Jeff Conner

In today’s world, you can’t be too careful when it comes to contamination and infectious disease. That’s why it makes good sense to clean your mobility aids- from grab bars to stairlifts- regularly. There are tips and tricks to make the job effective and efficient, though it is always prudent to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific aid that you are cleaning and disinfecting to be safe.

Do you use or rely upon mobility aids of any kind? Play it safe and make sure to disinfect; when bacteria and viruses lurk on the surfaces around the home, even your trusted mobility device is vulnerable. For example, infectious coronavirus can be debilitating even deadly for those with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions. Don’t risk your wellbeing; disinfect your devices, aids, and implements periodically.

COVID-19

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that consumers disinfect all high-traffic surfaces in the home from viral bacteria, like COVID-19. Some of these surfaces include your phone, doorknobs, light switches, and the handles to a wheelchair, if applicable. It is suggested that you wear disposable gloves when cleaning with household cleaning and disinfecting products, and then toss out the gloves when you are done. The key is to first remove germs by cleaning the surface thoroughly and follow up with disinfecting which means applying chemicals to the surface after. Always follow the directions on the label of your cleaning products and don’t mix chemicals that could result in toxic reactions.

Want a cheap disinfecting cleaning solvent that you likely have in your home? Combine five tablespoons of bleach to a gallon of regular tap water for a topical disinfectant that costs pennies per application.

Wheelchairs and Scooters

Cleaning a wheelchair thoroughly may be challenging as the primary user could have some mobility challenges that make getting the key areas difficult. Wheelchairs are prone to germs as they are regularly handled and touched widely. Make sure that you clean your own hands well before and after working on your wheelchair- as well as any time that you come in from being outdoors or away from the home.

You may find it interesting that COVID-19, Coronavirus, lives on hard surfaces for up to three days; use a solution of at least 70% alcohol to wipe down and disinfect the spots that are most handled, like the grips, arms, and wheels. Spray with the bleach solution mentioned above, but never use baby wipes or personal cleansing wipes to clean these surfaces.

Some spots to pay close attention to when cleaning a wheelchair or scooter include:

• Joystick
• Mouth controls
• Headrest
• Armrests
• Side guards
• Wheelchair Back
• Handles and grips

Beyond your wheelchair, other frequently touched equipment and medical supplies should also be disinfected. These include:

• Any supplies or devices that are in contact with your mouth
• Oxygen tanks
• Steering wheel and door handles on vehicles
• Transfer seats
• Medications

Share this information with caregivers and loved ones that assist you or that regularly visit your home.

Stairlifts

It is easy to overlook disinfecting a stairlift, but don’t. These surfaces get touched frequently by many people, besides the primary user, so it warrants special attention. Dust and wipe down the lift periodically; plus, regular cleaning extends the life of your lift. Be careful using wet solutions to the power lift, and always disconnect power before cleaning the device. A damp cloth should be ample for wiping down the seat and track, followed by a disinfecting solution of bleach and water.

When it comes to the rail of your lift, vacuuming is the most effective and easy way to rid it of the dust and debris that can accumulate and impact the performance of the aid.

Other Tips to Stay Safe

There are other surfaces and spots that merit attention and special cleaning to prevent illness or transmission of germs, such as Coronavirus. Some of these other tips include:

• Make a habit to carry and wear plastic disposable gloves any time you leave home. Invest in a box from a medical supply vendor or online.
• Avoid touching your face as much as possible when out and about.
• Never touch any metal surfaces when in a communal vehicle or public trans, if possible.
• Encourage caretakers to wash hands and use sanitizer.
• Always wash your hands before using sanitizer. Sanitizing with an alcohol-based product doesn’t clean the germs away, and the two habits need to go hand in hand. If you are not near a sink, then sanitizer is the next best thing until you are able to properly wash up.
• Wash and sanitize things like your car or house key fob regularly.

Use these tips to create a healthier environment with cleaner mobility aids and devices. Talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more about how mobility aids can improve your quality of life today.

Got concerns about maintaining your stairlift? There are numerous things that you can take care of yourself that contribute to the performance and longevity of your mobility aid. Talk to your vendor- and review the manufacturer recommendations- for more suggestions specific to the brand and model that you use or own.

