Jeff Conner

Many seniors may be slightly intimidated by the prospect of installing a stairlift system in their home simply due to the unfamiliarity and technological aspect of the system. Understand the stairlift rail system before you purchase by asking your vendor to explain and demonstrate the unit; this will also point toward the best vendor in your region to invest your time and money with.

Does the thought of a stairlift scare you? Let us take the mystery out of the stairlift rail system and assure you that there is nothing to be worried or concerned about. Always ask your mobility vendor for professional installation to ensure the device runs smoothly, as well as to glean ample information, insight, and demonstration pertaining to operating your lift.

Got questions about installing a stairlift rail system in your home?

How Does It Work?

A stairlift is a moving seat that ascends and descends a stairway or steps in your home, using what is called a motorized rail system. The user sits in the chair, secures the safety-belt, and operates the lift using a pad and a button.  These devices make it possible for individuals with mobility limitations, issues, or disabilities to access areas of the home that may have been inaccessible previously. These aids are responsible for helping to maintain independence and permitting many to remain in their own home or living situation, despite these physical challenges.

How Will It Change Everyday Life?

The impacts that a lift can have on everyday life are astounding but remember: the overall reliability of your lift is key if it is to enhance and improve your quality of life. Don’t try to curb costs by buying a sub-par lift or one from a second-hand or private seller. Only buy stairlift rail systems from authorized vendors that provide warranties, guarantees, and service after the sale.

Who Should I Buy From?

Speaking of which, buy from reputable area retailers that offer both a comprehensive warranty and that have plenty of online reviews to establish a favorable reputation. These two factors should boost your confidence in the vendor, and also ensure that you are satisfied with both the equipment that you buy and the outcome of your sale.

How Much Will It Cost?

A stairlift typically will cost you money out of pocket, though some insurers and those with veteran benefits may find help defraying the costs. It is most practical to talk to the mobility vendor to learn about possible leasing arrangements or payment options to cover the cost of installing a stairlift in your home today. Many are willing to work with their consumers.

What Can I Expect?

You should expect to have your mobility vendor set up a convenient time for installation of your new stairlift system, and that they show up on time, efficiently and effectively installing your equipment. You should expect a demonstration and tutelage regarding proper operation of the lift; you should also glean some sort of contact information for support when you have questions or if you need service on your lift. These are not extraordinary demands: as a consumer, you deserve nothing less.

How Will It Impact Others?

Perhaps you are concerned about others who live or visit the home frequently and how a stairlift may impact normal access to areas near the lift;  don’t worry. These devices are designed to be sleek and non-intrusive around your home, where you and your loved ones should be most comfortable. Don’t let the fact that there are others, children, or pets in the home environment; this won’t affect your lift, your life, or their well-being at all.

What If I Don’t Like It?

You will like your lift- it will enhance access, autonomy, and freedom around your home. However, if you experience issues, change your mind, or need more support, reach out to your mobility aids vendor or retailer to find out what your options are and how to best address your distinct concerns. Your satisfaction is the most important thing. Always be wary of retailers that do not provide recourse for patrons that are simply not happy with the equipment or aids that they have purchased.

Do you understand stairlift rail systems a bit better now? Let us help you

Come see the mobility aids and experts at Pacific Mobility; we want to demonstrate, share, and explain our stairlift systems to you and show you that there is nothing to be concerned about. If you have limited access around your home, improve your quality of life with one of the amazing stairlift rail systems available. We are waiting to talk about this with you!

Think before you buy: proper lift selection and usage are important for both patient and caregiver safety. Consider features like versatility, convenience, permanence, and cohesion with the living environment before selecting your new lift. Also, always follow manufacturer recommendations for usage and ask your mobility vendor for a demonstration to ensure safety and security during operation.

If you are ready to gain better access to your home surroundings or if you are tired of physical limitations impeding everyday living, it could be time to consider lifts; there are numerous types and styles to accommodate everything from gaining access to your upstairs to helping you get in and out of your car. Before you rule out a lift as being an integral part of your everyday life, find out what they can do and how easy they are to implement. You may decide that the freedom and convenience provided by a lift make it a prudent and pragmatic investment for your home or living situation.

