Pacific Mobility Center

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Jeff Conner

Inspired Ways to Celebrate International Day of Older Persons 

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October 1st marks the observance of International Day of Older Persons, which is the perfect time to reach out and give to a senior that you know or care for. Since freedom and autonomy impact quality of life, consider mobility aids and solutions for those struggling with physical limitations or disabilities. Make it a mission to learn more and disseminate information to seniors that could improve their situation and simplify everyday living.

Does someone you know live with a physical limitation? Sadly, mobility issues can affect their independence and impact their desire to age in place, at home. There are some solutions: mobility aids may be just the right amount of support and security to endorse seniors that want to preserve their autonomy. Observe ‘International Day of Older Persons’ this October and become more empathetic to the seniors in your life. While visiting nursing homes or spending time with relatives may seem like a proper way to spend the commemorative event, try something a bit more inventive that could have lasting benefits for a senior.

Make it a year to remember; some inspired ways to celebrate International Day of Older Persons this October 1st include:

  • Take someone to lunch. Plan to take someone dear for a leisurely lunch. Make time to chat and listen, relishing the time spent with this person.
  • Send a senior a special delivery. Send or take a senior a care package with both practical and luxurious goodies for them to use and enjoy. Some awesome items to include in packages are snacks, grooming items, socks, magazines, stationery items, and postage stamps.
  • Bring love to the bathroom. Help a senior with mobility issues stay safe in the bathroom by installing grab bars near the sink or toilet. These are not expensive but can prevent a nasty fall and serious injury for someone you love.
  • Handwrite a note. Mail or hand-deliver a senior a beautiful greeting card with a handwritten note inside. Feeling crafty? Make your own card!
  • Sing a song or two. Consider going to sing some songs at a nursing home or senior center but check with the activities staff first to make sure it is permitted. Don’t sing? Read poetry or from a favorite book to seniors that want to lend an ear.
  • Build a ramp. Build someone a ramp for a wheelchair or walker. Make sure that it adheres to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines regarding handicap accessible ramps.
  • Think ahead for spring. Even though it is fall, think ahead to spring and plant bulbs in a community garden for seniors to enjoy later-on. Buy a couple of beautiful potted Mums to share with a special older person right now.
  • Bake a batch of cookies. Bake a batch of cookies or treats to share with a neighbor, relative, or other senior that has a sweet tooth. Pick up cute an inexpensive cookie platters and containers at a dollar store to give without worrying about getting it back later.
  • Have some tea or coffee. Host a small tea party or invite an older person out for coffee at a favorite local spot.
  • Plan to feed your friend. If you are already cooking a meal, go ahead and prepare a little extra. Bake and freeze a few meals and drop them off to a friend.
  • Offer them a lift. Why not offer a ride for appointments, errands, or shopping? This means a lot to a housebound senior or someone who doesn’t drive. They will try, but don’t let them give you gas money! Tell them that this one is on you.
  • Spend time with animals. Engage seniors with therapeutic pets; visit a shelter, bring a dog to visit, or do something special for the senior’s pet, if applicable. Offer to take the pet to an appt, buy kibble, or help groom…this will mean a lot to an animal lover.
  • Learn more. Take time to talk to a mobility expert about investing in mobility aids, like lifts or wheelchairs, for your loved one. There are inventive mobility solutions waiting that have the ability to change lives- check them out!

Sometimes the smallest gestures mean the most. Know that the underlying mission of this observance is to spend time and empathize with older persons. Don’t let money be the reason you skip International Day of Older Persons; simply extend a hand of friendship to a senior that you care about.

Do something to change the life of a senior that you love for the better; call the mobility experts to learn more about innovative ways to increase accessibility and improve mobility. Mobility directly influences the quality of life- look closer at tools and aids that may help seniors maintain their independence and dignity, throughout the lifespan.

How Impaired Mobility Impacts Mental Health 

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Impairments in mobility have a direct and significant impact on mental health and wellbeing. In fact, issues surrounding mobility and autonomy for seniors can play a role in life quality and longevity. Consider this during Mental Health Awareness Month in May; reflect, learn, and share insights and information that may help those struggling with mental health decline.

Become a more informed patient, caregiver, or consumer regarding how impaired mobility impacts mental health and wellbeing. In fact, mental health is a hot social topic currently, responsible for holistic health issues widely. Mental Health Awareness Month in May sheds some light on the plight of those living with mental health issues and illnesses, but how does mobility come into the picture? Preserve your own autonomy and quality of life by enhancing access with mobility aids or devices, as needed.