You should only allow a qualified technician to work on, repair, install, or modify your stairlift, but there are some basic maintenance tasks that you can conduct- on your own- to protect and maintain your mobility aids, specifically, your stairlift. Plan on regular inspections and service visits for any new lift in order to ensure it performs optimally for years to come.

What is the Point?

So, what is the point and purpose of cleaning a stairlift? Basically, keeping your device clean and clear ensures that it operates well for years- it helps with the longevity of the device. In today’s era, it also makes sense to decontaminate and clean the lift regularly, if only to remove germs and bacteria such as COVID-19.

There is a Right Way to Clean a Lift

There is a right and wrong way to clean and disinfect your stairlift; first, you should regularly wipe down the device with a damp cloth, followed by a wipe down with a bleach-and-water solution. When dust builds up, it can interfere with the sensors and operation of your lift. Cleaning is a simple and effective way to maintain the investment that you have made in your stairlift.

Watch out for abrasive or toxic solvents when cleaning your lift, too. Use water and a soft cloth, as well as the bleach solution, but always refer to the manufacturer’s recommended cleaners typically outlined in the owner’s manual. Also, never mix or combine cleaning agents!

Keep the Rail Clean and Clear

Vacuum and wipe the rails to keep them free of debris, dust, and pet dander- all that can cause interruption and interference with your device. Over time, even a thin layer of dust can become compacted and stuck, causing problems with your lift and transport. Nobody wants to deal with this issue- keep it clean and clear, instead. Ask caregivers to assist in cleaning and dusting the rail and track regularly, like weekly, to ensure a smooth ride.  

Perform Basic Tasks to Improve Performance

Still wondering what you can do to preserve and maintain your stairlift? Consider some other tasks that you can do with the assistance of your mobility aid technician, owner’s manual, or online supports. These are routine tasks that contribute to the overall performance of your lift:

• The track should be lubricated every few months to prevent problems with free movement.  
• Avoid using solutions, solvents, and detergents that are harsh and damaging.
• Only use a lubricant that has been approved and recommended by the device’s manufacturer.
• Check the moving parts of your lift, like the swivel seat, arms, footrest and cable, to make sure they don’t wobble or are not loose.  
• Does the seat’s locking mechanism work securely? The seat’s swivel should be lubricated once to twice a year.
• Sprinkle the indoor trailing cables lightly with talcum powder; outdoor trailing cables should be sprayed with silicone periodically.
• Keep the battery completely charged and have a spare on-hand when possible. The battery in your lift is usually recommended to be replaced every year, possibly two years depending on usage. Prevent moisture from damaging the charger by keeping it in a dry, cool location between uses.  
• Tighten and evaluate any bolts or screws to make sure they are secure and mounted.  

Also, make a point to inspect the device, particularly the wheels and track, to see that they are working well and smoothly, without cracks or visible damage. Replace wheels that do not seem to be moving freely; call your mobility vendor for support and service.

Steer Away Kids, Clutter, and Pets

Perhaps one of the most important things that you can do to preserve and protect your lift is to keep clutter, pets, and kids away from it. This is not a toy, and should never be used by children, two riders, or be piled high with belongings or clutter. Keep things off the stairs and away from the track, too.

Schedule regular stairlift maintenance to ensure that your lift is working well and has no issues. Typically, the retailer offers maintenance contracts, though some vendors- like Pacific Mobility– offer service and support for all the lifts that they sell. Call and speak to a representative to learn more.  

Got more questions regarding the care, operation, or maintenance of your stairlift? Talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility today. For over 60 years, Pacific Mobility has provided consumers with top of the line mobility devices and equipment across Southern California. We look forward to helping you, too! 

Stuck at home? If there is one thing that came from Coronavirus, it is some creative ways to occupy time and cope with being stuck indoors. If you are stuck at home, deal with the monotony and boredom in some productive, constructive ways instead!

Stuck inside? Confined to your home? Whether you stuck at home due to weather conditions or quarantined due to a virus, it can take a toll on your wellbeing. The monotony and boredom can wreak havoc on your mental health, so it pays to have things to do. If you rely on mobility aids, you may feel stuck frequently; work with a reputable vendor to find equipment and devices to improve your quality of life today.

Confined to your home? Try these tips to make it easier:

Stick to a Schedule

Fight the urge to hang out in your pajamas all day when you are confined to your home. This can set the stage for an unproductive day. Make a point to stick to a schedule every day; get up, go to bed, get dressed, and eat regularly and on-time. It really does make a big difference.

