aging

It is simply a fact of life that socialization impacts overall health and wellbeing; that is, staying social and interacting with others across the lifespan is healthy and vital in maintaining quality of life as you age. Those that are homebound or that live with physical limitations may find it easier to isolate and withdraw- foster socialization and engagement with some tips for maintaining social wellness when it is difficult to leave the home environment.

Do you get out and about regularly? For many homebound individuals, social wellness and engagement are tough to find and difficult to pursue. Particularly for those just venturing out post-pandemic, it can be a scary prospect to leave the house. Prolonged social distancing is leaving many feeling depressed, lonely, and worried about their wellbeing. Garner peace of mind with mobility equipment that can make getting out of the house viable, safe, and possible for those that have previously been stuck inside.  

Eating Out

Start getting out more with a simple meal at your favorite restaurant or with friends. Call ahead to ensure the venue is accessible, and whether you may need to bring your portable ramp to get in the front door. With the Americans with Disabilities Act, restaurants and establishments are adhering to federal guidelines that make public places handicap accessible to all customers.

If you are going to a friend’s, bring a reacher or cane to offer support in less familiar surroundings. That is, a cane or walking stick can help stabilize you on rough terrain or uneven ground, and a reaching tool can make it possible to help out in the kitchen without putting yourself at fall risk trying to access out-of-reach items.

In the Garden

Even if you are not planning a garden party, getting out in the sunshine to enjoy your flowers is something that you may enjoy sharing with a neighbor or loved one. Those with physical disabilities may find it hard to access their outdoor spaces and gardens, without mobility aids. The ground may be off-kilter or uneven and the grass could be slick; make sure that you have something along that provides support and stability for your outing. Outfit your own exteriors with grab-bars and railings so that you always have firm support when outside your home. A portable ramp makes a cost-effective alternative to a permanent ramp and may offer the right amount of access for anyone visiting you as well.

Out and About

If you use mobility equipment, you likely know that it can impede jumping in your vehicle and going out and about. You may require a driver these days- or at least help to stow your mobility devices before getting in or out of the vehicle. A vehicle lift is an excellent option for your personal vehicle that you drive primarily. These provide assistance in stashing your chair, scooter, or walker so that you can easily get behind the wheel. Being able to get where you want to go is a huge part of socialization and reclaiming your own independence. After the pandemic, a nice, long drive could be quite therapeutic for you. There is nothing quite like being on the open road!

Friends Over

Maybe you just want to start small with a few friends over following the uncertainty and chaos of the pandemic. Make this more feasible with a few simple suggestions and aids to make socialization comfortable and safe:

• Adhere to any social distancing guidelines that are in place for your region. In some areas, citizens are encouraged to gather outside or to limit the number of guests in the home.
• Remove clutter or anything on the floor that could pose a fall risk to you or your guests. You don’t want anyone experiencing an injury during your first post-pandemic party!
• Make the meal easy on yourself; order out or host a potluck. This curbs the time and labor that you will need to put in, and it also keeps guests out of the kitchen trying to help out and cook. While this is a kind offer, it can create a chaotic and crowded scenario that may add to access issues.

When inviting company over, provide a portable ramp for use by your friends that may benefit from it. Even those that do not use mobility aids or devices may appreciate the much lower impact of walking up the ramp rather than ascending a flight of stairs or risers. Contemporary portable ramps offer smooth access to both indoor and outdoor areas of the home- but can then be picked up and moved as desired.

July is officially Social Wellness Month and this year’s theme is ‘taking back your health and wellbeing. This echoes the importance of engaging with others to build a supportive network that can reach out and fill in gaps as needed. Everyone needs social support from time to time- make sure that your social needs are met to maintain your best quality of life, for as long as possible.

Want to learn more about mobility solutions to maintain your social wellness? Talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility. They offer high-quality equipment, complete installation service, and customer support to all their customers; call or visit for a comprehensive needs assessment today.

There is no time like July 4^th to assert and achieve a measure of autonomy and independence- particularly if you live with disabilities or mobility issues. After all, autonomy is a vital part of aging in place and making decisions that impact your life and the way that you live. Increase your independence with devices and equipment that improve accessibility in and around your home.

