Jeff Conner

Be honest and ask yourself some pertinent questions when thinking about aging in place and staying in your current living situation. Aging in place could be the right choice for you or your loved one, depending on your priorities during senior years. These personal preferences will help tease-out whether aging in place makes sense or if a residential or senior community is more pragmatic.

What are your plans for the future? Do you have goals for your senior years? The current trend is moving away from residential and senior living to the concept of aging in place. The definition of ‘aging in place’ encompasses the preference of an individual to live where they choose, in a residence that they select, for as long as possible. Aging in Place does allow for community resources to support the individuals’ decisions, such as caregiving services, transportation, and/or mobility assistance and aids.

Wondering about aging in place? Be honest about what is important to you:

• Where do you see yourself during retirement?
• What do you see yourself doing during retirement?
• What will your retirement home look like?
• How is your health?
• What types of provisions, i.e. financial, health, etc., have been put in place?
• Have you completed an advanced directive?

While aging in place may not suit everyone, it does demonstrate that it is possible to chart or change the course of your living situation and life with careful, collaborative planning. Making these choices now helps you maintain autonomy and preserve the quality of life, which is the over-arching goal of the aging in place movement.

Consider these important aspects of aging in place:

Your Plan

Write down what is most important to you; for many seniors, it is staying in their own home. It is estimated that 90% of people over 55 plan and prefer to stay in their current living situations as they age. Is this what is important to you? Some popular reasons for choosing to ‘age in place’ include wanting to be close to family, enjoying their current circumstance, and wanting to avoid the headaches of another move or relocation.

Don’t feel overwhelmed and that some aspects of living independently may be too challenging; your plan outlines how you can reach and receive help for these elements of everyday living and outlines your distinct preferences.

Problem Resolution

It is important to understand though you may be able to change the course of your senior years with aging in place, it is not feasible to fix problems and inherent hurdles that could prevent autonomous living from being sensible or safe. The only barriers that you can augment or change during this phase of life are the ones that you have addressed and planned for, such as financial and personal in nature. Sometimes, the unexpected can occur and put a wrench in the most carefully laid plans.

The Unexpected

Some unexpected issues that may arise could be an injury or medical condition. While it is possible to plan ahead for natural age-related issues, like a decline in vision, it is less feasible to plan for emergencies, like recovery and rehabilitation from an injury sustained in a fall. These types of crises can jeopardize independent living which makes preventative measures and cautions so important. Strive to keep your living environment as safe and easy-to-maintain as possible, even if that means enlisting help from outside the household.

Caregivers

One source of assistance or help that autonomous seniors have are caregivers, though most senior caregivers are unpaid family or friends. Sometimes, the only obstacle in independent living is assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing or meal preparation. Caregivers, home health aides, and companions all serve different roles with varying scopes of practice. Many communities offer agencies on aging that specializes in resources for the aging population; reach out to find resources that may help you- or your loved one- remain in their own home, while staying safe.

Mobility Aids

A tangible way to foster autonomy is to improve access around the home, and one way this is achieved is with mobility aids and modifications. Whether a ramp or stairlift helps the individual, or if a grab bar or shower seat is all that is needed, visit mobility vendors and dealers to discuss options that make the home a safer and more convenient place to age in place.

Is aging in place the right choice for your loved one? Contact us to learn more

The US Census Bureau estimates that by the year 2030, there will be over 70-million seniors, age 65 and up, in this country. Aging in place simply makes sense for the majority of these individuals. Discuss your options further and learn more about aging in place with Pacific Mobility; call today.

Looking for a high-quality stairlift? Bruno is a name widely recognized as being a leader in the mobility aid industry; Bruno’s latest model, the Bruno Elite, has features and specs that will win over consumers seeking convenience, dependability, and ease. Check out some of the benefits and options of the Bruno Elite stairlift to improve your quality of life or the life of someone you love.

When it is time to improve access around your home, a stairlift may be perfect – but which one? The mobility experts at  Pacific Mobility look forward to showing and demonstrating a number of high-quality, dependable stairlifts for your home and workplace. One of your options is the amazing and high-tech Bruno Elite stairlift; this lift sets the bar high for mobility aids and is highly-lauded and rated by consumers and critics widely.

