Jeff Conner

What are some things that you can do to begin making the home more accessible? The beginning steps are simple ones, but they are efforts that can make a big difference in accessibility and autonomy around your home. Try these steps and enjoy an improved sense of security and more convenience today! 

Anyone can make their home a safer and more accessible place to live and those with mobility issues or physical limitations may want to implement some of these strategies. Creating a more accessible home makes it more convenient, too. See for yourself! Try some small steps to begin making the home more accessible and consider quality mobility aids if you would benefit from additional accessibility.  

Start with these steps: 

Create a Path 

The most fundamental step for making the home more accessible is to create a path throughout the home. Make sure that it is wider than you need, and that you don’t stack objects or items up on the sides. There should be a clear path that allows you to easily navigate the way to key areas, like the bathroom, kitchen, and bed, without fear of tripping or falling. This may require getting rid of non-essential furniture and reconfiguring living spaces so enlist some help with the project.  

Get Rid of Clutter 

As you create your path, start getting rid of clutter or anything that you don’t need or haven’t used in a while. Whether you choose to donate, sell, or throw these things is your choice, but know that it is liberating to lighten the load when it comes to clutter around the house. One strategy is to give belongings and keepsakes to loved ones now, rather than later, and let them enjoy these things while you bask in a clutter-free environment! 

Remove Rugs 

Rugs and carpets can be a real obstacle to access for many people with mobility issues. If possible, remove the rugs and reduce the floor to a flat, smooth surface, ideally non-slip. Scatter rugs, mats, and runners can become trip-hazards and, unless there is a purpose, should be avoided. If the floor is shoddy, the vinyl is torn, or it has a slick finish, work with a contractor or handyman service to resolve this and enjoy a much safer home that is far easier to move around in.  

Convert to One Level 

Depending on your limitations and the layout of your home, it may be practical to convert your living to one level. That is, move into the most convenient level of the home, typically the ground floor, and limit the trips you need to make upstairs. Ascending and descending stairs can be a huge barrier to access. By moving to one level, you eliminate the need to climb stairs. Certainly, there are some criteria that come with one-level living, including the placement of the bathroom, but it is one solution to consider.  

Another feasible solution if you struggle with stairs is to consider a stairlift. These are non-intrusive, so others in the home can still use the stairs with ease, and stairlifts reduce the risk of a fall significantly. If this idea appeals to you, speak with a mobility retailer in your area to learn more.  

Install Some Hardware 

It is never too soon to implement basic safety and security steps like grab bars or bed rails, for instance, around the home. Think about the areas of the home where a stable and supportive hand would help, then go install a grab bar nearby. Places like the top and foot of stairs, near sinks and toilets, as well as outdoor spaces that you frequent. These may never be used, or they just may help to protect you from a nasty slip-and-fall accident at home one day. When plotting and planning beginning steps for improved accessibility, do not overlook the value of sturdy grab bars.  

Some other hardware that your accessible home should not be without include: 

• At least one reaching tool. 
• A shower bench or seat.  
• Light switches at both the top and bottom of stairwells or steps. 
• Motion sensors for outdoor lighting, in and out of the home.  

It also makes sense to implement user-friendly security systems, like video doorbell surveillance, when augmenting the home environment. The video footage can be useful and provide aid as needed in an emergency.  

Get Tech-Savvy 

If you are not tech-savvy, it is time to use and take advantage of electronics that can aid in accessibility. For instance, personal alarms can help you to garner help in an emergency, while tech products, like Amazon’s Alexa, are a type of virtual personal assistance, that helps around the house. Technology has made life so much easier and it can help those at home reach out, connect, shop, and engage widely.  

Ready to make the home more accessible? Use these tips and strategies to create a more accessible and autonomous environment for all living there! When it comes to mobility aids and equipment, talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; they bring generations of experience to the table and can help you make your home more accessible. Call or visit today.  

Loss of mobility is life changing, and with these changes comes frustration. Take a moment, breathe, and know that mobility aids may ease angst as you adapt. Plus, many of these aids and devices can help reduce the risk of taking a fall, which can create complicated and painful consequences.  

If you live with mobility challenges or limitations, it is natural to experience feelings of frustration as you adapt. Whether your circumstances are sudden or if you have lived with a disability your entire life, there is some stress and angst that can come from inaccessibility. In many cases, the solutions are mobility aids, that increase accessibility, reduce frustration, and improve quality of life. Talk to your provider or doctor to find out more!  

