Jeff Conner

Give the gift of accessibility with accessories for your senior living with a mobility issue. Accessories can make simple tasks easier and increase independence for many.

Sometimes the little gifts and gestures mean the most- particularly when it comes to holiday gift-giving solutions for seniors. Anyone who has a physical limitation or mobility issue will appreciate and enjoy the increased access that small things like a basket for a wheelchair, reacher for kitchen cabinets, or a leg-lifter for independent dressing, can provide.  Before hitting the mall and buying that same sweater for someone you love, consider how a gift from Pacific Mobility Center will assist your loved one and potentially improve their overall quality of life.

Accessories can make simple tasks easier: 

Whether your loved one relies on a wheelchair, scooter, walker, or if they ambulate independently, some clever conceptions and useful accessories are available to help your loved one with mobility issues. Some great gift ideas include these suggestions:

• Baskets

Consider buying someone who uses a wheelchair or scooter a well-made and utilitarian basket that adapts to their mobility aid, and that will allow them the freedom of carrying their belongings, goods, or items from one place to another with ease. Look for styles that snap or Velcro to the frame of their aid, but that doesn’t interfere with the performance. This is one of the reasons why it is most prudent to buy these items from a certified mobility aid dealer, who has insight into the style, size, and specifications of these devices which may impact your buying decision.

• Bags

Another gift that will keep on giving and providing utility to your loved one is a bag that is designed to augment a walker. These typically resemble a pouch, of sorts, with compartments and enclosures for any smaller, personal items. Choose bags with the option of monogramming, embellishing, or personalizing for a special, holiday touch.

• Grabbers and reachers

Grabbers and reachers can help provide access to cabinets, cupboards, and shelves that may have posed risks and challenges previously. These are items that any senior can use, and that could improve the flow and function of their home during everyday activities. These are widely available and found in a gamut of styles and sizes, so check out your options carefully before buying. Also, make sure to only invest in high-quality devices to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage later.

• Leg-lifters

Sometimes, a little help can go a long way in maintaining autonomy and living an independent lifestyle. For example, a leg lifter can help the user with dressing, bathing, grooming, and overall mobility around the home. These provide a means of getting leverage when lifting a leg or bending over so that putting on shoes- for instance- is no longer an obstacle to autonomy.

Give the gift that keeps on giving

Give the gift of safety this season with handy accessories, and rest easy knowing that you have provided a bit more convenience and accessibility to someone that you love. Consider other options such as door openers, canes, hand-rails, and bathing benches to provide a little bit of ease to someone who has physical limitations or challenges.

Are assistive accessories not enough?  

While these aids and devices are helpful and user-friendly, does your loved one need something more assistive? Talk with reputable mobility aid vendors to find additional solutions that will increase the access and improve life for your senior.

Check out how lifts can make life easier:

• stairlifts. stairlifts are life-changing devices that increase access to a second level of the home for those that have difficulty with steps and stairs. Make sure to only buy from certified vendors that offer professional installation for optimal satisfaction and maximum utility.
• Ceiling lifts. Ceiling lifts make life easier and safer for those you love, as well as those that you trust to provide care and assistance for the senior. These typically help elevate the individual for transports, hygiene, or wound-care, without running the risk of injuring either the patient or the caregiver.
• Vehicle lifts. Vehicle lifts make driving a reality for those that may struggle due to mobility aids. These not only help the user get into the driver’s seat, but they also allow the motorist to safely stow their chair, scooter, or walker during the transport.
• Porch lifts. A porch lift can make rises, steps, porches, and patios more accessible and less of a fall-risk for those that live with mobility issues. Inside and out, a porch lift can make life a lot more convenient for seniors that choose independent living.
• Pool lifts. Feel like taking a swim? Make the most of a pool with a pool lift. This gently raises and lowers the user into the water, safely and securely, to facilitate and help them enjoy their pool more fully.

Talk with the experts about increasing access and convenience

Visit or talk with the professionals at Pacific Mobility Center to find the perfect holiday gifts for someone living with a mobility issue. Give a senior something under the tree this year that has the potential of changing their life for the better!

Mobility devices increase independence and preserve autonomy for those living with physical disabilities or limitations. Increased access protects independence, which leads to overall quality of life.

It is estimated that there are around 18-million people in North America living with mobility issues. This makes the need and demand for mobility devices more prevalent than ever before. Encourage your loved one with physical limitations to be as independent as possible through the installation and use of mobility aids and equipment. Allow your loved one to age in place and respect their desire to be autonomous with tools and devices that can increase convenience and function, whether you want to increase access in the home, at the office, or even for your vehicle!

