Jeff Conner

There is no better time than National Safe at Home Week in August to consider how mobility aids can help keep you safer at home. It is reported that the leading cause of fatalities in the home are due to slip and fall accidents; this should be of concern to all, but primarily seniors who may be at a greater risk of a fall than other demographics. Consider ways that will prevent falls- and other dangerous mishaps- and stay safe.

This August, observe National Safe at Home Week. One way that you might choose to honor this day is by being proactive in preventing situations at home that could be safety issues. Experts report that the number one cause of accidental fatalities in the home among kids is poisoning; for adults, it is due to injuries sustained in slips and falls.

Make this year one that is safer for everyone in the home. Take a closer look around to detect and address any potential risks, while also brainstorming solutions and strategies, like mobility aids, to help you stay safer at home.

Facts About Falls

A fall can have devastating consequences for anyone- but perhaps most at-risk are seniors. It is estimated that among those over age 65, one in three will experience a fall-related injury. Falls are the leading cause of injury- both fatal and non- among this age group. Falls cause and contribute to bone breaks, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and practically all hip fractures occurring among adults in this country.

Did you know that women are most at risk of taking a nasty fall? Men are half as prone to breaking a bone from a fall, too.

Common Causes of Falls

So, what is causing folks to fall down? There are many reasons why you- or someone you love- may take a nasty fall, including these culprits:

• Icy or slick conditions underfoot
• Decline in vision or difficulty seeing
• Medication side-effects, i.e. drowsiness
• Hazards in the home, like steps, loose flooring, or clutter
• Poor lighting
• Loss of balance or flexibility due to age or medical condition
• Fear of falling again
• Low Blood pressure
• Infections

The important thing to remember is that all injuries do not manifest right away. If you have fallen, see a medical provider regardless of if you are seriously hurt.

Fall Prevention

How will you stop yourself from taking a nasty fall and possibly becoming injured? The best approach is to look around the home and identify risks- then work on fall prevention strategies, including these:

• Have an annual eye exam to ensure prescription- if applicable- is accurate and adequate.
• Ask your physician for a medication review to make sure you are not suffering from an interaction or increased risk danger.
• Add grab bars, seats, railings, and supports as needed throughout the home. Consider mobility aids and equipment that can increase accessibility while reducing risk of a fall.
• Enhance home lighting.
• Have a medical check-up and request an osteoporosis screening.
• Take Vitamin D and calcium supplements to ensure your bones are strong and not brittle. Always discuss these options with a doctor before taking supplements.
• Increase flexibility and mobility with regular activity and exercise.
• Remove clutter and clean up your home environment to remove any tripping hazards.

Make sure to focus some attention on inherently hazardous spots, like stairways. Add light switches at the top and bottom to ensure adequate lighting at night. Also, install nightlights anywhere that you could use a bit of illumination.

Home Safety Suggestions

Falls are unfortunately not the only danger that lurks in the home environment. Consider the following home safety suggestions to keep the whole family safe from a bevy and bunch of often-overlooked hazards.

• Keep toxic products, like medications or cleaning agents, out of reach of kids and pets. Consider locking the cabinet and storing up-high.
• Cover up and conceal outlets and switches from kids. Use outlet covers whenever possible.
• Secure rugs and runners to the floor with tape for added stability.
• Do not wear slippery socks on linoleum, hardwood, or other slippery surface- including on stairways!
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• Test and replace the batteries in smoke detectors throughout the home. Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors, too.
• Use a surge protector and power strip to avoid overloading outlets and circuits.
• Enhance outdoor lighting to deter theft and crime.

Consider investing in a home security system- even a simple one. The newer surveillance doorbell systems are inexpensive, easy-to-operate, and effective at monitoring your home and property from a laptop or smartphone.

Create a safer home environment with these tips now and prevent a nasty fall later. For mobility aids and equipment, talk to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility today. 

Once you understand the basics of a stairlift, you will wonder why you did not install one sooner! These aids bring ease, convenience, and safety to the home- but actually do so much more to foster independence and support aging in place, too. Here are some things that you should know about buying a stairlift to increase accessibility for you or someone you love.

Would a stairlift make your life easier? There is a lot to know about stairlifts– and a mobility aid retailer should be able to tell you more about incorporating one into your home environment. Stairlifts are life-changing but understanding the basics can help make the transition a smooth one.