Ease your stress and frustration with these mobility aids and solutions: 

Grab Bars 

Sometimes the simplest aids are the most helpful, like grab bars. Grab bars are something that anyone can benefit from as they provide a bit of stability and security against a loss of balance and a nasty fall. Grab bars are often seen near the toilet, sinks, and stairs but you can put them anywhere. Make sure that the bars are secured well, on a surface that can withstand weight, and look for those that are easy to grip, too. Grab bars alleviate some of the stress you might feel regarding household accidents.  

Reaching Tools 

Another simple yet invaluable resource is a reaching tool. These are marketed under many different names but are basically a tool that extends your reach. This may prevent you from hyperextending and injuring yourself, or reaching for something and falling down. These tools work for getting items off a high shelf or from way in the back of a cupboard, they are very helpful.  Plus, they are kind of fun to play with and they take no time to become adept at reaching with them, so it may help you to feel less frustrated.  

Walkers 

Perhaps you would benefit from a walker. Many people with conditions that impact the lower body, back, or core often use walkers as a means of support to get around. There are many different kinds of walkers, depending on your condition, but these can reduce the frustration that you may experience when you are unable to walk long distances, need to sit down during transit, or if you suffer from a loss of balance, like vertigo. Walkers are something that your doctor or practitioner can assess you for, but it is a mobility aid that improves accessibility and is widely available.  

Stairlifts 

It may be frustrating to live in a home environment without access to upper levels, areas, or exteriors that you would like to enjoy. A stairlift can eliminate this issue and provide access to areas that may not be easy to navigate if you have physical limitations or challenges. Stairlifts are versatile, and there is one for practically any stair or step in the house. Curved stairs, steep steps, narrow risers, there is a stairlift to fit.  

The best approach to getting a stairlift is to first meet with a stairlift distributor to see what is available and to identify the best solution for your home environment! 

Shower Seats 

A shower or bath should be relaxing and comforting however, for many, this is not the case. Fear or risk of a fall may predominate the experience, making you scared, anxious, and frustrated. Bathing is a normal activity of daily life (ADL); undue stress can make it harder for some seniors or individuals with disabilities to live autonomously.  

This is easily resolved with shower seats and benches. The best type depends on your bathroom configuration and whether you have a tub, shower, or both. These can provide a brief respite during bathing that may be enough to help you finish. They reduce the risk of bathroom falls as you are not standing on the slick floor or tub during bathing, but rather seated on a secure and stable seat. If you do have a caregiver that helps with ADLs, a shower seat can be a great tool that reduces the risk of injury to both of you.  

Feeling frustrated? Stress Awareness Month in April is designated to help identify and share the impacts that stress can have. Stress is more than frustration it can take a toll on physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Curbing stress in your life can alleviate other problems, including some cases of chronic pain and depression.  

Don’t let mobility issues frustrate you. Let us help you find quality mobility aids and equipment to ease your frustration. At Pacific Mobility, we have been offering brand-name mobility devices backed with unparalleled service and support after the sale. Call or visit today! 

The perks and benefits of a stairlift seem indisputable, but what about those that are still undecided? Some seniors may have reservations regarding the use of a lift and may be anxious about adapting to the device. Make sure to explain the many advantages of a stairlift and reinforce how easy it will be for them to use one. In no time, any user can become comfortable and confident about using their stairlift in the home environment.  

When it comes to mobility aids, stairlifts are among those that can change life for the better. The many benefits of having a lift in the home seem obvious, but they may not be to an undecided or reticent senior. Many may worry that the new device will be complicated to use, or they may think it requires more technology than they are comfortable with. The truth is, a stairlift is easy to use and they have the potential to improve quality of life.  

When you talk to loved ones about a stairlift, mention and explain these advantages to them: 

Autonomy 

The reason why many implement stairlifts in their home is to increase independence. There is a particular benefit for wheelchair users as many would simply be unable to ascend or descend stairs without assistance. A lift preserves dignity while providing many with more autonomy, so they can age in place. This is an invaluable reason and advantage of a quality stairlift in the home.  

