good sense to plan ahead for reduced mobility and accessibility- particularly if you also live with chronic conditions. Consider these tips to plan- ahead!

You may think that the prospect of needing any kind of mobility aids and equipment is a long way off- so far, in fact, that many don’t give it a second thought. The truth is an injury, illness, or medical procedure can impede mobility and present physical challenges. Why not plan ahead for these situations and be ready for extra assistance if and when it is needed.

Plan-ahead for these situations and mobility issues later:

Arthritis

Did you know that over 22% of the adult population in the US has arthritis?  Nearly half of all people over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with arthritis. It is estimated that by the year 2040, around 78 million people over the age of 18 will have some form of arthritis, diagnosed by a healthcare professional.

The chances of being diagnosed with Arthritis increases when you also have other chronic medical conditions. This is referred to as arthritis comorbidity, and the co-occurring medical condition can play a role in the severity and frequency of arthritis symptoms. For example, issues like obesity exacerbate the symptoms, and pain, of arthritis, limiting mobility and making everyday tasks a challenge. Arthritis is also common among people with diabetes and heart disease.

Health Conditions

Additionally, if you struggle with chronic health conditions that may linger or worsen in years to come, efforts made now to improve access will be well worth the efforts. Conditions like diabetes, neuropathy, muscular issues, obesity, stroke, brain injury, or dementia, may be less debilitating when you have put in the time to implement things like enhanced lighting, lifts, ramps, railings, and grab bars around the home environment.

Chronic Pain

Do you live with chronic pain issues? If not, you are fortunate. It is estimated that there are more than 200,000 cases of chronic pain, defined as lasting more than three months, diagnosed each year in this country. While medications may be used to lessen the severity of symptoms, there is no cure for chronic pain conditions. Some may last for months while others may suffer for years; pain can be persistent and ongoing or phasic and episodic.

Chronic pain sufferers may benefit from mobility aids and equipment, such as stairlifts on landings, now for when symptoms flare up later. Some conditions like diabetes can evolve into painful medical complications like neuropathy. A stairlift can help increase accessibility around the home without the pain of ascending stairs or steps.

Rehabilitation

Adaptive aids and mobility equipment is also helpful during recovery from an operation, surgery, or illness. Many individuals end up staying in skilled nursing facilities if there are accessibility issues at home during recovery. Think now of ways that you could make your home environment easier to habituate if you were facing challenges, such as limited mobility.

Ramps near risers and stairlifts can be pragmatic for anyone that struggles with climbing stairs. Plus, the steps are left accessible and usable for anyone who chooses to use them. Why wouldn’t you want the added convenience? Start small with grab bars throughout the home, anyplace that you run the risk of losing your balance. These are such a simple augment but can be lifesaving at times.

Fall-Risk

Any senior is at risk of a fall, so plan now to reduce potential fall risk. It is estimated that there are around 1,800 fatal falls each year in the US, and another 9,500 people die from injuries related to a previous fall. A fall is the main cause of accidental death among the over 65 subset. Falls can begin a decline in overall health and wellbeing which can be catastrophic for a senior.

Some proactive ways to plan now and potentially prevent the risk of a fall later include:

• Invest in an inexpensive shower seat to help prevent falls when bathing or showering.
• Buy a reaching tool to help grab items or objects that are just out of reach- without losing your balance.
• Improve lighting around the home, particularly near stairs, steps, and doors.

Other People

Who do you live with? What is their health like? It could be that the preparations you make now could benefit those you love later. Are there others in the home that you provide care for? Consider their needs also when assessing the practicality of investing in mobility resources now.

Planning Ahead

Time marches on and everybody gets older. You can’t predict how you will age, but you can prepare for quality of life with any aids and conveniences that will help lessen the blows of the aging process. Plan ahead for your own future- as well as the future of those you love. It makes sense; talk with a mobility equipment professional at Pacific Mobility to learn more about your options today.

