Pacific Mobility Center

Stairlifts - Lifts - Mobility Products

Jeff Conner

Use Your Stairs Again, Install a Stairlift

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Have you missed the second story of your home? What about access to your garden or outdoor spaces? Use your stairs again; install a stairlift in or around your home. Stairlifts can increase access and improve autonomy of anyone with physical limitations, which directly impacts overall quality of everyday life.

Have you been missing the upstairs of your home? Do you have full access to all of the areas of your home? If access is an issue for you in your living situation or home environment, consider how mobility aids might make your life a bit better and make your home a whole lot more accessible and enjoyable.

Take the Stairs Day

Celebrate National Take the Stairs Day on the 2nd Wednesday in January; what better time to ‘take the stairs’? If you, yourself, don’t struggle with physical disabilities or mobility issues, consider what you may do to make the life of someone who does easier. From installing aids to accompanying someone to the store, there are many ways to show support and solidarity for the seniors or individuals with physical limitations any time of the year.

Wouldn’t you like to Use your Stairs Again, Install a Stairlift today!

Okay, maybe installing a stairlift today is not practical or even feasible, but it is plausible to have a needs assessment and check out stairlift options imminently. Mobility vendors will set up appointments to come and install your lift and show you the proper operating procedures for optimal performance. Concerned that a lift will fit in your home? Stairlifts are now constructed to deal with inherent housing issues, like curved stairs, deep risers, or narrow flights. Talk more to your mobility dealer to learn about the basics that will help you get the most from your lift.

Wondering what else is available to increase access around the home? Some other mobility aids that may help include these:

  • Different Types of Lifts

Don’t feel limited to a conventional stairlift when looking at accessibility options for your home; consider also styles such as freestanding, porch, and pool lifts to restore your access and independence around the home. Make sure that the mobility vendor you work with assesses your needs thoughtfully to find you the best aids and devices – that fit your budget – and that installation, service, and support are also part of the purchase.

  • Bathroom, Tub, and Shower Aids

It is estimated that nearly 80% of falls sustained by seniors over the age of 65 occur in the bathroom. This is probably not surprising, given that there are potentially wet surfaces that could become slippery underfoot. Check out your available options in shower and bathroom aids, like shower-buddy, tub-seats, and rails that clamp on to the side of your tub. Make sure to add a grab-bar near the toilet and vanity to curb falls during activities of daily living (ADLs). The goal is to prevent a nasty fall and subsequent trip to the Emergency Room, as these can have a debilitating impact on the wellbeing, independence, and quality of life for a senior. Around 1.6 million seniors seek emergency treatment at the hospital due to a fall each year; in fact, around one-fourth of seniors over 65 that fall and break a hip pass away from their injuries within six months.

  • Scooters, Chairs, and Walkers

If scooters, chairs, and walkers will help you gain access around the home, or elsewhere, why wait? Talk to your physician first to determine if you may be able for prescription aids covered by insurance. Visit mobility vendors to try, view, and demonstrate different styles and models to find the best one for your distinct needs.

  • Bars, Canes, and Reaching Tools

Don’t underestimate the merits of something as simple as grab-bars, reaching tools, and canes when it comes to everyday assistance and ‘taking the stairs.’ These items are inexpensive, widely available, and simple to use. Check out the selection at mobility dealers and sites today!

  • Vehicle Lifts and Devices

Get back in the driver’s seat with adaptive devices and equipment for your vehicle, like lifts and devices to open and close garage doors. Transportation can be a real hurdle for many seniors or individuals with any kind of physical limitation; and if you manage to get to your car or truck, how do you stow your equipment (like a walker or chair) when you are by yourself? Talk to the mobility team to find vehicle lifts that store and stash your device while you take your place behind the wheel. Technology is amazing when it comes to adaptive aids and assistance.

If you have areas of your home that are inaccessible due to stairs, consider implementing mobility aids to regain access and control over your life. Mobility aids, like stairlifts, can help you- or someone you love- become more autonomous and independent, which is something many struggle to maintain. Do something special this January and take the stairs, and while you are at it, show support for someone who can’t.