Limited or impaired mobility impacts mental health, period:

Become More Aware

Perhaps the most important thing for consumers to do is to become more aware, more specifically, be open to mental health awareness. Mental Health Awareness Month is in May of each year and is a great time to become more educated that on the factors that influence your overall mental health and wellbeing. After all, nobody knows you as well as yourself- protect yourself and preserve quality of life by identifying issues with mental health sooner, instead of later.

If left untreated, mental health issues like depression and anxiety can impact overall independence, autonomy, and quality of life. This is especially threatening for seniors that may strive to stay in their own homes and age-in-place.

Do You Know the Signs?

Do you know the signs of a problem or what to look for? Some of the symptoms of mental health issues may include:

• Feelings of sadness or nervousness.
• Muscle weakness, tension, or lethargy.
• Headaches or chronic, physical ailments.
• Mood changes, impatience, anger, or irritability.
• Less motivation, ambition, or energy. Lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
• Issues with routine function, either at home or work.
• Difficulty paying attention or concentrating. Issues with memory; forgetfulness.
• Changes in sleep or eating habits.
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or shame.
• Unhealthy behaviors, such as drinking, smoking, or using drugs.

If you or someone you care about is exhibiting any of these signs or experiencing these symptoms, call for help today.

Your Body and Mind are Connected

Did you know that your physical condition directly influences mental health and wellbeing? If you live and suffer from physical health issues, you are likely to be at-risk for mental health problems, too. Chronic pain, an infection, or limited mobility all can take a toll on your mental wellbeing, causing you stress, duress, and anxiety. Similarly, if you experience depression or mental health issues, these may manifest in physical ailments or episodes. Body and mind go hand-in-hand; remember this connection to stay holistically healthy.

Socialize to Stay Healthy

When mobility impacts socialization, you may notice mental health struggles. Research is increasingly recognizing the value of engaging with others and human interaction as a key element of longevity and quality of life. If you cancel outings or isolate due to limited mobility, your mental health is at risk. Socialize to stay healthy and implement mobility equipment and aids (like lifts or walkers) as needed to preserve these interactions. It is really that important.

Exercise Stimulates Endorphins

Many have indicated that exercise helps mental health; if your mobility prohibits regular exercise, you may find yourself experiencing the symptoms of mental health decline. Exercise is often prescribed to combat mental health issues like anxiety and depression; furthermore, it is effective at reducing aches and chronic pains. Preserving mobility through aids or other is well worth the effort as it may keep you moving; exercise stimulates endorphins which makes it a great, all-natural mood stabilizer.

Science Says It’s True

Can something as simple as mobility aids help mental health? We say yes… science seems to agree. Without this assistance when needed, a lack of access may lead to isolation, social anxiety, depression, and a decreased quality of life.

Mobility contributes to autonomy which often directly relates to mood and mental wellbeing.

You Can Help

But, what can you do? Talk to providers, caregivers, and anyone who will listen about issues that are impacting your holistic health. The stigma of mental health issues is over and people are much more open about problems and struggles- helping providers effectively treat their patients. Know that reporting these symptoms to your providers is the first step in moving past them and getting on with your life.

Call the mobility experts today and learn more about your options. Are mobility issues impacting your quality of life and mental health? Don’t live another day without the tools that you need for access, convenience, and joy in everyday life; contact us today.

Mobility Aids May Improve the Outcome After Critical Care 

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Mobility aids may improve outcomes following critical care for illness or injury, as they may provide the level of therapeutic support and rehabilitative stability that makes mobility feasible. Getting up is vital to recovery; mobility aids may help particularly when it comes to aging in place.

There is nothing that ages and debilitates like an injury or illness, and for seniors or individuals with pre-existing health issues or disabilities, it can be catastrophic. After leaving a critical care or skilled nursing setting, a rehabilitative program is integral to recovery and a favorable long-term prognosis. For support and stability during this journey, mobility aids may fit the bill and provide needed assistance during this vulnerable time. Furthermore, a quick recovery and positive outcome preserve autonomy and independence, both key elements of aging in place for seniors.

