Jeff Conner

There are some situations when a stairlift is simply not the best option. Pacific Mobility does not want to sell their consumers aids that they do not need or that could be the wrong mobility solution for them. Talk to a qualified stairlift professional to learn when a stairlift is and is not the best option including some specific environmental concerns or when the individual is not able to operate the lift due to debilitation or medication, for instance.

Stairlifts are life-changing and a positive addition to the home for thousands but sometimes a stairlift is not the best option. Be wary of mobility vendors that try to sell you equipment, including stairlifts, when you have apprehension or simply do not want them. In some cases, a stairlift may not be right. Work with mobility professionals that won’t try to sell you something you don’t want, need, or will get the most from.

Sometimes a stairlift is not the best option, such as in these situations and scenarios:

Hazardous Surroundings

Are there inherent hazards in the home environment that make a stairlift less feasible? While stairlifts can accommodate practically any type of staircase or step, there are some hazards that might make it less prudent to consider a stairlift in the home. For example, if the home is in disrepair and there are issues related to stability near or around the stairs, a lift is simply not a good idea. Homes that are heavily water-damaged or that have electrical wiring issues are also not great candidates for a lift. In these instances, there are public resources that may be able to assist with upgrading and updating the home to be accessible and safe, while also preparing it for a potential stairlift later. A local chapter for the Agency on Aging would be a good place to start.

Not Clinically Warranted

Another circumstance when a stairlift is not necessary is when it is not medically merited, that is, maybe you simply do not need one! It may also be the opinion of your provider that you climb stairs in your home, either for the physical activity or for recuperative reasons. Perhaps you have had a joint replacement surgery and your physician believes climbing stairs is in your best interest. Even if you could benefit from a lift for a short time, it may not seem worth the effort for very brief rehabilitative periods in some cases. Again, talk to mobility vendors as well as your own practitioners to come to a consensus about which mobility equipment will be the best option for you, your needs, and your living environment- it may not be a stairlift!

Medication Danger

Is the primary user on medications that could make operating a stairlift dangerous? The best way to know for sure is to discuss such mobility solutions with the individual’s primary physician or provider. They will have a sense of any medications that could impair the user and make it dangerous for them to self-transport up and down stairs in the home, without supervision or assistance. If the user has a lack of coordination or balance that could cause them to fall on the landings, a stairlift may not be the best choice for the situation.

Debilitating Disease

Does the user have a disease that is fast-moving and debilitating? Is there a chance that they won’t be able to get the most use and money’s worth from a stairlift? In these instances, it might make better sense to rent a stairlift. This provides the chance to benefit from the accessibility, but also the chance to opt for something different as the needs change and arise. Also, if the individual is simply too weak or uncoordinated to use a lift it could pose more of a hazard than a help.

Other Options are Better

Do you even need or want access to the upstairs of your home? In some situations, a stairlift is not offering much more access than the individual already has. Consider how often and for what reason you want to go upstairs, or down, and whether a stairlift is prudent. Also, if your needs are temporary, such as recovering from an operation, you may want to consider renting a lift rather than installing one of your own. Stairlifts are not always the right solution. Talk to a mobility professional to find out what other options exist.

Sometimes a stairlift is not the right mobility solution. At Pacific Mobility, we care about our customers and won’t sell costly mobility aids that are not the right option for the client. Fortunately, there is a wide range of aids and equipment to suit any and all mobility needs. Don’t get pressured into a stairlift when it is not the best solution for you. Call or visit the professionals to learn more today!

Foot care is even more crucial for those with limited mobility or physical limitations. Poor foot care can lead to issues with your feet that further impair movement, cause pain, and could precipitate a fall. Do you have diabetes? Foot care is critical to these individuals to prevent life-threatening infections.

Foot problems can exacerbate mobility issues, further hindering access while also causing chronic discomfort or pain. Taking care of your feet is more than an activity of daily living- it is a proactive and necessary health precaution that can prevent infection and illness. If you have issues with your feet, consider using mobility aids; it can help you avoid serious risks to your overall wellbeing.