Mobility devices increase independence in several ways:

High-quality mobility devices increase independence for users in a wide variety of ways, from helping homeowners access second-level areas, to assisting individuals to drive to and from appointments. Depending on the physical limitation, lifts can help broaden access around the home while also protecting caregivers from incidental injury when transporting physically-impaired clients. It is imperative to only allow professional, qualified technicians install, repair, or modify your mobility aids, lifts, devices, and equipment. Allowing someone to tamper with your device may not only nullify any warranty, it can also present a safety risk and hazard to those using it.

Consider these mobility aids and devices:

• stairlifts

A nasty fall on a step or stair can significantly impact the health and well-being of a senior or other person with mobility issues. Avoid this potential disaster with stairlifts, which safely transport the user up the stairs or steps with ease. Whether you have a straight or curved stairway, and regardless of the riser-depth, stairlifts can create a convenience that allows free-range and full-access to their home or workplace.

• Ceiling lifts

For individuals living with mobility issues that make activities of daily living (ADLs) challenging, keep your loved one and their caregivers safe with a ceiling lift. These devices gently raise the user so that they can dress, groom, or engage in activities, such as physical therapy, with much more ease. This also helps ensure that caregivers don’t suffer injuries or problems when transporting and caring for your loved one.

• Vehicle lifts

Don’t let a mobility issue impact your ability to drive; a vehicle lift can create a safe way for individuals to get in-and-out of their vehicle, while also storing wheelchairs, scooters, or other aids securely. This enables your loved one to maintain their freedom and attend appointments or commitments independently, which fosters self-confidence and contributes to quality of life.

• Porch lifts

Something as simple as stepping outside to enjoy the fresh air, some sunshine, or the garden can be truly joyful. Don’t let your loved one be deprived of this pleasure; look at porch lifts to increase access from a porch or patio to other areas of your property. If you happen to have a pool, consider a pool lift for those that enjoy a swim but that have difficulty getting in-and-out of the water.

Increased accessibility preserves and protects autonomy

Physical limitations can impact more than access, a disability can lower morale, decrease social engagement, and hasten any existing medical conditions. Assistance through the use of mobility devices and equipment helps to preserve autonomy for those living independently. Fostering the inherent desire for independence can contribute to the overall quality of life experienced by your loved one that is living with a mobility issue.

Access improves overall quality of life

Studies show that people thrive with regular social engagement and interaction with others. Provide a means for those with physical disabilities or limitations to participate in community activities, visit friends, attend appointments, and run errands. This may include augments to the home, office, or vehicle, which can restore some of the freedoms that may hinge on overall quality of life.

Talk to the experts in mobility aids for a thorough assessment

Don’t ever purchase mobility aids without a thorough assessment of needs; this will save you time, energy, and money later, and ensures that you have the right equipment to facilitate access for your loved one. Buy your mobility aids from reputable and certified retailers with experience in the field, and a proven track-record of professional installation and customer satisfaction. While second-hand equipment may seem like a bargain, the safety risks and problems that it may bring are not worth it. Protect those you love and make the investment in quality lifts and aids.

It is estimated that one in five older Americans (age 65 and older) have a physical disability. This has led to increased choices and options when it comes to mobility aids and devices to increase access. Technology continues to improve upon conventional lifts and equipment, so the time is perfect to update, improve, and enhance the home, office, or car to improve the access and quality of life for someone you love.

Rely on the experts when it comes to questions related to how to take care of your new stairlift for years of dependable service, as well as to ensure user-satisfaction after installation of the device.

Once your mobility devices are installed, preserve performance and satisfaction with routine maintenance to keep your stairlift working smoothly and providing the assistance that you- or your loved one- needs and depends on. Don’t ever permit those that are not qualified to work on or make repairs to your device, as this can present serious safety risks to those utilizing the equipment in the home.

Some other ways to maintain and take care of your new stair life include the following:

Start with the power source

Never attempt to make repairs, adjustments, or maintenance on your stair life until after you disconnect from your power source. Unplug the lift carefully before proceeding and use caution when assessing damage or problems, preferably under the watchful eye of a mobility device professional. Make sure the charging device has been disabled by unplugging it from your electrical outlet first and foremost.

Re-check the device to ensure it is ‘off’

After you have unplugged the lift from the power source, make sure to turn off the breaker switch on the carriage of your stairlift. Depending on the type and style lift you are using, the location may vary so refer to your owner’s manual and defer adjustments to the vendor and their installation experts. Never assume that your lift is off and unplugged; always verify and confirm by manually checking the device independently.