Physiotherapy

If you are discharged from critical care or a skilled nursing setting, you will be provided with a discharge plan that likely will include some form of physiotherapy. This will often occur at home with home health aides or therapists that make the rounds for their patients recovering from an illness or hospitalization. You may be commanded to appointments with physical and occupational therapists, which can be challenging if you are suffering from mobility issues or limitations after your stay. If your stay was prolonged, you may have atrophy in muscles that have not been used regularly. An effective rehabilitation plan is integral to return as closely as possible to a former level of mobility and function, restoring muscle mass, which makes physiotherapy invaluable. Remember that the longer one is hospitalized, the longer it will take to recover. Make the most of the options that are offered and consider physiotherapy, with the aid of mobility devices or equipment, when you go home.

Autonomy

Maintaining mobility is an important part of preserving autonomy as we age. Sure, there are solutions, assistants, and tools that can aid in getting around, but protecting one’s independence fiercely includes proactive measures to protect from health having possible impacts on aging in place. From dressing independently to driving around to do errands, there are tools and aids that will make these tasks a bit easier and less of a chore, which may hasten and expedite your recovery following a critical care issue or health problem. Get up and around quicker with a little bit of help.

Rehabilitation

Mobility directly relates to prognosis and recovery when it comes to a serious health issue, a critical care episode, injury, or illness. It can hinder or hasten rehabilitation progress; this further reinforces the validity and value of mobility aids during this period of recovery. From heading to a doctor appointment to independent physical therapy, a simple mobility aid or tool may offer the right amount of support and confidence needed to achieve what needs to be done. Mobility is concerned a key component and critical piece of post-hospitalization care for all patients, but most especially seniors.

Outcomes

Sadly, hospitalizations can have negative effects on an individual’s level of mobility, particularly when they are dealing with other health issues and concerns. When you are immobile, there is a decline in function that may- or may not- be restored later. Some of the contributing health episodes include falls, dementia, or infection. The longer a patient goes without moving around and completing ADLs (activities of daily living), the harder it will be to recover and restore to the previous level of functioning.

National Critical Illness Awareness Month

National Critical Illness Awareness Month in October is the perfect time to garner and glean information related to your own mobility, health, and recovery. Make a point to learn more about critical illness prevention, treatment, and patient care- all which may help if you find yourself recuperating from a critical care incident or illness. It is estimated that nearly one-and-a-half million people in this country experience a heart attack or stroke annually; find out more about preventing and recovering from critical illness or injury during this vitally important observance.

It makes the most sense to reach out and work with mobility vendor in your region, but make sure that it is a reputable and recognizable one. There are significant reasons why you should not invest in second-hand or private-sale equipment; work with a local mobility retailer that has established a reputation in the California community with online feedback and customer reviews.

Ready to learn more about mobility aids? Recovering from an illness or injury? Recuperate quicker and preserve your freedom; call the mobility experts today and find out what options exist to make your life easier, and your home environment more accessible. Don’t let mobility issues or health episodes cause obstacles to your autonomy and aging in place. Call today to learn more.

Should you plan-ahead for mobility issues?

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Thinking about the future and planning to age-in-place can be complicated; for instance, should you plan-ahead for mobility issues? Depending on current health challenges, this is not an unwise strategy. Autonomy and independence are compromised when health deteriorates, or injuries arise. Circumvent this outcome by planning-ahead for such situations.

Is it possible to plan-ahead for physical limitations or mobility issues? The industry experts at Pacific Mobility believe so- in fact, preparing for future health crises may be key in preserving autonomy and aging in place later-on. It is estimated that nearly half of Americans older than 75  report issues with walking, standing or lifting; how can you preserve your independence when physical needs and hurdles increase?

Protect and Preserve your Mobility

Mobility encompasses much more than the ability to walk independently. Mobility also includes the ability to complete activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing or preparing meals, as well as the ability to safely navigate the home environment with the ability to venture out into the community, as needed or desired.

Maintain Mobility as You Age

Maintaining mobility is imperative for quality of life as you age; specific mobility issues can impede independence and prevent people from performing ADLs, like eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and moving safely, which may jeopardize independent living and aging in place. Problems with ADLs is a primary reason behind nursing home admissions or implementation of in-home health aides.

Continue to Engage

When you suffer from a reduction in mobility, it may also impede your level of social engagement. Social engagement has been studied and found to be an integral component of holistic health and wellness across the lifespan. Reduced mobility may decrease your level of participation in family activities, hobbies, leisure activities, and socialization. Continue to engage as you age and get out into the community; this may reduce your risk for depression and curb isolation. Planning ahead must involve facilitating social engagement and interactions, whether this means integrating supports, maintaining a vehicle, or moving closer to loved ones.

