Jeff Conner

Enjoy life to the fullest! Consider tips and techniques to make the most of and improve your quality of life. From preserving vision to reducing the risk of falls and staying active to spending time with a dog, there are a lot of ways to enhance and enjoy your life each and every day. International Quality of Life Month in January offers additional suggestions and resources, too.  

International Quality of Life Month in January sheds light on how to improve quality of everyday life. You may be wondering, ‘how?’ Start with some simple suggestions that include regular healthcare visits and mobility aids and equipment to increase autonomy, but also consider adopting a new hobby- or even a pet. These strategies all contribute to quality of life and the overall enjoyment that you derive from regular activities.  

Here are ways that you might focus on the quality of your own life: 

Minimize The Risk Of A Fall 

A nasty fall can have irreversible impacts on everyday life. Falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors. Preserve health and quality of life by reducing the risk of falls and curbing subsequent injuries. Falls can have repercussions that may manifest over time, too, including mental stress, fear, and anxiety, to long-term physical implications, including illness and infection.  

To reduce your own risks, make sure to have your eyes and vision checked at least once a year to ensure you don’t stumble or fall from poor eyesight. Also, wear well-fitting and non-slip footwear around the home, keeping a clear path to easily navigate the environment. Medications can have side effects, like loss of coordination, that could cause you to fall; talk to your doctor or provider to learn more.  

Age Actively 

Active aging is a term that relates to the consideration of holistic well-being when it comes to quality of life. This mindset takes mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health into account when assessing everyday living. Experts agree that staying engaged with others and active can prevent a wide range of illnesses and health problems plaguing older individuals.   

Make Friends 

Socialization and connection to others should not be underestimated. Loneliness can contribute to health issues that eventually erode overall health and well-being. Pets can make fine companions for individuals that are able to care for and afford them. If you sense someone is alone without a lot of support, do not be afraid to reach out; if they decline your kind offers, keep trying.  

Get Moving 

Mobility aids and devices make it feasible for those with physical limitations to regain independence and move about freely. If you struggle with a disability or health issue that impedes accessibility and mobility, speak with your healthcare provider to learn more about aids that can change lives for the better.  

Hone Hobbies 

Boredom can be debilitating, particularly if you are accustomed to being busy. Now is the perfect time to develop and find hobbies that bring some welcome respite during the times when you are feeling restless or bored. Depending on what you like, hobbies are also a great way to make connections with like-minded people, fostering social interaction and friendship. Join groups, either in person or online, to chat and talk about what you love- whether it is art or books, collecting, or fishing! 

Find Purpose 

Hobbies can also help you to find purpose in life, which can contribute to overall contentment and satisfaction with quality of life. Purpose is what gets us out of bed in the morning. As we age, many of the purposes and responsibilities of younger years are no longer pertinent. Children grow, seniors retire, and friends or family lose contact. How do you find purpose in everyday living?  

Being of service to others is an excellent way to find and foster a sense of purpose. Volunteer at an organization or business that you support. Talk to Area Agencies on Aging to find opportunities in your distinct area.  

Prioritize Health 

It bears repeating that putting health first is an effective way for improving quality of life. By preserving and maintaining your own health and wellness, you can live longer and on your own terms. Aging in place refers to making your own decisions pertaining to where and how you will live out your ‘golden years’ without the added barriers and obstacles presented by health problems. Furthermore, when you are healthy, you feel better which directly impacts the quality of your everyday lifestyle. Chronic issues like pain or illness can negatively affect your mental health, too.  

How is your quality of life? Consider adopting some of these tips and tactics to improve the quality of your own life. Reach out to the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility if you have physical limitations or disabilities to learn more about devices and aids that can contribute to accessibility, and enhancing everyday living.  

If you live with a physical challenge or limitation, mobility aids may make life easier. First, they increase accessibility which, in turn, enhances autonomy. This independence can enable many to age in place and add quality to their everyday lives.  