Think about the times and situations that would make a stairlift helpful? Would you benefit from a lift in your home? There are distinct medical conditions that make a stairlift an integral part of everyday life. Here are a few!

Would you benefit from a stairlift in your home? There are many medical conditions where a stairlift may be beneficial and that may facilitate rehabilitation and recovery. If you believe a stairlift would be helpful to you, talk to your doctor about mobility aids and equipment, including stairlifts, today.

Some medical conditions where a stairlift can be beneficial include these:

Arthritis

If you have arthritis, you know the challenges and pain associated with it. Over time, arthritis can impede mobility and cause issues for the rest of your life. Arthritis is not a condition that afflicts only older people- children are also vulnerable.

When you live with arthritis, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis, going up and down stairs is challenging- and painful. A stairlift can reduce the wear and tear on your joints, which are often the most painful part of arthritis. A stairlift is also a great help when arthritic swelling is limiting your movement on certain days. Since stairlifts are not intrusive on a stairway, you can use the stairs without using your life as you wish without any issue!

Diabetes

Diabetes is one of those medical conditions that come with a wide range of symptoms and side effects. For example, some diabetics have endured amputation of limbs, while others may experience chronic pain issues or nerve pain in their feet and legs.

Additionally, individuals with diabetes may struggle with weight issues. A stairlift helps reduce the risk of a nasty fall which can have devastating consequences for a severe diabetic. If you or someone you care for has diabetes, speak with a physician to learn more about obtaining a referral and recommendation for a stairlift in the home!

Neuropathy

Speaking of diabetes, many diabetics also suffer from neuropathy, which is nerve pain that can curb mobility. Some of the potential causes of neuropathic pain include diabetes, but also kidney disease, and alcohol abuse. The result is a pain in the legs that can make it very difficult, often impossible, to climb stairs. A fall is not only a risk with neuropathy but a dangerous possibility that could have debilitating health consequences. Prevent this potential with a stairlift that you use when it is needed, such as days when you experience neuropathy pain.

Respiratory Issues

Stairlifts can also be useful and suited to individuals that have respiratory illnesses or issues, like emphysema or COPD, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Anybody with heart or lung issues may find climbing stairs to be challenging and can leave them out of breath; a stairlift helps! Plus, it makes getting to the second floor of a home a lot easier, which contributes to aging in place and the ability to safely remain in one’s own home. This can be a very comforting prospect for seniors and the elderly.

Muscular Diseases

Muscular diseases, including Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s disease, and Muscular Sclerosis are other conditions that merit the consideration of a stairlift. Since these medical diagnoses impact movement and use of muscles, ascending and descending stairs may be difficult- and dangerous.  When diagnosed with these conditions, patients are often referred for an assessment by an occupational therapist who will make recommendations to help make the patient’s life easier. A stairlift is one such adaptive aid that the OT professional may suggest.

More Medical Conditions

This is by no means an exclusive list- there are many other diagnoses and disabilities that would benefit from the improved accessibility that a stairlift provides. Any time that a person climbs a flight of stairs, it puts additional stress on the body’s organs; when you live with a medical issue, like heart, lung, pain, or respiratory problems, it can be risky.

From a broken limb or brain injury to spinal bifida or a serious wound, a stairlift can promote healing while making life a lot easier- and safer- for those that use it. If you believe that you would benefit from a stairlift, the first step is to discuss the option with your medical providers.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Stairlifts are also perfect for anyone recovering from an illness, injury, or operation, that could use some assistance ascending or descending stairs while they recuperate. Stairlifts in the home make it feasible to recover and rehabilitate from surgeries, like hip replacements, which means they may not need to stay in skilled nursing following medical procedures. This can help many patients recover peacefully in their own homes.

Considering a stairlift? A lift can be life-changing- and there are many other mobility aids and options to consider, too. Talk with a mobility equipment professional at Pacific Mobility to learn more today!