Grow Something

Another fantastic way to cope with being cooped up, such as during a quarantine, is with gardening. What a perfect time to grow something! Flowers blooming can brighten a mood and who doesn’t love fresh vegetables, picked off the vine? Start simple using a pre-potted herb or flower plant from your local grocery store.

Start a Healthy Habit

Someone once said that it takes 30 days to create a habit; why not start a new, good habit during the next 30 days? Some ideas include a daily exercise video program, yoga, meditation, or maybe cutting out caffeine or sugar. Do you smoke? What a great time to quit. Maybe your new habit is an afternoon walk with the pets- whatever it is, do it every day.

Eat Well

Try to eat well and curb the splurges during this unpredictable time. Worry and fear can make us want to overindulge and overeat- after all, food is very comforting. However, the added weight can make us more susceptible to sickness and ailments, while also making us feel depressed. Eat a balanced diet of whole, fresh foods- with plenty of fiber- whenever possible.

Try a Hobby

It is easy to get busy with life and forget all about the hobbies and activities that we once enjoyed. If you are stuck at home, make this a time to lose yourself in a new- or old- hobby. Even if money is tight, there are some hobbies and creative endeavors that you could try. For instance, pick up a paintbrush, rearrange the living room, start collecting stamps, or pull out the sewing machine; the choice is yours!

Take Care of Yourself

When you are confined to the house, it is the perfect excuse to pay a little extra attention to yourself and your own needs. Give yourself some well-deserved self-care in the form of something special for yourself every day- i.e. cook a gourmet meal, take a hot bath, read a good book. Do something that makes you feel better.

Pamper your Pets

Make time stuck inside to be the perfect reason to spend more time with pets; give time to their needs during this downtime. Your pets may sense that something is off and could feel anxious or nervous; make them feel better with some care and attention. Worried about catching a virus from your pet? Don’t be- just use common sense and wash your hands after handling or playing with your furry friends. Pay attention to the laws of your region during a crisis, such as the pandemic, to ensure that walking your pets publicly is fine and safe before taking them out.

Reach out to Talk

Call someone and hear a human voice at least once a day- whether it is your mother, a neighbor, or a friend that you are concerned about during a difficult time. An email or social media message is no substitute for human contact; without it, we can become isolative and depressed.

Get Rid of It

Jump into decluttering, spring cleaning, or purging stuff around the home. This can be very liberating, and you may feel a lot lighter and better after. Make it easy by creating three piles: one to keep, one to give away, and one to throw in the trash. You can enjoy the items that you do keep a lot more when there is less clutter and visual noise in your living space. It has been shown that clean space and tidy surroundings make it easier to focus and concentrate.

Make your home a safer, more accessible one with devices and aids from Pacific Mobility. From a grab bar near the sink to a reaching tool to access high shelves, sometimes simple items and changes make the most significant difference. Call us today for a no-obligation needs assessment and learn more about how to improve autonomy and quality of life.

Memorial Day 2020 is the perfect time to honor the sacrifices of our veterans, while also paying attention to the distinct needs of this population. For veterans with physical disabilities or mobility limitations, there are resources in place to make everyday living easier, though there could be barriers to accessing these offerings. Dedicate time or effort to empathy and making someone’s life better this Memorial Day.

As Memorial Day 2020 approaches, let’s make a point to honor the distinct needs of our veterans with increased mobility and understanding. There are numerous programs and benefits for veterans that can make life easier when living with a physical disability but accessing these resources may present challenges. In some instances,  mobility aids can make the difference, improving access, and overall quality of life.

Honor a veteran and encourage them to utilize the following resources:

VA Benefits

The first thing to do is to advocate and support any veteran who is struggling to get their benefits and entitlements from the Veterans’ Administration, whether that be housing, medical assistance, or a wheelchair. The VA is busy and people fall through the cracks; if you know someone that served, make sure to encourage them to reach out and get what is owed to them in honor of Memorial Day- any time of year!