There are many mobility aids that add to everyday quality of living. For instance, some equipment and devices enhance accessibility, which promotes and increases independence. When an individual has the freedom and autonomy to make their own choices daily, it can improve life in general.  

Here are some mobility aids that add to everyday quality of life: 

Stairlifts 

Do you have stairs or steps in your home? When living with physical limitations or mobility issues, this can present problems. Some individuals may find that they are confined to the lower level of their home, which may greatly impact activities of daily living, or ADLs. This, in turn, may affect autonomy and the ability to age in place safely. 

A stairlift changes all that and allows you to ascend and descend stairs safely and easily. These lifts are amazing and can be installed to fit practically any stairs or step. Talk to a qualified and reputable mobility retail professional to learn more! A stairlift greatly adds to your everyday quality of life and could be a proactive step toward reducing the risk of a fall in your home.  

Shower Buddies and Benches 

Speaking of ADLs, bathing is one of the main challenges that many individuals face when living with mobility issues. Those that live alone or with limited assistance may struggle with this activity either due to physical challenges or a fear of falling. Bathrooms are the most common location of falls, and falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors in this country. By making the bathroom and tub safer and more accessible, it could reduce the risks of falls and contribute to autonomy for the individual.  

Shower buddies are essentially aids that eliminate the need for transfers and lifting when caring for individuals that have mobility issues. This makes it safer for both the individual and their caregiver. These seats eliminate hazards, like slick floors, while also preserving dignity and privacy. Don’t need that level of assistance? A shower bench is another option that provides a secure place to bathe while lowering the incidence of slips, falls, and injuries.  This sense of safety and confidence contributes to quality of life, too.  

Ramps 

There is a misconception that you only need a ramp if you use a wheelchair or scooter; that couldn’t be farther from the truth! A ramp can be an immense help to those that live with joint or knee pain, making it easier and gentler to ascend inclines in and out of the home. Ramps are also useful inside the home, making thresholds and doorways less of a stumble.  

Did you know that you can buy inexpensive, portable ramps? These are great because you can fold them up and take them with you, as needed. These provide a less permanent alternative to the ramps that you see installed on homes widely which makes them cost-friendly, too. Ramps can definitely add to the overall quality of everyday life in a positive way! 

Vehicle Lifts 

Do you enjoy driving? Some folks with mobility issues or physical disabilities give up on driving due to the inconvenience and difficulties presented. If you wish to get behind the wheel again, consider vehicle lifts. Vehicle lifts enable you to safely stash and stow your mobility equipment and smoothly access the driver’s seat of your car or truck. Vehicle lifts have allowed many to drive and maintain their independence. Some lifts may be limited to specific vehicle makes and models, so talk to your mobility retailer to learn more! 

Grab Bars and Reaching Tools 

Sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference, and that may be the case when it comes to grab bars and reachers. Reducing the risk of a fall is integral to preserving health and well-being across the lifespan. It is estimated that every four seconds, a senior falls down and around 32,000 falls result in fatality each year. How can these tragic statistics be avoided? Simple aids like grab bars and reaching tools could be the answer.  

Anyone benefits from installing grab bars near the toilet, tub, sink, or stairs. These are perfect for a bit of stability in areas that could cause a fall. As for reaching tools, these prevent the need to stretch, reach, and risk well-being when trying to access objects or items that are just ‘out of reach.’ Reaching tools prevent you from needing to bend over, climb under, or stand on tiptoe when attempting to go about your day. If you want to improve everyday living, start with simple steps like grab bars and reachers! 

Want to learn more about how mobility aids can improve your overall quality of life? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; we have over 60 years of experience in serving our customers and providing quality mobility aids and devices. Call or visit today.  

Want to stay healthier? There are some common and pragmatic habits that can help you stay healthier across the lifespan. From washing your hands to reducing the risks of a fall in the home, preventing illness and injury could be the key to maintaining holistic health as you get older.  