The Benefits of Taking a Bath and How to do so Safely

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There are so many benefits of taking a bath, and how to do so safely remains an issue to be concerned with particularly for seniors or those with physical limitations. In addition to improved breathing, reduced pain, lower anxiety, and increased activity, bathing in a warm bath simply feels good and provides a sense of freedom.

Improve the safety of your home with Mobility aids for your everyday activities, like bathing. Taking a bath is much more than mere hygiene; there are distinct benefits for seniors and those with physical disabilities.

Some benefits of taking a bath include the following:

Better Breathing

Did you know that taking a warm bath improves respiratory function and helps you breathe better? The warm water speeds up heart rate, but don’t make the water too hot.

Calms Nerves

A warm bath helps to calm the nervous system, much like hydrotherapy. This submersion treatment is also great for tremors or pain issues.

Reduces Inflammation

A nice, warm bath can reduce inflammation and alleviate chronic aches and pains. Add some Epsom salt for extra therapeutic value and relief.

Lowers Stress

Is there anything as relaxing as a warm bath? It has been proven that bathing is a coping strategy that can be used to lower stress and anxiety levels in all age groups.

Fosters Activity

You have probably heard how aqua-style exercises and moving around in water is a great low-impact activity for seniors or those with physical limitations; a bath works much in the same way. Stretching and bathing provide movement and physical therapy that can be favorable for those with physical disabilities or age-related issues.

Oxygenates Blood

The warm water in the tub oxygenates the blood in your body, which helps it to flow better. This means improved circulation and less pain for many.

Stimulates Hormones

A warm bath can stimulate the pituitary gland and encourage it to secrete feel-good hormones. These hormones may help counter any existing hormone imbalance.

Produces Endorphins

Furthermore, the comfort and feeling of sinking in a warm tub can stimulate the production of endorphins in the pleasure center of your brain. The result is overall feelings of wellbeing.

Hydrates the Skin

Soaking in warm water moisturizes and hydrates the skin. Use after-bath products to help seal in the moisture.

Regulates Body Temperature

The water in the bath regulates your body’s core temperature: warm water in the tub helps to warm you up, while cool water helps to cool you down. It is that simple.

Feels Good

A toasty-warm bath simply feels good and helps to restore a sense of autonomy, even if you need mobility aids or assistance to do so. It is a familiar activity that could bring a sense of comfort and calm to the individual.

Bath Safety Month in January is the perfect time to consider mobility aids and equipment to make the bath safer. Devices including the shower buddy, shower-seats, grab bars, and free-standing lifts are a few, depending on your limitations and needs. Bathroom on the second floor of your home? Talk to our representatives about a stairlift for your residence to make the bath more accessible.

Some additional bathroom safety measures for seniors include:

  • Keep the floor free of clutter or obstacles that could cause a fall.
  • Make sure that the flooring is in decent condition, free from edges, tears, or carpeting that could cause someone to fall.
  • Go ahead and install grab-bars near the tub, shower, and toilet, just to be safe.
  • Use non-slip bathmats inside and outside the tub and shower.
  • Avoid buying and using bath oils or products that could leave a slippery residue behind and cause a nasty fall.
  • Think about incorporating a portable phone or alarm in the bathroom to call for help in case of an emergency. A pay-as-you-go cell phone on the vanity or extra landline could be helpful in the event of a fall.

It is estimated that around 80% of seniors’ falls are in the bathroom, partly due to the wet conditions, slick surfaces, and inherent hazards of this space. Be vigilant and proactive about making the bathroom a safer place for a senior, someone with a physical disability, or yourself! Talk more with a qualified mobility dealer to find the right options for your living situation, as well as the best solutions for your needs.

If mobility aids will make your bathroom a safer place to be, than resolve to implement them for Bath Safety Month in January. Taking a bath is far more than an activity of daily living; there are many benefits of taking a bath for seniors or those with physical limitations. Evaluate your bathroom and talk with a mobility expert to keep your bathroom safe for anyone who uses it.