Use gentle cleaning solutions

You will want to clean your lift and the mechanisms periodically to preserve functionality and prevent germs and bacteria transmission during use. Use a commercial spray cleaner recommended by the manufacturer or retailer of your lift, and some soft paper towels to clean the rail of your stairlift. You can also use this method to clean the copper strips on your device. It warrants repeating: always make sure that your battery charger has been unplugged and the circuit breaker has been turned off before you begin to clean your stairlift.

Keep an eye out for streaking

Keep a watchful eye out for signs of black streaking along the rail of your lift. Dust can build up and gather around greased mechanisms which creates this debris. Use a damp cloth with a household cleaner to wipe the rail clean, but don’t spray the cleaning solution directly on the rail itself. Furniture polish wiped on the copper charge stripping can prevent squeaking and keep your lift running smoothly. Make sure to wipe the rail and stripping dry after cleaning to prevent problems, such as rusting.

Restore the power to your device

When you clean or make adjustments to your stairlift, it is integral to completely disconnect the device from any and all power sources. Once the maintenance has been performed, it is time to reconnect your device to the power source. First, plug the battery charger back into the electrical outlet; next, turn your circuit breaker switch on. The stairlift should now be clean and ready to go!

Keep your device well-maintained

Make sure to provide the very basic maintenance tasks warranted to ensure your stairlift provides you with many years of smooth and satisfying service. In addition to periodic cleanings, you should have your lift serviced- annually, for instance- by a certified technician, trained in the field of mobility aids and equipment. This is an excellent way to identify any issues early and address them before running the risk of malfunction, property damage, or safety hazard later.  These experts are also the way to approach moving or relocating a stairlift or updating and upgrading devices as needed or desired.

Ask the experts how to take care of your new stairlift for years of dependable service and satisfaction

Reach out to the experts when you are seeking advice regarding the care and maintenance of your mobility aids, including your stairlift. Professional installation ensures that you won’t experience performance issues after the sale, and will also shed some light on the operation and functionality of your device. Furthermore, your stairlift retail professional can be a great resource for troubleshooting or support if you encounter difficulties or have questions related to your mobility device.

Among all mobility aids available, stairlifts may be the most life-changing for those with physical impairments, limitations, or disabilities. These devices not only increase access, they can improve the overall quality of life for the thousands of consumers that rely on them daily. Make sure that your stairlift is working up to par, and prevent problems with some simple, yet important, maintenance. Keep your lift clean and debris-free, and watch for signs of streaking along the rail. Make sure that you arrange periodic service visits from a certified technician to diagnose and repair any potential issues before they become problems.

It is our honor to assist and recognize Veterans on Veteran’s Day, and aim to pay respects to these brave individuals every day with simple gestures that can greatly improve quality of life.

Do something for someone that has sacrificed for you and yours: honor and take time to assist those that have served in the armed forces. Many veterans face issues that make mobility devices part of everyday life. Do something to recognize the more than 9.4 million veterans in this country this Veterans Day, by doing small things that can make an impact on the access and comfort of a disabled senior.

It is our honor to assist and recognize Veterans Day

This Veterans Day, make sure to recognize the underlying meaning of this important but often overlooked holiday. Veterans Day started November 19, 1919, as ‘Armistice Day’, which marked the end of WWI. In 1926, Congress deemed it a national annual holiday, becoming officially observed in 1938. The holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 by then-President Dwight Eisenhower, dubbing this day to serve as a way of honoring Americans that have served in the war. The holiday is recognized in Arlington, Virginia, with a national ceremony of remembrance at the Arlington National Cemetery.

Parades are nice, but some simple ways to honor seniors that have served include these gestures:

Help facilitate interaction and socialization. Go out of your way to help to foster engagement among veterans and peers; this might include a ride to a community event or accompanying a disabled veteran to a VA center or clinic. Provide social outlets, whether it is shopping or a local theater production, that will get the senior out and about, engaging with others. Check local assisted-living facilities and VA hospitals for activities, gatherings, and events that could be a chance to bring together like-minded peers. Social interaction has been shown to have many health benefits, so this can have an impact on overall well-being.

Treat veterans to the healing power of pets. Do you believe in the healing power of pets? Studies show that petting a dog or cat can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and alleviate stress; it is further asserted that pets provide companionship to seniors or shut-ins that brings purpose and joy to everyday life. If it isn’t feasible to give a pet to a senior that you know, consider taking your loved one to a local shelter, aviary, or farm to visit and interact with the animals. Some assisted living facilities may have scheduled visits from therapy-dogs or service animals; check local bulletin boards and online resources for more information.