Some things to know about the benefits and options of the Bruno Elite stairlift include: 

Specs

The specs of the Bruno Elite are beneficial to anyone who previously thought their home would not accommodate a lift. From curved stairs to steep risers, the Bruno can be fitted, installed, and operated with ease, allowing access for consumers that want to remain in their current living situation and ‘age in place.’ Aging in place is the movement toward supporting seniors that want to remain in independent living situations, and to offer supports and services that help make this a reality for as long as possible.

Style

After all, you don’t want an eyesore taking up space in your home or workplace… The Bruno Elite demonstrates luxury styling, attention to detail and aesthetics, that makes it a cohesive and non-intrusive element in the home or work environment. The style is sleek, sharp, and not at all bulky or clunky.

Quality

When you want a quality product, look for goods made in the USA. This extends to the Bruno line of stairlifts, including the Bruno Elite. The craftsmanship reflects the attention, care, and expertise of the manufacturer and these devices are made in America.

Performance

Technology is what gives the Bruno Elite its advanced and high-performance engineering, creating a rail system on stairs and risers that may not have been feasible before. The options, remote, and controls are made to be used with ease and effortlessness, indicating the smooth performance of this mobility aid.

Convenience

You will be hard-pressed to find a mobility aid that is as life-altering and impactful to autonomy and convenience as a stairlift. These devices can open up entire floors in homes to those with physical limitations and improve quality of life for seniors across the globe. With today’s modern technology, manufacturers are no longer hampered by curved stairs or sharp corners, nor are they impeded by wet conditions or limited space to accommodate lifts. The stairlifts available to consumers today are revolutionary, and as such, bring a level of convenience to the home that helps seniors maintain their independence and age in place.

Customization

Another element and advantage of the Bruno Elite Stairlift are the customization options available; you can virtually create the mobility aid that you want and need – without settling for anything less. Work with the manufacturers directly to construct a Bruno lift that fits your home and lifestyle to perfection.

Thinking about customization? Consider these available Bruno options:

• Custom color schemes.
• Rail park position options and alternatives.
• Power control and technology options.

The Bruno Elite is an impressive device with just the factory features; customization allows you to go a step further and enhance everyday living, ease, and convenience. Don’t you deserve it?

Professionalism

It cannot be overstated how important it is to buy your Bruno lifts from reputable and qualified dealers. Don’t fall victim to buying used medical equipment or devices and get stuck without service or support after the sale. What will you do if something goes wrong with your stairlift? Opt for a device from a recognized and licensed mobility retailer that provides professional installation, service, and support; you will never regret the decision!

Finally, never buy second-hand equipment and lifts from individuals or private parties that are not backed by a reputable vendor. What will you do if you need service or support? Go with a local vendor who will come and install your device, working with the consumer to demonstrate proper operation until you are comfortable and at ease.

Are you ready to see for yourself what the Bruno Elite can do? Call us to learn more. 

Talk to the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility; they are ready and willing to explain and demonstrate this amazing lift and how it can fit in your home. Spend some time familiarizing yourself with your stairlift options and consider factors like versatility and longevity; experts agree that Bruno is a compelling option for those seeking stairlifts for the home or workplace.

 Rely on your mobility aids vendor to help you with distinctive options that fit you, your lifestyle and budget best. From choosing the proper lift for your specific vehicle to upgrading a lift with a more comfortable seat or sling, buy from supportive and dependable retailers that will provide service after the sale with a smile. Take heed with tips for choosing the right vehicle lift to ensure satisfaction and accessibility after the sale.

If you are looking at equipment and mobility aids that will help you preserve autonomy, a vehicle lift can be life-altering. The key is to buy your mobility devices and lifts from reputable area retailers that will not only demonstrate and explain specifics with you, but that will provide installation, service, and support- long after you have taken your equipment home with you. This could not be more important than when making an investment in a vehicle lift, such as the Bruno Chariot;  proper operation and performance are critical to increasing the user’s access and convenience every day.

Some tips when narrowing-in on your mobility options and choosing the proper lift for your specific vehicle, are:

Got a hitch? Know that outside vehicle lifts secure to a hitch on the back of your vehicle. The lift is comprised of a platform that moves your chair or scooter, holding it while you use the vehicle. These lifts require an installed class-three hitch; talk to mobility vendors to learn more.