Stairlift Basics

A stair lift is a mobility aid that assists by lifting and transporting the user up- and down- a flight of stairs. The misconception lies in what consumers perceive as limitations regarding stairlifts; that is, many don’t think their stairs or steps are compatible with these aids. The truth is, stairlifts are customized and crafted to accommodate any kind of stairs, from curved or spiral stairs to steps that are outdoors in the elements.

Essentially, the rail is mounted to the tread of the steps and the chair or seat is attached to the rail. Whether you have a wide or narrow stairway, there is a lift for that- oh, and don’t worry about the lift inconveniencing or obstructing the passage of others living in the home. Lifts are not as space-consuming or intrusive as you might think!

Independence

What are your thoughts regarding aging in place? Do you desire to stay in your current home environment for the rest of your life? Many seniors take great comfort in knowing that they have a home that they can stay in, however, physical issues, limitations, and disabilities can throw a wrench in that plan fast. Aging in place relates to staying in the home you wish, as you wish, asserting your own autonomy and independence along the way.

How does a stairlift fit into this equation? A lift can make the home environment more accessible and accommodating for the seniors living there. Being able to access the upstairs, ascend the porch, or navigate other steps in the home could make the difference between living independently and being forced from your own home.

Life Quality

When you change the home environment to be more accessible and easy to get around, you improve overall life quality. Life is short- why not live your best one? This may include investing in mobility aids that make life a lot simpler. From stairlifts and the ability to access all areas of the home to simple equipment like a grab bar near the sink, shower seat in the bath, or vehicle lift to get driving again, these are aids that contribute to a greater sense of satisfaction and autonomy in everyday life.

If you live with physical limitations or challenges, talk to your doctor about a referral for mobility aids that could have the potential to change your life for the better.

Safety

Before you bite the bullet on making an investment in a lift, it makes sense to garner information that helps to make the most insightful buying decision. For example, talk to a qualified retailer of quality mobility aids and figure out which equipment is the best fit for you, your home, and your budget.

A physician may be able to recommend specific devices that might be covered in part by your health insurance carrier.

Service

When buying a stairlift, you will want to go with a company that provides service and support. This is a major, potentially life-changing decision; make sure that you have it properly installed and demonstrated for optimal utility- while also having someone to call if you encounter an issue. Avoid having a layman install your lift as this will make any warranty null and void, while also presenting possible hazards and a risk of property damage, too. Go with the pros.

Sales

Do not forget that you have the option of renting or buying previously owned equipment from a reputable mobility retailer, too. Craigslist is not the place to shop for your stairlift! Choose a reputable dealer that can offer a comprehensive needs assessment to pinpoint the perfect options that best suit you. Plus, make sure that you are able to reach out to the seller for support, questions, or problems as needed; this ‘lifeline’ can make all the difference in preventing buyer’s remorse later.

Thinking about a stairlift? It is estimated that nearly 75 million people in this country live with a physical disability- many rely on stairlifts to help them navigate and access areas of their home with ease. If you would like to learn more about how mobility aids could improve your life, talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; they offer quality mobility equipment with service and support after the sale. 

Studies show that holding on to anger or refusing to forgive can have detrimental health effects- both physical and mental. Practice letting go of old vendettas, conflicts, or problems and see how truly liberating it can be. Forgiveness can make everyday life better- lighter and brighter- which can have positive impacts on your overall wellbeing.

Do you forgive others easily? How about forgiving yourself? In fact, most of us judge ourselves much harsher than others and are reluctant to forgive ourselves for the most minor of errors, mistakes, or indiscretions. Holding on to anger or resentment does no good and judging harshly based on the past is a fruitless endeavor that fosters cynicism and ill health.

Practice forgiving others and yourself and note how much lighter and better you feel. In a world of uncertainty, being the first to forgive can free up energy and resources for other areas of life that are positive and productive. It takes practice so don’t be too hard on yourself if you lapse- just try again- it truly can make life better. Also, accessibility can also improve everyday life; reach out to learn more about mobility aids and equipment.

Why Should I Forgive?