 

Have You Been Putting Off Needed Improvements?

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Have you been putting off much-needed home and mobility improvements? Don’t’ waste another moment; make the changes that can improve life and increase accessibility today. Observe It’s About Time Week this December by getting these repairs, refurbishments, and projects done now.

Have you delayed or stalled home improvement projects, but you know that they need to get done? Now is the time to get things done. If you or someone you live with struggles with physical limitations, this may also be the time to consider installing mobility aids; speak with mobility vendors to determine when it is most prudent for professional installation and to schedule service.

Have you been putting off much-needed home and mobility improvements?

There are some tasks and projects that should not be delayed whenever possible. If money is at the root of your procrastination, talk to mobility vendors about plans, programs, and pricing for the equipment you need to improve accessibility in the home. Not all projects are costly though they may require some sweat equity; when hiring a contractor, research online and ask around to find reputable, reliable companies.

Don’t delay these home and mobility improvements any longer:

  • Install ramps. Installing ramps can be a life-altering improvement for residents that rely on a wheelchair or scooter to get around. Not sure about permanent changes to your home? Consider a cost-efficient portable ramp to increase access.
  • Widen doors. In order to pass ADA requirements, public buildings must have doors that are between 32” and 48” wide. After assessing your home, it may be time to widen the doorways and remove the thresholds to accommodate anyone that uses mobility aids in the space.
  • Repair flooring. Replace or repair damaged flooring that could present a fall risk to those living in the home. Remove carpeting and restore surfaces to become smooth and easy to traverse daily.
  • Install lifts. Installing lifts may seem like a major home project, but it could be life-altering for those that have trouble navigating steps and stairs. When it comes to stairlifts, you have a lot of options to consider. Don’t buy second-hand lifts from private parties and avoid buying online where you are not guaranteed support and service after the sale.
  • Add a bathroom. Putting in a first-floor bathroom not only improves everyday living for those in your home, but it could increase the value of your overall property. This is an investment that pays off later if you choose to put your home on the market.
  • Install safety features. Update the bathroom, stairs, and halls with some safety features that cost very little to implement. Install grab-bars near spots where there is the potential for a nasty fall, like at the top of a stairway or near the bathtub. Visit mobility retailers to see a range of safety products that will improve your home environment.
  • Reconfigure cabinetry and counters. If residents in the home are restricted to a wheelchair or scooter, maybe it is time to reconfigure the counters and cabinetry to accommodate them and make it much easier to cook, bathe, and complete everyday activities. Lowering counters and installing floor cabinets will make them easier to use and access, but there are other things that you can do. For instance, rearrange and redo the cabinets with lazy Susan turntables and hanging storage on the doors to make them easier to utilize. Talk to your contractor for more ideas.
  • Buy automatic door openers. Mobility vendors should be able to demonstrate automatic door openers that can be installed in your home. Think of how this could change everyday chores for you and those in the home.

If your projects outweigh your budget, focus on one distinct upgrade that will have life-changing results. This could be replacing flooring and focusing on preventing falls or investing in a porch lift to assist with day-to-day transfers and transportation. Don’t try to do too much with too little or you may be dissatisfied with the outcome.

It’s About Time Week, December 25th-31st

From Christmas to New Year’s Eve, the emphasis is on the family which is why it is the time chosen for the annual It’s About Time Week, which encourages getting things done. From the 25th to the 31st, the focus is on tying up loose ends, doing something new, and adapting to change; in this instance, the emphasis is on the fact that you deserve the safety and security that mobility aids can offer. Don’t put it off.

Come in or call today

The best way to begin your home and mobility improvements is to come for an assessment today; this will point to the most practical mobility solutions for your distinct needs and situation. This is the time to act and improve quality of life every day to come.

Vehicle Accessories and The Older Driver

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Transportation hurdles impact seniors and those with physical limitations every day. Think about mobility aids, vehicle accessories, and the older driver this December during National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week to learn more.