Want to stay healthier as you get older? There are some common practices and smart habits that may keep you healthier as you age. Keep yourself free from illness and injury with these tips and talk to a reputable retailer about mobility aids that can help you age in place gracefully and healthfully. 

Consider these 5 habits to help you stay healthier: 

1. Wash Your Hands 

The first thing that anyone can do to protect their good health is to wash their hands, a lot. National Handwashing Awareness Week in early December brings attention to the wide host of infections and illnesses that can come from the germs on unwashed hands. Clean hands can prevent many different sicknesses that could compromise overall health and well-being. Teach children at a young age to wash thoroughly and often.  

2. Move It or Lose It 

This next healthy habit should come as no surprise: exercise every day. Have you heard the adage, move it or lose it? It is true failure to get physical activity can make you stiff, sore, and less flexible, which is the ideal mix for a nasty fall. Plus, about 20 minutes of brisk activity or exercise daily like walking or dancing- can stimulate feel-good neurons in the brain to improve mood.  

If you suffer from joint pain in your knees or ankles, try something low-impact to get your exercise in. Some good options involve anything in the water, like aqua aerobics or simply swimming. These are gentler on joints while still providing the therapeutic and health benefits of resistance training. It is a win-win! 

3. Get Your Flu Shot 

Also, in early December is National Influenza Vaccination Week, which brings us to our next healthy habit: getting your flu shot.  This observance strives to spread and disseminate information pertaining to the value of getting vaccinated for the flu as well as the health risks of influenza for all demographics. Talk to your doctor or practitioner about getting your flu shot and maintaining protection against certain types of this difficult illness. While the influenza vaccine does not protect against every strain of the flu, it may help you prevent the most common and transmittable, which can also help to keep you healthier over time.  

4. Care for Your Teeth 

A lot of people often overlook oral and dental hygiene as being a critical component of holistic health and well-being. This is a mistake. Oral care and the condition of your teeth and gums can impact and reflect overall wellness. If you have an infection in your teeth or gums, it can travel to other parts of the body. Bacteria, plaque, and tartar can spread from your mouth to major organs, causing a heart attack, stroke, and clots all dangerous and deadly. Protect yourself with visits to your dental provider, at least once a year but more often as recommended. Brush regularly, floss daily, and eat a range of whole foods to protect your teeth and prevent gum disease, which is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.  

5. Reduce Fall Risks 

Around 36 million falls are sustained by adults each year- and of these, around 32,000 resulting in death. In fact, falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors.

Use these suggestions to lower your own risk of a fall: 

• Feeling unsteady on your feet? Inform your doctor right away. Also, if you have taken a fall, let your provider know.  
• Talk to your provider and/or pharmacist about your current medications and whether any of them could make you feel unsteady, dizzy, or tired.  
• Another cause of falls is vision impairment. Make sure to have your eyes checked each year and wear corrective lenses, as recommended by your eye doctor. Annual exams can also detect cataracts or glaucoma, both of which can impair sight and contribute to a fall. 
• Wear proper footwear, not just socks, in the home to help minimize slips and falls. 
• Maintain a clutter-free path through the home environment. Keep it wide and clear.  
• Install grab bars in your bathroom, near the toilet, sink, and tub.  
• Enhance lighting around stairs, doors, and thresholds anywhere that there is the potential for a fall.  
• Talk to your doctor or practitioner about mobility aids and equipment that enhance access around the home, while reducing the risk of falls and subsequent injuries. 

Remember that every second, someone over the age of 65 sustains a fall. It is estimated that in this country, one in four seniors fall every year. 

Use these tips and practice these five habits regularly to stay healthier across the lifespan. If you are worried about a debilitating fall, talk to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility; we offer quality mobility aids and equipment that make the home more accessible, while also reducing the risk of a nasty fall.  

