aging

Some consumers may wonder how to address multiple stairways or steps in the home and whether they should install multiple stairlifts to enhance accessibility. There are alternatives to stairlifts for some of these situations, like portable or permanent ramps, or consumers may opt to install more than one lift, depending on the home environment and configuration.  

When facing mobility challenges or limitations, know that there are quality stairlifts and equipment that can enhance accessibility and overcome these obstacles. This may be particularly relevant for seniors that want to remain in their own homes, to age in place, while still retaining quality of life and accessibility over the home surroundings.  

There are numerous mobility aids and devices that can make life easier and more comfortable, from ramps to scooters, but a stairlift may be the one device that truly increases access and allows the user to age in place. Fall risks surrounding the use of the stairs may be reduced when you professionally install a high-quality stairlift from a reputable vendor. Remember to never allow an unqualified or unlicensed person to install your lift, as it can nullify any warranty and be potentially hazardous to users, too.  

So, the question is, should you install multiple stairlifts in your home? Here is what you need to know first: 

Consider your Budget 

The choice of whether to implement a second, or more stairlifts, may simply come down to your budget, and what you are willing to pay for accessibility. It may be that some parts of the home are not necessary for you to access regularly or you may want to consider if living on a single level makes sense for you and your situation as an alternative solution.  

Configuration is Key 

When contemplating options, it really comes down to the configuration of your living space. How is it laid out? How many levels are there? What about outdoor space and access? These are questions to consider when you weigh the pros and cons of installing multiple stairlifts in the home.  

Some homes may not need a second stairlift for comfort and convenience, while other configurations may have accessibility issues that a second stairlift rectifies.  

Identify the Access Points 

Determine if you can optimize access by installing a stairlift near the main access points of the home, contingent on where the stairs are located. This is also a good approach for outdoor lifts like you would use for a multi-level outdoor living space, for the most accessibility with one lift.  

So, for instance, where do you spend the most time? Which steps or stairs are near the entry or exit to the home? Are you planning to install a lift inside or outside? Identify points of access that you need during your normal routine to find the most pragmatic solution to increasing accessibility, as well as to reveal which options will work best for you.  

Look for Landings 

If your goal is to gain access to multi-levels of the same home, look for landings. It makes sense to install two lifts on the same stairwell as long as there is a landing that allows for it. When your home features two separate stairways of steps with a landing in-between, two stairlifts may be the only viable option for accessibility. Plus, this offers a central location for a lift to access different areas of the environment, such as the kitchen or porch on one level and bedroom or bathroom on another. In fact, there are some home configurations that are most aptly enhanced with two stairlifts. Talk to a reputable and qualified mobility professional to learn more about your distinct options.  

Age in Place 

If you have mobility challenges, install ramps to increase accessibility, while also reducing the risk of a fall. Ramps come in a wide range of styles and sizes, but you also have the choice of a portable ramp. These are cost-effective since you don’t need professional installation, and you can take them with you on the go, as needed! Portable ramps are just another aid to assist those seniors that are aging in place and that wish to remain in their own homes.  

The key to aging in place is autonomy, and stairlifts can contribute to the independence of the user. Lifts, when installed properly, are safe and easy to use, enhancing access to all areas of the home.  

Whether you are thinking about one stairlift or several, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility first. In fact, we have been serving the mobility needs of consumers in Southern California for generations, providing quality mobility aids and equipment widely, and are waiting to help you, too. Let’s talk about whether it makes sense to install more than one stairlift in your home environment; call or visit to learn more about multiple mobility aids in your home today.  

Chronic pain is not uncommon, in fact, around 50 million Americans cope with chronic pain daily. Did you know that chronic pain can impact and compromise mobility? So, what can be done? There are some tips and suggestions that can help lessen and alleviate chronic pain symptoms so that you can improve your quality of overall life. Talk to a healthcare professional to find out more. 

It is estimated that around 50 million Americans live with Chronic pain, often a symptom of an underlying medical condition like diabetes, cancer, or heart disease. Pain awareness month in September brings attention to chronic pain and the preservation of well-being daily. Help raise awareness surrounding chronic pain, pain management, and the droves of pain professionals providing healing comfort to their patients. For chronic pain accompanied with mobility limitations, talk to a qualified mobility aid professional to learn more about mobility aids, today. 