Assess your Health

Make sure to have your health assessed regularly by your provider or practitioner and be realistic about your overall level of wellness; do you need to lose weight? Move more? How is your blood pressure or other factors related to a heart attack or stroke? Even minor physical issues including muscle weakness, poor balance, excess weight, or chronic pain all contribute to and worsen mobility issues or physical disabilities. Consider also how cognitive impairments, like dementia, vision, or hearing issues can impact your ability to live independently when combined with physical challenges. It may require clever planning and inventive mobility solutions; talk to a mobility expert to find a good fit for you.

Get Proactive

But, what can you do about it now? There are many different approaches and tactics that you can take to plan ahead for potential mobility issues, challenges, and disabilities. For example, are you doing what you can to improve your chances at remaining mobile the older that you get? Some of the proactive things that you can do now for better health- and mobility- later include:

  • Start a physical activity regimen to maintain strength, balance, and flexibility. It is never too soon or too late to make these important lifestyle changes.
  • Make changes in the home that reduce trip-and-fall hazard, like replacing flooring or de-cluttering the home.
  • Invest in mobility aids, like grab-bars and reaching tools, that can make everyday life easier while reducing the risk of an injury.
  • Are you overweight? Take-off excess weight and keep it off. Eat a diet that is rich in fiber to also help you feel lean and limber.
  • Think about other, overall health strides that you can make. For example, if you smoke, quit; this will reduce risks of stroke, heart attack, and respiratory issues. Hauling an oxygen tank around wherever you go is not going to assist with your mobility.
  • Look at alternative transportation resources in your area in case your driving is restricted due to a health or mobility issue.
  • Work on flexibility and range of motion with low-impact activities like swimming or yoga. Start now.

These are strategies that you can- and should- start any time. These basic practices will help keep you as mobile and autonomous as possible, by paying attention to basic, holistic wellness. Planning-ahead for mobility issues may seem cynical, but it is a practical and reassuring way to live out your life the way that you choose, where you choose. Aging in place is about living on your own terms, without being forced due to health or mobility problems.

Talk to the mobility insiders at Pacific Mobility in California to learn more about planning ahead for things like mobility issues. They will help to steer you in a direction that complements aging in place and an autonomous lifestyle as you age. Call today.

Simple Tasks become more difficult when living with mobility issues

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There is no disputing it: simple tasks become more difficult when living with mobility issues. The good news is that for every challenge and task, there is a solution and mobility aid that can make life easier. Additionally, these devices and aids contribute to autonomy by preventing accessibility hurdles and keeping the home environment safer.

Got a mobility issue? Mobility issues and physical limitations can make everyday tasks a bit more difficult. Often-times, it is not doing the task that is challenging but the risk of injury presented is simply not worth the effort. Don’t make things harder on yourself; visit Pacific Mobility in Southern California to learn more and see mobility aids and equipment demonstrated for yourself.

The simplest tasks become more difficult when living with mobility issues:

Task: Preparing Meals & Putting Away Groceries

One of the most basic daily tasks is to shop for, put away, and prepare food at home; this becomes more challenging for those with physical limitations or disabilities. When it comes to grocery shopping, delivery services have revolutionized the way that many buy their food, but how about after it gets home? The risk of a fall or accident becomes greater when working in a kitchen, which typically has slick flooring and hot surfaces.

Solution: Reaching Tools, Grab-bars, Walkers, and Canes

Reaching tools make it easier- and safer- to access overhead or tall storage spaces, making putting away and retrieving food easier. Grab-bars near spots like the stove, the fridge, and the sink, can give users support during routine kitchen chores. A cane is a great and inexpensive tool that can give just the right amount of stability for someone and help reduce the chance of a nasty fall and subsequent injury.

Task: Showering & Bathing

Speaking of slick or slippery surfaces, the majority of falls among the senior demographic occur in the bathroom. The combination of tile, water, and bare feet can be a dangerous mix! How do seniors or those with physical challenges conquer or circumvent the potentially hazardous environment of the home bathroom?

Solution: Lifts, Slings, Tub Seats, and Grab-bars

Depending on your level of mobility, a lift may help. Lifts and slings help those who cannot walk or rise get in and out of the tub or shower. If the limitations are less severe, a simple tub seat may be all that is needed to provide support for individuals to complete bathing and activities of daily living. Grab-bars near the sink and toilet are always prudent, and cost-effective to implement widely.