Do something that improves accessibility. Do something to increase access to buildings, yards, or areas of the home for someone with a mobility issue or disability. This could include building a small ramp for a senior or installing a grip-bar for a disabled veteran. When someone has access, they have autonomy, and this can be integral to the identity and well-being of a senior who is trying to live independently or that has limited support and resources.

Advocate for independence. Advocate for the senior, veteran, or a loved one that is trying to live an independent lifestyle. Be the voice that argues for better living conditions, home renovations, or in-home care that allows some seniors to live in their own homes. Make efforts and advocate for solutions that improve autonomy, like stairlifts or walkers, and talk with the senior about allowing respite care or in-home caregivers in for additional services and support. While it may seem like an obvious solution to make life safer and easier, respect the senior by involving them in any discussion regarding their care and living arrangements.

Offer someone a lift. Sometimes, something as simple as a ride can be a blessing. Offer to give a senior, loved one, or veteran a ride and make their day a little bit easier. Many disabled seniors don’t want to ask for rides, especially when they require time, effort, or energy to get in and out of a vehicle. Think of the time that these individuals have given to others- whether serving in the military, being a parent, or working- and share some of it back with the offer of a lift.

Take time for a conversation. Got some free time? Pay a visit to a veteran that you know and make the time to talk without looking at a watch or hurrying out the door. Sometimes simply listening is something special for someone who doesn’t get out much or that has limited social interactions. Keep the cell phone in your car or turned-off to prevent distractions, if possible.

Honor a veteran this Veterans Day, and every day

Don’t wait around until November to show a veteran appreciation for their service, while simply doing something for someone else. Use these tips to make an impact on the life of someone that lives with a mobility issue or disability- and that has dedicated a portion of their life to protecting the lives of all Americans.

Do something thoughtful and kind any time, but pay particular attention to helping someone with a disability increase access with mobility aids when observing the Veteran’s Day holiday this year. Talk with mobility retail professionals to find the best aids to enhance access, increase independence, and improve quality of life for someone you care about.

Mobility aids and devices are not the most prudent place to scrimp or save; DIY lifts and ramps could cost more in the long run, as well as pose potential problems and risks to the user.

If you think you are saving money when buying second-hand or installing your own mobility devices and equipment, think again. The installation of lifts and aids should only be completed by a professional to ensure the device works properly and safely, plus you may find that used purchases are not backed by any type of satisfaction guarantee. Improper or unprofessional installation of devices, like ramps for instance, can create problems and become a real headache.

Doing-it-yourself could cost you more in the long run; don’t sacrifice the following for a few dollars:

Compatibility

How will you know if someone else’s used device is compatible with your needs? Are you sure that it can be integrated into the spot that you need it to be? Buying from a qualified mobility retailer ensures compatibility, comfort, and cohesion with the user and their distinct living situation. Are you also certain that it is the best option for your mobility needs? It may make sense to consider a short-term rental to pinpoint whether this is the right device. Deciding on the right aid involves consideration of many factors as well as a thorough assessment of needs; shirking this responsibility and skipping this step is a disservice to the consumer buying the equipment.

Convenience

Installing a device or mobility aid is not necessarily easy to do. Equipment is heavy and specialized tools may be needed. Do you have the right tools and skill-sets to install a lift? How about the ability to build a ramp? The ease of professional installation can’t be overstated or underestimated. Before going the DIY route, consider who you will call if the installation process goes south.

Safety

There is no guarantee of safety when you buy from someone other than a reputable merchant or qualified retailer. Mobility aids are utilized to provide safe and secure access; if you are unable to parlay all concerns about the condition and operation of the device, you are defeating your own purpose. Do yourself – and your loved one – a favor and buy from a company that stands behind their product and that will help familiarize you with the operation of the device before leaving you on your own.

Warranty

Will you get a warranty on used mobility aids or devices? Probably not. Mobility aids that come from reputable merchants will provide some sort of warranty in the event of damage or dissatisfaction, which is key when making an investment in something like mobility equipment or devices. After all, if the device fails to perform as soon as it is installed, what recourse will you have? If you work with a trusted name in mobility aids, your satisfaction is the priority.

Utility

The key to staying safe – and keeping your loved one secure – is the operation and utility of your device. This requires a professional to show you the proper way to use the mobility aid. Since someone’s well-being is dependent on the lift working seamlessly, why risk this peace of mind with a shoddy or dated device. The careful eye and inspection of installation professionals bring another measure of assurance and support that makes it a prudent investment to make.

Performance

Be wary of buying devices from online classifieds, social media, or sight-unseen. There is no guarantee of performance, quality, or longevity, and you could be buying someone else’s headache. Installing a lift anywhere in a home or workplace is not something that can be done singlehandedly. Professionals arrive in teams to swiftly install, inspect, test, and support users to ensure optimal performance and ultimate satisfaction with your device. The problems and headaches that can arise when buying second-hand could drive-up the price and make it a less cost-effective approach to improving accessibility in your home.