Access 

So, accessibility is the next advantage of a stairlift, and other mobility aids for that matter. If you have a second level in your home, it may be inaccessible for someone with a mobility issue, physical limitation, or disability of some kind. A stairlift allows anyone to safely, securely, and autonomously access these different areas of the home, which also contributes to greater quality of life.  

Space 

A stairlift doesn’t take up much space, so the advantage is that it can fit on most stairs and steps, fitting within the standard-size footprint of the staircase. A lot of prospective users worry that a stairlift will somehow interfere with the regular function and utility of the stairs; they are concerned that it may inconvenience others. A stairlift does not impose or invade the space that non-users have when ascending or descending the stairs. The clever design and compact space are another advantage to reiterate! 

Ease 

If your loved one is worried about a learning curve for using the stairlift properly, tell them not to be. It is easy and very simple to use a stairlift. Plus, the stairlift technician that installs the stairlift will guide, instruct, and demonstrate proper usage. When you purchase your lift from a reputable seller who will provide service and support after the sale you always have someone to turn to if you have questions or concerns later.  

Versatility 

The next concern of many undecided loved ones is whether their stairs or home are conducive to a stairlift. Either the steps are too steep, too curved, or outdoors, prospective stairlift users believe lifts are not made for their home; wrong! Stairlifts are remarkably versatile and there are various styles and designs to suit almost any stair, step, or riser that you may have. The best way to determine if a stairlift is a good fit for your home is to speak directly with a mobility aids retailer to find out more. 

Comfort 

Remind your loved one that a ride on a stairlift up and down stairs is comfortable, too. The chairs are made for a smooth ride, and plush seating with a security belt ensures the user’s safety during transport. Using a stairlift soon becomes second nature so any awkwardness that your loved one feels during initial use will quickly go away! 

Practicality 

There is the advantage of being practical, too, when it comes to installing stairlifts in the home. It is pragmatic to enlist the aid and use resources available to make the home more accessible- it simply makes sense. Less assistance is necessary, plus the added safety measure and reduced risk of a nasty fall- but more on that next!  

Safety 

Perhaps the most important advantage of a stairlift and one that you should emphasize to an undecided loved one is safety: stairlifts make the home environment inherently safer. There is a reduced risk of a fall each and every time your loved one ascends or descends stairs in the home- which is a compelling benefit.  

Considering a stairlift for you or a loved one? If you need more reasons why a lift can change life for the better, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility. They have been providing quality mobility aids for generations- and they stand behind the stairlifts and equipment that they sell. Call or visit today.  

If you live with mobility issues or physical limitations, fitness is even more important. There are routines and exercises that work perfectly with mobility aids to help you maintain a regimen for your holistic health and wellness.  

Everyone needs some degree of physical activity, and for those that use mobility aids regularly, it is even more integral to holistic health and wellbeing. The best activities and exercises vary depending on the different types of mobility equipment used.  

Consider the following tips for exercises and activities with mobility aids: 

Seated Exercises 

If you have experienced or are recovering from injuries to the lower body, or if you have limited mobility with legs and feet, seated exercises are a practical option. These activities also work well for anyone with coordination issues, who fears falling, is frail, or the extremely overweight. These simple routines help posture while alleviating chronic back pain for those that sit for prolonged periods of time. Some tips when working out include:  

• Choose a straight-backed chair that allows your knees to be positioned at a right angle.  
• If you do these from a wheelchair or scooter, always make sure that the brake is secure.  
• Sit with shoulders back to improve posture during the routine.  
• If you live with high blood pressure, do not use hand weights during seated exercise.  
• Stay hydrated. Keep water nearby when working out.  

Now you are ready to start working out! Always talk to your practitioner or doctor before embarking on a new health regimen or fitness plan for continuity of care.  

Now get up and try these seated exercises for yourself! 

Aerobics 

Don’t underestimate the impact of chair aerobics, which include a series of movements repeated to raise the heart rate. When you do these rigorously, you are also burning calories and potentially losing weight. Some ways that you can work up a sweat while sitting in a chair or mobility aid include these suggestions:  

• Use your hand weights to air punch for several seconds, and then repeat.  
• Invest in a video gaming system that offers fitness and sports apps. These are also easy to modify to a seated position for a fun dose of chair aerobics.  
• Find a gym with a wheelchair training machine. These enable arm workouts, like rowing or bicycling with your arms. If you have an under-the-desk pedal machine, these can be mounted to a table at chest level for you to use with your arms when seated.  
• Turn up some music and try chair dancing! You can easily work up a sweat and increase your heart rate this way.  
• Some communities offer wheelchair sports teams and programs that you may participate in. For instance, basketball is often found offered as a wheelchair sport- and it is a great way to work your arms and upper body.  