Transportation Services

When people think about VA benefits, housing or medical treatment probably comes to mind but the VA has a lot more to offer a disabled veteran than that. For instance, the VA can help modify your vehicle to accommodate a scooter or chair- as well as outfit a home or living situation with ramps. They also can play a vital role in mobility management, geared to increase veterans’ access to health care networks. Plus, if you are giving a ride to someone with a scooter, it can be tough transporting a scooter or chair in a regular, personal vehicle; the VA will evaluate applicants for transportation services that accommodate these needs as well as evaluate any existing vehicle the veteran has to discuss and recommend necessary modifications that could help with access.  

Community Networks

Veterans can benefit greatly from community networks, including providers, practitioners, civic organizations, and agencies on aging. While not necessarily exclusive to veterans, these resources can improve life and autonomy for any person living with a mobility issue or obstacle to access. From advocacy and legal aid to a hot meal or emergency food supplies, community networks are often more-plugged in with a smaller cache area than the federal veterans-only aid encompasses.

Public Offerings

Many metropolitan areas, like the Bay Area, for instance, have public transportation services that can also aid a veteran living in the area. While not ideal, these services often provide private vehicles to transport those clients or fares that rely on mobility equipment, like scooters or wheelchairs. These vehicles are equipped with lifts and special belts for a safe ride, as outlined and mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.

Animal Assisted Therapy

Many veterans report feeling lonely, especially if they struggle with physical limitations. A great solution to this is a pet – certainly, if the individual is willing and able to care for a pet, but it is well worth the effort. Taking care of a pet provides a necessary sense of purpose that many disabled veterans have lost over the years; the pets rely on them for everything, which can also help establish a comfortable routine. Furthermore, pets provide companionship and affection. Single, widowed, or isolated seniors can benefit from the joy and unconditional love that pets provide. Many communities offer animal-assisted therapy visits, particularly in healthcare or community settings, like hospitals or libraries. Check out the offerings in your area or adopt a pet! Pet ownership is very rewarding.

Mobility Aids & Devices

Know that veterans don’t need to go it alone; reputable dealers of mobility aids and equipment are available to discuss options that can help improve access- and accessibility- widely. Call or visit a vendor online to pinpoint sellers in your area. Make sure to only buy from a retailer that provides no-obligation consultation, professional installation, and service after the sale.

Honor a veteran this Memorial Day and provide access to someone with a physical disability or mobility issue. While there are options designed to make life easier for individuals with limitations to access, lend that important helping hand whenever you can as a way to honor a veteran. Talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more from a reputable resource with over 64 years in the industry. Understanding the needs of our veterans is the first step in helping and honoring these brave people that have served. Call to learn more today. 

It is very possible that a mobility ramp could make your home more accessible and your life easier, but which kind of ramp is right for you? You have many options in mobility ramps and understanding the differences can help you hone-in on the precise ramp for your living situation, your lifestyle, and your limitations.

Would a ramp make your home or property more accessible? You have a lot of options when it comes to ramps; which one is right for you? Luckily, you don’t have to make this decision alone; talk to the industry experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more and pinpoint exactly the types of ramps that make the most sense for you, your lifestyle, and your living situation.

Mobility Ramps

Naturally,  are a lot of benefits of a ramp for those with physical limitations, from getting in and out of their home to getting behind the wheel of a car. Ramps can provide access for individuals that utilize mobility devices, like scooters or wheelchairs, or they can provide safe access for individuals that may be at risk of a fall.

Here are some of your ramp options, as well as the highlights of each one:

Portable Ramps

Perhaps the most common and popular ramp style available is the portable ramp. Found widely in many different designs and types, portable ramps offer a lightweight and affordable option that can be altered to suit your needs. These are integral to the independence of anyone in a wheelchair or that uses a scooter, as many can travel with the user wherever they happen to go. From tri-fold styles to suitcase-type ramps, portable ramps can be life-changing providing immediate access, inside and out.

Platform Ramps

When it comes to installing platform ramps, it requires a bit more of a commitment than a portable ramp. First, these need to be professionally installed to ensure they are safe- as well as to ensure that they provide stable support for years to come. Platform ramps may or may not come with lifts; talk to a mobility expert to learn more.

Modular Ramps

Another versatile solution is modular track ramps and systems. These can be used inside and out, configured to fit the site and the specific environment. For example, these are frequently found in lightweight aluminum tracks that are put together to create the ramp that you- or your loved one- needs.  Don’t worry- these meet ADA wheelchair ramp specifications and guidelines when installed by an industry professional. These often come with preassembled railings and platforms, which distinguish your ramp from any other.