Here are a few tips for those with chronic pain that impacts their mobility: 

Physical Exercise 

Physical activity is key for maintaining muscle and joint flexibility. Furthermore, this can alleviate symptoms and severity of chronic pain, alleviating some of your discomfort. Have you ever heard the expression if you don’t use it, you will lose it? This is best known as Disuse syndrome which is a medical condition that comes from a lack of physical activity overall. Your muscles will shrink and stiffen up! Try low-impact activities like yoga or swimming for instance; the key takeaway is to keep moving to maintain mobility. 

Stress Management 

The next tip for maintaining mobility amid chronic pain conditions is to effectively manage your stress. Stress makes symptoms worse, causing inflammation that typically exacerbates chronic pain. Take time to find ways that lower stress in everyday life, like meditation, prayer, exercise, in talk therapy.  

Some other ways that may lower stress in your life include these suggestions: 

• Brisk walking for 20+ minutes 
• Spending time with pets or animals 
• Art, music, and dance 
• Grounding techniques 
• Deep breathing and progressive relaxation techniques 
• A hot shower or bath 
• A good night’s rest 

Not sure how to manage your chronic pain symptoms? Try tips and ideas to find the ones that work best for you. Talk to your provider or practitioner to learn more. 

Healthy Habits 

Adopt healthy habits that keep you at your best. This includes a diet rich in nutrients that maintain a healthy immune system. This is your best bet for fending off chronic illness and pain. Talk to a dietitian or nutritionist about meal preparations that keep healthy foods and snacks on the ready. Plus, you will have something available with little work when your pain is at its worst. 

Additionally, sleep is imperative to overall health and holistic wellness. How was your sleep routine? Keep a bedroom that is conducive to sleep; that is, reserve this space for rest only. Don’t try to work, watch TV, or eat your meals in your bedroom. Also, if you struggle with a good night’s rest, watch your caffeine intake after 5:00 PM. Experts suggest no snacking after dinner so your digestive system can take a break at bedtime, too. 

Alternative Treatments 

There are some holistic treatment options that may have efficacy when it comes to alleviating chronic pain symptoms. These may also reduce your need for medication, or perhaps the frequency of when you need medication. Some alternative treatments to consider include these: 

• Chiropractic care 
• Massage  
• Hypnotherapy 
• Acupuncture 
• Reiki therapy 
• Electrotherapy 
• Cupping 
• Magnetic therapy  

As always, before embarking on a new or alternative treatment regimen, talk to your doctor or provider first. Make sure that you are not at risk of interaction or side effects from alternative treatments by discussing such protocols with your doctor. 

Solidarity and Support 

It is estimated that around 50 million Americans live with chronic pain symptoms, which could be a sign of a serious underlying health problem. The Centers for Disease Control report numbers that equate to a health crisis when it comes to chronic pain. At times it may help to know that others live with the same symptoms and that support is available. Find solidarity from others with similar experiences and take their suggestions for effective coping strategies. 

Support groups may also offer an outlet and venue to share information and strategies when it comes to pain management. 

Professional Help 

There is no question that chronic pain symptoms can be debilitating, deteriorating quality of life over time. Learning how to manage symptoms is key in coping with chronic pain. Speak with your doctor to determine if chronic pain is a symptom of a serious underlying health problem. Schedule an appointment and assessment with your practitioner.  

Pain does impact mobility. Don’t let a medical condition compromise your quality of life; talk to the professionals about mobility aids from Pacific Mobility, today. 

Aging well can make the difference between asserting your own wishes and aging in place or being stuck with compromises to your quality of life. There are some simple ways to contribute to aging well and one is to adopt mobility aids to help. These need not be expensive and they may reduce the risk of a nasty fall and subsequent loss of mobility.  

Did you know that September is Healthy Aging Month? This is the ideal time to make an assessment and take inventory of your holistic health and well-being. Make small changes and modifications to everyday life that can have a great impact on autonomy and quality of life. One such way to preserve wellness is with mobility aids, but more on that later! 

Aging well basically amounts to getting older without medical issues and limitations that compromise your independence and autonomy. When you lose physical capabilities, it can influence aging in place and remaining in your own home environment over the lifespan.  

Aging Well 

So, how does one go about aging well? There are lots of common-sense tips and tactics out there. Here are a few that may help! 