Celebrate Independence Day by doing something that increases your own freedom and overcomes hurdles. Consider making the choice to utilize mobility equipment, like lifts, ramps, and chairs, that can make your environment more accessible, convenient, and easy to navigate. What better way to assert your own autonomy this July 4^th? Enjoy the comfort and convenience that these aids offer.

Consider these tips to achieve a measure of autonomy and independence this summer:

Sample Some Mobility Solutions

Create your own sense of independence with the high-quality mobility equipment that can make your home, yard, and vehicle a lot simpler and more accessible. Does your home have a second level? Do you struggle with ascending the stairs? Stairlifts can help; in fact, there are numerous devices, aids, and gadgets that increase independence for users in a wide variety of ways, whether it be getting you in and out of the shower safely or assisting you in driving your vehicle out and about. The possibilities are endless. Make your life easier so that you can be more independent without worry or strain. Here are some mobility solutions that may work for you:

Stairlifts

A stairlift may seem like a big step- pardon the pun- and it is, however, it also is an effective way at creating a safer home environment with less risk of a fall. Some individuals have abandoned access to the upstairs of their home- why? Enjoy the convenience of a stairlift to transport you upstairs, around curves, and up risers to your bedroom, bathroom, or other areas of the home that may be up a level. Furthermore, stairlifts can be installed outside, too, so your porch, patio, or favorite outdoor living space is accessible to you.

Pool lifts

Do you have a swimming pool? Some individuals with physical limitations may struggle to get in and out of their pool, which can impact how frequently they choose to swim and enjoy their amenities. Especially for those consumers that live in Southern California, a pool is something that you should be able to use and enjoy; a pool lift makes it smooth and seamless to get in and out of the water.

Car and Vehicle lifts

Individuals with physical disabilities that impact getting in and out of their vehicle may miss driving. A vehicle lift can help those with mobility aids, like chairs, stow their equipment and safely get behind the wheel. A mobility issue may impact your ability to drive, which in turn, compromises your overall autonomy and freedom. A vehicle lift may preserve your independence and let you enjoy driving once again.

Ramps

If you are thinking about a ramp, consider one of the new portable ramps. These fold for easy transport and storage, so you are never caught without a way to gain access to where you want to go. Also, these ramps are a cost-effective alternative to building a more permanent structure. These work for chairs and scooters, but also help with a low-impact, low-rise entry to your home, porch, or other areas of your property.

Turn to Technology

Technology makes it easier to be independent and it continues to build on and develop solutions for those that live with disabilities or limitations. Stay connected and keep on top of the latest developments in technology that are geared toward making life easier for individuals with mobility issues.

Accept Offers

When someone with a disability is trying to live autonomously, they may get a lot of offers of help or assistance- accept them. Let others do things that make your life more accessible, and therefore, more autonomous. When you are able to complete your activities of daily living, like preparing meals or bathing, you are more likely to age in place and live life on your own terms. If part of this independence is allowing someone else to participate and share in your life, let them. Enjoy the kindness of others whenever possible!

Stay Social

Some individuals may isolate or withdraw due to physical limitations that impact their comfort in socializing. Socialization is an integral part of the healthy aging process; studies indicate that those who interact regularly with others experience higher life quality and overall life satisfaction. Mobility aids are one way to foster social venues and engagements.

You are Not Alone

It may also help give you a boost to know that nearly one-in-five seniors over the age of 65 live with some type of disability. In this country, that equates to around 18 million people; you are not alone. This also reinforces the point that quality mobility solutions are widely used and needed- don’t you deserve this very same advantage in your own home? Call or visit a mobility professional to learn more.

Do you yearn to be more independent? Make your home a more accessible and convenient place with these suggestions- and assert your own autonomy with quality equipment and mobility aids from Pacific Mobility in the Bay Area today. 

Are you on the fence about whether a stairlift is right for you and your home? Buying mobility aids and equipment like stairlifts is a big decision that requires some thought; will a stairlift provide the accessibility that you need to improve everyday life? You do have options when it comes to mobility solutions, like stairlifts; consider these when making your own personal choices.

Could mobility aids and devices make your life easier? Stairlifts are the perfect solution for those that live on two levels- that is, especially when you have a bath or bedroom on a separate level that you want to maintain access to. Furthermore, there are outdoor styles of lifts that can make it possible to visit your porch, patio, pool, and other outdoor areas that may have been off-limits previously due to physical limitations or mobility issues. Before you jump into anything, consider all your potential options and alternatives to make an informed decision that you will be satisfied with later on.