Task: Going Upstairs

Do you miss visiting the upstairs of your home? Individuals with physical challenges may find that they need to downsize their living to one level of their home, which can be complicated if the bathroom is on the second level.

Solution: Stairlifts & Ramps, Grab-bars

Is it time to invest in a stairlift? Stairlifts have been changing lives and increasing access in homes widely for years; but is it practical for you? Ramps help with rises and landings that may cause difficulty for those with mobility issues, and grab-bars can also provide just enough stability for someone at the bottom and top landing of your stairway.

Task: Driving a Car

Driving a car may become more challenging if you have a condition or disability that impacts your overall mobility. Even if you can operate the vehicle, how will you get in or store your mobility device (like a walker) after you are in the driver’s seat?

Solution: Vehicle Lifts & Ramps

Talk to a reputable mobility vendor about vehicle lifts. Many of these aids will stow your devices, like wheelchairs, for you via a remote control key-pad. Ramps are a must wherever there is an incline.

Task: Tending a Garden

Are you getting outside as much as you like? There are many reasons why spending time outdoors is hazardous for those with mobility issues; fall risks lurk everywhere and a nasty fall jeopardizes one’s independence and autonomy. Don’t let physical limitations hinder or impede what you love to do; get outside!

Solution: Porch lifts, Ramps, Canes, Walkers, and Scooters

Some tools and aids that can help when venturing outdoors include porch lifts and basic ramps to help navigate porches, patios, and decks. A cane always offers a bit of stability on frequently uneven terrain, though a walker may make even more sense, depending on the nature of your disability. Talk to your providers about the feasibility of a scooter or wheelchair if you have limited mobility; these are made with outdoor use in mind.

Accessibility is key to autonomy and aging-in-place so prioritize your access around the home- and wherever you go. Ask mobility merchants about aids that you can easily transport, like canes, walkers, and reaching tools, to improve convenience, access, and everyday life.

Make simple tasks easy and safe again with mobility aids, equipment, and devices from Pacific Mobility in Southern California. Don’t risk your autonomy with a nasty fall or injury from trying to attempt everyday tasks unassisted. A cane, grab-bar, or reaching tool are the simplest tools, yet provide so much support during ADLs (Activities of Daily Living). Talk to a mobility expert today.

What to do with Mobility aids and Stairlifts when you no longer need them

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So, what to do with mobility aids and stairlifts when you no longer need them? Well, the answer depends on a few factors, including what it is, where you bought it, and how old it is. Consider also the many ways that you can recycle and repurpose your stairlifts and mobility aids; contact your mobility retailer to learn more.

What are you planning to do with your mobility aids and stairlifts when you no longer need them? Well, if you rent them, the answer is simple, but if you have invested money into buying a device, the decision may be a bit more complex. Talk to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility in Southern California to learn more or to discuss your distinct options when it comes to relinquishing mobility aids, devices, and stairlifts.

Some ways that you may choose to give up your aids and lifts include these suggestions:

Sell Privately

The first way to give up your devices, and make some money in the process, is to sell privately via craigslist, Facebook marketplace, classified advertising, or similar online venue. It can put more money in your pocket when you get the device inspected and offer documents when selling to a private party to ensure the device has been serviced and maintained accordingly. Know that some of these sites attract scammers so always get your money up-front and meet in an occupied, public place.

Take Advantage of Buyback Programs

Did you buy your stairlift from us at Pacific Mobility? Yes, we do offer a stairlift buyback program for customers who have purchased their Bruno lifts from us. We don’t have to do this and a lot of the major competitors of ours do not do this at all. This provides an incentive that you have recourse when you no longer need your lift, which can be reassuring when making buying decisions. These lifts are then reconditioned and restored so that we can resell them at a reduced price with a solid warranty. Contact Pacific Mobility for further details regarding our stairlift buyback program.

Donate to Charity

Another viable option is to donate your device, equipment, or lift to charity. Local and state organizations are always looking for good used mobility equipment, and often-times, they will pick up and deliver. You can choose whichever charitable organization speaks to you, including Wounded Warriors, ALS Association, Cancer Society, or Alzheimer’s Association. You could also choose a local shelter, nursing home, or thrift store.  Unfortunately, a lot of equipment is customized to a specific person or home environment which makes it difficult to transfer and use without modifications or repair. Remember that when you donate your devices, request a receipt from whoever accepts it; this can be used for a tax deduction later.