Are mobility aids the only way to assist older drivers or those with physical limitations to stay on the road? Eventually, everyone becomes an older driver, so it is prudent to consider ways to stay safe across the age span – even if it doesn’t impact you yet. This December acknowledge National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, the 4th-8th, and learn how you can promote safe driving while supporting older driver’s autonomy and independence.

Older Drivers

There are over 40-million licensed drivers over the age of 65 in this country, yet transportation hurdles stand in the way of seniors and those with physical limitations, impacting and impeding their lives. Many associate driving with a sense of independence, so it is easy to understand why a senior would not want to willingly give-up the privilege. However, if seniors are going to take to the roads, safety should always be the priority.

The First Step

The first step in addressing and discussing safety with an is to have an open, honest, and non-threatening conversation with the older driver. Many may not feel as though there is an issue, so it can help to develop talking points prior to help guide the conversation. Be empathetic but firm when it comes to safety concerns. If the issue surrounds the inability to secure transportation to participate in activities and daily life, be prepared to offer some viable solutions.

Vehicle Accessories and the Older Driver

Are there items and accessories that can make the older driver safer behind the wheel? Many of the things that help seniors can help any driver, at any age, but here goes:

  • Corrective Vision – How is your vision? There is no shame in wearing glasses and many drivers wear prescription lenses daily. When it comes to the older driver, routine vision appointments and exams will help to determine if there are any issues that could impede driving, like cataracts. Cataracts can go unnoticed by the afflicted, rendering them legally blind in some instances, and written off as a natural sign of aging.
  • Regular Maintenance – The car should be maintained regularly, serviced routinely, and road-legal. This not only ensures reliability and performance but also can prevent the senior from getting pulled over and ticketed.
  • Vehicle Accessories – Accessories and augments like hand controls can also improve the safety of a senior’s driving. Things like ramps augment the home environment which may make driving more accessible and feasible for those with mobility challenges.
  • Vehicle Lifts – For seniors with physical disabilities, vehicle lifts may be the key to getting behind the wheel again. Talk to mobility retailers to learn more about how these devices stow easily, making motorists more independent.

Proper Positioning

Encourage and share a safer way to drive with proper positioning;  positioning in your seat impacts safety in the event of a collision or crash. First, seat yourself about ten-inches from the steering wheel to provide room for your airbag if it should employ. Make sure that you – or the older driver- have vision at least three inches above the steering wheel; this may involve adjusting the height of the seat. Move your seat so that you don’t have to raise or stretch your legs to operate the pedals easily and always wear your seat belt.

Other Options

There are alternative options available to older drivers that include transportation services. These services, unfortunately, are not always widely available in all regions, so talk to your physician, caregiver, or caseworker to learn more. These services are typically subsidized to serve the senior population, put in place to ensure older adults maintain community activities and commitments, without the hurdle of transportation issues.

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, December 3–7, 2018 H2

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) originated a week that is dedicated to reinforcing the importance of mobility among the older population. Older Driver Safety Awareness Week is a week that aims to promote clearer understanding, tolerance, and support of seniors’ need to remain active in the community- which highlights transportation issues. This commemoration is hosted in December during a time when families come together for the holidays, to share this same solidarity and togetherness when addressing older drivers.  The goal of this national event is to prevent transportation from getting in the way of older Americans’ quality of life and keeping them from doing the things that they want to do.

Share the importance of transportation for seniors by supporting them in improving accessibility. Visit retailers in the area that specialize in mobility aids for seniors and those with physical limitations or disabilities. These professionals will be able to assess the senior’s needs and fit them with the best options to increase access and convenience in everyday activities. Make it a point to learn more during Older Driver Safety Awareness Week.

Small Items Make A Big Impact And Great Holiday Gifts As Well

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Maybe a stairlift or a new wheelchair is not in your buying-budget, but when shopping for loved ones that have physical limitations or mobility issues, small items make a big impact and great holiday gifts, as well. From step-stools and slippers to grab-bars and magnifiers, simple gifts like these can improve the overall quality of life each and every day.