Some tips for proper foot care include the following:

Measure Your Feet

Did you know that there is a national observance dedicated to measuring your feet? It’s true. Measure Your Feet Day on January 23rd aims to inspire you to measure your feet regularly to ensure well-fitting footwear. After all, your feet are the basis of your mobility, accessibility, and balance. Do not let ill-fitting shoes hinder you. Give your feet a bit of extra attention. Remeasure your feet and see if they have grown since the last time you checked!

Pay Attention to your Feet

Daily Foot Care is a lot more than merely washing and drying your feet. It includes wearing moisture-absorbent socks, tending to any wounds or blisters, trimming your nails, and keeping your feet safe from potential infection. Make sure that you are drying your feet thoroughly to prevent moisture from becoming trapped and change your socks each day.

Some more foot care tips include these!

• Switch shoes and rotate the pairs that you wear regularly. During wet weather- or if you are prone to perspiration- give shoes a day between wearing to dry out.
• If you walk around barefoot, make sure to wash your feet well after. It is best to avoid being barefoot outside, if possible.
• Try to trim your toenails at least every two weeks and use a file or emery board to smooth down the edges and corners after. Have a professional trim them for you if you have trouble seeing your toes, difficulty reaching them, or if you live with medical issues, like diabetes. Even a superficial nick or cut can cause big problems for people with diabetes or circulatory issues.
• Use clean nail clippers or scissors. Sanitize them periodically by immersing them in alcohol.
• If you notice a discolored toenail, avoid putting nail polish on it. Let it breathe and, hopefully, heal and keep your physician informed.

It is important to get a good look at all areas of your feet, so if you are having trouble, use a small, handheld mirror for a better vantage point.

Stimulate the Circulation

A lot of problems with feet are caused by poor circulation, and seniors, are prone to circulation problems. Do you always feel like your hands or feet are cold? This is a sign of poor circulation. It is important to keep blood moving in all areas of the body, and the numbness caused by poor circulation can be immobilizing and cause falls.

Even more seriously, poor circulation in the extremities can lead to big issues among those with diabetes. In fact, many suffer amputations due to a lack of blood flow in their legs or feet. A warm foot soak with Epsom salt can be soothing, and cause blood flow, improving circulation. Another solution is to treat yourself or someone you love to an invigorating and therapeutic foot massage!

Wear Comfortable Shoes

As mentioned, well-fitting footwear is vital to maintaining foot health, but also make sure that the shoes you choose are comfortable. This will go a long way in preserving posture and helping you get around with more ease. Also, comfy shoes prevent sore blisters and wounds on your toes or heel that can impede movement. Assess your shoes for good arch support and do not choose footwear that is too snug or tight.

See a Foot Doctor

Do not suffer in silence with corns or bunions, they really hurt! These are common foot issues that happen typically due to a lot of wear and tear on your feet. This is also more prevalent the older that you get. Do not try DIY corn treatments, but instead, see a doctor for proper care and treatment. Furthermore, the longer you let these situations persist, the more painful and debilitating they can become- see your provider right away.

Use these tips to provide your feet with proper care to prevent a wide range of health issues and repercussions. If you live with medical issues like diabetes, it is even more critical to take care of your feet. For mobility aids and enhanced accessibility, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility today!

Since around 235,000 people are injured in falls sustained in their bathroom each year, it makes sense to focus on enhancing bath safety widely. January is National Bath Safety Month, which is the perfect time to assess and reevaluate how safe your bathroom is- and how you can reduce the risks of falls. As the hazards increase with age, safety for seniors may include bathroom modifications and aids that include shower seats, grab balls, and enhanced lighting.

National Bath Safety Month is in January, is your bathroom as safe as it could be? The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) report that around 235,000 people show up at emergency rooms in this country due to injuries from falling in their bathrooms. They also assert that among seniors, one out of every four will experience a nasty fall this year. To be fair, the bathroom is inherently hazardous due to wet surfaces and slick floors particularly for seniors or those with mobility issues. Circumvent the dangers of your bathroom with mobility aids that curb the risks and enhance personal safety.