Adjusting to a new stairlift doesn’t take long in fact, you may be surprised by how quickly you acclimate to the ease and convenience that these mobility aids provide. There are a few useful tips as well as troubleshooting tweaks that can make the transition even smoother. Here is what every stairlift owner needs to know! 

A new stairlift can enhance access and improve everyday living for many but how do you adjust to a new lift and make it work smoothly in the home? As with any mobility aids, people tend to acclimate over time but there are some tips, tricks, and tweaks that can make the adjustment to stairlifts fool-proof.  

Got a new stairlift? Here are some tips to make it work better for you: 

• New lifts have seatbelts installed for a reason, it is crucial to buckle up for safety. Always use the seat belt and secure it on any ascent or descent to prevent a potentially serious fall and injury.  
• Remember that a stairlift is not a toy and should not be used, played around, or climbed on by children. Adults should always supervise children and pets around mobility equipment, including and perhaps, particularly when it comes to stairlifts. 
• Take a look around to ensure no pets or obstructions are in the way before using the lift to ascend or descend your stairs or steps. While most contemporary stairlifts are equipped with obstruction sensors that will stop the lift from moving when there is something in the path, make a habit of looking and making sure that nothing is in harm’s way before operating your lift. 
• Loose or flowing garments, clothing, and accessories can become trapped underneath the lift and cause serious harm. Not to mention, these loose items and subsequent issues can cause damage to your lift, also. Keep loose-fitting clothing clear from the lift before you operate it.  
• Do not try to transport open bottles or cups containing liquids. Liquids and stairlifts do not mix! In fact, liquids can do serious and irreversible damage to a stairlift so avoid drinking and open beverages near or around the lift, too.  
• Remember that all stairlifts are designed to carry just one person at a time. Furthermore, stairlifts have a very specific weight limit. Do not carry passengers, kids, or pets when using the stairlift. Exceeding the weightlift can cause serious damage to the lift and could potentially cause you to fall or sustain an injury. This extends to carrying heavy loads up or down the stairs; do not do it. Check the lift’s owner’s manual for the exact weight restrictions for your make and model.  
• Regular maintenance by a qualified mobility professional is key to the longevity and smooth operation of your stairlift. If you experience issues with any of the functions or features of your lift, contact the mobility retailer where you bought it. Do not attempt to use it if you are experiencing issues with any of the safety features, or if the lift itself is acting oddly. Never attempt to repair, fix, or modify the lift on your own; allow only qualified technicians to work on your stairlift. More on that later! 

Got a question or an issue with your lift? Try these tweaks when troubleshooting the problem: 

• Is the master switch turned on? Check this before you proceed. Remember that all switches must be activated and in the ‘on’ position for the lift to operate.  
• Check the position of your stairlift’s key. The key must be fully pushed in and turned to the ‘on’ position on the lift.  
• Is the charger for the battery plugged in? Stairlift batteries have a long life, but they must be charged to prevent draining over time.  
• What about the batteries in your stairlift remote? If these are dead, change them and check the function of the lift once more.  
• If there is an obstacle in the way of the safety sensor, the lift will not operate. This is a great safety feature- particularly if there are kids or pets in the home. Clear the path, remove anything that could be in the way, and try again.  
• If the seat is not swiveled into place and locked, the lift will not operate. The seat should make a clear ‘click’ sound when it is locked into the riding position- but ask your mobility retailer to find out more regarding your distinct lift safety features.   
• When in doubt, always refer to the lift’s owner manual. This is an excellent resource and the best way to figure out and troubleshoot an issue.  

Perhaps the best advice of all is to call a Professional when you have issues or questions regarding your new stairlift.  Remember: only allow a qualified mobility technician to install, service, repair, or work on your lift. That is the safest approach- also, allowing someone else to perform these tasks may nullify any warranty that you have on your equipment. At Pacific Mobility, we stand behind, support, and service the aids and stairlifts that we sell. Call or visit us to learn more today!  