Additionally, these exercises when done consistently can help improve flexibility and reduce chronic pain, as well as help increase coordination and balance which may help to reduce the risk of a fall.  

Strength  

You may wonder how to build strength if you are confined to a walker or wheelchair; the fact is, hand weights and resistance bands are great tools to improve overall body strength.  

Try these tips to build upper body strength: 

• Try lifting weights in traditional curls, presses, and extensions in sets of ten, repeating sets as you gain strength.  
• Attach your resistance band to a fixed object, like a door or piece of furniture, and pull the band down in sets of ten.  

Don’t have hand weights at home? Use one-pound cans of food or other household items with some weight to them. 

Stretching 

Stretching is crucial to maintain flexibility as you age. If you sit for extended periods, such as in a wheelchair, it is important to stretch and work on your range of motion. One way to do that is through yoga.  

Yoga is a very adaptable exercise, and many yoga teachers can demonstrate ways to augment moves to suit your mobility level. Chair yoga is great for increasing flexibility, while also helping build strength from resistance. Plus, yoga and tai chi are very relaxing, so you leave your workout feeling calm and serene.  

Water  

Water reduces the impact on the body’s joints, so it is much easier to move around. If you struggle with getting in and out of a pool, consider working out where there is a pool lift to help. Many community rec centers and rehabs offer these amenities. Also, find out if any local pools or fitness clubs offer pool therapy classes or programs. 

If you live with physical disabilities or mobility issues, exercise, and fitness is essential. Try these activities to remain strong and flexible across the lifespan. Would you benefit from mobility aids or devices? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more today!  

How do you sleep? Your sleep schedule contributes to overall health and well-being, so when your sleep is poor, your health could potentially suffer. There are some recommended sleep hygiene tips that can help you get restful and restorative sleep and that may prevent a slew of associated health risks that come from improper and inadequate sleep. Incorporate these habits into your daily regimen for optimal results.  

Make a date to observe National Sleep Awareness Week, March 12-18, 2023. This is the ideal time to truly evaluate your sleep pattern and decide whether changes are warranted. 

Do you struggle with getting a good night’s sleep? There are some tips and tactics that can improve sleep hygiene, critical to maintaining holistic health and well-being.  

Healthy habits for better sleep include these suggestions: 

• Stick to a schedule and regular routine when it comes to sleep. Go to bed at the same time each night and set an alarm to awaken at the same time daily.  
• Avoid screens and technological devices before bed. These can suck up time, and mess with your sleep schedule.  
• Make sure that you are getting some physical activity and exercise daily but avoid working out within an hour of when you plan to go to bed. Daily exercise helps you sleep better when you do lie down. 
• Set up a sleep environment that is comfortable and soothing. Make sure that it is relaxing enough to be conducive to sleep; that is, clean clutter, dim lighting, and make it cozy for you to rest.  
• Avoid caffeine a few hours before bedtime. Skip to decaffeinated drinks, like water and herbal tea, instead. Also, don’t eat too close to bedtime as digestion can be stimulating and keep you awake.  
• Limit the number of naps that you take if you want to sleep better at night. If you do lie down for a rest, use an alarm so you do not over-nap, which can disrupt your sleep pattern.  
• Figure out ways to manage the stressors of the day so that they don’t keep you preoccupied and awake at night. Find healthy coping strategies that can help calm you down during chaos.  

If you worry that you are at risk of a fall, which could be increased by a lack of adequate sleep, talk to professionals about mobility aids to assist you. The loss of coordination that can come from too little sleep could present physical challenges that could put you at a greater chance of a nasty fall and related injury.  

It is important to remember that if you can’t sleep, don’t force yourself to try. Instead, get up and do something outside the bedroom, like reading or a light chore, and try again later. 

When considering what qualifies as healthy sleep, one must look at a variety of factors that impact the overall amount of rest that you get each night. Healthy sleep involves the following: 

Duration 

The duration or length of time that you sleep is part of healthy sleep. Most adults require 7-9 hours nightly, while seniors need 7-8 hours, on average. Infants need as much as 17 hours each night, and older kids and teens require around 8-10 hours, ideally.  