Physical limitations, disabilities, and chronic pain issues can take their toll on an individual’s emotional wellbeing. Day-in and day-out, challenges and struggles associated with limited mobility can be exhausting and impede quality of life. Try these tips and tricks for living well with mobility issues that can help!

Do you live with physical limitations or disabilities? It can certainly take a toll on emotional wellbeing over time. If you have mobility issues, consider ways to improve accessibility, like mobility aids and equipment; increasing convenience and improving autonomy can do wonders for a person’s mood and mental health, too. Consider some pragmatic tips for staying emotionally well with limited mobility- or gain some new strategies during Emotional Wellness Month this year.

Tips for living well include:

Observe Emotional Wellness Month and Learn Something New

Observe Emotional Wellness Month this October and learn how to take better care of your emotional health and wellbeing. This annual event aims to bring awareness, understanding, and acceptance of how integral emotional wellbeing is to holistic health. This observance also offers ways to manage your emotions during times of challenge, difficulty, and change.

Advocate for Yourself Every Day

Taking care of yourself often involves being an advocate for your needs. You know yourself best- and are able to identify the distinct challenges that you face; advocate for change to make your life easier! Whether this means taking charge of your own healthcare decisions or choosing to age in place in your own home, be your own best advocate every day.

Strive for Autonomy

Even if you face obstacles that impede some of the things you would like to do or accomplish, make the most of what you can do at this point in time. Do not allow mobility challenges to make you complacent or abandon dreams and goals that you aspire to. Take advantage of the amazing technological tools and aids that are available widely and look closer at ways to improve your own accessibility.

Set Goals and Reach Them

So, speaking of goals try to set goals that are realistic. Try a few smaller objectives and goals to build momentum as you make progress toward larger aims. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself in terms of lofty plans and unrealistic goals—this can set you up for disappointment. Give yourself credit for small steps- good job!

Accept Offers of Help from Others

Try not to go it alone. It is often instinctual to decline offers of help from others when struggling. Why not let others lend a hand? Think about it this way- perhaps offering and helping is their way of adding some meaning and purpose to their own life. It is a win-win for both of you.

Never Stop Looking for Meaning and Purpose

Experts agree that we all need a sense of purpose and meaning in our life- it is essential for well-being. Do not let a disability or limitation define you and limit the ways that you can be of service to others. Never stop looking for meaning in the life that you live:

• Volunteer! Giving your time and efforts to others is an excellent way to feel better and build a meaningful life.
• Get involved in a new activity or hobby- learn something new! For example, if you have always wanted to learn how to play an instrument, make now the time to start.
• Do something for those that do nice things for you. Reciprocating kindness can make you feel warm and fuzzy.

Consider a Pet for Companionship

Pamper yourself with the love of a pet- which is great for emotional wellbeing. Those living alone may benefit from the companionship of a dog, cat, or other animal- nurturing and engaging with pets has been shown to be good for emotional health. Just make sure you are able to care for it and take on the added responsibility of a pet. If you are unsure, perhaps spend some time visiting or volunteering at a nearby shelter or humane society for a healthy dose of animal therapy.

Take Care of Your Health

If you want to feel on top of your game, it is important to take care of your health. This is even more vital when you live with physical limitations or disabilities. Staying active and socializing are key aspects of maintaining wellbeing- as well as eating a nutritious diet. Not sure about exercise with your mobility issues? Talk to a mobility professional about mobility aids that can increase your own independence and prevent you from missing out on life.

Take care of your emotional wellbeing and increase accessibility with mobility aids and equipment from Pacific Mobility. Improving access can enhance everyday living- which can help fend off depression and anxiety. Try these tips today!

Stay safe when using a wheelchair with some tips that can prevent problems and reduce the risks of a nasty fall. Be particularly cognizant of your surroundings to ensure terrain accommodates your chair- and that there are no obstructions in your path.