Not sure if a Stairlift is the right solution for you? Consider these options:

Quality Equipment

First and foremost, you only want to buy quality equipment that is made in the US and that is serviced by a qualified mobility retailer. Look for brand names like Bruno, that instill trust and reliability in the consumer. These brand names will be easier to service, repair, or find parts for- if needed- and have a record for high performance and customer satisfaction widely. Shop around and see what other customers say about Bruno or other distinct brands in mobility equipment.

Professional Installation

You only want to buy equipment like stairlifts from those that offer professional installation of the device. Did you know that allowing someone other than an authorized technician to install equipment can nullify the warranty? Be wary of ever allowing anyone to make repairs, augments, or changes to your stairlift, or other mobility devices. It is simply too risky.

Leases and Rentals

If you are unsure how you will adapt to a stairlift, or if you only need one for the short term due to an injury, surgery, or rehabilitative purposes, you may want to consider a rental. Rent or lease your mobility equipment from a reputable vendor that will install, uninstall, and remove equipment for you, when possible. This is also a good way to determine how a stairlift can improve accessibility and whether it is the right solution for you. Talk to the team to learn more.

Product Warranties and Guarantees

When weighing out your options, remember that it can pay to have a warranty or some type of guarantee from the seller that you will be happy with the equipment. There are different types of warranties available, so speak with your distinct retailer to discuss terms that will work for you. However, you may want to reconsider buying anything that doesn’t offer some sort of warranty against damage.

Second-Hand Devices

An alternative that you- as a buyer- have is to purchase second-hand devices and aids. Be wary of buying equipment from private sellers that don’t guarantee your satisfaction or that are selling something as-is. Reputable mobility dealers often offer second-hand or gently used equipment that has been turned in by other consumers that are upgrading their devices. In these instances, you may have more of a guarantee behind the equipment to ensure your satisfaction, as well as someone who will service and support you after the sale.

Service and Support

So, speaking of service and support, when it comes to something like a stairlift, you want to have a reliable resource available to come and address the situation if something goes wrong. How will you know how to use the device? The seller should offer to come and install and then demonstrate the device for the buyer; also, this makes it easy if and when you need repairs. Typically, vendors offer annual inspections of equipment to tease out any problems and maintain the device to keep the warranty active. Speak with your mobility dealer to see if this is their protocol, as well.

Other Equipment

Certainly, you have a lot of other options when it comes to mobility equipment that goes far beyond stairlifts. Sometimes simple solutions like grab bars and shower seats can make a significant difference in everyday life- without the need for anything more. The best way to determine your needs and the best options are to visit a mobility professional and see what they have to offer. This may be in-person, on-site, or online; the choice is yours!

When considering your mobility options, call on the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility; they have years in the field and possess the inside scoop on quality brand mobility equipment and devices. For solid service after the sale in the Bay Area, you cannot go wrong with Pacific Mobility. Call or visit today!

Got summer travel plans? Make the time away much more enjoyable with some simple solutions to enhance accessibility, increase convenience, and offer comfort when away from home. Nobody wants to deal with a situation where they are not being accommodated; bring what you need to make your vacation relaxing and restorative- without hassle and headache.

Going away? It is safe to say that if you live with a mobility issue or physical limitation, you may run into some sort of situation or challenge that makes you rethink how you travel. It might be that there are stairs where you did not expect or the bathroom is not big enough for your much-needed mobility aids; avoid these scenarios and focus on your trip. Bring a few items from home that can truly make all the difference.

Try some solutions that can make your summer travel so much more enjoyable:

Don’t Shirk on Planning

The most important thing that you can do to improve how your trip goes is to plan, plan, plan. Call ahead- never assume- and make sure that you will have the things that you need. It can help to comprise a list of things that are important to you, such as handicap accessibility, in-room refrigerator, and distinct amenities. Find out where your room will be or how people navigate the town or city that you are visiting. If transportation around might be problematic, call your hotel for recommendations. While the unexpected can still happen, preplanning takes a lot of the worry out of visiting an unfamiliar place.

Take Time to Find the Right Place to Go

Speaking of your accommodations, take time and make the effort to find the right place to stay. This will be a place that is accessible and convenient- as well as safe for you to visit and stay. Consider that you will be spending the majority of time away in your room or lodging- sleeping, lounging, eating- so make sure it meets your distinct preferences and needs. If it does not, keep looking. That is the beauty of preplanning; you allow yourself the time to find this out before leaving home.