You need to be careful when attempting to define disabilities, assumptions can be careless and often unjust. Many disabilities are invisible, hidden, and not physically evident which is what International Day of Persons with Disabilities strives to convey and commemorate. Can you define what a disability is? It is not as simple as you may think.  

This December, pay homage to those living with challenges, including physical and invisible disabilities.  International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3^rd provides an opportunity and platform to learn more about what others are experiencing.  

A disability is typically defined as any condition that makes it more difficult for a person to do certain things. While broad, this includes cognitive, developmental, intellectual, mental, physical, sensory, or any combination of challenges, difficulties, or hurdles. These may be factors from birth or something that more recently manifests. Disabilities may be easy to spot, or invisible to the eye. Many disabilities may be aided and made easier with things like mobility aids or other adaptive devices.  

Defining a disability is not as simple as you might think; here is what you should know: 

Physical Disability 

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) of 1990 defines someone with a disability as an individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities or that has a record or history of such an impairment.  It may be easy to recognize an individual with a physical challenge, limitation, or disability. Sometimes it may be gleaned from the support, caregivers, or adaptive aids that the individual has with them.  

Some individuals with physical disabilities may utilize devices and equipment, such as a wheelchair, walker, or cane which may make it easier for onlookers to identify. However, these aids are not exclusive to those with obvious physical limitations.  Keep reading to find out more about individuals living with invisible disabilities.  

Invisible Disability 

It is easy to make assumptions regarding what is and is not a disability. For this reason, it may be more challenging to live with an invisible disability, than any other type of obstacle. Sometimes the judgment is made that the individual is not truly disabled despite the severity or symptoms suffered.  

An invisible disability is not always evident to others visually, and some may or may not impede conventional work situations. Some living with these obstacles may work while others do not. Some examples of invisible disabilities include these: 

• Chronic or debilitating pain 
• Fatigue 
• Dizziness or vertigo 
• Cognitive dysfunctions 
• Traumatic brain injuries 
• Learning differences  
• Mental health disorders 
• Hearing and/or visual impairments 

Some invisible disabilities may range from mild to severe, requiring supportive care, while others may implement aids of some kind. Use empathy and try to not make assumptions regarding the abilities, capabilities, and appearance of others.  

Adaptive Devices 

So, what kind of aids and devices would help someone with a disability, invisible or otherwise? There is a full range of equipment available, much of it offered by providers, practitioners, and occupational or physical therapists widely. Simple items like specialized cutlery or dressing aids (for example, reaching tools) can be just the right amount of assistance for individuals to complete ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) independently. This autonomy may enable many to maintain quality of life and age in place.  

Mobility Aids 

Mobility aids are often associated with the aged or those that have a physical disability. Wheelchairs and walkers point to physical limitations, but what other aids are available for consumers? Some of the most common and popular choices include these: 

• Stairlifts 
• Freestanding lifts 
• Walkers, rolling walkers, knee walkers 
• Wheelchairs and scooters 
• Canes and walking sticks 
• Grab bars and reaching tools 
• Shower seats and benches 
• Raised toilet seats 
• Shower Buddies 

One must be quite careful when assessing and assuming others for disabilities or limitations. Individuals with invisible disabilities like mental health, chronic pain, or vision impairment may not ‘appear’ to have any challenges, but looks can be deceiving. Always give others the benefit of the doubt and make spaces, spots, and sites accessible to all who use them. A slip, fall, and subsequent injury can be debilitating and life-changing for anyone but can put those with existing medical issues or disabilities at increased risk. Just as you do not want people assuming things about your overall health and well-being, be cognizant and courteous of those that may face distinct challenges when living their own lives, too.  

Do you live with a disability, either visible or invisible? Pacific Mobility can help. Top-rated mobility aids and equipment can help increase accessibility, which in turn, can improve quality of life. We are a family-owned business with over 60 years in the industry. Come and talk with the mobility professionals today- for generations, our main objective is to serve the needs of our clients. Call or visit today!  