It can be treacherous to become complacent about wheelchair safety. Be vigilant about staying safe when using a wheelchair and get support for mobility aids and equipment from industry professionals as needed.

Increase your wheelchair safety with these tips:

Practice Different Scenarios

Give yourself time to acclimate to your chair by practicing different scenarios, like going up inclines or transferring in and out of the chair. Lean and bend while in the chair to see how the chair feels and if it remains stable. Remember that going outside the chair’s center of gravity could cause the chair to lean or tip over. Stay safe and practice using the chair with someone nearby.

Furthermore, using the chair builds familiarity which fosters a sense of confidence. The more you practice and use your chair, the easier it will become to get wherever you are going!

Be Careful on Curbs

Curbs require a helping hand to safely navigate. Look instead for a ramp or curb cut that will make traversing far safer. Steps can be dangerous for unassisted wheelchair users; seek an alternate route.

Slow Down

If you go too fast in your chair, you do run the risk of tipping over and sustaining injury. Slick surfaces or an unseen obstacle could send you flying- and could do damage to your wheelchair, too. Be aware of the surface you are traveling on and be prudent with your speed, especially around corners or in unfamiliar territory.

Consider your Terrain

The type of terrain that you take your wheelchair does affect safety. Some chairs are simply not intended for specific weather conditions, environments, and uses. Most wheelchairs do not function well on sandy surfaces, such as the beach. Keep an eye out for patches of sand on sidewalks or roadways, too, as these can prove problematic for many wheelchairs.

Also, uneven or inclined surfaces can cause a wheelchair to lean, tip, and even fall over.

Avoid water, like puddles and slippery surfaces, when possible. When the chair becomes wet, it is more prone to sliding around or falling over. Prevent these disasters by going around water whenever you can and by going slow during inclement weather.

Outdoor ramps are notorious for being slick and treacherous, especially when they are permanent ramps made from wood. Take a closer look at new or unfamiliar ramps before you take your wheelchair onto its surface. Is it uneven? Are there holes on the ramp? How slick does it look? Make sure it looks safe before you choose to use the ramp. If the ramp is unsafe, ask about another entry like a wheelchair elevator to gain access.

Reduce the Risk of a fall

Reduce your risk of a fall when using your wheelchair and avoid leaning forward when in the chair. Also, be careful when reaching for items that might be out of reach. This can cause the chair to tip and fall. Always lock your brakes before getting in or out of the chair to help reduce the chances of a fall. Keep in mind that the footrests can trip you- or others- up during transfers when they are not adjusted and moved out of place.

Take Care of Your Equipment

Have your chair inspected and serviced each year. Talk to your retailer to make sure that you have service and support in place for longevity of your chair.

Make maintaining the wheelchair a priority. Keep your battery charged for motorized chairs and seek out help at the first sign of an issue. The condition of your chair is key in keeping yourself safe.

More Safety Strategies

• Never force a wheelchair up or down stairs, steps, or slopes.
• Turn off your wheelchair before and keep the brakes locked when transferring in or out of the chair.
• Make sure you are seen with lights, flags, or other eye-catching features, when possible.
• Before using, make sure to adjust and lift the arm and footrests.
• Add reflectors and lights to your wheelchair to be seen after dark.
• Maintain and service your wheelchair as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure it is working properly.
• Try to avoid trips out in your wheelchair when it is raining. The terrain can become slick, and some motorized chairs can malfunction when wet. Also, it could be difficult for your chair to gain traction in rainy conditions.
• Heavy bags or loads on the back of a wheelchair can cause it to tip.

Considering a new wheelchair? Visit and talk with the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility, and use these tips to increase wheelchair safety!

In today’s world, it is more important than ever to be prepared for an emergency, crisis, or disaster situation. For those with mobility challenges, physical disabilities, or other impairments, it is crucial to develop a preparedness plan as soon as possible. Use these tips for your own plan- now!