Continuity 

If you wake up frequently during sleep, it impacts the quality. Minimal disruptions provide better rest than duration. Plus, waking constantly interferes with the sleep cycles, including REM sleep, so you will awaken feeling groggy and unrested. 

Timing 

Think about the Circadian rhythms when it comes to sleep quality, too. Your body is going to naturally be more tired when it is dark outside. Light causes the body to feel more awake, just as we have been indoctrinated to be. For instance, day sleepers may find it difficult to adjust to this schedule. 

So, how does sleep directly relate to overall health and wellness? Some of the ways that it impacts health may surprise you: 

• While you sleep, your body is actively flushing and removing toxins. Good sleep is essential to keep things moving.  
• Sleep provides time for the immune system and blood to repair and restore.  
• When you are overtired or not sleeping properly, you are more at risk of a fall and subsequent injury. Poor sleep can impact coordination and balance.  
• Proper sleep helps with memory and mood, according to experts.  
• Healthy and consistent sleep helps boost the immune system, so you get sick less often.  
• Those that sleep well are better able to eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet. Cravings and binges are less frequent occurrences.  
• Poor sleep causes fatigue, depression, and lethargy in many people.  

As you can see, sleep and well-being are closely linked. For mobility aids that improve everyday living, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility. We have generations of industry experience, providing quality equipment for residents widely, and we can help you, too. Call or visit today!  

It is estimated that nearly half of all traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, are the result of a fall. As there are around 36 million falls sustained by seniors each year, this is a startling statistic. Many seniors do not immediately recognize that they have been hurt, declining medical care, and suffering health consequences later. In fact, around 32,000 seniors die from fall-related injuries.  

If you are a senior, falls present a significant risk. It is estimated that seniors endure around 36 million falls each year and 32,000 of these incidents are fatal. There are other kinds of serious injuries sustained from falls, however, including traumatic brain injury, or TBI.  

If you or someone you care about has sustained an injury in a fall, observe Brain Injury Awareness Month and lend your experiences, perspective, and voice to this important event. Also, if you have physical limitations or challenges, lower your risk of a nasty fall with quality mobility aids. 

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) 

Around 2.8 million people are treated for traumatic brain injury each year in the US. So, what causes TBIs? Falls, assault, and traffic accidents top the list but also, trauma from being struck by something also can precipitate a traumatic brain injury.  

It is estimated that falls account for around 1,320,000 of these brain injuries, some leading to long-lasting brain damage. If you hear of someone being hurt and getting a concussion, that is also a type of TBI. In fact, Concussions are the most common form of traumatic brain injury.  

Fall Risk and Prevention 

 Accidental falls occur non-stop, and it is reported that each second, a senior sustains a fall in this country. Falls are the prime cause of injury and accidental fatality for this demographic. Experts warn that one out of four seniors will fall down this year, presenting a significant threat to the health and independence of this age group.  

There are some contributing factors that increase the potential for taking a fall. Some of these fall risks include: 

• Muscle weakness, especially in the lower body, legs, etc. 
• Lack of vitamin D  
• Coordination or balance difficulty 
• Medications, both over-the-counter and prescribed, particularly sedatives, tranquilizers, pain relievers, and antidepressants 
• Vision impairment or blindness 
• Mobility issues or physical limitations 
• Pain in the feet or toes, including conditions like Gout 
• Loose, poorly fastened, untied, or slippery footwear 
• Clutter, mess, or debris in the home environment 
• Pets in the home, like dogs or cats, that could cause you to trip 
• Uneven stairs, broken steps, steep risers, or other stair issues 
• Loose rugs, torn carpeting, or peeling tile flooring 
• Any combination of these risks and home hazards  

Fortunately, there are some precautions that seniors and their loved ones can take to help reduce the likelihood of taking a nasty fall at home and potentially avoiding a TBI. Some things you can do to lower your risk of a fall include:  