• Experts tend to agree on this one issue, and that is how exercise reduces the risk of many health problems and conditions. For instance, regular physical activity can lower your risk of heart disease and hypertension, while also helping you to look better and age gracefully. Exercise strengthens bones and keeps muscles more limber, too.  
• Along with exercise comes diet: a healthy diet can also help you age well and keep you free from a wide array of health issues. You can lower heart disease, as well as maintain mental wellness with the right diet. Talk to your doctor about recommending a heart-healthy diet rich in lean meats, fresh veggies, and whole grains.  
• Falls are the number-one health risk facing those over age 60 and a nasty fall can turn life upside-down for an independent senior. Falls exacerbate current conditions and many never recover. Falls are the number one reason why older Americans present at the emergency room and the main precipitant of an inpatient or skilled nursing stay. Preventing falls should be the main priority, including things like decluttering the home, removing fall hazards, and utilizing mobility aids.  
• Stay sharp across the lifespan by engaging in puzzles or games that make you think. Practice activities that engage memory to preserve cognition as you get older. Card games and word puzzles are a couple of suggestions.  
• Always see your provider or doctor routinely. Show up for appointments. Ask questions and stay on top of your healthcare.  

Don’t overlook aches, pains, or problems. They could be signs of an underlying issue. Learn to listen to your body and don’t overdo.  

Aids for Aging Well 

Mobility aids that can help you age well run the gamut from very discreet and inexpensive to major installations in your living situation. Create a safer home environment with some very simple devices and aids.  

Some mobility aids that can help you age well include these: 

• Walkers offer stability and support as you build stamina after an injury or surgery as well as a means of reducing the risk of a fall for those with mobility challenges.  

• Grab bars can be implemented across the home, discreetly and subtly, providing a sturdy grip when using various areas of the home. Some popular spots to install inexpensive grab bars include near sinks, the toilet, at the bottom, and at the top of stairs.  
• Stairlifts can be lifesavers when it comes to aging in place, ensuring accessibility to upper levels of the home for those living there. If your bathroom or bedroom is upstairs, a lift can provide a sense of security in the home environment. Again, lifts help users age well with reduced risk of a fall.  
• Have you ever fallen or stumbled when reaching for something that you could not quite access? Reaching tools look like a claw, with an extendable arm that allows for easier access to out-of-reach items. These are great for getting to items in overhead bins or cupboards, as well as under kitchen cabinets which tend to be deep and tough to tackle.  
• Scooters are another mobility aid that can help you age well and safely. The range of scooters and power chairs is endless these days. There is literally something to suit any and all needs. Scooters provide a means of autonomy for those with mobility issues or limitations. Check out the options online to pinpoint the type of scooter that makes the most sense for you or your loved one.  

Talk to your provider or practitioner to find out if a prescription for mobility aids makes sense and if it is something that may be covered by insurance with a reduced out-of-pocket cost for you.  

Want to age well? Enhance accessibility and autonomy with mobility aids from Pacific Mobility, and call or visit to learn more today! 

When it comes to your stairlift battery, you really have nothing to worry about if you have your equipment regularly maintained and inspected. Typically, the batteries have a limited number of charges and the expected lifespan of a stairlift battery is three to five years, generally.  

As long as you maintain your mobility aids, they should last. This extends to your stairlift. The battery should last around three years or more. There are some things that impact the longevity of a stairlift battery, and it is important to note that these batteries do have a limited number of charges during their lifespan. For this reason, do not switch the device off for weeks on end and have your equipment inspected annually by a mobility aid professional.  

Here are some more things to talk about regarding stairlift batteries: 

Keep It on the Charger 

When you don’t keep the stairlift on its charge point, it significantly shortens the lifespan of the aid. Leave the stairlift on, but when it is off, make sure that it is on its charge point to preserve and maximize the lift’s life and charge. Since most stairlifts are primarily battery-powered, this is important advice.  

Don’t Go It Alone 

Do not try to replace your stairlift’s battery on your own. Always contact the retailer or a qualified technician to prevent damage to your equipment.  

How Long Will It Last? 

As mentioned, your battery should last up to five years with recommended usage, but on average, three years. But how long does a fully charged battery last in the home? You can count on approximately 20 trips up and down the stairway via a lift before the battery will require attention and charging.  

Look for a Light 

Most lifts have a light to indicate when it is time for service or charging. As long as you park your lift on the charge point between rides, you should be good to go. Your mobility aid technician should be able to demonstrate this feature for you at installation.  

Leave It On 

It is proper protocol to leave the lift on regularly. In fact, turning the lift on and off frequently is another practice that will shorten the battery life.  

Have It Serviced Regularly 

Pay heed to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding service and always have your lift inspected by a mobility professional to maintain the warranty, if applicable. Your technician will test and check the charger and assess the life and voltage of your battery. The testing helps to identify when the battery requires replacement, too.  