Choose your lift carefully based on needs and living situation

Your physical strengths and challenges will point toward the most practical lift options for you, but you also want to consider where and how you live. For instance, do you drive a vehicle regularly? Does your home have green space that you enjoy spending time in? How large is your home? These are questions that can also tease out the patient lifts that are most likely to fit in with your lifestyle and help perform the tasks you need them to daily.

For instance, some features to look for in your new lift include:

• Versatility

When it comes to mobility equipment with versatility, the unique shower-buddy system steals the show. This is an ergonomically-friendly device that cuts down on the need for numerous transfers, which reduces the risk of a fall. The shower-buddy is designed to assist with bathing and toileting, in one trip, which enhances safety for both patient and caregiver.

• Permanence

Investing in a stairlift is a big decision, but one that you will never regret. These are installed to be permanent fixtures of the home, at least until you move. Choose lifts for the interiors, pool lifts, or other hydraulic and rail systems for a sense of permanence that can be comforting.  

• Convenience

If you or a caregiver plan on driving, vehicle lifts are worth a look. These have features so that you are completely independent, as the lift moves and stores your wheelchair in the bed of your truck for you with the touch of a keypad.

• Cohesion

If you are concerned about how cohesively your new lift will fit into the household, know that a free-standing lift is temporary and mobile, and can be moved about to fit into your busy lifestyle and any living situation.

Proper Usage is Important for both patients and caregivers

It bears repeating that learning to operate the lift properly is key for safety, security, and efficacy in transfers and improving the overall quality of living for those relying on the device as well as their caregivers. Take time to study and practice using the lift, read the documentation that comes with your lift, and ask for a demonstration of proper usage from the installation technician. Make sure that you and your caregiver feel comfortable and that you know who to call if a question should arise.

Some safe usage tips for consumers include these recommendations:

• Invest in sensors that can detect when there is an obstacle in the path of your lift, which includes pets, toys, and children.
• Make sure that children do not use the lift or your mobility equipment without supervision; if the device is damaged due to your negligence, you likely will be responsible for the repair or replacement costs, if needed.
• Use the safety belt each-and-every time you utilize the lift; don’t try to cut corners here. Also, if using a stairlift, fold the seat up after each use to allow for free flow of others who may use the stairs
• No food or drink when you are operating your lift, liquids can be especially damaging to the electronics, which can compromise the integrity and safety of your lift.
• Only allow one person at a time to occupy the lift and use it according to the manufacturer’s suggestions.

Maintain the equipment with regular inspections and service, as needed, but make sure that only a qualified mobility technician works on, repairs, or installs your mobility aids and devices. If you allow a layman to make repairs or augment your lift, you risk personal safety, property damage, and loss of warranties in some instances. Don’t risk it; call the vendor who you bought the lift from for service or support.

Ready to see some lifts? Come see what we have to offer

Visit the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility to see for yourself the difference that the right lift can make. From a stairlift to a shower-buddy, see how mobility aids can make your life accessible, autonomous, and convenient, contributing to better overall quality of life. Don’t be hindered by physical limitations or mobility challenges any longer; come see us to learn more.

 When you think of disabilities that could lead to the use of mobility aids, you may overlook individuals living with dementia. Dementia impacts mobility and can impede access around the home and in the community. Stairlifts have surprising benefits for patients with dementia and help to preserve autonomy that might otherwise be lost due to symptoms of this disease.

Did you know that dementia can impact your mobility? Dementia impacts the brain which subsequently controls physical movement and commands. When a glitch occurs, it can impact mobility and increase the chance of a fall or injury. It makes sense to consider mobility aids and options that can make everyday living easier for the individual with dementia, as well as reduce the risk of a nasty fall.

The Disease

Dementia is a nasty, debilitating disease that can strike anyone at any age, but that is most prevalent in senior years. The signs of dementia vary but have common symptoms of forgetfulness, anxiety, confusion, and mood lability. Think you or someone you love has dementia? Your doctor can assess further and look at your own distinct risk factors, including family history.