It is natural to become angry or to have a conflict with others from time to time- however, prolonged anger can have negative health consequences and risks. Some of the repercussions of refusing or failing to forgive include an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Emotionally speaking, holding on to anger can create cynicism and a sense of dissatisfaction with overall life that can be deteriorating and even debilitating. Why should you forgive? You should forgive to improve the quality of your own everyday life; it is that simple.

What If I Cannot Forgive?

Sometimes, forgiveness requires time and perspective. Stepping away from a situation to carefully consider when and how to forgive may be needed to move on. So, what if I just cannot forgive someone- or myself? There are a few things that may help you forgive:

• Write a heartfelt letter related to the incident or event that you are angry or upset over. Whether you choose to mail the letter or not, just getting your feelings off your chest may be enough to pave the way to forgiveness.
• Do it purposefully to free yourself from the unnecessary burden of hanging on to anger. Consider how it is weighing your down.
• Put yourself in the other person’s shoes. If you are struggling with forgiving yourself, try to remember the time and situation objectively, and use empathy in understanding why you may have done, said, or felt the way that you did at the time.

Remember, forgiving someone else for something is as much about letting yourself off the hook as it is the other person; holding on to resentment can be exhausting. Forgiving oneself can be more challenging, but more on that later.

How Can I Move Past It?

The best way to move past an issue and forgive is to not let it gain traction to begin with. Learn some tips and tricks to abate your anger and get over conflicts fast. These are some tactics for times of duress or conflict:

• Step away.
• Breathe deeply.
• Shift your focus.
• Get some physical exercise.
• Take a hot shower.
• Take a little time to choose your words carefully.

Practice controlling and managing anger to prevent it from festering and becoming a major issue in your life. Anger is a natural emotion but don’t let it impact the quality of your life.

Practice Forgiveness

International Forgiveness Day is on August 1, 2021– why not make this the day that you will forgive somebody? This global event strives to create momentum and move toward an improved life quality for all who participate. Take responsibility for your role in whatever angst you have with someone else and be a part of the movement toward ownership and forgiveness occurring during this event. The aim is to pave the way for forgiveness and a more positive future experience.

Isn’t life difficult enough already? Try not to hang on to old conflicts or unresolved anger with others or yourself. Treat yourself as gently as you would an old friend- it really can soften your internal voice- which can have a ripple effect of positivity across your entire life. Forgiveness can take some work and you may fall back into old feelings of anger or confusion- be kind and patient with yourself. The more forgiving you are of yourself, the easier it will be to treat others the same way. Try it!

Forgive someone for something, but even more importantly, practice forgiving yourself. Everyone has regrets- let go of anger toward someone and see how truly transformative it can be. For all of your accessibility needs, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility.

The aim of therapeutic recreation is to improve all areas of function- physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual- and to foster full participation and quality of everyday life. These activities are usually overseen by a Recreational therapist or a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, which is a position that requires an advanced degree and licensure in the US.

It is estimated that there are over 19,000 licensed recreational therapists in the US- but what exactly do they do? The goal of Therapeutic recreation is to improve or preserve function, in all areas of life including cognitive, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social. The recreational therapist facilitates, supports, and coordinates activities with these goals in mind. From this, therapists may make therapeutic recommendations- including the need and benefit of mobility equipment or adaptive aids for their clients.

So, what is Therapeutic Recreation?

Basically, recreational therapy consists of activities to improve function. From playing a game to going out in the community, the goal is to improve or maintain participation in everyday life. The therapist strives to reduce the client’s discomfort or stress while reinforcing their cognitive and motor function. Over time, therapeutic recreation should help give the client a newfound sense of confidence and less anxiety surrounding situations or socialization.

Some Therapeutic and recreational activities for older individuals include:

Art

Art and crafts are a great way to inspire creativity and joy- while also helping with motor skill function and communication. Painting, drawing, and coloring can relieve anxiety or stress. It may also help to distract those living with conditions or disorders that cause other symptoms, like tremors or aphasia, feel more comfortable and confident. Some other art and crafting ideas for recreational therapy include these:

• Pottery or working with clay
• Wood arts
• Collage and mixed media projects
• Photography

Animal Assisted Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy is finally recognized for the amazing holistic benefits that it offers so many. From detecting low blood sugar in diabetics to predicting seizures in children, therapy animals can be an added support and assistance that works wonders. There are many different types of service animals, from dogs that assist individuals with blindness to pets that provide emotional support to owners out in the community; talk to your provider or doctor to determine the right route for you, as well as any documentation needed.