Donate to an Individual

Not everyone can afford to donate their equipment to someone else in need, but it sure is nice when you can. Want the 4-1-1 on someone in need of a lift or other device that can’t afford one? Consider reaching out to an area agency on aging, hospice, or skilled nursing facility to find out more.

Recycle the Battery

Unfortunately, it costs money to recycle or dispose of a battery, and most mobility aids operate on batteries. Buy your lift from us and we offer consumers a nice perk: If you bought a battery from Pacific Mobility, we will take the old battery and recycle it for free. We charge no additional cost added to the purchase price for recycle or disposal fees. This is simply another way to get the most out of your old device with as much convenience as possible.

If the device is damaged or outdated, you may be able to recycle parts of it, like the metal track, to decrease your carbon footprint. Talk to a mobility vendor to find out if this makes the most sense for your equipment.

Trade It In

What about a trade-in on another device? Are you stepping down in terms of your assistance needs? Could you use a bit more support? Call your mobility professional to learn more about trading in your gently used or second-hand mobility equipment for a down payment on something new, upgraded, or different. These refurbished aids get a good once-over before hitting the sales floor or potentially being used as a short-term rental device for those in need. Talk to the vendor that you purchased your mobility device or stairlift from to find out if they endorse and sponsor such a program as well as what the specific guidelines may be.

Ready to relinquish a stairlift or mobility aids? Talk to the industry insiders at Pacific Mobility; they offer quality mobility equipment with varied terms and arrangements. Consider these options when you are getting ready to rid yourself of mobility devices and call us to learn more!

Finding a Mobility Retailer you Can Trust

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Do you know how to find a mobility retailer that you can trust? It isn’t always easy; look for a company with an established reputation in the region that you live for satisfying customers with mobility needs. Some other things to look for are relatable sales staff, problem-solvers, and service after the sale, if you want optimal satisfaction with your mobility equipment and aids.

It can be challenging to know who you can trust when it comes to buying mobility equipment and devices.  Many vendors are eager to make the sale, but scarce and difficult to reach when the customer encounters an issue. Look for a company that has years of established experience in satisfying customers in your region; in Southern California, that is Pacific Mobility, with over 64 years in the mobility business.

Some things that instill this trust in consumers are:

No Slick and Savvy Salespeople

Our sales team is not comprised of slick, savvy salespeople that want to make the sale at any and all costs. Sure, we want to provide you with the highest quality mobility aids, but we want you to become a loyal customer and friend, first. Our sales staff first start out as installers, so their familiarity with what we sell is unsurpassed. They learn the ins and outs of mobility options, processes, and methods, as well as industry trends first-hand. Some of our sales staff are unpolished in selling but providing service to customers and clients comes first.

Some companies may believe that we do things slightly differently, and we do. We maintain the same mission statement for over 60 years and that may seem somewhat old fashioned to many. We believe that hands-on experience is the key to understanding the needs, function, and performance of our mobility aids and equipment.

Taking the Time to Listen

Something else that prospective consumers should watch for is a merchant that takes the time to listen to what is being said. Attentive listening helps to clarify the situation, needs, and wishes of the client- which provides a better outcome with equipment purchases. Putting the customer first even when it hampers a sale is something that you don’t always find- but that you should take time to seek. For example, a power swivel seat may simply not be pragmatic for a buyer as it does add to the overall cost of the device. However, there are some consumers that would benefit from a swiveling seat, such as those with neuropathy or other mobility-limiting conditions, if the vendor takes the time to listen.

Willingness to Problem-Solve and Invent Solutions

Find someone who is open to problem-solving and finding solutions, even after the sale has been made. When something goes askew with your mobility aid, it can be devastating; for many, these devices are the key to autonomy and independence. To lose that, even for a day, can be frightening. Having a contact person readily available to offer insight and help problem-solve can be comforting. It can also lead to inventive solutions that rectify the situation until a professional technician can come and address the issue. These experts also can identify situations that don’t warrant or accommodate equipment or specific devices; they should not sell you something that you don’t need. Instead, there may be inventive and innovative solutions that increase the consumer’s access available without the purchase of equipment. Maybe this involves buying a piece of mobility equipment or not, but a trustworthy mobility seller will offer these options without regard to a commission, fee, or revenues.