For the most part, these modular ramps skid-resistant surfacing as well as provide weight limits of up to 850 pounds. These can be installed quickly by a pro and are found widely among mobility aid vendors.

Car and Van Ramps

Car and ram vamps can help those with physical limitations get in, out, and navigate using a vehicle. There are various styles, many adapted to specific types of cars, vans, and trucks, while others are designed to the specific needs of the user. A wheelchair ramp can help those with physical disabilities get behind the wheel and drive their vehicle, without assistance. This can go a long way toward preserving autonomy and overall quality of life.

Threshold Ramps

Only need a little help? The threshold of a doorway or a rise can be just as challenging for someone with physical limitations than an entire set of stairs… Threshold ramps can bridge these smaller accessibility gaps, smoothing out the rise and creating a smoother terrain to traverse. These are typically used with scooters, wheelchairs, or simply when the user has difficulty raising or lowering their feet and legs. These usually can be used to bridge one-to-six-inch heights, with a general weight limit of up to 600 pounds.  

For something that can help prevent slips and falls, consider a rubber threshold ramp, which is also great for outdoor accessibility solutions. These are ADA compliant and can be used in spots where precipitation, like snow or ice, can make the surface treacherous. Also, these rubber ramps are easy to move offering flexibility and more options.

Having a wheelchair ramp built at your residence? Make sure that you hire an expert- someone who is qualified- to make these important modifications to your home. Poor design or builder error can cost you more than a few bucks- it could be the cause or a serious, even fatal accident. Be safe and only hire a professional to build or install ramps, to be sure they meet the ADA guidelines.

Ready to invest in a ramp? From portable to permanent, Pacific Mobility has been providing mobility solutions to Southern California residents for generations. Call today for your free needs assessment or to talk to an in-house professional.

Could it be true that laughter is the best medicine? In today’s scary world, a little humor can go a long way toward alleviating stress and putting life in perspective. From reducing stress to a sense of purpose, humor can improve health in a myriad of ways. As such, celebrate National Humor Month this April and treat yourself to a great big laugh or two.

So, is laughter really the best medicine? It can seem difficult to find things to laugh about in the times that we all live in today. If you live with mobility issues, there may be times when humor can lighten an awkward situation or make you feel better when things look bleak. Sometimes a laugh can make everything seem slightly better- who doesn’t want that? National Humor Month is April; observe this funny day with a good laugh. What can it hurt?

Can you improve your health through humor?

Laughter as Medicine

We have all heard this adage about laughter; but is it truly medicinal? Consider the following advantages of a good, old-fashioned belly laugh:

• A good laugh has the ability to manifest physical and chemical changes in the body. It really can be transformative.
• Laughter stimulates bodily organs, improving oxygen intake, and raising the level of feel-good endorphins in the brain.  
• When you laugh out loud, you ignite and then quell your stress response, which results in a calm feeling of euphoria.
• A joke or a laugh can reduce muscle tension and improve circulation throughout the body, including your extremities.
• Laughter is calming and an effective way to combat some of the physical symptoms of stress.
• Just as negativity is bad for your immune system and makes you more vulnerable to illness and disease, laughter and positivity are good for immunity and warding off illness.
• Humor and laughter can help the body produce natural feel-good chemicals, which can help with chronic pain.
• Laughter helps us to connect and relate to others, particularly in grim or dark circumstances and situations. Humor can bridge gaps between people.
• Feeling down? Laugh it off; a good laugh can alleviate anxious feelings and helps battle chronic depression.

Note the short and long term effects of laughter. It offers benefits across the lifespan!   

Laugh More

So, now your goal is to laugh more. But how to adopt a sense of humor when life can get us down? Put a little effort and work into finding humor in everyday situations and scenarios. Consider the following tips to help heal through humor:

• Keep a stash of things that bring a smile to your face, whether it is funny pictures, comics, cards, or other trinkets.
• Visit a comedy club for a laugh.
• Check out online sites that focus on jokes and humor; add a few new ones to your arsenal.  
• Give that funny friend from college an overdue phone call.
• While it isn’t always easy to find humor in our own circumstances, try to poke a little fun at yourself from time to time. It can ease tension and helps you get a little practice in laughing.
• Visit a library and check out a joke book.
• Be cognizant that sometimes, things simply aren’t funny. Be empathetic and kind, first and foremost.