Mobility

Another faculty that dementia can affect is your depth perception, which can create issues when using stairs. This could result in a dangerous situation and possible fall. Dementia also impacts color contrast, which can also create a hazardous scenario for many.

Some things you can do to make stairs safer include the following:

• Increase color contrast by painting steps or adding treads.
• Add a handrail.
• Remove any hazards that could cause a fall.
• Improve lighting.

Don’t forget that dementia may influence balance and coordination- another recipe for disaster and potential injury. Don’t underestimate the debilitating impacts of a fall, even a minor one, for a senior with dementia.

Accessibility

To prevent a fall and preserve autonomy around the home, install a stairlift. The impacts of a lift can be amazing for anyone who struggles with stairs of risers. Plus, a lift ensures access to areas of the home that may have previously been off-limits. The results of installing a stairlift in the home can be extraordinary.

Assessment

The first step in deciding if a stairlift is a good fit for you (or your loved one) is to visit an occupational therapist. Your primary care practitioner can refer you for this evaluation, and you should be able to glean whether it is something that insurance plans may help cover. The therapist can determine if a stairlift makes sense or if it could pose potential injury for the specific patient – and living situation – in question. Commonly, dementia patients can easily and safely use a lift when there is another individual present to assist. 

Safety

Speaking of safety, caregivers or family members may need to provide input or supervision of their loved one using the stairlift. First, you will want to ensure the safety belt is securely fastened. Second, monitor the user to make sure they don’t try to get up and off the lift while it is in motion. The same stairlift safety rules apply to patients with dementia, so practice using it frequently when it is first installed in the home environment. Some basic safety tips include:

• Don’t wear loose or ill-fitting clothing when using the stairlift.
• Don’t carry liquids or attempt to eat or drink when using the lift.
• Don’t let kids use the lift as a toy.
• Only one person should use the lift seat at a time.
• Obey weight restrictions and manufacturer recommendations for safe operation.
• Keep stairways clear of obstructions.
• Keep the lift’s seat folded up and out of the way when it is not in use.
• Make sure to always use the safety belt or seat belt when using the lift.
• Always have your stairlift maintained, repaired, and installed by a professional.

Still unsure about a stairlift?  It makes a lot of sense to rent a stairlift first to determine if it is a good fit for you or your loved one. Many vendors rent and this may lead to the decision to invest in your own stairlift, which can be a more cost-effective approach for the long-term.

If someone you love is struggling with access around their home, consider a mobility solution. For those experiencing difficulty with stairs, install a lift – including for those individuals with dementia. There are numerous benefits to a stairlift for someone living with the physical and mental impacts of this disease, but make sure to assess the situation carefully before installing mobility equipment. The best approach is to speak with the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility for a consultation, evaluation, and assessment before you make any decisions. They are here to walk you through the process and make the transition as smooth as possible for you and your family.

Preserve your own autonomy in the bathroom with ShowerBuddy, an ergonomically designed system to aid in transfers during ADLs. Some benefits of this system include prevention of injuries, immediate utility, and ease. For additional advantages, consider TubBuddy, too.

For seniors and caregivers out west, Pacific Mobility Center provides the latest and most-innovative of mobility aids, including the amazing ShowerBuddy.

ShowerBuddy is an ergonomic shower transfer system designed and engineered in New Zealand, and it has been changing lives and improving quality of life since its conception.

Some compelling reasons to take a closer look at ShowerBuddy are:

Prevent caregiver injury

The use of a ShowerBuddy system alleviates heavy lifting and unnecessary transfers, which cuts down on the chance of a caregiver injury. Back injuries are common among caregivers, paid and unpaid, and can cause debilitating consequences for both the caregiver and senior, as many may lose their autonomy and assistance.

Prevent user injury

The bathroom is the most common site of a nasty fall for seniors; think about it, the slick, often-wet surfaces in the bathroom are a recipe for disaster. There are autonomous transfer solutions that not only preserve independence but also dignity. Isn’t it worth a closer look?