We take bath safety very seriously- and you should, too. Here are some suggestions that can help make the bathroom a much safer place:

• Invest in and install sensor lights that will illuminate these areas as needed- without the reaching and searching for switches that may precipitate a fall. This is a safety measure for late-night trips to the bathroom.
• Make sure that the fan is working in the bathroom- and consider implementing a timer. When the room is not well ventilated, moisture and condensation may take longer to dry. This could create a slippery surface and hazardous environment, particularly if it goes unnoticed. A timer ensures the fan goes on and off periodically, keeping moisture at-bay.
• Install grab bars throughout the bathroom and exterior areas. These can be subtle and discreet- but still provide a helping hand and sturdy support, as needed. Place them on secure stud-beams near stairs and doorways- as well as close to the tub, toilet, and sink. Grab bars are an inexpensive approach that could be invaluable later-on.
• Do you or your loved ones use an emergency call button system? Why or why not? These are an excellent line of defense for those that live alone- or that live with chronic medical issues or mobility limitations. A button is non-intrusive but there when you need it the most!
• It is a resource that often goes unnoticed, but if you keep an Alexa-abled device in the bathroom, you may be able to simply tell Alexa to ‘call 9-1-1’ if an emergency arises. Isn’t modern technology amazing?
• Make the effort to change and augment the threshold of the bathroom doorway. This is easy enough to do with some transition tape or stripping, but it can make a huge difference for anyone trying to navigate with a cane, walker, or chair into the bathroom. This is easily a DIY project!
• Get rid of throw rugs or runners that could cause a potential fall risk. Instead, use some non-slip bathmats and keep them near the sink and tub, where it could possibly be slick. Use bathtub treads- you know, those textured stickers- to prevent slipping during ADLs, or activities of daily living.
• A shower seat is inexpensive and easy to move around, as needed. These are available widely and provide a sturdy place to sit during showering or bathing, which can decrease the risks of a fall and related injury. These are an invaluable tool for ADLs.
• Make showering as easy as it can be with a hand-held shower head. These allow the user to control where and how they will bathe- rather than be struggling to position themselves under the water and showerhead. This may provide a better sense of balance for some users, which could prevent falls. Some have extra features that further increase ease, such as a pause function that is initiated on the shower head handle.
• Raise the toilet seat to prevent injuries caused when bending, sitting, and rising from the bathroom toilet. Toileting is one of the areas that could prevent individuals from aging in place and staying in their own home, longer. A raised seat simply makes it easier and less straining to do so. Talk to a mobility retailer about options compatible with your bathroom and toilet. These are more affordable than you might think!
• If you decide to go the extra mile and remodel the bathroom with safety in-mind, consider a frameless or walk-in shower system. This can help those with physical limitations get in and out of the shower safely- while also providing a means of access for wheelchairs and walkers, too.

Make your bathroom safer with these suggestions- and with mobility equipment and aids from Pacific Mobility. Create a safer home that improves the overall quality of life for all who live there. Call or visit today!

National Take the Stairs Day seems like a well-meaning initiative, but what about those individuals that have mobility issues or limitations? Let’s have a National Take the Stairlift Day, as well, in the name of inclusivity but also to promote autonomy and foster independence among those that may rely on these aids for activities of daily living.

Surely you have heard of National Take the Stairs Day when people skip the elevator and ascend steps and stairs with abandon. What about those that simply cannot climb stairs, due to a physical challenge or mobility issue? Sometimes stairlifts can be more beneficial to an individual than just the fitness aspect of taking the stairs. They represent independence and signify autonomy for many. using mobility aids is worthy of observance and should be embraced. These devices and equipment offer freedom and accessibility to those that use them. Let’s have a National Take the Stairlift Day, as well!

Here are some reasons why:

Represents Autonomy

A national observance such as this symbolizes autonomy. It fosters a sense of freedom and independence in all who celebrate. It reminds folks far and wide to not take mobility for granted and symbolizes a means of holding on to autonomy for as long as possible. The stairlift in and of itself represents independence for the user; after all, lifts increase and enhance access, which goes a long way toward autonomy.

Garners Solidarity

There is something about a common goal that brings people together like a national observance. National Take the Stairlift Day is the perfect platform to garner solidarity and get people to come together and join forces. There is strength in numbers. The advocacy and social policy potential are limitless.