Carry it with you. If you prefer to carry your chair or scooter in the cargo space of your vehicle, an inside lift might be for you. These lifts are tough, often holding up to 400 pounds.

Try a hybrid if you have a larger vehicle. The cool thing about a hybrid lift is that it powers out and down to meet the user, as your chair or scooter is lifted by the platform and stowed for you. These types of lifts require larger vehicles, like vans, SUVs, and mini-vans.

Truck lifts provide options. If you drive a truck, a truck lift is going to give you more options in terms of where you load your mobility aids. For example, most truck lifts provide access from the driver side, passenger side, curbside, or even the tailgate.

Keep up on the industry news. The lifts and technology involved in these devices change regularly. Before you shell out your money for a vehicle lift, make sure that you are getting something that won’t be made obsolete next year. The best resource for this type of industry information is going to be the internet, as well as the expertise of your mobility retailer- as long as you go with someone who is known locally and that has an established reputation.

Be prepared before you shop. Know that you will be asked some specific questions pertaining to your needs when you look at or browse mobility devices; make sure to be prepared with information. Otherwise, you could be wasting your time. Some typical questions include if you use a chair or scooter, what the brand of your aid is, if there are any custom features on your device, what kind of vehicle do you have, and what is the year and make. These general queries will help pinpoint the most pragmatic lifts for you and your vehicle.

Lifts can add length. A vehicle lift, particularly an outside lift, will add length to your car or truck.

Be prepared to sacrifice your back seat. Investing in an inside lift will usually take up the back seat of your vehicle, so know that these lifts can limit and reduce your seating capacity.

Buying a vehicle soon? If you are thinking about buying a vehicle soon to accommodate your lift, know that vans, trucks, and SUVs are the easiest and most versatile options for lifts.

Familiarize yourself with tongue weight. Don’t forget to figure in the weight of the lift when determining if your lift will work for your needs. This equates to the tongue weight and points out if the lift can adequately work for you. The tongue weight is the maximum pounds that can be safely suspended from the back of your vehicle, and you may find this information in your vehicle’s owner manual.

How much does your scooter or chair weigh? Get to know how much your chair or scooter weights; typically, a scooter weights up to 200-pounds, and a lift weighs between 100-120 pounds; does this exceed your tongue weight?

Don’t try to curb costs by buying a used or second-hand lift from a private party. These types of deals may save you a few bucks initially, but your device won’t be backed by a satisfaction guarantee, service, support, and technical advice. The few dollars difference is well-worth the insight and knowledge of buying from a reputable professional.

When it comes to choosing options and features for your mobility aids, rely on the expertise of Pacific Mobility; highly-rated and touted by customers widely, this company provides support throughout the sales experience, from the installation of your device to an augment later-on. Be prudent with your purchases and buy from merchants that work to gain your trust and your patronage. Call us today.

There are many factors that contribute to the senior’s ability to remain in their home and preserve their autonomy; one of these is overall health and well-being. Falls often occur due to inadequate lighting throughout the living environment which impacts independence. Don’t underestimate the importance of proper lighting to aging in place.

The best way to facilitate aging in place is senior fall prevention, which begins with proper lighting.

How does proper lighting contribute to aging in place and maintaining autonomy?

Aging in place

Aging in place is a movement of sorts, that preserves and places the individual’s will above any potential hurdles or barriers. For instance, if a senior is in their own home but has difficulty getting to appointments, community resources that support aging in place will line up rides for these commitments. It makes more sense socially and on a global scale to support seniors remaining in their own living situations with resources, services, and offerings than it is to crowd nursing facilities and residential homes that impact the individual’s autonomy and in doing so, impact overall quality of life.

Autonomy

Why is autonomy so integral to well-being? Why wouldn’t a senior want and even appreciate someone taking care of everyday activities for them? Autonomy is independence, and without independence, many fear losing their freedom to choose where and how they will live their lives. Some may not only worry about outside intervention but fear or resent this type of outreach; forcing your will on the senior to ensure safety does impede autonomy. So, what is a cooperative middle-ground that will keep seniors safe while preserving independence? That is the question and quandary that caretakers cope with every day. A big part of aging in place is respecting the choices of the individual and providing them with the dignity to acknowledge that they can make their own decisions throughout the aging process.