It is true that diabetes does impact and affect mobility. Remember that diabetes impacts circulation, vision, balance, and the nervous system, so some activities may be quite painful. There are some ways to help those with diabetes and compromised mobility that will reduce the risks of injury and enhance quality of everyday life.  

World Diabetes Day is November 14th, and it is the perfect time to find out more about this disease and ways to treat its symptoms. Around 30 million Americans have been diagnosed, but at least another 7 million are living with diabetes but do not yet know. Diabetes, when unmanaged or left untreated, can cause a wide range of health and wellness problems, including visual impairment and poor blood circulation. Yes, diabetes affects mobility and mobility aids and equipment could help.  

First, do you have diabetes? Are you at risk? Here are some risk factors you should know about: 

• Obesity and excess weight 
• Family history of diabetes 
• Experienced Gestational diabetes during pregnancy previously 
• Over 45 years of age 
• Males are at greater risk 

There are online tools and tests to help you determine if you have diabetes, but the best way is to visit your healthcare provider for a lab test.  

Remember there are numerous ways that diabetes affects mobility and impacts everyday life. Here are just a few, as well as how we may help!  

Chronic Pain 

Diabetic pain should not be taken lightly. It may range from infrequent numbness or tingling in your hands, legs, or feet but it can exacerbate to extreme burning sensations that are both painful and restrictive. This neuropathic pain can impede mobility, for sure as well as be an underlying cause of a fall. Anyone who lives with chronic pain will tell you that it impacts quality of life but what can be done? 

For pain associated with diabetic neuropathy, you may experience numbness and lose control of your extremities when walking or standing. This makes aids like canes and rollator walkers prudent for regular use. These provide support and stability when you are unsteady plus, rolling walkers are equipped with a seat for sitting if symptoms strike when walking.  

Flexibility 

Diabetes can make you feel stiff and sore, not ideal for those trying to maintain mobility. A diabetic’s glucose level and when it is high, can stick to the collagen and cause discomfort. Sugar makes the collagen thicken, so the joints, tendons, and bones don’t move as smoothly as they should. For many sufferers, it may make it difficult to move at all.  

When loss of flexibility makes it tough to navigate stairs or rise from bed, a lift might be helpful. Stairlifts can be installed indoors or out, to help the user ascend or descend stairs and steps. Ramps are another mobility aid that may make it easier for folks with diabetes to enter or exit their home gently and safely. 

Coordination 

Diabetics often experience vertigo, a type of dizziness that may be accompanied by nausea. This affects coordination and could easily cause you to fall and become hurt. In fact, this is a common side effect of type 2 diabetes, and it can be very problematic.  

While there are not a lot of things that can bring comfort during these episodes, you can still enjoy a hot shower or bath and minimize the risk of falling by using a shower bench or seat. Shower seats are common aids that are inexpensive and widely available. They can help users maintain balance while tending to their ADLs, or activities of daily living. Don’t forget about installing grab bars throughout the home environment for a bit of stability when you stumble or misstep.  

Amputation 

Sadly, diabetics often endure severe infections and wounds tend to heal much more slowly than most. This can even lead to loss of limb or death. While mobility aids may not be able to address these life-threatening infections, they can help those that have had amputations maintain mobility and autonomy with wheelchairs, scooters, and lifts to help them go about their daily routine.  

Weight  

Diabetics often struggle with weight, and weight gain is symptomatic of type 2 diabetes. This extra weight can not only make diabetes worse, it impedes mobility, too. Eating well and getting regular activity may help with weight control. But what about those that struggle to move and exercise? Some simple mobility aids, like canes and walkers, may help provide a bit of reassurance for those that want to get up and move.  

Bariatric patients often utilize ceiling lifts to help caregivers following surgery or during rehabilitation, but don’t forget about pool lifts, too. These can help compromised patients get in and out of the water with more ease.  

Do you or someone you love live with diabetes? The impacts of this condition extend to mobility- often impeding how you live your everyday life. We may be able to help with quality mobility products and unrivaled customer service at Pacific Mobility.  Call or visit us today to learn more.  