Instills a Sense of Confidence

When people get together to take the stairlift, this may build a sense of confidence in those that use mobility aids regularly. It is an empathetic way to share an experience and try to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, that is what these National observances are all about. Sure, taking the stairs aids in physical wellbeing, but taking the stairlift may help with emotional health and provide newfound self-esteem.

Reduces the Risk of Falls

A stairlift can reduce falls and significantly lower the potential risk of a fall. For this reason, doesn’t it make sense to learn more about them? If someone in your family would benefit from the accessibility and safety of a stairlift, speak with a mobility retailer. Remember also that we are all getting older every day. Consider future needs when deciding on whether a stairlift is worth the investment. We believe it most certainly is!

Preserves Independence

The of comfort using a stairlift helps to preserve independence. After all, if you can adapt to a tech-savvy device like a stairlift, what can’t you do? Being able to visit second floors and upper levels of the home living environment can open up a whole new world and improve quality of life right away. Think of how your own home is configured and what you would miss out on if you could not access an entire level or floor. Stairlifts allow residents to use and enjoy upstairs areas, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and home offices which is a compelling reason to consider one for your own living environment.

Provides Purpose and Hope

Being stuck in a room or being forced into decisions regarding your living situation is exactly what mobility aids and devices attempt to prevent. There is nothing wrong with needing a bit of assistance, a mobility aid, like a stairlift, can provide hope that you can stay in your home and live life on your own terms. It further reinforces that you can do what you need to do and access all areas within your home. This can create a sense of purpose and optimism about the future that we all need. Take the Stairlift Day may be a gentle nudge for many to improve their own quality of living with one of these clever and convenient mobility aids.

Assists with Aging in Place

Stairlifts provide a critical function in homes and living situations where someone has a mobility issue, challenge, or limitation. For some, stairlifts are the feature that allows them to stay in their own home, safely, to age in place. Aging in place emphasizes the individual’s right to live as they wish, typically, to stay in their own home, as they get older. Part of aging in place is maintaining accessibility to perform ADLs (activities of daily life), which is often the criteria by which seniors are assessed for independent living and home health support.

Let’s have a National Take the Stairlift Day! The folks at Pacific Mobility are here to ensure you have the mobility equipment that you need to live autonomously and comfortably. Call or visit to learn more today!

Mobility aids that focus on quality of life are the ones that enhance everyday living and expand access. Consider the many ways that these aids- including stairlifts and ramps- can improve and enhance your life, living situation, and surroundings.

In January, International Quality of Life Month, puts the attention on seniors and how they might enhance everyday living. The key for many may lie with mobility aids that improve and increase accessibility around the home and living environment.

It has been studied and shown that accessibility and quality of life are connected. For seniors, quality of life may be synonymous with aging in place which allows the individual to stay in their current home environment across the lifespan. Access plays a role in aging in place, as challenges with accessibility may compromise independence. For instance, if a senior can’t navigate a way to the bathroom in their home, this can jeopardize remaining in the home.

International Quality of Life Month can represent a new beginning for those living with mobility issues or accessibility hurdles. Reflect on your life, and how it may be enhanced each day. It may come down to something as simple as mobility aids that support autonomy, like a shower seat or improved lighting on a stairway. Some may have greater challenges that merit consideration of lifts or wheelchairs, talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best approach to take. Make the move to improve your quality of life this January!

Mobility aids change life for the better- consider these mobility aids that focus on quality of life:

Stairlifts

If you live in a home with stairs or steps, mobility issues can present challenges to living independently. A stairlift can remove this hurdle and make the entire environment accessible! Stairlifts should always be professionally installed to maintain any warranty on the equipment and to optimize safety and performance. Stairlifts are non-intrusive on stairs so they do not interfere with others using and navigating the stairs.

When it comes to stairlifts, you have a lot of options. Talk directly with a member of our team to learn more!

Scooters & Wheelchairs

Scooters and wheelchairs are typically prescribed by your healthcare provider to improve mobility and provide ease. While certainly scooters and wheelchairs can improve life significantly, it makes the most sense to visit a mobility retailer to find the right device for you which may include testing, trying, and observing a number of options.

The wrong chair or scooter may cause you grief over the long run, so see what you have available, and don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions!