No Bathroom remodel, considerable savings

Choosing the route of a remodeled bathroom due to physical limitations and disabilities is expensive. If you rent or lease, remodeling to accommodate accessibility may not even be an option. A Showerbuddy transfer system will slide-in to most existing tub and shower-stalls, at a fraction of the cost to refurbish the bathroom.

Use right away without delays

Another thing about the Showerbuddy that makes it an enticing option is the ease and seamlessness of installation. It is so easy to install, you will be using it the same day that it arrives!  Talk to your mobility vendor about scheduling installation and to learn more.

Makes showering & toileting much easier

The Showerbuddy system eliminates slip hazards and reduces potential fall-risks, without expensive construction. The system allows individuals to maintain their dignity and privacy during activities of daily living, like bathing and toileting. The system utilizes a single transfer to allow the senior to bathe or shower and toilet in one trip.

Additional Products

Looking for something slightly different? Take a closer look at the TubBuddy system. This mobility aid also eliminates the need for numerous transfers and heavy-lifting when assisting an individual with ADLs. This particular chair has a rolling shower chair base, a bridge, and a tub-base. When combined, they create a wheelchair-like device that does it all!  The chair easily rolls during transfer to and near the toilet, a bridge can then be connected that hooks on the side of the tub. This helps the chair circumvent the side of the tub, providing a comfortable and private seat during showers or baths.

Some other notable features of TubBuddy include:

• The TubBuddy is made of aluminum, which won’t rust in your wet bathroom.
• The height is adjustable, which makes it perfect for individuals of various sizes.
• You can buy the bridge to fit your distinct bathroom. They are offered in various sizes.
• The device easily rolls over and on-top of most toilets, so it is viable for many to go to the bathroom unattended and independently.

Want accessibility and autonomy without the costly construction involved in refurbishing your bathroom? Talk to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility and learn more about ShowerBuddy. ShowerBuddy is a revolutionary piece of equipment that truly changes the lives of those it serves. For something slightly different and distinctive to your needs, look at the TubBuddy system, too. Visit mobility retailers to try, demonstrate, and discuss your options today!

 Taking charge of your own independence gives a sense of self that is liberating. Consider what it takes to be autonomous like an accessible home environment and communicating openly with others to express your needs and regain control over your own health and happiness. Consider observing National Senior Independence Month in February by becoming proactive about your own well-being.

Do something to preserve your independence, whether it is seeking out a part-time caregiver, seeing medical providers regularly, or taking a closer look at mobility aids and options to improve and increase access around your home and community.

Take charge of your own independence and assert autonomy.

Gain Access

Create a more accessible home environment with these tips:

• Bathe independently and safely with grab-bars around the bathroom.
• Assess flooring surfaces and keep them bare and clean. Get rid of rugs that could present a fall hazard.
• Stuck downstairs? Talk to the experts about installing a stairlift. It is far easier than you may realize.
• Organize goods and belongings on lower, easy-to-reach shelves and spaces. Invest in spinning lazy Susan inserts to provide added storage in lower kitchen cabinets.
• Buy a portable ramp for steps and risers that are a bit steeper than you are comfortable with. These can also be thrown in the back of your vehicle for other spots that may pose accessibility issues.
• Shower seats and bath benches can make bathing a lot safer, plus they are quite inexpensive.

For greater needs and assistance, consider free-standing lifts that can help you with activities of daily living, like dressing, bathing, and transfers.

Enlist Help

We all get by with a little help from our friends, so enlisting the support of a caregiver or support is not compromising your independence. Though it may sound paradoxical, it is a smart move to take on a bit of day-to-day assistance, whether it is for errands or meal preparation. Sometimes the smallest amount of help can make a huge difference in everyday living!

Drive or Ride

Is it time for you to get back behind the wheel? Mobility aids, like vehicle lifts, can help seniors with physical limitations drive independently again. The lift even helps to store itself while you drive! If driving is not feasible, research a local transportation company, like Uber or Lyft, to get where you want and need to go.