As for recreational therapy, many therapists implement animals into treatment. Pets are comforting and calming; seniors and children can benefit greatly from spending time with animals.

Cooking  

Cooking is an activity that builds many different skills, from cognition to motor skills. The memory of favorite recipes, going out for the groceries and even preparing the meal all engage and improve the client’s skillsets. The reward is something tasty or a fulfilling meal that brings the individual closer to their own autonomy and independence. There are mobility aids that can assist in the kitchen for those with physical disabilities or limitations, too.

Puzzles and Games  

What kinds of puzzles and games do you enjoy? Brain games can be a great therapeutic strategy to helping someone with dementia; it boosts memory and cognition- both of which are helpful to anyone struggling with brain injury, too. Games can stimulate the mind and challenge individuals to think critically and compete- which means they are engaged in the activity.

A simple jigsaw puzzle is another great form of therapeutic recreation, as it affects the fine motor skills when you must pick up pieces and put them together. It also causes you to use memory as it pertains to filling in the pieces of the puzzle. Puzzles may also be a social outlet for some. Many times, people that live together in assisted living, group homes, or residential facilities will sit around a table to do puzzles. This fosters engagement and socialization, both primary goals of therapy.

Music 

Music can be extremely therapeutic and soothing to many. Studies have shown that individuals with chronic or progressive conditions that impact cognition and memory, like Alzheimer’s disease, can have moments of clarity and less stress when listening to music that they may have liked at previous times in their lives. Depending on the physical condition of the client, chair dancing is another way to enjoy the calming effects of the music while also engaging motor skills and preserving flexibility. Some clients and patients may enjoy singing as a means of building self-esteem and gaining joy; the therapist will plan activities and interventions based on their assessment of the individuals.

Recreational therapy is an engaging way to foster overall health and wellness among senior clients and those living with physical disabilities or mobility limitations. Want to improve your accessibility with mobility aids and equipment? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more!

When shopping for mobility aids and equipment, you may wonder: are stairlifts the best option to allow and provide access to all areas of your home? Well, the answer heavily relies on your distinctive living situation, but yes- in many cases, a stairlift is precisely what consumers need for accessibility, ease, and safety at home.

Thinking of enhancing the access that you have around your home? Perhaps it is difficult to get in and out of your bathroom to use the toilet or bathe; maybe you have started sleeping on a couch or in a downstairs space. When it comes to mobility equipment, all promise to make life easier, but a stairlift may be the most life-changing and transformative of all aids on the market.

Consider the following to determine if stairlifts are the best option for you to access all areas of your home:

Bathroom

Where is your bathroom located? If you need to use the upstairs bathroom, you could have a problem; and many older homes are only equipped with one bathroom for the entire household. Sure, a portable commode is one solution, but if you want to hang on to your autonomy and independence, you may want a little bit more.

A stairlift can be used daily to go up and down stairs smoothly and seamlessly. Users quickly adapt to their stairlift, and the installer will fully demonstrate the operation and performance of the lift. Reputable vendors will make sure that the consumer is comfortable and confident using it before they exit your home. Getting ready for the day, taking a shower, or getting up in the night to use the bathroom is much easier in a multilevel home when you have a stairlift.  

Upstairs

Many falls are incidents that could be avoided with proper fall risk assessment. This includes using mobility aids to carry or transport goods throughout the home. If you lose your balance with your arms full, you run a bigger risk of getting hurt. Everyday supplies and items, like laundry or groceries, can be the reason you take a tumble and end up at the ER. A stairlift allows you to carry your load upstairs with ease, and since stairs are one of the prime spots that cause fall-related injury, this makes the home a lot safer overall.

Outdoor Spaces

Depending on the layout of your home, you may need to navigate stairs to get out to your vehicle or off the porch. Stairlifts can be adapted and customized to fit any stairway- even those that are outside in the elements. The ability to get in and out of the home with ease- especially if you live in an upstairs apartment or multi-family dwelling- can be huge and it directly contributes to your autonomy and independence.

Talk to your mobility retailer about other types of lifts that can help with maintaining your freedom, like a vehicle lift or pool lift. These are both constructed to help get you in and out of vehicles and swimming pools, while you continue to enjoy the activities that you love doing.