Hiring a professional can save time, potential problems, and money

The most efficient approach to installing mobility aids and devices is to hire a pro. Buy your equipment from a vendor that offers installation, which also ensures you will have access to service and support after the sale. What could be more frustrating than attempting to install a device with little-to-no assistance? Make things easy on yourself and buy from a qualified and reputable vendor that provides professional installation.

Before you leap into a purchase or deal on mobility devices, consider whether the savings is worth it. After all, it is imperative that mobility aids are safe, work properly, and are maintained, and second-hand equipment may not guarantee these provisions. Furthermore, second-hand vendors may not provide the thorough needs assessment to pinpoint the most practical device for you and your distinct living situation, which could result in equipment that is not as useful or user-friendly as you had hoped.

Mobility experts urge long term care planning to ensure access and autonomy for seniors, and to facilitate independent living as long as possible.

It has been indicated that the three biggest concerns of seniors are a loss of independence, decline in health, and exhaustion of resources, more specifically, money. Planning ahead can not only help ease these fears and worries, but also make life a lot simpler for those that you care about. It is never too soon to begin long term care planning, and waiting until you suffer a debilitating illness or disability could be too late. Think about your independence and how you will get around the home, to your appointments and live autonomously; mobility devices may play a significant role in your quality of life as you get older, so don’t forget to include this in your careful planning.

Mobility experts urge long term care planning; here’s what you can do now:

While no one knows what the future holds, there are a few things that you can do now in terms of preparing for long term care down the road. These are simple steps to ensure that you clarify and communicate your wishes, as well as implementing sensible strategies to get there. Some things that you can start doing today are:

Speak out

The first and probably the most important thing that you can do right now is to make your wishes known. Engage in open communication with your family, friends, and caregivers to let others in on what you would want your life to be like if you were unable to live independently or if you were facing a debilitating illness. Talk candidly, and follow up with a written outline of your wishes, preferably notarized, to provide a clue and a reminder to loved ones of what your preferences are and will be – but more on that later.

Trouble-shoot problems

Play devil’s advocate for a moment and look around your home. Does that railing look safe? How steep are those stairs? Are these floors conducive to a wheelchair or walker? Try to identify potential problems with access, convenience, and safety to determine what your future needs may be. Talk with other peers to find what their biggest challenges, hurdles, and obstacles are when living in their own homes for some further insight. Discuss with a building contractor some ways to make your home more accessible and safe, as well as to obtain estimates of such upgrades.

Do your homework

Check out customer reviews and online information to evaluate what devices and equipment seem to support autonomy in old age or disability. Look for mobility experts that offer free consultations, professional installation, and support after the sale. Some merchants may offer rentals or trials that will allow you to experience and get a feel for the equipment before making a buying decision.

Get your affairs in order

Get your advanced directive in order; an advance directive is a way to lay-out your health care choices in the event that you are unable to make or voice these decisions later on. These typically fall into two categories: living wills and power of attorney for health care. These decisions become more complex and involved for individuals with existing physical disabilities or impairments, so be sure to ask for assistance from a trusted caregiver, provider, or legal professional. Not sure how to go about completing an advance directive? Many organizations that advocate for seniors, such as AARP (The American Association of Retired Persons) offer free advance directive forms that you can download and print-out.

Consult with the experts

Now is the time to talk with an expert about mobility options. Opt only for professional installation and buy from reputable vendors when you are ready to take the plunge and increase access around your home. Why wait for problems that can impact your autonomy and accessibility? Talk with someone now about the most pragmatic and sensible solutions to plan for your future needs.

Talk with mobility experts to ensure you have what you need now – and later: 

Visit a mobility expert to view some of the options for home installation as well as to determine what price-points are when making long term care plans. Discuss viable approaches to accessibility around your home, including challenging areas, obstacles, and spots that pose potential problems, such as a fall risk or injury. These professionals will be able to assess your current needs, as well as help you plan for a future that is as independent as possible.

There is no time like the present when it comes to long term care planning, and don’t forget to address the possibility of mobility aids, devices, and equipment when you look toward the future. Planning now ensures your wishes are carried-out and that no loved one is left to bear the burden of making your important life decisions. Take a careful look around your home environment; do you see potential hazards or access issues? Do some research and a little internet homework by reading reviews and feedback from consumers related to their mobility assistance to find options that you may not have thought of. Also, begin to get your affairs in order with an advance directive; it really is one of the most thoughtful things that you can do for your children and loved ones.