Think outside the box; there are many small, inexpensive mobility aids that help seniors or those with physical limitations manage the day to day activities easier and improve everyday living. While it may not seem like some of these smaller tools can make a big difference, these inventive items can contribute to overall independence and autonomy- which is huge.

Small items make a big impact and great holiday gifts, as well

Sometimes the smallest details make all the difference. When it comes to assistance and accessibility in everyday life, something as seemingly insignificant as a handle or grab-bar can be life-changing. Consider what family or friends with mobility limitations might be able to use on an everyday basis, and that could improve the overall quality of life in a big way.

Some small aids to help with day-to-day-activities include:

  • Grab-bars. If there is even the slightest chance that you or someone you love could fall, grab-bars are a good idea. These should be placed in spots that make sense, like near sinks, the toilet, and steps, depending on the layout and particulars of your home.
  • Don’t think that ramps involve major construction and a lot of money; there are many affordable and easy portable styles that can be invaluable in preventing a nasty fall or injury.
  • Reaching and grabbing tools. Think about putting reaching tools in someone’s stocking this year. Many healthy seniors fall or sustain injury simply from trying to access something that is just out of reach.
  • A lazy Susan. Reconfigure and refresh a commonly-used cupboard or cabinet with a handy lazy Susan. These can expand the area inside that is accessible to the resident, making it much easier to find what you are looking for, every day.
  • Canes and walking sticks. Canes and walking sticks are great ideas for anyone, but especially for seniors or those with physical limitations. Having the support of a stylish cane or wooden walking stick could be just enough to prevent a fall and assist the user in everyday activities.
  • Step-stools with railings. Another clever aid that makes an excellent gift to share widely is a quality step-stool with railing. These will help those living in their own homes with tasks and chores that they do every day. Furthermore, it may curb risks associated with individuals attempting, trying, or climbing to access items that are up high.
  • Slip-proof shoes and slippers. A pair of slip-proof shoes or slippers is another underrated aid that could be life-changing for your recipient. Talk to physicians and mobility retailers to find brands endorsed by the experts and rated highly by consumers.
  • Magnifiers and readers. Another low-cost idea of a small aid could be a magnifying glass or a pair of readers. Reading glasses are widely-available at a broad price-point, and anyone that uses them for up-close tasks and activities can never have too many pairs.
  • Easy apparel. If you struggle with buttons, snaps, or zippers when dressing, consider adaptive apparel, like pull-on pants or Velcro-secured tops. These make activities of daily living (ADLs), i.e. dressing, much easier and more independent.
  • Adaptive utensils. Talk to your area’s mobility retailer to find out more about adaptive utensils, pens, toothbrushes, and other necessities that could be a helpful idea. Some of these items have larger handles for easier grip by those with physical limitations.

Large mobility aids and devices aside, these smaller items, products, and tools can make a big impact on someone’s life. Talk to mobility vendors and professionals to learn more about other options for your loved one – or yourself!

Gift-giving with a purpose

Instead of giving the usual gifts, try to think of something that has a purpose for your loved ones with limited mobility or physical challenges. Give them a gift that they may not buy or have thought of for themselves. Some simple aids, tools, and items will mean much more and serve a greater purpose than a box of candy or holiday Poinsettia. You will be contributing to your recipient’s autonomy and independence! What greater gift could there be?

Ready to check out some mobility aids in the area? Come talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility and learn more about how small aids can make a positive impact and significant difference in the life of someone you love this season.  From grab-bars and ramps to stair and platform lifts, visit a retailer today to see more mobility options for yourself.

Should You Purchase Your Mobility Aids Online?

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Online shopping is growing by leaps and bounds but, should you purchase mobility aids online? The risks are great when it comes to buying these products from vendors that may not provide the service and support after the sale that is key in customer satisfaction with lifts, chairs, and other mobility aids.