Ceiling Lifts

If you are confined to a bed due to physical disabilities or recent surgery, a free-standing lift/ceiling lift may be key to improving quality of life and fostering recovery. Ceiling lifts make it feasible to get in and out of bed, the tub, or your chair when depending on others for aid. These devices also improve the conditions for caregivers, reducing the risks of an injury that could derail and disable them, too.

Free-standing lifts are able to be moved around, from one spot to the next, with ease and comfort. Visit to see a ceiling lift in action!

Ramps

When it comes to improving conditions around the home, you can’t go wrong with ramps. Even portable ramps offer access and assistance that help many remain autonomous and in their own homes. Consider also that a portable ramp makes it possible to carry this convenience along with you creating accessibility wherever you go! What could be a greater gift than this?

As for permanent ramps, talk with contractors about specifications for ADA-approved modifications that improve access. There are often tax incentives available for homeowners making these adjustments.

Vehicle Lifts

Do you drive? A vehicle lift opens up a whole new opportunity for those that may have thought their driving days were behind them. Vehicle lifts help the driver get in and out of their van or truck, while also providing a way to stash a scooter or chair so that they can get behind the wheel. The freedom and independence of driving are a liberating experience for many!

Talk to your mobility retailer about the kinds of vehicles that are best adapted to lifts.

Shower Aids

Taking a shower is an activity of daily life; the Shower Buddy provides a way to take a shower in the home when you have mobility challenges. The Shower Buddy helps to reduce the need for transfers and lifting that could result in a fall, as well as injury to caregivers. Plus, shower buddy maintains the user’s dignity, a prudent investment.

Improve accessibility and enhance the everyday quality of life. It really is that simple; talk to the team at Pacific Mobility and find out more about mobility aids and equipment that can increase the quality of your life. From grab bars to stairlifts, we offer sales, service, and support for all the products that we sell.

The best gift this season is to take care of your health. Getting a flu shot may be one of the best gifts for you and others. If you have risk factors, including age or medical issues, the flu can pose very serious risks and repercussions. Make National Influenza Vaccination Week in December the time that you go and get your flu shot this year!

It is that time of year when many people schedule their flu vaccine. Have you had your flu shot yet? Older people have more serious ramifications from Influenza, and it could have debilitating effects on their overall health. In fact, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that people over age 65 comprise around ¾ of flu fatalities, and around 70% of all hospitalizations related to the Flu. This illness can have lasting impacts on holistic wellness and even mobility- talk to a mobility aid and equipment retailer to learn more.

Flu Shots

The CDC recommends that everyone over six months old should get a flu shot once a year. Are there people that should not get this shot? Yes, children under the age of 6 months should not get the flu shot, as well as individuals that have had a life-threatening or severe reaction to a flu vaccine previously or that have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine. Your primary care provider should be able to provide more information pertaining to the ingredients of the flu vaccine for you. Talk to your doctor to learn more.

National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW)

National Influenza Vaccination Week, in early December, is the perfect time to schedule your family’s vaccinations. Flu season is coming at the height of winter, so get your flu shot now. The benefits of getting the flu shot include preventing you from coming down sick with the flu, of course, but also it can impact the severity and protect others that make have weak immune systems or medical complications. Furthermore, getting vaccinated against the flu helps relieve stress on public health resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Make an informed decision regarding your flu shot. Here are the answers to some of the most common and frequently asked questions related to Influenza and the vaccine:

What is influenza?

Influenza, or the flu, is an infection of the respiratory system that is caused by a virus. The flu impacts everyone differently, ranging from cold-like symptoms to flu fatality. Those most at risk include seniors, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with medical or health issues.

How long does the flu last?

If you come down with the flu, plan on symptoms lasting around a week. The most severe symptoms typically dissipate after a couple of days, but you may feel tired and week for a couple of weeks.

Is the flu contagious?

The flu is very contagious and it is easily spread. If someone sneezes or coughs near you and they have the flu, they could transmit it to you through a surface or something that they touched.

When is the flu contagious?

Young patients with the flu are contagious for a week or longer after getting sick, while adults are usually contagious 24 hours prior to symptoms of the flu and about a week after symptoms manifest.

When is flu season?