National Preparedness Month in September is the perfect time to develop and craft your own personal preparedness plan, in the event of an emergency. The most important things that any individual can do is preparing for disasters and emergencies– which can occur without warning.

Begin constructing your own preparedness plan this year for National Preparedness Month and refer to available resources recommended by the CDC, as needed. When making your plans, do not forget about service and support for mobility aids and equipment, too.

Make your own preparedness plan- especially if you have mobility limitations. Here are some tips:

Start with a List

The best way to begin your preparedness is with a list. Who do you need to contact in case of an emergency? What account numbers, phone numbers, or other information might you need? Consider scenarios of being forced to ‘bug-out’ of your home versus being stuck and isolated in the home when making a list of goods, needs, and tasks that you will need to keep in mind.

It can be overwhelming. Keeping a preparedness notebook near your chair, desk, or in the car can help, too. That way you can add to your list as inspiration strikes.

Gather your Go-Kit

In case you must leave home during a disaster or crisis, have essentials packed up and ready to go. Depending on your distinct situation, this go-kit could include snacks, water, medications, pet supplies, a change of clothing, mobility aids, backup batteries, a flashlight, important documentation- or more. Keep this packed up in water-resistant bags that could be reused and repurposed as needed. Other good items for a go-kit? A thermal blanket, rain jacket, and first aid supplies are also worth keeping in your kit.

Stay in the Know

How will you stay in the know regarding weather conditions, hazards, or situations nearby? Sign up for emergency alerts on your cell, when applicable, and preplan an evacuation route from your home to be ready to leave if needed. Share this information with family, friends, and caregivers to ensure they can locate you later.

Consider What you Need

Everyone needs different things during an emergency; only you can assess your own individual needs during a crisis situation. For example, do you use mobility aids? Do you have support or therapy pets? This will also impact items that you should have on hand in case of an emergency.

If you can acquire a portable generator, this is a good investment for those living on their own. Depending on the nature of the crisis, it could take emergency personnel up to 72 hours to come to your aid. Consider this when evaluating and stocking up on the things that you need regularly.

Have a Stash at Home

Start stashing a few survival goods away every chance you get. Purchase extra canned foods, pet supplies, or first aid items every time that you shop. Think about how to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to stockpiling food resources; buying in bulk can be cost-efficient but only if you have room to store the food in a climate-controlled environment and if it is something that you would use.

Reach Out to your Network

Identify and reach out to your network of informal and formal supports if you are concerned about an emergency situation. If you have mobility challenges and would require assistance during these types of situations, talk to your supports about what to do in the event of an emergency. Give a reliable and trusted friend or neighbor a spare key for your home; keep your vehicle full of gas. Be as prepared as you can be.

The scariest thing can be the unknown; developing your emergency plan in conjunction with your support network can put your mind at ease.

Snap Pictures of your Documents

There are documents that you will want and need, particularly if you need to leave your home during an emergency. You may purchase a water-resistant container or safe for your original documents. You can also keep images online or saved to your computer’s desktop. Another great idea is to snap pictures of your documents with your phone for easy access as needed.

Some documents that you should snap a picture of include:

• Driver’s license
• Passport
• Prescriptions
• Banking info
• Credit cards
• Social security card
• Insurance cards
• Deeds, wills, bills of sale
• Medical records
• Birth certificates
• Immunization and vaccination record

These photos will not always be considered a viable substitute for the original but keeping a copy on your phone may help prevent loss and show proof in some instances- or serve until you can retrieve your original document.

Don’t wait for a crisis to begin your own preparedness plan- start now! For assistance, service, or support with mobility aids, reach out to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility. Call or visit today! 

There are a lot of myths floating around in regard to stairlifts- are any of them true? Bruno stairlifts debunk many of these misnomers, providing top-quality mobility aids that are both reliable and inventive.