Everyone is shopping via the internet these days, and it is tough to beat the convenience of ordering items that you need and having them delivered to the door. There are, however, some exceptions to this trend in that there are simply some things you should not buy online. While brick-and-mortar stores may seem fewer and further between, it makes the most sense to buy specific things from local merchants, vendors, and retailers for optimal satisfaction later-on, after the sale. When it comes to mobility aids, there are a lot of features and characteristics to consider that may not be effectively conveyed via the internet. This increases the incidence of dissatisfied customers which in the case of a mobility aid like a stairlift, can have life-altering consequences.

So, it comes down to this: should you purchase mobility aids online?

The answer, in short, is probably no. There are some inherent problems with online shopping that could put you at risk of being dissatisfied and disenfranchised; some of the problems found when making any online purchase could include:

  • Digital payment issues.
  • Unclear information pertaining to warranties or services.
  • Delivery or shipping problems, including inflated costs.
  • Quality concerns.
  • Lack of security when shopping from some vendors.

The internet may not be the best choice when buying something as important as a mobility aid to increase accessibility. In fact, the risks of a problem implementing your new device could make this a costly, even hazardous, option in some situations.

Websites may be deceiving

It is difficult to tease-out what information is true and valid on the internet from all the sites, stores, and users; the truth is that you can never really tell a company’s reputation from a pretty website. Be skeptical when reviewing and browsing online, especially when you are planning to engage in a business transaction, make a sale, or provide personal and sensitive information to another party.

Do your due-diligence

The smokescreen that the internet provides scammers is what makes due diligence so important. Don’t give out personal information to vendors without researching the company thoroughly. If these seems excessive, consider that around 15-million Americans have their identities stolen online each year. Researching those you plan to buy things from or pay money to makes good sense.

Try before you buy

Buying your mobility aids online also eliminates the opportunity to try and test-out the available equipment and devices. How will you know which lift seat is the most comfortable or which walker is the right size? Buy from a merchant that can offer you a demonstration, too, which will help you immensely when you attempt to operate it in your own home.

Watch out for scams

While any retailer or store could potentially go out of business or close, it is not uncommon for web merchants to shut-down and then, re-open under another name. This is a great way to dodge unhappy customers or aggressive creditors.

Put a face to the name

It is easier to garner a sense of security and reassurance when making an investment, such as buying a lift or scooter, when you can talk to the sales reps in-person. You may be able to establish a relationship with your merchant, which creates a continuum of care as your mobility needs change or progress.

It can be difficult to assess the quality

What about the quality of your mobility device? It can be mighty difficult to assess quality from a picture online, without seeing it in person and trying it out for yourself. Unless you do some homework related to brands, it may be challenging to discern what you are actually buying.

What is your recourse?

Probably the biggest deterrent to buying something as important as a mobility aid online is this: what is your recourse if you are dissatisfied? Who will you call, contact, or message? If you are fortunate enough to reach someone by phone, it is possible that they are in an entirely different state, country, or continent than you are.

Work with merchants who will assess your distinct needs, first

Buying your mobility device, aid, and equipment from a brick-and-mortar business makes sense in most cases. These local vendors work hard to improve the lives of their customers – and are readily available for support later-on. As a patron, you deserve this level of service; in fact, you should demand it.

Don’t try to navigate the world of mobility aids without a reputable and trusted professional by your side. Look for local vendors that have a documented track record of satisfying their customers while providing sales, service, and support that has earned them high ratings and loyal patrons. When you are ready to consider mobility aids to increase your access and autonomy, visit the qualified team at Pacific Mobility for more information.

The Dos And Don’ts Of Stairlifts

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Over seven-million homes have some sort of adaptive aids installed, such as stairlifts. Before you rule out the idea or run out to buy a lift, know the dos and don’ts of stairlifts and how to make prudent decisions when in the market for mobility aids and equipment.

There are some misconceptions regarding stairlifts that impact those unwilling to look further and learn more. A stairlift can increase autonomy and preserve independence in the home, while also preventing potential injury that can occur when trying to climb stairs.