There are many things to be thankful for when you own a stairlift, especially if you live with mobility limitations or challenges. Some reasons to give thanks for a lift include accessibility, convenience, autonomy, safety, and peace of mind.  

It is true: a stairlift can improve quality of life for someone with mobility issues. They make everyday living easier, safer, and more convenient plus, they contribute to overall independence and autonomy, which is a factor for those that wish to age in place. There is a lot to be thankful for in regard to mobility aids and equipment consider how a stairlift could change your life.  

Five things to be thankful for when you own a stairlift are: 

1. Accessibility  

The underlying aim of mobility aids is to improve accessibility and promote safety. It should come as no surprise how a stairlift enhances access wherever it is installed. Many people can age in place with aids like stairlifts in their home environment, but more on that later! 

Stairlifts provide a simple solution for those that struggle with steps and stairs. They typically come with quality service and support, as well as professional installation, which is always advised. It is easy to get on, off, ascend, or descend and a qualified technician will provide a full demonstration when buying from a reputable retailer.  

Since many people have bedrooms or bathrooms on the second level of a home, a stairlift provides a great way to get where you need to go while reducing the risk of a nasty fall.  

2. Convenience 

Another thing to be appreciative of when it comes to stairlifts is the convenience that they provide. No more struggle or strain to ascend or descend steps or stairs in the home. This extends to stairs outside, such as on a porch, deck, or pool. There are lifts that are viable for practically any situation; talk to a qualified mobility aid retail professional to learn more.  

Furthermore, when you buy from reputable retailers like Pacific Mobility you will have service after the sale, too. It is convenient to be able to contact the seller and get answers to your questions or assistance with your issue. If there is a problem, we will come to you! That kind of support and convenience is something else to be thankful for.  

3. Autonomy 

Let’s talk about autonomy. Independence and the ability to safely navigate the home setting could be the criteria required to stay in one’s own home. Generally, an individual needs to be able to address activities of daily living (ADLs) to remain independent, including tasks like toileting and dressing. Some may have assistance or home health care to assist. Some may use mobility aids and equipment to perform their daily activities.  

Let’s not underestimate the mental impact of autonomy or rather, how a loss of autonomy and independence affects an individual. It can be demeaning and debilitating to lose control over one’s own affairs, choices, and life. Mobility equipment, like stairlifts, can help many remain independent.  

4. Safety 

It is estimated that there are 36 million incidents of falls each year involving older Americans. A fall can be the beginning of the end for many; the injuries sustained can lead to other repercussions and issues that debilitate and deteriorate overall well-being.

Stairlifts can help to reduce the prevalence and risks of a fall. Falls are most common on or near stairs and in the bathroom. Stairlifts can provide a gentle transition from one floor to the next without injury or strain, which can lower your chances of an accident.

Your personal well-being and safety should be the focus and concern when contemplating ways to enhance the home and which mobility equipment makes the most sense. When it comes to safety solutions and strategies, there is a lot to be grateful for and stairlifts are one of them! 

5. Peace of Mind 

With all the benefits that stairlifts offer, how could we not be thankful for these mobility solutions? These aids bring a sense of confidence to the user, too. It can be very liberating for many. For families and loved ones of a senior, mobility aids bring invaluable peace of mind. This comes from knowing that their loved one, senior, or family member is supported and safe when accessing areas of their home.  

If you are someone that is recuperating from an injury or rehabilitating after an operation or medical procedure, stairlifts may be the extra support and stability that you need to recover. The peace of mind that you won’t reinjure yourself attempting to ascend or descend stairs in the home can be something to be thankful for. Plus, they may make for a speedy, at-home convalescence.  

If you have been considering a stairlift, what are you waiting for? Come see the quality stairlifts and mobility products that we have to offer at Pacific Mobility.  Call or visit us today! 