Fall Risks

A colossal but often overlooked aspect to aging in place is the potential for injury due to a fall. A fall is a sure way to lose freedom, compromise independence, and jeopardize autonomy for any senior; in fact, it is estimated that every 19 minutes, a senior dies from injuries sustained in a fall. These falls have ripple-effects, first putting the senior at risk, next, potentially providing danger for caregivers that may be injured during transport. Furthermore, the medical costs are extraordinary, driving up insurance rates for retirees and leaving seniors in debt due to copays, prescriptions, and out-of-pocket costs. Why are falls so common? There are numerous reasons why seniors may slip and fall in their home environment:

• Clutter around the home can easily cause a senior to fall.
• Reaching for goods that are stored too high or too low for easy access.
• Hurrying to answer the door or the phone is another way that many seniors fall and become injured.
• Improperly maintained paths, drives, and exteriors are also common culprits behind an injurious incident or fall.

Perhaps one of the most common reasons behind a nasty fall is improper or inadequate lighting. It makes sense to complete a lighting safety check and evaluation at the home of a senior that you care about; you may prevent a serious injury.

Proper Lighting

Wondering what lighting has to do with aging in place? A lot- make sure that your lighting properly and safely illuminates the areas of your home that present the most danger, i.e. stairs, outside areas, basements, attics, bathrooms, etc.

Simply light-up these spaces and outfit the home with easy-to-use controls and remotes to make a significant difference that can improve the quality of life for someone you care about, and that could potentially save a life.

Fall Prevention

Efforts toward fall prevention are well-worth the resources as falls are such a major obstacle to autonomy. Engage the senior in activities that foster flexibility and fitness, such as yoga or tai-chi, so that in the event they fall, they are less likely to injure themselves as severely.

It bears repeating that falls are the leading reason for seniors’ injuries, both fatal and non-fatal. It is estimated that one-fourth of individuals over age 65 experience a fall each year. This presents serious jeopardy to an individual’s autonomy, independence, and quality of life, warranting careful consideration.

Worried about how you will age in place? Preserve your autonomy and quality of life by reducing the potential for a fall and subsequent injury any way that you can. When it comes to mobility aids and devices, speak to the experts at Pacific Mobility; they have been distributing and disseminating high-quality equipment to help the needs of seniors living autonomously, as well as to make their lives a bit more accessible and convenient at the same time.

There are many things to consider when seeking to buy the best lift for both your needs and your living environment. From the right sling and style to the best function and seat, there are no details too small when contemplating your mobility aids and when it comes to choosing the right sling with the right lift- as well as a range of options to enhance everyday living.

Lifts are used day-in and day-out widely, from hospitals and skilled nursing facilities to homes with in-home care. Depending on the needs of the user, lifts are found in various types to increase access and autonomy. In this state, many of these devices are provided by the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility; this company is skilled in matching up the best device for distinct degrees of mobility and physical strength, with innovative features that enhance everyday living for those using the products.

Consider many things when choosing the right sling with the right lift- and more:

Lifts

The first order of business is to determine the type of lift you are looking for, or rather, the right lift for you. You have a lot of choices, including hydraulic powered, electric, and partly-manual, however, usually the medical needs of the consumer point toward the most prudent option. Typically, the most common types of lifts are ceiling-style sling lifts or sit-to-stand lifts, like a stairlift rail system.

Slings

Slings are the component of ceiling lifts that carry the user during transfers, thus their function is critical. Individuals may use ceiling lift slings to complete activities of daily living (ADLs), get in and out of a pool, or to move a patient to a vehicle for an outing. Slings are not always standard and may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. You may have options in terms of sizing, dimensions, and materials used, so talk to your providers about your distinct needs when choosing slings. Consider these options:

• Dependable canvas with padding
• Water-resistant nylon for comfort
• Quick drying mesh for wet situations, like pools or bathrooms.

The style and size of your sling will determine how closely the consumer is to the sides during transfer and how much support is provided. Again, demonstrating and trying equipment is often key to long-term satisfaction.