• Talk with your doctor, practitioner, or provider about a fall-risk assessment to determine what your risk factors are, as well as how to lower the likelihood of a fall.  
• Have your pharmacist or provider evaluate your current medication regimen to assess if they could be increasing your fall risks.  
• Supplement your diet with vitamin D but talk to your doctor about such changes first.  
• Work on improving lower body strength, like tai-chi and walking. This can also help improve coordination and balance with consistency.  
• Make sure that you have annual- or twice-annual- eye exams to detect any changes or impairments in your vision. 
• Update eyeglass prescriptions, as needed.  
• Remove tripping hazards or clutter from the home environment. Make sure that you leave a clear berth through the living areas of the home for easy access and reduced risk of a fall.  
• Install railings on steps, stairs, and landings; install grab bars throughout the home, including near stairways, doors, the toilet, and sinks, for stability.  
• Watch what you wear, and avoid long, drapey, or loose clothing that could cause you to trip and fall.  
• Illuminate the home adequately by adding more lamps and light fixtures, but also by changing out light bulbs to a higher wattage, brighter LED ones.  
• Invest in a reaching tool to prevent falls when trying to access items that are overhead or tucked away. A step stool can help but buy one that has a railing for safety and stability during use.  
• Prevent bathroom falls with non-slip mats in your tub and in the shower. Bathrooms are inherently the most slippery spaces in the home.  
• Find out more about mobility aids and address physical challenges or limitations to reduce your own fall risk and the chance of a related injury.  

Would you benefit from mobility aids or devices? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; they have been providing their clients and customers with quality mobility equipment for generations. Improve accessibility while you lower your risk of a fall and subsequent brain injury with mobility aids- call or visit to learn more.  

There is a link between eye health and holistic well-being that cannot be ignored. When you lose vision, you are at a greater risk of a fall, which has serious health consequences. Furthermore, if you have a history of medical issues or certain conditions, you could be prone to issues with your sight. The best preventative measure against risks to eye health is regular and comprehensive exams by a trusted eye care professional.  

There is no question that the impact of vision loss can be devastating, but what are some of the risks to your eye health that jeopardize sight? It may surprise you to learn some of the risk factors that can affect your vision across the lifespan and that ultimately could impede your autonomy and independence. Vision loss can compromise quality of life in many ways and could put you at greater risk for further injury due to an accidental fall. Plus, if you have genetic precursors, you may be at an increased likelihood of visual impairment later.  

Here are some risks to eye health that you may not have considered: 

Falls 

While many issues and risks can exacerbate vision issues, it merits mentioning that eye issues and impaired vision can greatly contribute to a nasty fall. It is estimated that seniors experience around 36 million falls in this country each year and nearly 32,000 of these incidents are fatal. The best way to circumvent this statistic and reduce the risk of a fall is with high-quality mobility aids. Falls can worsen holistic health and well-being which includes eye health. Therefore, it is in everyone’s best interest to protect their eyes, preserve their vision, and protect their health; it is that simple.  

Rosacea 

Who knew that conditions like Rosacea could affect your eyes in a negative way? It is true; if you have been diagnosed with the skin condition Rosacea, make sure to report this to your eye doctor for continuity of care. It is estimated that about half of those with this condition also have Ocular Rosacea, which causes eyes to itch, burn, and feel dry, and it can affect vision and cause discomfort. Many may experience sensitivity to light and swelling around the eyes.  

Fortunately, Ocular Rosacea can be treated but it is imperative to catch it early. Failure to treat Ocular Rosacea can result in vision loss so share your diagnosis with your eye doctor for prompt treatment and relief. Don’t ignore the potential symptoms of this condition.  

Aging 

Let’s not underestimate the impact of aging on eye health. When you get older, you are naturally more at risk for eye and vision issues. The risk of glaucoma and cataracts greatly increases over age 40 which makes having your eyes dilated at your eye appointment crucial. This is also the time when many people begin to experience a decline or impairment in their vision which may require corrective lenses.  

Consider also that your risk of falling and sustaining an injury increases during this time, too. This presents a double whammy to many patients as a fall can be debilitating; in some cases, injuries can be fatal. By protecting yourself across the lifespan with precautionary and preventative healthcare appointments, issues can be detected early and treated promptly.  

Genetics 

Family genetics plays a big role in eye health, and holistic health, overall. Do you have a family history of eye conditions, like glaucoma or cataracts? What about macular degeneration, or even diabetes? If you have a genetic predisposition, there will be a higher likelihood that you will also contract one or more of these conditions, many of which can lead to impairment or loss of vision.  

Report a thorough medical history to your provider and have your eyes examined regularly. This includes dilation, which provides the best way for your eyecare provider to diagnose issues like cataracts and glaucoma. Also, see your eye doctor at least once a year, but ideally twice per year if you have medical problems that could impact your eye health.  