While many would argue that this is a time to be serious, healthcare professionals would assert otherwise. Life is what you make of it; why not put a smile on your face and hope for the best. If a good laugh has these undeniable health benefits, why not give it a go? The only thing you have to lose is a little laughter…

National Humor Month

April is National Humor Month- what better time to embrace humor and enjoy a good laugh? This national observance was originally founded by a humorist in 1976 simply to bring attention to the therapeutic benefits of humor and joy. This founder asserted that there are fundamentals to mental health and holistic wellbeing- and humor is one of them. The physical changes in the body that occur when laughing are amazing and the results are documented; try it and see how it changes the way that you feel each and every day. There is nothing to lose- but a whole lot to gain!

While humor can improve overall health and wellbeing, Mobility issues are no laughing matter. It can degrade the quality of life to have accessibility limited- especially in the home living environment. Visit or consult with Pacific Mobility to find solutions to access issues and improve the overall quality of life. Their team of compassionate professionals strive to provide the best equipment and aids for the client’s distinct needs; let them make life a lot easier for you. Call or visit today.

Can do-it -yourself stairlifts save money? Maybe, but at what costs? Do-it-yourself mobility solutions may seem like a cost-efficient option, but they may compromise your safety, security, and put you in harm’s way. There are a lot of scams surrounding low-cost mobility aids- particularly online- that could cost you a lot more than just money, later.

If you live with mobility issues, you have a lot to lose by purchasing unsafe devices or aids that are not endorsed and serviced by a reputable and qualified mobility vendor. Sure, some deals may seem too good to pass up, but be careful: many of these offers are not deals at all but scams. Make sure that when it comes to something as important as mobility aids and equipment, that you only buy from companies that back-up their products and that will assist you if and when you need it.

Be cautious when shopping to avoid these likely scams and issues associated with DIY mobility aids and stairlifts:

False claims

Listen for claims that seem too good to be true; a scammer will say anything to make the sale and take your money. A reputable vendor will point out the advantages- as well as the disadvantages- of the purchase, without making you feel pressured or under a time restraint. Also, don’t believe sellers that assert that battery-operated stairlifts are not a prudent choice; in fact, this style lift makes up around 90% of the lifts in operation currently across the globe. Be careful who you listen to and what you believe.

Cost Cutting

Stairlifts are not cheap. That being said, you may have some relief through insurance; talk to a mobility retail representative to learn more. However, when a seller advertises a stairlift at a price far below regular retail, be wary. Why is the lift so cheap? How can they afford to sell such technical equipment so cheap? Ask if these are ‘DIY’ stairlifts, that is, do you have to assemble and install yourself? If so, run- don’t walk- the other way! Even a skilled handyman should not attempt to self-install a mobility stairlift; it is complicated, requiring special training and tools to do the job right. Plus, allowing anyone other than a qualified mobility aid technician to install, service, repair, or work on your lift can devoid any manufacturer warranty that may be in place.  Truth be told, there is a lot involved in installation of a lift, like cutting and setting tracks, hooking up power circuits, screwing in treads, and internal adjustments to the controls- the list goes on and on. The lift that you bought to increase safety in the home could become a hazard if not implemented properly and professionally.

Do-It-Yourself

Generally, a ‘do-it-yourself’ stairlift means you will be putting this complicated piece of machinery together on your own, as well as installing it in the home or dwelling where it will live. If pushed, some sellers will provide “professional” installation, which is typically nothing more than a subcontracted handyman who does not have distinct mobility aid experience and is not an employee of the seller. This is bad news for buyers that have already paid for equipment that will likely not be installed or that will not be installed properly.

Safety is the biggest concern when it comes to the installation of a lift. There are special parts, tools, and skills that come with servicing a stairlift; also, every set of stairs is different and may require additional measures to properly fit the lift.

Used Deals

The first question is to ask is ‘where did this used lift come from?’ After all, a lot of sellers don’t take trade-ins so these could be salvaged units. Another possibility is that they are lifts that have been recalled or returned to a buyer or seller for being damaged or defective. It is also possible that original buyers simply could not install the device and returned it. These are all worrisome scenarios that don’t bode well for buyers. Skip the hassle, headache, and stress; buy from a reputable and recognized mobility retailer. Visit online sites to find a brick-and-mortar vendor near you or call to speak directly with a mobility professional.