Flu season is in the fall and winter in this country, though it peaks in the height of winter. Flu season can last well into spring, often until May.

Can someone spread the flu if they don’t have symptoms?

Yes, adults can spread flu germs before they even know they are sick! Typically, adults are contagious a full day before any symptoms emerge. A flu shot is a good preventative against unknowingly being around someone who has the flu and is contagious. Further protect yourself against contracting the flu with vigilant handwashing.

Can you have flu without a fever?

Yes, you can have the flu without ever having a fever. A fever, however, may be a prevalent symptom for some people that come down with the flu. The symptoms vary based on many factors, including age, medical history, and whether you have had a flu shot.

Can you get the flu from the flu shot?

The flu vaccine contains only elements of an inactive flu virus or none at all, so you cannot get the flu from the flu shot. It is simply not possible. There have been many myths and urban legends that convey how getting the flu shot is essentially contracting the flu- but this is not the case.

Anyone could be at risk for contracting the flu- have you had your flu shot yet? For more information about mobility solutions and accessibility, talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility today!

Give someone special the gift of enhanced mobility and accessibility this holiday season. Mobility aids and devices can improve everyday living and make life more convenient, comfortable, and safe. Who wouldn’t want to give that to someone that you care about? Consider these mobility aids for a holiday gift that will continue to give, year after year!

Do you know someone that would benefit from mobility aids and equipment to increase accessibility around their home? Or would you enjoy added security and safety in your living environment? The answer could be as simple as mobility aids created to bring support and stability. Since this is the gift-giving season, perhaps you should consider a life-changing gift like these for someone you care about, or for yourself.

These mobility aids would be a great gift to give to anyone!

Grab Bars and Railings

Start small with something as simple and fundamental as a grab bar. Install the bar on a firm surface, like the stud in a wall, near the sink, toilet, stairs, anyplace that you would love something to grab onto when traversing the home.

Does your loved one have a firm, sturdy railing near stairs, steps, or porches? Without a reliable railing, these areas of the home could become trouble spots that could be to blame for a nasty fall. A railing sounds simple, and it is, but it could prevent debilitating injury and pain later. Have them professionally installed for best results and longevity!

Canes

During the holiday season, when you think of ‘canes’, your mind might go to candy canes, actually, a cane or walking stick can be a great gift for someone this year! A cane can be the perfect amount of support and stability for anyone who gets out and about and that may not need the support of a wheelchair or walker. Plus, a cane in-hand can help navigate icy sidewalks or slippery terrain, potentially preventing a fall and injury. Take a look at the unique styles and features of canes to find the perfect aid for your loved one this season.

Walkers

When it comes to walkers, there are many different styles and types available, so it makes sense to meet and speak with a mobility professional first. There are knee walkers for those recovering and rehabilitating from an injury, as well as rolling walkers that often feature seats to provide a bit of rest for the user, as needed. There are traditional walkers that have peg-style legs and that may be the easiest to adapt to as well as being cost-efficient, too. The options are endless!

The best way to determine the right walker for you, or your loved one, is to visit a mobility retail venue and try some out. You may also ask friends or family members about their walkers, experiences, and other details to tease out the best choice and mobility device to suit your needs.

Lifts

You may not immediately think of a stairlift in terms of gift-giving, but what a life-changing gift a lift could be! A stairlift provides a supportive way for the user to get up and down stairs, allowing them to fully use and enjoy their home and spaces. A stairlift is easy to use and non-intrusive when installed; that is, others can still use the stairs without obstacles or challenges associated with the lift.

Talk to a medical provider about a prescription for a lift- which may compel insurance to cover the costs when clinically indicated. Visit a mobility retail venue in the area to learn more and see a stairlift in action. A lift could be a life-altering gift that is never forgotten. Need support and a lift outdoors? There are stairlifts designed specifically for exterior steps, pools, vehicles, and challenging staircases that curve or wind.

Scooters and Chairs

If someone you care about uses a scooter or wheelchair, this might be the ideal time to trade up and upgrade to something new! There are so many different styles and features in the mobility market. Consider some modern extras that could enhance everyday life and increase independence. The days of a single option are gone. Visit a mobility retail site to see some of the styles available.