Know When It’s Low 

There are some distinct signs that will point to a low battery. A low battery is something that can cause the lift to malfunction and leave you in a lurch. Remember that there are no alarms or flashing signals to let you know when the battery is running low, so keep aware of the signs that there is an issue.  

Some things to watch out for include these: 

• Typically, a low battery could be the reason for the stairlift to slow down. This may be just slightly slower than its normal speed, but as it becomes less charged, it will continue to slow.  
• Another sign of a low-charged battery is sudden stops and halts in operation. Your lift may start okay, but then cease to move after a short distance or a few stairs. Sometimes the lift will start back up on its own.  
• Another indication that the battery is very, very low is when it simply will not charge when connected to its normal parked charging point. This merits a call to a stairlift technician and likely will require a replacement battery to resume proper operation.  

These signs are pointing toward the need to contact your mobility aid technician and likely are going to require the purchase of a new battery for your stairlift. As mentioned, never try to replace the battery on your own. It can be complicated and could potentially cause damage to the lift if done improperly.  

Prepare for a Power Outage 

Ever wondered what happens to your lift if and when the power goes out? Since stairlifts are usually battery operated with electric charging points, it probably means that your lift won’t charge during the outage. This could be a problem for prolonged periods of service interruption if you have not been charging your stairlift between uses properly. Talk to your mobility aid retail professional to learn more or for more information about purchasing a stairlift.  

Got questions about your stairlift battery? Always refer to the owner’s manual and manufacturer’s recommendations for use. Call or visit Pacific Mobility, to learn more about high-quality mobility aids to improve access, autonomy, and quality of life for you or someone that you care about.  

Sometimes the smallest of aids and devices can make the biggest difference in everyday life. There are some select and small mobility aids that can have a big impact on autonomy, safety, and quality of life. Consider these to enhance overall convenience in any home or living situation. 

When you think of mobility aids, do not just think of things like stairlifts and scooters. Sure, you can install a lift to make access easier for anyone who has physical limitations, but there are also small, simple modifications that can be made to the home, too. These may seem like modest changes, but they may in fact have the greatest impact on convenience, comfort, safety, and quality of life.  

Consider these small mobility aids that have a big impact on everyday living: 

Grab Bar 

The first and probably the smallest mobility aid to consider is a simple grab bar. These belong in every bathroom, but especially in the bathrooms of anyone with a mobility issue, physical limitation, or who is over age 60. These are easy enough to install with a drill or screwdriver, and they offer stability that may help to reduce the risk of a nasty fall. These are also precautionary when placed near the top and bottom of stairways, too.  

A slightly bigger grab bar could be the SuperPole™ System, which is a highly regarded and award-winning modular support system designed to assist with standing, transferring, or moving around in bed. Talk to a mobility aid retail professional to learn more!  

Bedside Commode 

If you have mobility issues or challenges, a bedside commode can be a great resource. These are particularly useful if you are recuperating from illness, injury, or a medical procedure that makes getting up to use the toilet difficult. These are inexpensive and can be picked by visiting a mobility retailer to see what you buy could be a more pragmatic approach.  

These commodes are streamlined and don’t take up a lot of space, so they are easily stowed in a closet when not in use. They can double as a shower seat for support when bathing, too! More on those next!  

Shower Seat 

Experts report that the bathroom is indeed the most dangerous room in the home for a senior. The surfaces tend to be slick, slippery, or wet so there is an increased risk of a fall. One solution to bathroom accidents and subsequent injuries may be a shower seat. Sometimes called a shower chair or transfer bench, these seats provide a stable and supportive spot to sit while bathing or performing grooming tasks.  

These can be used by independent bathers or they can be a great support for a caregiver that helps with ADLs. These shower chairs increase safety in and out of the tub plus, they don’t take up much room so you can still shower without obstacle. The affordability of these makes them a prudent measure toward a safer home environment for anyone.  

Bed Rail 

A bed rail makes a lot of sense for a wide range of people and they don’t cost a lot to implement. A bed rail usually has a comfy, foam-covered grip that lends support when getting in or out of bed. You use these for stability when standing or changing position in bed. They are simple to install, require no special equipment or tools, and are inexpensive to buy.  

Find these aids at mobility vendors, but also online. The rail secures between your box spring and mattress yet allows for access around the bed and convenience when getting around. The rail cover contains no latex, so it won’t trigger allergies or sensitivities either. These aids are discreet and sleek, so they won’t look out of place in your bedroom themes, schemes, or décor.  