Be Open

Assert your wishes and needs to those around you. It can be difficult to communicate honestly and openly, especially with your children or loved ones, but it is imperative that you honestly convey your feelings. Call your family together to discuss your choices if that is easier or arrange for a one-on-one if that makes you more at ease. Remember: it is your life so make your preferences, wishes, and intentions known.

Complete Advance Directives

Fill out an advance directives and make your wishes known to those that care about you. Don’t leave these decisions up to your family when you die; some steps involved in completing your advance directives are:

• Complete your living will. Forms and templates are available online.
• Decide who you want to be your health care proxy, in the event you can’t make your own medical decisions any longer. Complete the proxy form and have it notarized now- don’t wait.
• Share copies of your documents with those close to you – your family, providers, loved ones – and keep them organized for when you need them.

Completing and notarizing a thorough advance directive is one of the greatest gifts that you can give to those surviving you.

Stay Well

Take care of yourself; preserve your independence by staying well and not getting sick. Even the slightest illness or injury can have catastrophic consequences on your health and well-being. Part of this includes maintaining a lifestyle centered around eating well, staying active, and seeing your physician regularly. Regular social contact with others is also part of preserving a healthy psyche.

Commit to HEALTH

This February, do something to observe National Senior Independence Month; it is a time set aside to remind seniors of what it takes to age in place and stay independent.

Consider the acronym ‘HEALTH’ when determining your own autonomy and independence.

• H– have a clean bill of health by seeing your doctor regularly.
• E– ensure your environment is safe and healthy.
• A– Activity is key. Keep on moving.
• L– Live in the present. Enjoy the moment.
• T– Tirelessly seek to find joy.
• H– Humor really is the best medicine. Find something to laugh about each day.

Keep this acronym in mind and live each day to the fullest! 

When you are ready to get proactive about maintaining your independence, reach out to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility; they are in the business of creating a more accessible and comfortable lifestyle for those that they serve. Preserve your autonomy and do what you can now to ensure your independence later.

Worried about the impact of your stairlift on the rest of the household? Put your mind at ease, stairlifts are designed to be unobtrusive and as safe as possible. Homes with children, pets, and shared stairways are no problem and should not be a deterrent when making your buying decision. Visit a brick-and-mortar retailer to see for yourself.

If you have been considering installing a stairlift, you may be wondering about the kind of impact that the new equipment will have on the rest of the household. If you are worried that a stairlift could be risky in homes with children or pets, don’t. Talk further with the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility to see how a new lift will fit cohesively and inconspicuously into everyday life, as well as what safety features are offered.

Will a stairlift restrict normal access? How can you make sure it doesn’t?

Your new stairlift should not impact or impede others in the home; you will find that it is easy to quickly adapt to living with or around a mobility aid:

• Stairlifts are designed to be space-conservative when not in use, so they don’t cause a barrier or obstacle for those going up or down the stairs.
• Again, if you are concerned about space to access the stairs, the only tight spot might be a curve or corner. However, when the lift is not in use, you should be able to traverse the stairs normally.
• Stairlifts are very thoughtfully designed to be adaptable and convenient for the operator- and those living in the same home. The features and safety offered makes for a seamless transition after installation.

Most family members living in homes with stairlifts report that they adapt to having it around quite quickly and that it is not much of an issue or hindrance in everyday living.

Stairlifts and Children

Got kids in the home? How about children that visit the home routinely? Stairlifts are designed to be safe and have features to prevent anyone from getting hurt – including curious kids! Finger guards will keep small fingers from getting nipped and there is a mechanism that halts movement of the lift when an obstacle is present. Remember that your stairs are no more or less dangerous to children using the stairs, so they should be supervised as usual. The only potential issue is that the tracks used for the lift may prohibit the use of a baby gate, which may require other measures to keep young ones safe.

Stairlifts and Pets

The only real impact that a stairlift will have on your pets is the sound; while quite quiet, the sound of the lift may be frightening to your pets. This may cause them to basically avoid the lift when it is in use, which is a good thing. Beyond that, there are really no safety risks for pets, as the lift will cease moving if an obstacle, or pet, is in its path.