Universal Slings

Now there is one standard or Universal Sling found on the market and offered by most major manufacturers. This is considered the most common sling used today in homes and health care settings. This particular design allows users to even operate the lift on their own, though it also provides a level of ease to caregivers, when applicable. This is easily maneuvered from a seated position, like a wheelchair, and provides the head-support that many consumers command with a higher back.

stairlift Rail Systems

When talking about stairlift rail systems, the options seem vast and diverse. From curved lifts for an indoor staircase to an outdoor platform-style lift that helps ascend a few garden steps, these systems are easy to use and increase access multi-fold. When looking at possible stairlifts to purchase, take your time to assess the many features that different models offer. Some such considerations include:

• Seat style
• Controls
• Safety mechanisms
• Curved or straight style

It is critical to invest with mobility vendors that offer full-service installation to get familiar with the operation of the lift. This also ensures that you will have service for your lift later when it really counts.

Support

It bears repeating that you only want to buy slings, lifts, and other mobility aids from reputable dealers who have experience in offering sales and support of these devices. Installing the lift is critical to its operation and subsequently, your satisfaction with the equipment. This acquisition also merits annual inspections to ensure your lift- or sling- operates effectively for years to come. Also, keep an eye out for brand names that instill a sense of confidence; your mobility retailer will be able to provide more information related to feedback and customer satisfaction with some popular options and brand names.

When purchasing the best lift for your distinct needs, also consider the vendor carefully. Invest your time and money with a company that will stand behind the product that they sell, and that is readily available if you encounter an issue or problem. Don’t be fooled into saving money with second-hand or sub-par equipment and mobility devices; these are not only a waste of money but could also present safety risks to those using them.

If you are interested in learning more about how lifts and slings can enhance your quality of life, talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility; a team of professionals is waiting to assist you in getting the mobility aids, service, and support that you deserve. Call today.

Getting your outdoors spring-ready consists of many tasks and chores intended to make the home a safer, more accessible place to be. For example, one early step to preparing for spring is to clear away trash and clutter that could present health and fall risks; another is to adapt current living situations with mobility aids, like ramps and lifts. Depending on your distinct needs, challenges, and home environment, there are many ways to augment and improve your home’s exteriors.

Spring is the perfect time to freshen up the outside and exteriors of your home while giving your curb appeal a maintained appearance. In doing so, you may identify a need for equipment to help with accessibility such as mobility aids; assess the property for potential changes, modifications, and augments that could improve your ability to get around your living environment, while also preserving as much of your autonomy as possible.

Get your outdoors spring-ready with these tips and tactics: 

Not all spring chores evolve around painting the house or planting a garden; some may simply be things like trips to the waste transfer station or fixing a shoddy step. Take an honest evaluation of how you navigate and traverse your property to determine if – or when- adaptive aids or assistance might be merited.

In the meantime, tend to these spring-ready tasks:

Clear Clutter

Clear away any clutter, debris, or trash outside near and around your property. Haul this off to the waste station or call your town office about curbside pickup in your area. These items can cause fall risks and can impact the safety of your property. Don’t compromise your health with a nasty- but preventable- fall over stuff that you don’t need or want anyway.

Remove Dangers

While you are clearing the property of clutter, remove inherent hazards, like full gutters, loose limbs, potholes, or heaves in the landscape that could present fall risk to you or those you love. If you are unsure about what constitutes a danger, contact a local building inspector or general contractor for a home inspection. Some area agencies on aging also offer services that can uncover and resolve any problems before they become dangerous.

Make Repairs

Arrange to make repairs as needed, such as replacing shingles, fixing stairs, resurfacing patios, leveling concrete, or whatever other spring tasks emerge after the long winter. Again, it makes sense to take advantage of local programs geared toward preserving the independence and safety of seniors in the community.

Bring in Mulch

Mulch is an amazing material that can do so much to your exteriors. First, it helps reduce the need to water plants as it helps them retain and absorb moisture. Second, mulch helps to cut down on both weeds, by blocking sunlight to the soil, and pests, like mosquitoes. Also, a thick layer of rich, wood mulch improves curb appeal and gives your yard, gardens, and beds a neat and tidy border.

Redefine Paths

Redefine the paths that traverse your property. Make sure that stepping stones, brick, or cobblestone is secure and up to par. If you need to, order aggregate gravel for surfacing driveways or paths. It is easy on the feet when walking and cuts down on the dust that finds its way inside your home.