Bedroom

Consider how a stairlift may change how you go to bed each evening- do you currently sleep upstairs? Many people have given up ever returning to their bedroom to sleep as the risks of going up and down stairs are just too great. A stairlift can provide a little bit of extra support that may make the difference between living independently or needing a caregiver at bedtime. Plus, it gives you the freedom to enjoy your bedroom without turning your living room or family room into a makeshift place to sleep. Start living life on your own terms with a stairlift!

Some Final Words about Accessibility and Stairlifts:

• Stairlifts are more affordable than you may think; some vendors provide rentals to determine if you will use and adapt to a lift in the home. Also, ask your retailer about refurbished models if you are working within the confines of a budget.
• Stairlifts can be fitted to any kind of stairway, including curved, steep, and outdoor steps and risers.
• Stairlifts are remarkably easy to get around and live with, so don’t worry that a lift will inconvenience others that live in the home.
• Buy lifts from a qualified seller that offers full installation, service, and customer support.

The Centers for Disease Control estimate that nearly three million seniors are seen in hospitals and Emergency rooms each year for fall-related injury; around 20% of all falls cause serious injury, with hip fractures and head injury being the most common. Do not risk a debilitating fall in your home; talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility about stairlifts and accessibility.

It is simply a fact of life that socialization impacts overall health and wellbeing; that is, staying social and interacting with others across the lifespan is healthy and vital in maintaining quality of life as you age. Those that are homebound or that live with physical limitations may find it easier to isolate and withdraw- foster socialization and engagement with some tips for maintaining social wellness when it is difficult to leave the home environment.

Do you get out and about regularly? For many homebound individuals, social wellness and engagement are tough to find and difficult to pursue. Particularly for those just venturing out post-pandemic, it can be a scary prospect to leave the house. Prolonged social distancing is leaving many feeling depressed, lonely, and worried about their wellbeing. Garner peace of mind with mobility equipment that can make getting out of the house viable, safe, and possible for those that have previously been stuck inside.  

Eating Out

Start getting out more with a simple meal at your favorite restaurant or with friends. Call ahead to ensure the venue is accessible, and whether you may need to bring your portable ramp to get in the front door. With the Americans with Disabilities Act, restaurants and establishments are adhering to federal guidelines that make public places handicap accessible to all customers.

If you are going to a friend’s, bring a reacher or cane to offer support in less familiar surroundings. That is, a cane or walking stick can help stabilize you on rough terrain or uneven ground, and a reaching tool can make it possible to help out in the kitchen without putting yourself at fall risk trying to access out-of-reach items.

In the Garden

Even if you are not planning a garden party, getting out in the sunshine to enjoy your flowers is something that you may enjoy sharing with a neighbor or loved one. Those with physical disabilities may find it hard to access their outdoor spaces and gardens, without mobility aids. The ground may be off-kilter or uneven and the grass could be slick; make sure that you have something along that provides support and stability for your outing. Outfit your own exteriors with grab-bars and railings so that you always have firm support when outside your home. A portable ramp makes a cost-effective alternative to a permanent ramp and may offer the right amount of access for anyone visiting you as well.

Out and About

If you use mobility equipment, you likely know that it can impede jumping in your vehicle and going out and about. You may require a driver these days- or at least help to stow your mobility devices before getting in or out of the vehicle. A vehicle lift is an excellent option for your personal vehicle that you drive primarily. These provide assistance in stashing your chair, scooter, or walker so that you can easily get behind the wheel. Being able to get where you want to go is a huge part of socialization and reclaiming your own independence. After the pandemic, a nice, long drive could be quite therapeutic for you. There is nothing quite like being on the open road!

Friends Over

Maybe you just want to start small with a few friends over following the uncertainty and chaos of the pandemic. Make this more feasible with a few simple suggestions and aids to make socialization comfortable and safe:

• Adhere to any social distancing guidelines that are in place for your region. In some areas, citizens are encouraged to gather outside or to limit the number of guests in the home.
• Remove clutter or anything on the floor that could pose a fall risk to you or your guests. You don’t want anyone experiencing an injury during your first post-pandemic party!
• Make the meal easy on yourself; order out or host a potluck. This curbs the time and labor that you will need to put in, and it also keeps guests out of the kitchen trying to help out and cook. While this is a kind offer, it can create a chaotic and crowded scenario that may add to access issues.