LED Lights

It may seem out of place here, but the right lighting is another way to improve access and mobility for those you love. Poor or inadequate lighting is to blame for many of the debilitating falls experienced by seniors. Illuminate stairways, entries, and halls with LED lights this season! The beauty of LED is that it is cool to the touch and energy-efficient, providing better light and using less energy. It is a win-win situation!

Interested in giving the gift of enhanced mobility to someone this holiday season? Or, make this the year that you make your own life more accessible and convenient, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility, too. They have the equipment and aids that you will want to share with those you love!

Start the year out right with a stairlift, a life-changing mobility aid for many with mobility issues or physical disabilities. When it comes to stairlifts, there are a few resolutions that we endorse and hope buyers will make in the coming year!

If you are thinking of making a resolution this new year, make one to improve accessibility and quality of life with a stairlift. If you already own or use a lift, you know the benefits and convenience they bring if you live with a mobility issue or physical disability. However, make the commitment to take care and follow some basic guidelines regarding your stairlift to ensure performance, safety, and longevity.

We encourage and endorse the following stairlift resolutions!

Only Allow Professionals to Install your Stairlift

Resolve to only have professional installation of your stairlift to ensure safety and performance during the time that you use it. Did you know that permitting someone other than a certified installation technician to work on, install, or repair your lift can nullify its warranty? Make sure that you know the terms of your warranty- and that you only have a professional install your new lift. It really is the safest approach.

Take Care and Maintain your Stairlift

Resolve to maintain and take care of your stairlift. Like any mobility equipment, it needs annual inspections to ensure it is working up to par and so minor malfunctions won’t leave you without mobility assistance. It is recommended that professional technicians inspect and maintain the lift at least once a year- and identify any issues that may merit repairs or attention before they can turn into a problem. Take care of your lift and it will take care of you!

Keep Paths and Stairways Clear and Clutter-Free

It is important that you maintain clear and clutter-free stairways for a lift, and try to follow this guideline for the rest of the home, particularly when living with mobility issues or physical disabilities. Clutter can cause a nasty fall and subsequent injury, sure, it is tough to pick up items but start by getting rid of things that you simply don’t need. Trade these belongings in for a more comfortable and convenient environment. You will not believe how much easier it can make getting around and completing ADLs (activities of daily living). Resolve to keep stairways and pathways clear!

Assess and Address Issues Early

An inspection is the perfect time to troubleshoot your lift, such as to check for loose or faulty parts, to prevent further issues with the stairlift. Don’t delay inspections or necessary repairs. Resolve to make your accessibility and mobility devices a priority! Call on your service and support representative and make arrangements to assess and address the issues early, before they compromise the condition of your lift and the safety of your home.

Always Adhere to the Manufacturer’s Recommended Use and Safety Guidelines

Resolve to familiarize yourself with and adhere to the safety guidelines of your stairlift manufacturer. Know the limitations of your lift before you use and operate it, it will make it much safer. For instance, lifts have very specific weight restrictions; do you know the weight limit for your lift or device? Strain by putting more weight on the lift than is recommended can impact performance, reliability, and longevity. It is always good practice to abide by the manufacturer’s recommendations- if you have questions pertaining to these suggestions, simply ask!

Reach Out as Needed for Support

Resolve to call and reach out to support as needed for help and assistance with your lift. Pacific Mobility wants you to get the most out of your mobility aids and devices- including stairlifts. That is why they welcome and encourage you to reach out to them for support, questions, queries anytime you have a concern related to your equipment. We want to provide you with the customer service that you deserve; we have built our reputation on it. Please resolve to call us when you need anything at all. We want to put your mind at ease and be of assistance to you, our valued customer.

Enhance Access and Invest in a Stairlift

Make the resolution to be open-minded and learn more about how a stairlift can benefit you and improve your overall quality of life! This is key. Why not consider how a lift could improve accessibility around your home? Many individuals believe they do not qualify or need a lift. Talk to a qualified retail professional to learn more about the criteria of mobility equipment and how these devices could improve your everyday living. Make this the year that you invest in your own health and comfort!

Does your new year involve a stairlift? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more and resolve to take care of your mobility equipment. Need assistance? We are here to help!