Service After the Sale

What good is a piece of mobility equipment if you can’t get service or support after you get it home? Look for a mobility dealer that is as focused on service as they are on the sale itself. A lot of businesses will claim that customer satisfaction is key, but is it really? One way to glean if the company has a history of satisfying customers and providing service for the devices that they sell is through online ratings, reviews, and ranks. There are sites and forums dedicated to mobility aids and accessibility that provide some insight into these merchants. Check out the reviews found on consumer watchdog or awareness sites online, too. Take this feedback into account when evaluating how open they help after you purchase something from them.  Do they respond to emails or phone calls? This is all pertinent in your purchase decision.

Finding a mobility dealer you can trust is not easy, but if you live in Southern California, it is as easy as calling Pacific Mobility; Pacific Mobility checks all the boxes: relatable sales staff that listen, problem-solve, and provide service after the sale. It is as simple as that. For an established reputation of over 60 years in the business, reach out to Pacific Mobility for your mobility aids, equipment, and devices. Call for your thorough needs assessment, estimate, and more information today.

Stairlift not working? Here’s a few common issues that could be the cause

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There are a few common issues that could be the cause behind a stairlift failing to work properly. If you experience issues with your stairlift not working, consider these culprits and consult with your mobility aid retailer to schedule service for your equipment.

If you experience issues with your stairlift, know that it could be a simple fix. Before you allow anyone to augment, modify, or make repairs to your lift, consult with the seller, vendor, or manufacturer guidelines for servicing the lift to ensure you do not nullify any warranty or insurance.

Stairlift not working? Here are a few common issues that could be the cause:

The Key

Is the key to the lift in the correct position to turn on? That is the first item to check when your stairlift won’t work. Usually, your key switch is on the top stair landing but it can vary from model to model. Next, check the on/off switch, located on the arm of the chair. These sound like simple solutions – and they are- but they are also very common culprits behind a non-working stairlift.

Power Supply

A red indicator light should tell you if power is reaching your lift; is the red light off? If so, check your circuit breakers to make sure you didn’t trip the system.  Also, make sure that the outlet you are using is functioning. Consider dedicating an outlet that is always on and that you know how to reset if necessary. Also, it is not a bad idea to invest in a surge protector for your stairlift.

Battery

Another switch that you will need to look for is the battery disconnect switch, which also serves as the primary shut-off switch for your lift. These switches can be tricky to find as the manufacturers usually put them in spots that won’t get jarred, banged, or battered easily.

Fuses

Could you have a blown fuse? Check your fuse box and replace the blown fuse, or if you are not comfortable, call your electrician to take care of this for you. Many modern models of lifts come with an automatic device that will help to reset your lift’s power. Keep some fuses and other basic tools for your lift on hand to use in the event of an outage or issue; it sounds so elementary but makes such a significant difference in convenience later.

Safety Switches

There are many switches involved when checking out your lift and safety edge switches are the next ones to evaluate. These are often on the footplate and the carriage; check them to make sure they are in the proper position for your lift to operate.

Swivel Seat

Your lift should instinctively transition to an upright position when the user gets up from the lift; if this isn’t happening, there could be an issue with the swivel seat that is affecting overall operation. It could be related to the springs inside the seat, but the best way to proceed is to have it looked at by a qualified mobility aid service technician; call your retailer to schedule service provision.

Rack Hinge Rail

There may be something wrong with the rack hinge rail of your lift; these can be sensitive so even new carpet or an obstacle can cause the lift to stop working. Have you had new flooring put in recently? This may also impact the overall functionality. Check carefully and thoroughly for obstructions; things all clear? It could be time to call in a professional to diagnose the issue.

Connectivity

Is your lift making a lot of uncommon noise? Some sounds, noises, or beeping could be indicative of a problem with the electrical system, including things like a loose connection somewhere. If the noise that you hear is more of a grinding sound, it could be a problem with damaged or deteriorated rollers.

The Joystick

Could there be something askew with your stairlift joystick? The joystick is used for operating the lift and controlling the call switch—both of which merit the attention of a service professional if you suspect they are not working as they should. You may still be able to use your lift, however, with the remote control that came with the lift, if applicable.

Prevent common problems with simple maintenance on your lift. Get your lift serviced and inspected regularly to ensure safe operation and longevity, when it comes to your mobility equipment.

If you are experiencing difficulty with your stairlift or if you are interested in learning more about installing a lift in your home or business, consult with the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility. A free, no-obligation assessment can indicate if a stairlift is a good fit for you; call to learn more today.