Seniors with epilepsy should know how it impacts mobility, as well as the physical consequences of seizures. Epilepsy changes quality of life, and for many, may cause a loss of autonomy and independence. Mobility aids are one way to reduce the risks of a fall and create a safer environment for those that experience seizures. Also, consider Epilepsy Awareness Month to gain valuable insight, information, and support.  

Did you know that November is Epilepsy Awareness Month? There is a strong connection between epilepsy and mobility, and many living with epilepsy struggle with physical disabilities, mobility limitations, and seizures. Furthermore, antiepileptic drugs (AED) can cause blurred vision, fatigue, and drowsiness, which could lead to accidental injury. Seniors with epilepsy should consider mobility aids and equipment- which may help reduce the risk of a fall.  

Here are a few things that seniors should know about epilepsy and mobility: 

• The mobility issues caused by epilepsy can impact all areas of life, including work, school, relationships, and even the way we act in public. Do not underestimate the challenges, but do not be afraid to tackle them, either.  
• Studies show that those with epilepsy that experience severe and frequent seizures may have a shorter life expectancy on average.  
• Those with frequent and severe seizure activity also are at greater risk of cognitive impairment especially those that had seizures often as a child.   
• An often-invisible symptom of epileptic seizures is the loss of autonomy, including regular activities like driving. Some states will not issue a driver’s license to individuals with epilepsy. There are exceptions but those with severe symptoms, like long auras or frequent seizures, may lose the freedom to drive.  
• There is a link between the frequency of seizures and the chance of experiencing an accident or injury during a seizure. Experts assert that the longer you go without a seizure, the less likely you are to become injured during a seizure episode.  
• Studies show that waiting at least a year after your last seizure before driving a vehicle reduces the risk of a seizure behind the wheel or accident by over 90%.  
• Seizure risks among those with conditions like epilepsy do impede participation in certain activities. For safety’s sake, it is not recommended that people diagnosed with seizure disorders skydive or race cars, where the risks of injury are high. Be cautious when engaging in water sports, like swimming, or boating.  
• Those with epilepsy that experience seizures are encouraged to do physical activity, and activities like team sports or running are suggested. Physical activity is good, but take precautions to keep yourself safe, too.  
• You are more at risk for seizures when you are dehydrated or when you overexert yourself, so work out accordingly.  
• Keep in mind that there are simple and inexpensive mobility aids that can help reduce the risk of a fall for people that experience seizures. Grab bars, for instance, provide a supportive place to grab if you need them. These can be installed easily and are very effective at creating a safer home environment.  
• Since overexertion can lead to seizures, it may benefit some people living with this condition to invest in stairlifts for their home. These can easily and safely transport the user up steps or stairs, lowering the risk of a fall and increasing the autonomy of the user. If you want to find out more about mobility aids, reach out to a mobility aid retail professional in your area.  
• If you tire easily, it makes sense to carry a cane or walking stick for support on uneven or rough terrain. These are not bulky aids so you can carry or transport them with ease for a bit of added stability wherever you go.  
• Some good news is that modern therapy and treatment for epilepsy show significant help for about 80% of those diagnosed. These treatment modalities may also help reduce the frequency of seizures among those with epilepsy, some going years between occurrences. 

Reach out to area agencies during November for National Epilepsy Awareness Month to find out more about resources available to you in your region. During this time, typically there are events, fundraisers, and activities geared toward education, advocacy, and awareness, creating a network of sorts to support those living with epilepsy. There may also be valuable resources available to you that you were unaware of; this is the perfect time to explore these options.  

Are you experiencing a loss of mobility due to epilepsy? Improve accessibility and quality of life with mobility aids and equipment at Pacific Mobility.  From grab bars and walking sticks to stairlifts and ramps, there are a number of ways to create a safer environment for those with epilepsy or other seizure disorders. Talk to one of our qualified mobility professionals to find out more about the best mobility solutions for your distinct home environment; call or visit today.