If you want to increase accessibility around your home, you can’t go wrong with mobility aids; one way to enhance access and autonomy is a stairlift.  Bruno stairlifts have a reputation for being high-quality aids that you can rely on. Many myths regarding stairlifts are easily debunked with Bruno products and innovation.

Some common, unfounded stairlift myths include these:

Myth: Stairlifts Take Too Much Space

Many people dismiss the idea of a stairlift because they think that they take too much space to install them in their homes. The truth is, most staircases have ample room for a lift- plus plenty of space for stairlift non-users to pass by without issue.

Even at the top or bottom of the lift, there is ample room. Stairlifts can have seats and armrests that can fold in for extra space on the landings.

Myth: Stairlifts Won’t Work on My Stairs

Another myth that consumers buy into is that their stairs are too curved, winding, or customized to accommodate a stairlift. That simply is not the case. Bruno in particular offers stairlifts for curved staircases- as well as other types of stairs that are unconventional or non-standard. Got intermediate landings on your stairways? No problem- Bruno has a lift that works well with these features.

Myth: Stairlifts Won’t Work if the Power Goes Out

Bruno lifts are battery-powered with standard electrical outlets for charging at the top and bottom of the lift. If the power goes out, you are covered- thus debunking the common myth that stairlifts do not work if the electricity is out for some reason.

Myth: Stairlifts Need to be Secured to a Wall

Stairlifts do not need to be secured to a wall and, in fact, stairlifts are actually mounted onto the stairs themselves. You may think that the rail is somehow attached to your wall, but it is not; it is mounted on the stair risers and treads, so there is no chance of damage to the walls in your home.

Myth: Stairlifts Sacrifice your Autonomy

Acquiescing to a stairlift does not mean that you are sacrificing your autonomy or giving up independence. In fact, it is the opposite. You are gaining freedom and the ability to access areas of your home with ease, comfort, and safety. For many, this changes how they live in their home, making upstairs areas accessible once more.

Myth: Stairlifts are only for Seniors

Stairlifts are for anybody with a physical limitation, mobility issue, or need for assistance up and down the stairs in your home. Many that have stairlifts installed are seniors, but many more are not.

Do not let the myth that you are not old enough for a stairlift stop you from taking advantage of the ease, independence, and security that these devices provide!

Whether you are considering stairlifts as a temporary part of rehabilitation or recovery, or if you are contemplating a lift as a permanent part of your home across the lifespan, lifts can change everyday living and improve overall life quality.

Myth: Stairlifts Have a Mind of their Own

A stairlift is not going to suddenly come to life and move up or down the stairs on its own, without warning. The user is in control of the stairlift with the arm controls or the remote control. When not in use, there are pinions that lock in place to keep the lift chair securely in position and ready for the user.

Myth: Stairlifts Won’t Stop for Obstructions

Some consumers have heard the myth that stairlifts will not detect objects or obstructions on their track, moving over it and possibly causing an accident. This simply does not happen. Stairlifts are fitted with safety features to remove this possibility.

Legendary Bruno Stairlifts

When it comes to stairlifts, Bruno is top of the class. When consumers buy Bruno devices, they can expect quality, reliability, and support after the sale. Visit a mobility retailer in your region to try Bruno equipment- or to learn more about installing a Bruno lift in your own home environment.

As for the common stairlift myths, Bruno overcomes and debunks these myths through the products that they produce. Their lifts are highly regarded and sought after, with the ability to be customized for any home environment. Whether your stairs are curved or winding, straight or steep, there is a Bruno lift that will work. Bruno does indoor and outdoor stairlifts to make all areas of the home accessible.

Bruno stairlifts are legendary in the world of mobility aids and devices.

Don’t believe everything you hear- these common myths are easily debunked by the reliable, quality Bruno stairlifts. Want to learn more about a Bruno stairlift for your home? Talk to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility; call or visit today!