Adapt Steps

Is it time to adapt stairs outside your home with lifts or ramps? Make the entrances and outdoor features of your home more accessible with these mobility aids. Talk to a qualified mobility retailer to learn more and explore your options.

Hire Professionals

There comes a time when it simply is practical and cost-effective to invest in professional landscape design and maintenance services. This ensures the curb appeal of the property isn’t compromised due to an inability to properly maintain, mow, garden, or trim the greenspaces. Also, it provides yet another support and engagement for the senior or individual residing there, who is also paying attention to potential hazards and risky situations for their client, which helps to create a network of support.

Consider Lifts

When it is time to make the home more accessible and those living there more autonomous, invest in outdoor lifts, for the pool or porch, to regain access all around the property. These are life-changing for individuals needing this level of assistance, yet they also allow those who do not need such aids to living untethered. Talk to a mobility dealer to learn more.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for assistance in getting your home or property ready for spring. If you lack the physical ability to take care of your exteriors, talk with your local municipality or area agency on aging to find resources that may help or eliminate this task for you. Volunteers, grant money, or programs may be available to help you spring into spring!

Want to learn more about getting the home ready for spring? Ready to make your living situation more accessible with adaptive aids and mobility devices? Come talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; they are ready to assess your needs and help uncover the most practical solutions for you.

Deciding between manual or electric wheelchairs comes down to a few basic criteria: physical needs, lifestyle, and budget. Many consumers utilize the lowest restrictive level of care when it comes to mobility aids, that is, use a manual wheelchair until their condition no longer allows, so the decision is subject to change over time. Others may choose to prepare for the future, planning on the further progression of their condition and making the investment now in a power chair. The choice is up to you.

Deciding between manual and electronic wheelchairs is tough but may come down to distinct differences that make one more pragmatic than the other. As with any mobility aid, it makes the most sense to visit, try, and evaluate mobility equipment for yourself at a qualified mobility dealer or vendor in the area. What are the differences? What do you like about them? These are questions that only you can answer, based on your physical limitations, living situation, and budget.

Here’s what you need to know when deciding between manual or electric wheelchairs: 

Talk to mobility experts to find out more about the wheelchairs that they endorse and sell. Make sure that delivery and support are offered before buying from any vendor.

Manual Wheelchairs 

If your physical condition allows, you will likely use and shop for manual wheelchairs; the versatility, flexibility, and convenience make a manual wheelchair a winner. The user does need a specific level of physical strength to operate and navigate a manual chair, so it is typically left up to physicians, practitioners, and therapists to make the determination and appropriate referral.

Some things to know about manual wheelchairs include:

• Your physician or therapist will assess your physical needs to determine if you have the strength for manual chairs, as well as what kinds of strain this puts on your body and overall physical health. 
• The more active the individual is, the better. Many are encouraged to use manual chairs, even when it is a struggle at times.
• Your distinct clinical needs contribute to the right wheelchair.
• Lifestyle habits also play a role in the best chair for the consumer.
• Living situations vary and some may not accommodate the size of a power chair, while others may have ramps that make manuals more difficult.

There is room for some technological improvements on the conventional manual wheelchair. Specialty products and features like e-motion wheels, give the chair higher potential and the user more assistance without upgrading the entire device.

Power Wheelchairs 

Why wouldn’t anyone who requires a wheelchair prefer power wheelchairs over less-tech, manual style chairs? Some consumers may actually be a bit intimidated by the power and style of power wheelchairs. For the right client, the stability, maneuverability, and durability make power chairs an investment that keeps paying back a return over and over. These are typically powered by a battery and electric motor, rather than the sweat equity and elbow grease of the operator. The consumer can drive and maneuver the chair with the touch of a button, which makes it a viable option for many with various conditions and medical impediments. These chairs are also pragmatic for users with limited use of their limbs or that are prone to chronic fatigue.   

Keep the following in mind when deciding if it is time for power wheelchairs:

• If you have a busy lifestyle, a power chair may be the best way to fend off fatigue and keep up with your schedule.
• You lack the strength or coordination to properly operate a manual wheelchair.
• A wheelchair is new to you and you simply lack muscle mass to start out with a manual chair.