Try It Out

Try a stairlift out before making your decision or ask for a demonstration. Visiting a retailer can put worries about how it will fit in your home environment as well as what it will look like. Know someone with a lift? Talk to them about how their family is impacted by the stairlift. This research may help make your choice more clear.

Stairlifts are typically designed and installed with the convenience and safety of the entire residence in mind. If you have distinct concerns, voice them; your mobility retailer should be able to put your mind at ease and reassure you of the ease when transitioning to a stairlift in the home.

Ready to increase access and convenience with a stairlift? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; they will address your concerns related to adapting to a stairlift in living situations with others. They can demonstrate a variety of mobility aids to suit your needs, while also providing support and service to seamlessly integrate this equipment into your home environment.

Bathing is an activity of daily living that many seniors living with disabilities may struggle with. Some may find that their current bathroom is inadequate and doesn’t meet their needs, yet a walk in tub may not fit their budget. There are smart alternatives and bathing aids that can preserve autonomy and independence.

If you have physical challenges or disabilities, you know that taking a bath has some inherent dangers. First of all, a traditional tub may create a fall risk, particularly for seniors or those with injuries or limitations. What can you do? A walk-in tub is often lauded as the solution to bathing safely in the home but it may not be for everyone. Before you invest in something like a walk in tub, know your options and talk to Pacific Mobility about alternative solutions that work for you.

Bathing Barriers

It is estimated that around 308,000 consumers rely on the use of bathing aids or equipment regularly, and another 280,000 require these devices in addition to human support during this activity of daily living (ADL). Since bathing is critical to well-being, it could prove to be a barrier to autonomy or living independently for many.

Safety Issue

Bathing presents some serious safety issues; did you know that more seniors are injured using their tub or shower than when using any other kitchen device, including the stove or exercise equipment? There are more inherent and often-hidden safety risks in the bathroom than in any other room of the home, according to industry experts.

Walk-In Tubs

While the solution to this bathing conundrum may appear to be a walk-in tub, which essentially provides a door for ease and access, there are some drawbacks. You may find these often in assisted living facilities and it would be easy to assume that these are the most sensible approach to augmenting a bathroom to accommodate a disabled senior. However, there are some disadvantages of having a walk-in tub for many with physical limitations, such as:

• The user must be able to shut the door in order to turn on the water, which could prove challenging for many consumers.
• It can be difficult to control the tub temperature with any accuracy or precision.
• The cost: Walk-in bathtubs can be quite expensive and many insurers may not cover the cost.

So maybe a walk in tub is not for you; what are your other options?

Alternative Solutions

Don’t worry; there are many different alternative aids to suit your needs, preferences, and home environment – which cost a lot less money. Some interesting options to consider include these suggestions:

• Bathtub Transfer Benches create a bridge, of sorts, over the side of the bathtub, which allows the user to scoot and shimmy across to get in the bath. It also offers support and a place to sit during bathing.
• Bath chair lifts can be more affordable than you may think and are remarkably easy to operate.  Contrary to the bathtub bench, which works better for a shower or hand-held sprayer, a chair lift is perfectly suited to those that want to soak and submerge in a bath. A button operates a motorized seat that lowers into the water and raises when you are done.
• Slide-in style Bathtubs are similar but different than a walk in tub in ways. For example, these have higher walls with seats molded in them, which swing and allow the user to bathe. Basically, the operator would sit and back up and sit. Then you are able to fill and bathe as you normally would.
• Free standing lifts are perfect for more serious disabilities, including if you have difficulty transferring from the bed to an upright position. These can be used for other purposes, beyond bathing, which may make them a multifunctional and cost-effective solution for many consumers with physical limitations and challenges.
• A Shower Buddy is an excellent idea for individuals that seek support and assistance with activities of daily life, like bathing. Visit a retailer to see the wide range of styles, purposes, and models available.

Additionally, you may be able to provide adequate support and stability during bathing with inexpensive aids like grab bars. These can be secured practically anywhere and are valuable when bathing, toileting, or using the vanity.