Reaching Tool 

Finally, look for reaching tools that you can use to access out-of-reach items. These are particularly useful in a kitchen, by anyone, and reduce the stress, strain, and hazards of trying to reach, grab, or pull on something that you simply cannot get to.  

These typically have grippers or suction cups on the end, and are operated by squeezing the handle, much like you would a squirt bottle. These can save you the hyperextension of limbs when trying to get in kitchen cabinets, under a cupboard, or reaching for something up high. These also make an excellent gift idea that many can use. They are affordable and widely found, with or without a doctor’s prescription.  

Not all mobility aids and modifications must be major. There are small changes, too, that can make a world of difference. Don’t wait to implement mobility aids or equipment that can enhance safety, convenience, and even quality of life in your home. Call or visit Pacific Mobility, mobility professionals in the Bay Area, to learn more!  

 Sure, there are alternatives to installing a stairlift for enhanced accessibility and ease in the home. In fact, other options may make more sense in the distinctive environment or could be more feasible due to other situational factors. Do you rent? Maybe a stairlift isn’t for you but there are other mobility aids with great promise and potential! 

There are a lot of considerations when contemplating a stairlift in your home environment. For example, do you rent or own? Are there children or pets in the living situation? How big is your home? Stairlifts are versatile and can be found and adapted to fit most homes and dwellings, but there are some scenarios that might be better served with a different mobility aid and approach.  

There are alternatives to stairlifts in the home to enhance accessibility and autonomy; here is what you should know: 

Evaluate your Needs 

The first thing that you should do is evaluate your needs. This involves a realistic view of your home surroundings and your own capabilities. Does a stairlift make the most sense? Are there others in the homes with health conditions to consider? Only you can accurately assess your situation and evaluate your needs before proceeding.  

Ask yourself the following: 

• Is the home safe? Do you feel safe here? 
• Do you have assistance or anyone to help, if needed, in the current living situation? 
• Are there obstacles in the home to ADLs, or activities of daily living? 
• Does the home need repair, and if so, what are they? 
• Where is the bathroom/bathrooms located in the home? 
• Do you want to stay in the home? 
• Does it make sense to stay in the home? 
• Can you afford to stay in this living situation? 
• What and where are your supports, like family or providers? 
• What would make life easier for you, in this home or other living environment? 

Instead of being laser-focused on the here and now, it can be beneficial to consider future needs, too. You know ‘you’ best. 

Change your Surroundings 

Do you rent or own your home? Would it be prudent to consider a move at this time? While the rental market can be tricky to navigate right now, there are advocates and resources in-place for those with disabilities. If a change in living environment is a viable option, you may not need the assistance of a stairlift. Again, it comes down to evaluating what you need to preserve, ensure, and optimize your own quality of life.  

Adapt to One-Level 

Are your limitations temporary? Those recovering from surgery or recuperating from injuries may not need the support or aid of a stairlift over time. This makes renting a stairlift a viable option. Another choice that only you can make for yourself is to resort to one level living, either for the time being or for the long-term.  

This is also a possible way to curb the costs associated with maintaining a home but that is a topic for another day! Depending on the configuration of your home, there are basic modifications that can make this simple and convenient for those living there. Mobility aids and adaptive devices may be pragmatic when making the switch to an autonomous, one-level lifestyle.  

Consider Other Approaches 

Still, not everyone is interested in a stairlift for one reason or another. That is fine and fortunately, there are other solutions and approaches available to make life easier and more accessible.  

Consider these tips:  

• Portable ramps are affordable and easy to maneuver. They can level out a steep thresh-hold in the home, and they can make steps or risers easier to ascend or descend. They are less permanent fixtures that can be taken along in your vehicle for access on the road, too.  
• Don’t underestimate the merits of grab bars throughout the home. A bit of sturdy support during ADLs can reduce the risk of a fall. Consider installing these near the sinks, toilet, foot and top of stairs, and anywhere that could be a fall risk.  
• Have you considered a move? Depending on the nature of your limitations, assisted living or skilled nursing care could aid in rehabilitation or recovery, as needed. It may be that the current living situation simply doesn’t suit your needs any longer and you may want to consider other options.  
• Is it possible to enlist the help of a paid caregiver or home health aide? These individuals can perform simple tasks, run errands, or aid with a number of things, from preparing food to administering medications. In-home care providers often contribute to seniors staying in their own homes to age in place.  

Are there effective alternatives to a stairlift for enhanced accessibility in the home? You bet there are and we can’t wait to discuss them further with you! Call or visit to learn more about quality mobility aids from Pacific Mobility today!