When inviting company over, provide a portable ramp for use by your friends that may benefit from it. Even those that do not use mobility aids or devices may appreciate the much lower impact of walking up the ramp rather than ascending a flight of stairs or risers. Contemporary portable ramps offer smooth access to both indoor and outdoor areas of the home- but can then be picked up and moved as desired.

July is officially Social Wellness Month and this year’s theme is ‘taking back your health and wellbeing. This echoes the importance of engaging with others to build a supportive network that can reach out and fill in gaps as needed. Everyone needs social support from time to time- make sure that your social needs are met to maintain your best quality of life, for as long as possible.

Want to learn more about mobility solutions to maintain your social wellness? Talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility. They offer high-quality equipment, complete installation service, and customer support to all their customers; call or visit for a comprehensive needs assessment today.

There is no time like July 4^th to assert and achieve a measure of autonomy and independence- particularly if you live with disabilities or mobility issues. After all, autonomy is a vital part of aging in place and making decisions that impact your life and the way that you live. Increase your independence with devices and equipment that improve accessibility in and around your home.

Celebrate Independence Day by doing something that increases your own freedom and overcomes hurdles. Consider making the choice to utilize mobility equipment, like lifts, ramps, and chairs, that can make your environment more accessible, convenient, and easy to navigate. What better way to assert your own autonomy this July 4^th? Enjoy the comfort and convenience that these aids offer.

Consider these tips to achieve a measure of autonomy and independence this summer:

Sample Some Mobility Solutions

Create your own sense of independence with the high-quality mobility equipment that can make your home, yard, and vehicle a lot simpler and more accessible. Does your home have a second level? Do you struggle with ascending the stairs? Stairlifts can help; in fact, there are numerous devices, aids, and gadgets that increase independence for users in a wide variety of ways, whether it be getting you in and out of the shower safely or assisting you in driving your vehicle out and about. The possibilities are endless. Make your life easier so that you can be more independent without worry or strain. Here are some mobility solutions that may work for you:

Stairlifts

A stairlift may seem like a big step- pardon the pun- and it is, however, it also is an effective way at creating a safer home environment with less risk of a fall. Some individuals have abandoned access to the upstairs of their home- why? Enjoy the convenience of a stairlift to transport you upstairs, around curves, and up risers to your bedroom, bathroom, or other areas of the home that may be up a level. Furthermore, stairlifts can be installed outside, too, so your porch, patio, or favorite outdoor living space is accessible to you.

Pool lifts

Do you have a swimming pool? Some individuals with physical limitations may struggle to get in and out of their pool, which can impact how frequently they choose to swim and enjoy their amenities. Especially for those consumers that live in Southern California, a pool is something that you should be able to use and enjoy; a pool lift makes it smooth and seamless to get in and out of the water.

Car and Vehicle lifts

Individuals with physical disabilities that impact getting in and out of their vehicle may miss driving. A vehicle lift can help those with mobility aids, like chairs, stow their equipment and safely get behind the wheel. A mobility issue may impact your ability to drive, which in turn, compromises your overall autonomy and freedom. A vehicle lift may preserve your independence and let you enjoy driving once again.

Ramps

If you are thinking about a ramp, consider one of the new portable ramps. These fold for easy transport and storage, so you are never caught without a way to gain access to where you want to go. Also, these ramps are a cost-effective alternative to building a more permanent structure. These work for chairs and scooters, but also help with a low-impact, low-rise entry to your home, porch, or other areas of your property.

Turn to Technology

Technology makes it easier to be independent and it continues to build on and develop solutions for those that live with disabilities or limitations. Stay connected and keep on top of the latest developments in technology that are geared toward making life easier for individuals with mobility issues.

Accept Offers

When someone with a disability is trying to live autonomously, they may get a lot of offers of help or assistance- accept them. Let others do things that make your life more accessible, and therefore, more autonomous. When you are able to complete your activities of daily living, like preparing meals or bathing, you are more likely to age in place and live life on your own terms. If part of this independence is allowing someone else to participate and share in your life, let them. Enjoy the kindness of others whenever possible!