Think you may have dodged a bullet with a mobility deal? Perhaps, but eventually you will need service or support on most mobility devices. The true test comes when you need a repair, part, or have a question for knowledgeable industry professionals, and you try to contact the seller. Don’t risk being stuck with expensive equipment that you can’t utilize. Buy from a qualified vendor.

Want to score a true deal on mobility aids? Visit the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility and see for yourself what they have to offer. For unparalleled customer satisfaction, efficient installation, professional service, and support after the sale, call or visit us today.

Occupational therapists are part of a core team of professionals that help individuals regain mobility and overcome physical challenges daily. Whether recovering from an injury that sidelines for temporarily, or if you are rehabilitating from permanent effects of a stroke, an OT professional can help increase access and optimize mobility when working with clients. April is Occupational Therapist Month; pay tribute to these providers that improve lives every day.

If you live with mobility issues, it is possible that you have met with or worked with an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant. OT professionals are part of a team that typically work collaboratively to assist patients and clients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), like bathing, dressing, and eating. Naturally, there are other tasks that an OT provider will work on- such as helping a recovering athlete heal an injury and get back on the field or identifying areas that the patient may benefit from adaptive aids, like a grab-bar or special cutlery.

What do Occupational Therapists Do?

Generally, clients are referred to an occupational therapist by another provider, such as your family doctor. The reasons may vary, from an injury, surgery, or medical condition that impacts your ability to complete activities of daily life. These professionals take a holistic approach and customize their treatment plan to the individual. For instance, a child may require assistance in coping with social situations while a senior recovering from surgery may need assistance getting up and walking.  Furthermore, it is part of the OT provider’s role to complete a thorough assessment to identify areas of need with each client/patient, as these will vary greatly from person to person.

How Mobility Aids Can Help

So, how can mobility aids help an individual with limited mobility? It may be evident that things like stairlifts can help an individual that has physical challenges move around their home, but there are other subtle aids that can also enhance life every day. For instance, a basic ‘reacher’, or reaching tool, can prevent a nasty fall when users extend or bend to reach for something. These devices can also be used to button or zip clothing and apparel, as needed. Some other mobility aids include:

• Portable ramps around the exterior of a home, as well as to help inside with risers or thresholds, can help prevent issues for individuals that could fall or struggle with lifting their legs to navigate these obstacles.
• Grab bars are effective at preventing falls and proving a bit of support and stabilization where it is needed most in the home living situation. For example, bathrooms can be dangerous due to frequent damp or slippery conditions; a grab bar near the toilet, sink, and tub can give a hand as needed. These bars are inexpensive and easy to install.
• A shower seat can be a real lifesaver for those that are trying to maintain autonomy and complete ADLs. It reduces the risk of a fall in a slippery tub or shower by providing a stable place to sit and bathe, taking the pressure off of their feet. It also can help those suffering from vertigo that may get dizzy and risk a fall during a shower. These are simple and easy to implement.
• Lifts come in all sizes and styles; stairlifts are one type but there are others including porch lifts, vehicle lifts, ceiling, and free-standing lifts. These can be uses to transport individuals with mobility deficits from one spot to another, without putting as much risk and strain on the caregiver. Many of these lifts can be used independently by the user, such as a vehicle lift, which can increase autonomy for those that want to drive once more.

Talk with a qualified and reputable mobility aids retailer to find exactly what you are looking for and to see a demonstration to ensure you are satisfied later.

April is Occupational Therapy Month

Occupational therapy is an integral part of the continuum of care and recovery for anyone with mobility issues or physical limitations. April is Occupational Therapy Month–  celebrate! Whether you are a part of this vital industry, helping others improve quality of life, or if you are someone who receives services from an OT professional, pay homage to the field. Occupational therapists change lives for the better, which is definitely worth celebrating.

Another way that you can change lives for the better is by increasing mobility and overcoming physical challenges with mobility aids. Pacific Mobility is proud to offer their clientele top-of-the-line products made by quality brands and unsurpassed customer service. For a consultation, installation, service, or simply to ask a question, call us today. We want to provide you with a free, no-commitment comprehensive assessment via the phone to identify which of our mobility aids can improve your life. Customers can depend on our team of qualified professionals to make life better, and a bit easier; call today.