Be Proactive

Save your Vision Month in March is a great time to get proactive about eye health. Are you at risk for illnesses and conditions that can impact your sight? Make March the time that you schedule appointments, wear polarized sun protection, and take breaks from the screen. Schedule your annual eye exam and protect your eyes. Talk to your eye care professional to find out more about precautions that can protect and preserve your vision.  

Eye health is closely connected to overall well-being, so taking care of your vision is integral to a long, healthy life. Reduce the risk of a nasty and debilitating fall with quality mobility aids and equipment from Pacific Mobility; for generations, we have been serving customers in Southern California and changing lives for the better. Call or visit today.  

Do you have a new stairlift? Like all things, a new lift can take a little time to adjust and acclimate to. The accessibility that a stairlift provides is unsurpassed. You will wonder how you lived so long without it! There are some tips that can help you during your first month with your new stairlift, and that ensure safe comfort when used.  

A stairlift is one of those mobility aids that can change life for the better. The accessibility and safety that it brings can go a long way toward the autonomy and independence of the user. There are some suggestions and tips to adjust to a stairlift that can make it easier during the initial days of getting your lift, and as you use it during the first month: 

Read your Stairlift Owner’s Manual First. During the first month that you have your new lift, make it a point to read the entire owner’s manual, there is a lot of important information inside. This also may help to answer questions that you could encounter as you adjust to using your new lift. Most owners find it helpful to read the manual first before they even use their stairlift.  

Don’t Push the Weight Limits. Remember that most stairlifts have a 300 lb. weight limit unless it is a bariatric lift, which may have a higher weight capacity. Do not use the lift to carry heavy items up or down stairs, like furniture, and only allow one person at a time on the lift- but more on that later!  

Always Secure the Seat Belt. Your lift comes equipped with an easy-to-use safety belt; make sure that you use it! This is standard operating practice and if you choose not to use your safety belt as instructed, you are at a much higher risk of an accident on the stairlift.  

Supervise Children and Pets Around the Lift. The lift is not a toy and, as such, should not be used by children to play on or around. This extends to pets. It is not safe for pets to climb on the lift either. Teach children in the home or that visit regularly that the stairlift is a medical aid and not a plaything. Also, advise them to steer clear when the lift is in use.  

Prevent Obstacles on the Stairs. Stairlift safety tips include that when you are not using the lift, fold the seat in and out of the way of anyone that may be using the stairs surrounding the stairlift. This prevents the seat from being an obstacle that could cause someone to trip, stumble, or fall.  

Pay Attention to the Sensors. Are you purchasing a new stairlift? If so, these typically feature safety sensors to prevent an obstacle from causing interference or an accident on the stairs. These sensors cause the lift to stop when something is in the path of the lift, like a shoe or your pet. Always be careful that pets and others are safely out of the way before using your lift to ascend or descend the stairs, just to be extra careful.  

Avoid Loose, Drapey Clothing. As you adjust to using your new lift, avoid wearing long, drapey, or loose garments that could get stuck or interfere with the function of the stairlift. Avoid using blankets or scarves when riding on the lift, and take off long or bulky coats before sitting down and using the stairlift. 

Keep Liquids Away from your Stairlift. Liquids can seriously damage your new lift, causing pricey repairs. If you must carry something liquid up or down stairs, do so with caution and always tightly close the lid of the container first.  

Only Allow One Rider at a Time. As previously discussed, a stairlift is not intended to carry more than one passenger, safely, at a time. Your stairlift owner’s manual will outline the safe utility of your lift but know that stairlifts are not designed to carry multiple people at once, including riding with children on your lap. Plus, it could incidentally exceed the weight restriction for the lift.  

Have your Lift Professionally Installed, Serviced, and Maintained. If you have a new lift with a warranty, make sure to abide by the terms and have the stairlift routinely inspected, serviced, and maintained, as necessary. Only allow qualified technicians to work on or repair your lift- allowing anyone else to service the stairlift could nullify your warranty. If you are experiencing issues or having difficulty with your new lift during the first month, do not hesitate to reach out to the retailer for customer service and support.  

Thinking about a new stairlift? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility about professional installation of quality mobility aids that have the potential to change life for the better. Call or visit us today.