Is your bathroom accessible and safe? Have you been thinking about a walk in tub, but are unsure if it is right for you? Visit the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility to find cost-efficient solutions that will fit your needs, home, and budget. Take time to try the various aids and ask for demonstrations to pinpoint the best option for your living situation. Furthermore, work with the pros who will install and repair mobility aids and equipment for you, providing ample service and support after the sale.

If you are looking at ways that will significantly improve overall life quality and satisfaction, it starts with self-reflection. Five tips to improve your quality of life relate to autonomy, social engagement, health, mood, and finding your sense of purpose.

If you were to ask any senior what the most important aspect of aging is, they will likely say something that relates to quality of life. Quality of life encompasses everything from financial security to love and intimacy, and the definition will vary depending on who you ask. There are some universal ways that improve life quality for seniors, including issues pertaining to accessibility and mobility aids to social interaction and leisure.

5 Tips to help improve your quality of life are: 

Maintain Your Independence and Autonomy

Loss of independence and freedom is a very real fear of many older Americans, and some may worry about being forced to leave their homes or autonomous living situations. The key to maintaining independence in the home is accessibility; this may be based on if you are able to get around safely, complete activities of daily living (ADLs), and access the necessary areas of your home, as needed. If you struggle with a physical limitation, injury, or disability, you may want to consider mobility aids that facilitate autonomy and that can accommodate levels of independent living.

Engage Often and Battle Boredom

Another element of aging gracefully and maintaining quality of life is social engagement; whether this means getting out and about or having people come by and visit or take you out for leisure activities. Boredom can be debilitating for seniors or those with limited social outlets; battle boredom with plenty of interaction, stimulation, and recreational interests.

Stay Healthy and Well

Life quality is far better when you are healthy and feel good, which brings up fall prevention; over one-third of seniors over the age of 65 fall every year. Curb these incidents with non-slip surfaces, adequate lighting, and simple aids like grab-bars, which can cut-down on falls and prevent serious injuries. See your doctor regularly, get exercise when possible, and stay active and flexible as long as possible for optimal quality and enjoyment later in life.

Detect Signs of Depression Early

Depression has a way of sneaking up on you, especially if you are older or live alone. Depression is not uncommon among the elderly and lots of things can contribute to depression, like money trouble, health issues, or the death of someone close. Regular, routine appointments with your primary care provider may detect mood problems, but if someone you love is struggling, talk to them about it. A Geriatric Depression Scale screening tool may be used to assess feelings of depression or mood disorder among this population. Don’t let depression negatively impact your quality of life.

Find Your Purpose in Life

Finally, the key to overall quality of life is a sense of purpose. Everyone needs a purpose in life and a reason to get out of bed in the morning; this purpose may be derived from rewarding work, a close-knit family, or volunteer endeavors. Many still may not know what their purpose is, but trust that there is one. Figuring out your own purpose may not come easily; it requires contemplation, reflection, meditation, and, for some individuals, prayer. Finding a purpose at any age can greatly improve quality of life but know that you can’t adopt someone else’s purpose, but certainly, you can learn more about your own through others’ experiences so discuss freely with those around you.

The simple elements to improving quality of life will vary depending on who you ask, but these five tips are fairly-universal in their application and significance when it comes to overall life quality. Think about the things that are most important to you and how they impact your quality of life each and every day.

Commit to Change During Quality of Life Month in January

Commit to making your own life and situation better during Quality of Life Month in January. This period is designated as the perfect time to reflect on your quality of life and overall purpose; are you satisfied with your current situation? Take this time to commit to change the things that you can and that will make a difference in your life quality and satisfaction. Whether it is to visit an eye care provider for new glasses so that you can do more reading to investing in a stairlift so that you can once again sleep in an upstairs bedroom, the changes that you choose to make are as varied and unique as the individual.

If improving access is one of the benchmarks of your quality of life, it is time to evaluate and consider mobility aids. Learn more about your options and how your life can dramatically change with accessibility and mobility devices designed to make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Make today the first day of your new improved life!