Stay Social

Some individuals may isolate or withdraw due to physical limitations that impact their comfort in socializing. Socialization is an integral part of the healthy aging process; studies indicate that those who interact regularly with others experience higher life quality and overall life satisfaction. Mobility aids are one way to foster social venues and engagements.

You are Not Alone

It may also help give you a boost to know that nearly one-in-five seniors over the age of 65 live with some type of disability. In this country, that equates to around 18 million people; you are not alone. This also reinforces the point that quality mobility solutions are widely used and needed- don’t you deserve this very same advantage in your own home? Call or visit a mobility professional to learn more.

Do you yearn to be more independent? Make your home a more accessible and convenient place with these suggestions- and assert your own autonomy with quality equipment and mobility aids from Pacific Mobility in the Bay Area today. 

Are you on the fence about whether a stairlift is right for you and your home? Buying mobility aids and equipment like stairlifts is a big decision that requires some thought; will a stairlift provide the accessibility that you need to improve everyday life? You do have options when it comes to mobility solutions, like stairlifts; consider these when making your own personal choices.

Could mobility aids and devices make your life easier? Stairlifts are the perfect solution for those that live on two levels- that is, especially when you have a bath or bedroom on a separate level that you want to maintain access to. Furthermore, there are outdoor styles of lifts that can make it possible to visit your porch, patio, pool, and other outdoor areas that may have been off-limits previously due to physical limitations or mobility issues. Before you jump into anything, consider all your potential options and alternatives to make an informed decision that you will be satisfied with later on.

Not sure if a Stairlift is the right solution for you? Consider these options:

Quality Equipment

First and foremost, you only want to buy quality equipment that is made in the US and that is serviced by a qualified mobility retailer. Look for brand names like Bruno, that instill trust and reliability in the consumer. These brand names will be easier to service, repair, or find parts for- if needed- and have a record for high performance and customer satisfaction widely. Shop around and see what other customers say about Bruno or other distinct brands in mobility equipment.

Professional Installation

You only want to buy equipment like stairlifts from those that offer professional installation of the device. Did you know that allowing someone other than an authorized technician to install equipment can nullify the warranty? Be wary of ever allowing anyone to make repairs, augments, or changes to your stairlift, or other mobility devices. It is simply too risky.

Leases and Rentals

If you are unsure how you will adapt to a stairlift, or if you only need one for the short term due to an injury, surgery, or rehabilitative purposes, you may want to consider a rental. Rent or lease your mobility equipment from a reputable vendor that will install, uninstall, and remove equipment for you, when possible. This is also a good way to determine how a stairlift can improve accessibility and whether it is the right solution for you. Talk to the team to learn more.

Product Warranties and Guarantees

When weighing out your options, remember that it can pay to have a warranty or some type of guarantee from the seller that you will be happy with the equipment. There are different types of warranties available, so speak with your distinct retailer to discuss terms that will work for you. However, you may want to reconsider buying anything that doesn’t offer some sort of warranty against damage.

Second-Hand Devices

An alternative that you- as a buyer- have is to purchase second-hand devices and aids. Be wary of buying equipment from private sellers that don’t guarantee your satisfaction or that are selling something as-is. Reputable mobility dealers often offer second-hand or gently used equipment that has been turned in by other consumers that are upgrading their devices. In these instances, you may have more of a guarantee behind the equipment to ensure your satisfaction, as well as someone who will service and support you after the sale.

Service and Support

So, speaking of service and support, when it comes to something like a stairlift, you want to have a reliable resource available to come and address the situation if something goes wrong. How will you know how to use the device? The seller should offer to come and install and then demonstrate the device for the buyer; also, this makes it easy if and when you need repairs. Typically, vendors offer annual inspections of equipment to tease out any problems and maintain the device to keep the warranty active. Speak with your mobility dealer to see if this is their protocol, as well.

Other Equipment

Certainly, you have a lot of other options when it comes to mobility equipment that goes far beyond stairlifts. Sometimes simple solutions like grab bars and shower seats can make a significant difference in everyday life- without the need for anything more. The best way to determine your needs and the best options are to visit a mobility professional and see what they have to offer. This may be in-person, on-site, or online; the choice is yours!

When considering your mobility options, call on the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility; they have years in the field and possess the inside scoop on quality brand mobility equipment and devices. For solid service after the sale in the Bay Area, you cannot go wrong with Pacific Mobility. Call or visit today!