Again, the qualifications or criteria for a power chair may rely on the individual’s desire to remain as autonomous as possible- for as long as they can. For instance, clients with progressive conditions or that surmise a power chair is in their future, may fend-off attempts to upgrade to a power chair as long as possible, though it may be inevitable. Some may feel that to be independent means to continue using their manual wheelchairs until physical limits and pragmatism indicate that it is time for a power chair.

Trying to decide between manual or electric wheelchairs? Let us help. 

You can rely on the expertise of the tea at Pacific Mobility when making the decision between manual and power wheelchairs. Choosing the right vendor for your chair is as big of a decision as the specific chair that you choose; make sure that you select to buy from a vendor that will work with your provider if needed, and that will provide service and support long after you take your chair home.

Want to reduce the risk of a dangerous fall? Seniors are encouraged to take strides and steps to maintain balance and flexibility throughout the life cycle with strategies like Parkour Training, yoga, and practicing falling. These attempts may make falls less frequent and less injurious, contributing to a more positive quality of life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the number-one cause of injury among seniors, typically over age 65. While you may not be able to remove all fall risks from the home environment, it may benefit seniors to learn how to fall in order to reduce the risk of a debilitating injury resulting from these incidents. Visit vendors that carry mobility aids to see more innovations related to preventing the risk of such occurrences in your home.

Want to reduce the chances of serious injury in the event of a fall? Try these tips:

Parkour Training

Have you ever observed Parkour Training, where participants make their way from one spot to another using the most convoluted paths, like an obstacle course of sorts? This sport is not just for the physically fit and young, it may also help older individuals minimize possible injury themselves in the event of a fall. Plus, the added familiarity with the inherent obstacles of everyday life may lead to fall reduction. The goal of this sport isn’t just to be extreme- it is to improve balance and agility, as well as show seniors how to land when and if they should fall.

Senior Yoga

It is not difficult to find a yoga session, class, or online offering dedicated to senior yoga; yoga has proven invaluable for maintaining flexibility in later life. This increased flexibility is a great way to reduce your risk of falls, as well as to curb serious injury when you do happen to take a spill.

Lots of Practice

Perhaps the key to reducing serious injury from an incidental fall is to actually practice taking a fall. It seems that many seniors are afraid of the floor, which can increase the likelihood of a tumble. It could be because they fear trying to get up from the floor or it could merely be an ingrained fear that they have been instilled with by others. The National Council on Aging estimates that falls are responsible for around 20 percent of hospital visits by those over age 65; practicing taking a fall to prevent serious injury seems to have potential at reducing these admissions.

Techniques

Believe it or not, there is a technique to falling that can help you avoid an injury. A senior advocate endorses a tactic of bend, twist, and roll; when you feel yourself start to fall, make sure to bend your knees and twist at the waist toward the direction that you are falling. This involves turning your shoulders away from the direction of the fall; it does take some practice. This helps with where and how you take the brunt of impact during such incidents. Once you land, roll to also lessen some of the impact of the fall. Sound complicated? It is not; practice and you will see how much softer you can land when you take a spill.

Dutch Approach

The Dutch have an innovative approach to fall reduction, which is, in essence, an obstacle course for seniors. One particular course called Vallen Verleden Tijd, means ‘falling is in the past’ and is helping hundreds, perhaps thousands of seniors in the Netherlands reduce injuries associated with a fall. These courses are supervised and attended by occupational and physiotherapists across the nation to help reduce the number of seniors impacted by debilitating injuries sustained from a fall.

Mobility Aids

Never underestimate the assistance that even the simplest of mobility aids can provide in reducing the risk of a nasty slip and fall. From grab bars to ShowerBuddy systems, and canes to Bruno stairlifts, implementing these aids in everyday life can not only reduce the chance of a fall but preserve quality of life and independence also.

Did you know that around 40% of all nursing home admissions are due to a fall? Don’t become a statistic; make your living situation safer and reduce the risk of a fall today with these viable strategies.

Don’t risk a nasty fall in your home; take steps and strides to reduce the risks and prevent injury. Pacific Mobility can help; visit these mobility experts to find devices, aids, and equipment that can help keep you safe and reduce the risk of a fall in your living environment.

The team is waiting to assess your distinct needs and help you find what you need to preserve your independence and improve everyday quality of life. Don’t delay; call our support services today.