For temporary rehabilitation or long-term mobility, pay heed to some of the dos and don’ts of stairlifts:

Don’t assume a lift is an eyesore. Don’t assume a stairlift in the home is an eyesore; stairlifts have come a long way and now are designed to fit seamlessly and cohesively with your home interiors and style. Furthermore, if you are concerned about others in the home navigating the stairs around the stairlift, don’t be. Most lifts feature seats that can fold up and into the lift, making the stairlift sleek, streamlined, and easy to move past on the stairs.

Don’t allow others to alter or augment your lift. Do not allow anyone other than mobility professionals to install, repair, or remove your lift. Never allow someone to make changes or augment the lift, which could be dangerous and may void or compromise an existing warranty.

Do research the costs. Do your homework regarding the costs of a lift; don’t assume a stairlift is cost prohibitive. There are grants, programs, and insurance carriers that cover the costs of a stairlift for both temporary and permanent conditions; talk to a mobility expert before ruling out a lift in your home.

Do be wary of used stairlifts. Be careful when contemplating used stairlifts; when trying to curb costs, don’t buy lifts that are more than ten years old. It is simply unwise and possibly unsafe.

Do consider renting. There are some scenarios that make renting a stairlift the practical solution. Talk to mobility vendors in the area about leasing or renting lifts for temporary conditions, short-term rehabilitation, or post-operative recovery.

Don’t rule out a lift due to your environment. Don’t rule out a lift because you don’t think your home is conducive to a stairlift; talk to an expert, first. Things like curved stairways, outdoor steps, or steep risers can all be overcome with the right lift and professional installation services.

Do wear your seatbelt. When you finally use your stairlift, make sure that you wear the seatbelt as recommended. This will prevent a potential fall and subsequent injury on the stairs.

Don’t lean or tilt. Also, don’t tilt or lean your body while using the stairlift. Sit with your spine against the seat-back, if possible, and don’t lean or reach during transfer. Have your installer demonstrate proper usage and operation.

Do pay attention to weight-limits. Stairlifts have weight capacities and limits as any equipment or device does; don’t carry passengers on the lift and watch what you carry up and down the stairs. Pay heed to your lift’s weight-limits to ensure safe usage, fine performance, and to prevent potential damage or injury.

Don’t clutter the stairs. Do make a habit of keeping the stairs clear for safety. You should also extend this protocol to the platforms, landings, and areas around the lift at the top and bottom of the stairs. Make sure pets and small children are out of the way before using the lift.

Do try before you buy. If possible, try the lift before you make a buying decision. Also, beware of buying online for this very reason. You may find certain features, like the seat or belt, to be more pragmatic or comfortable in one model than another.

Don’t rule-out future needs. Don’t buy a stairlift without a mobility assessment first. This is typically done by the mobility vendor when evaluating your needs and the best device for your home environment. This also helps point toward any future needs that could impact your selection and save you hassle later.

Do buy from reputable mobility vendors. It cannot be reinforced enough: only work with reputable mobility vendors when making an investment in a stairlift. Trying to curb costs with online sales and second-hand equipment may cost far more down the road. Read the customer feedback to find a merchant that stands behind their stairlift and that will provide service and support after the sale.

Got mobility issues? You’re not alone

It is estimated that over seven million people in this country have adaptive home devices, like ramps, hand-rails, and stairlifts. Don’t assume that only a few have invested in the life-changing accessibility that a stairlift can provide. Would you benefit from a stairlift in your home?

When you are ready to answer that question, come to see the mobility experts for a comprehensive needs’ assessment. Don’t rule out a stairlift when you – or someone you care for – struggle with mobility issues. Learn more today.

Mobility and Environment: How We Help You Fit the Pieces Together

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Everyone’s challenges and obstacles are different; choose mobility retailers that care to customize and invent innovative solutions for those they serve. There is a direct correlation between mobility and environment: let us show you how we help you fit the pieces together.

There are many mobility equipment and aids designed to make life better, but which one is right for you?