Pressure ulcers can lead to dangerous sepsis, a blood infection that can be fatal. Are there ways to prevent pressure ulcers- or bedsores, as they are commonly called? Mobility aids could be key in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcers, thus eliminating the risks of sepsis in many patients.

Pressure ulcers cause pain, infection, and the risk of death to over 2.5 million people in this country. Pressure ulcers, sometimes called bed sores, are most common among those that are hospitalized or bedridden and can lead to sepsis- which can be fatal. So, how do you prevent pressure ulcers among those with physical limitations? The answer may lie in mobility aids and an increased awareness of the dangers of sepsis.  

Where are you most vulnerable to these pressure ulcers? The most common locations of these sores on the body are:

• Hips
• Heels
• Tailbone
• Buttocks
• Elbows
• Back of head
• Shoulders
• Ears
• Spine

Sepsis Awareness Month in September strives to bring attention to the dangers and risks associated with bedsores and pressure ulcers.

Some mobility solutions that can prevent pressure ulcers include these aids:

Patient Lifts

Patient lifts help transfer and transport patients that have mobility issues or physical limitations. These can be a great help in ensuring patients are moved and not as susceptible to pressure sores when laid up or bedridden.

Furthermore, lifts take a lot of strain and risk off the caregiver’s shoulders. When caregivers are injured aiding their clients or loved ones, everybody loses. Make the commitment by investing in a portable lift, ceiling lift, or sling for the home environment.

Hospital Bed

As for the bed, a hospital-style bed with a gel mattress, or gel mattress overlay to protect and prevent pressure ulcers. This combination of a bed with the ability to angle and move as needed and the effective barrier between the bed and the patient’s skin are perfect for preventing sores caused by friction or pressure. The gel mattress is also lauded for better weight distribution which further helps protect the patient. Want to get a good night’s sleep? Invest in a new bed.

Wheelchair Cushions

Individuals that are confined to wheelchairs are at great risk of pressure ulcers. One way to help prevent a problem is to use a special gel or foam cushion that helps distribute weight and provide support. These are made to fit specific wheelchair models and can make the chair much more comfortable to sit in, too.

Heel Protectors

What is a heel protector? A heel protector is a protective guard that is worn when sleeping or laying down to protect the feet from pressure ulcers.

These are made to be adjustable and fit around the foot bringing your feet up and off the mattress. These are usually padded with foam, air, or a soft type of wool. These secure to the feet with Velcro closures typically and are crafted to be comfortable for the wearer. Talk to your mobility aids vendor about machine-washable covers to make it easy to keep them clean!

Blanket Lifters

When you are susceptible to pressure ulcers, the slightest weight or contact with skin can cause irritation, sores, and even infection. Individuals and caregivers must be vigilant to stay safe and to prevent the risk of sepsis.

When blankets, sheets, or other bedding rubs against the skin, it could potentially cause pressure sores for many. A blanket lifter provides a protective barrier, bringing the bedding and blankets up and away from the patient’s feet, legs, and skin. By alleviating the pressure, you are removing the risk of sores caused by bedding materials.

The blanket lifter is constructed with a metal frame that is installed between the user’s mattress and bed frame. It eliminates the friction that can lead to irritation and bedsores- and helps you sleep more comfortably.  The design of most blanket lifters makes them compatible with most sizes and types of bed; talk to a mobility retail professional to learn more.

Bed Wedges

A bed wedge may seem like a simple thing, but it is quite a handy mobility solution that also can help prevent bed sores. The mesh-covered foam can be used in a variety of ways to relieve pressure and distribute weight differently when reclining, resting, or recovering in bed. Some patients use their wedge to prevent pressure sores on their tailbone, ankles, and even feet with much success.

Sepsis is an infection of the bloodstream that can contribute to lasting health and medical conditions. It is most common among older individuals over age 65- and impacts around 2.5 million people in this country. Observe Sepsis Awareness Month this September and learn more about protecting yourself- or someone you love- against the risks of blood infection. For mobility aids and devices, talk to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility; call or visit today!