Mobility and Environment: How we help you fit the pieces together

Environment plays a huge role in the best adaptive equipment and mobility aids to increase and improve accessibility; also, the priorities may shift for those that are trying to preserve autonomy and maintain independent living. Let us sit down with you and figure out the best strategies and solutions to make your environment more ‘user-friendly’ while increasing your own mobility and freedom.

Mobility Challenges

Mobility challenges compromise our autonomy and independence and impacts overall quality of life over time. As individuals age, issues and challenges emerge, manifesting in difficulty maintaining the same lifestyle. Whether it is trouble maintaining balance or chronic pain issues stemming from a medical condition, mobility challenges may sneak-up on you and could cause further potential injury.

Some other challenges to overcome may include:

  • Joint pain or stiffness from arthritis that impairs flexibility and range of motion. 
  • Difficulty completing activities of daily living unassisted, such as bathing or dressing. 
  • Trouble transferring from the home to a vehicle, and out again. Transportation struggles rank high on the list of mobility challenges facing older Americans and those with disabilities or physical limitations.

The results of increasing mobility are multi-fold and a ripple effect occurs that improves everyday living for all involved.

Environmental Obstacles

If you want to remain in your own home, it may become necessary to assess the home environment for inherent hurdles that could be contributing to mobility issues. This may include dangerous situations, like multi-level living or shoddy floor surfaces, that can be resolved easily enough, but it is key to address the situation before injury can occur. Take a pragmatic and honest look around your home surroundings and then speak with a mobility expert to assess needs. As some conditions are progressive, your needs today may not match up with what you need in a month, year, or years down the road; these professionals can evaluate your situation, consider your condition, and point you in the best direction for aids that will serve you effectively, longer.

Home Hurdles

Speaking of ADLs (activities of daily living), consider tasks and everyday habits that are considered ‘instrumental activities of daily living.’ These are the hurdles that may impact safety and well-being if left unassisted in the home. From preparing food to eating independently, driving a car to using the restroom, these are the daily chores that will impact whether or not you are able to live autonomously in your home. Assistance may come in the form of a caregiver, nursing agency, community outreach, or family friend, or it may involve equipment and aids that increase your independence and help you get around much better. Some examples of these devices are stairlifts, grab-bars, vehicle lifts, and shower-buddies.

Inventive Ideas and Sensible Solutions to suit you

Mobility professionals know that one size does not fit all, and this is especially true when it comes to mobility aids to enhance access and convenience around the home. As every home is unique, so are the needs of the individuals living there. Our team can make sensible suggestions that can improve everyday life and make tasks easier, without spending money on devices that you may not need. However, when you do want or need to consider mobility equipment, we are there to guide you every step of the way.

Some inventive ideas and sensible solutions to try includes:

  • Have you thought about one-level living? Shut-off the upstairs or upper-level of your home to reduce the effort and energy required to move around the home. 
  • Take in a roommate. It may be most practical to offer someone that you know and trust a place to stay in exchange for a little assistance.   
  • Give your home a thorough fall risk assessment; remove anything that could pose a potential danger of a fall and subsequent injury, from shoddy carpeting to personal belongings and clutter.

Talk with our team of mobility experts to learn more about making your home environment more convenient and safe.

Talk to us about an assessment today

How do you know what you may need next year? How about in five years? Talk to our trained professionals about mobility options that you won’t ‘outgrow’ anytime soon, and that will make your investment a much more prudent one. Some chairs, scooters, and lifts have features that adapt to the user’s level of mobility and self-reliance, adjusting to meet an increased need for assistance. Other devices are temporary solutions that are perfect for those recovering from an injury or operation and that only require assistance during recovery, temporarily. This also makes a sound argument for renting mobility aids; talk to the experts to learn more.

Are you ready to increase your accessibility? Perhaps someone you care for has physical demands that require the services of mobility experts in the area? Let us assess your distinct challenges and put the pieces together for you; visit us for a comprehensive assessment today.