Did you know that there is a direct link between psoriasis and mobility? It is true- and there are some things that every individual should know about Psoriasis and how it may impact mobility among sufferers. Observe Psoriasis Awareness Month in August and learn more about this condition.

Psoriasis Awareness Month in August is the perfect time to learn more about this condition- for instance, did you know that an estimated 7 ½ million people have psoriasis in this country? In the US, psoriasis is the most common autoimmune disease diagnosed. There is much to learn about psoriasis including the wide range of complications that can come with this condition.

Another interesting fact is how psoriasis may impact an individual’s mobility, which in turn, directly affects autonomy. If you live with psoriasis, consider how mobility aids can make life easier and more accessible.

Here is what you should know about psoriasis and mobility:

Psoriasis

When you think of psoriasis, you might only consider how it affects the skin of those afflicted. The truth is that psoriasis is the most common autoimmune disease diagnosed today and it can bring with it a wide range of complications and conditions.

Typically, psoriasis manifests in symptoms of metabolic syndrome, which can create difficulty with mobility and autonomy among those living with this condition. Furthermore, genetic risks and environmental triggers may cause more severe or frequent symptoms and outbreaks.

Testing can help to tease out the best treatment approach and preventative practices to reduce and manage symptoms of psoriasis.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that only occurs among those with psoriasis, and around one-third of those with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis.

This is a painful condition that causes swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joints, potentially leading to long-term mobility problems and limitations. Additionally, psoriatic arthritis can lead to a long list of other complications, conditions, and co-occurring issues for those with this diagnosis.

Those most at risk are people with psoriasis between 30 and 50 years of age, and early treatment is key in preventing additional damage and discomfort.

Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms

So, what are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis? Some symptoms include the following:

• Fatigue and lethargy
• Swelling and pain, particularly near joints and tendons
• Swelling in toes and fingers
• Limited mobility
• Pain or stiffness
• Nail bed pitting
• Eye inflammation, Uveitis

If you have psoriasis and are experiencing any of these symptoms, see your doctor to discuss and be evaluated for psoriatic arthritis. Early detection and intervention can lower the chance of permanent damage to your joints.

Psoriatic Complications

If you live with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, you are more at risk for metabolic syndrome. Some related complications from psoriasis include obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and fatty liver disease, potentially.

Vitamin D

If you have psoriasis, you could be deficient in Vitamin D. This is common among those with autoimmune diseases. Talk to your provider about taking supplements- and ask whether Vitamin D supplements may help with psoriatic symptoms. Some experts suggest that Vitamin D will lessen the frequency and severity of the symptoms of psoriasis.

Eye Issues

Furthermore, your eyes are at risk from complications from psoriatic arthritis. Uveitis, a type of eye inflammation condition, is related to and often a result of psoriatic arthritis. Nearly 20% of those with psoriasis suffer from Uveitis, too.

Some other eye issues that can arise when you have psoriasis include these:

• Dry eye syndrome
• Conjunctivitis
• Cataracts
• Corneal lesions

If you have psoriasis, make sure to maintain regular eye exams to detect and identify eye issues early.

Neurological Inflammation

Psoriatic Arthritis can also put you more at risk for neurological inflammation and diseases like Parkinson’s disease. The result is coordination problems, difficulty with balance, tremors, and an unsteady gait. Many people may not realize the link between conditions like Parkinson’s disease and something seemingly less severe like psoriasis; this is why it is imperative to see a physician at the earliest signs and symptoms of psoriasis to detect and prevent complications when possible.

Psoriasis Awareness Month

There are over seven million Americans currently living with psoriasis, and it is estimated that around one-third of them will be diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis at some point. Since this is such a common health hazard- as well as the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the country- it makes sense to learn more. Make a point to seek and share information during Psoriasis Awareness Month this August. This observance aims to promote research and find a cure for this too-common condition.

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