Invest and Carry a Portable Ramp

Depending on the nature of your mobility issue, you can’t go wrong when you invest in a portable ramp. Even if you don’t use a chair or scooter, a ramp has great potential to improve accessibility and keep you safer. Portable ramps are an insurance policy- kind of like tire chains are for a pickup truck- and having one in your vehicle when traveling ensures you won’t ever take a tumble trying to get up steps or navigate difficult terrain.

Confirm it is Pet Friendly

Are you planning to bring a service or support animal? Call ahead to make sure your hotel or host will accommodate your pet. While you are legally permitted to bring a licensed service dog into most public places, there is a lot of gray area surrounding other support animals, like therapy pets. Either way, ask about provisions for your pet including a place to walk and nearby supplies to keep you covered throughout your stay.

Install a Vehicle Lift

If this is a big trip or journey, you may want to make the leap and install a vehicle lift in your car or truck. These typically make it possible to stow your mobility aids securely and get behind the wheel of your vehicle. If you are planning on making the trip solo or if you plan on driving during the trip, a vehicle lift can make a momentous difference. Talk to a mobility professional to learn more.

Consider the Creature Comforts

Wherever you go, bring along the creature comforts that you enjoy. Some people need a fan for circulating the air but also to provide a white noise that drowns out any traffic din or sounds that could keep them awake. Others use sound machines for white noise and enjoy listening to the sound of rain, the ocean, or a wide range of other olfactory sensations. These simple comforts will help you relax and sleep well, which is integral for a pleasant travel experience.

Bring your Own Pillow

Are you one of those people that can’t sleep with anything buy your favorite pillow? Then, you better bring it on your trip. If you use a therapeutic wedge pillow, bring that to ensure you are able to elevate and incline when laying down in an unfamiliar bed. You certainly don’t want to risk a stiff neck or sore back due to poor sleep during your time away; bring your favorite pillows and sleep like a baby.

Got summer travel plans? Make the time easier and far more enjoyable with these simple solutions. While it is always nice to get away, bring along some comforts of home that also help with accessibility and autonomy. For other mobility aids and solutions, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; they offer quality equipment with top-notch service and support widely.

Help protect those that care for and help your loved ones. Caregivers are at risk of injury every time they support, assist, or transport someone with physical disabilities or mobility issues. There are ways to curb accidents and reduce risks- including mobility aids that support and stabilize the patient and the caregiver. Talk to mobility professionals to find out more about equipment and devices that can protect your caregiver from a potentially debilitating injury.

You may not realize it, but mobility aids are intended to protect caregivers just as they are intended to assist the individual using them. That is, mobility devices like stairlifts and shower seats can protect those supporting someone with a disability or mobility issue- with fewer accidents and injuries. It is estimated that over 34 million people provide unpaid or informal care to someone else, such as a relative or neighbor; it would be very easy for these helpers to sustain an injury during support, transport, or ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) since they have not been formally trained or taught in most cases. Furthermore, those that are injured on duty or when providing free care to others could risk their own livelihood, health, and security.

Do you provide care to someone- or, do you have a caregiver? Take a closer look at some aids that can help to protect these providers from injuries:

Freestanding Lift

Caregivers that help individuals get in and out of bed, shower, eat, and other Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) put themselves at risk for getting hurt. The stress and pressure of lifting and transporting someone with physical disabilities and limitations are great, one wrong move and both people could be seriously injured.

A Freestanding lift looks like a sling hanging from a wheeled base that can be moved around with ease. The sling has controls to be lowered and lifted, thus reducing the strain and stress on the caregiver. Common caregiver injuries include back issues and chronic pain; a freestanding lift can help prevent this from happening.

Shower Seat

Giving someone else a shower or bath is not always an easy task; furthermore, it is made more challenging with the slick surfaces and increased fall risk in an inherently wet environment. A shower seat provides a secure and stable place for the individual to sit while the caregiver is able to swiftly assist with less worry. These seats also make getting in and out of walled tubs and showers with high thresholds without needing to raise their legs high- which may be difficult or painful for those with mobility issues. The user can turn and sit on the seat, allowing the caregiver to lift their legs and turn them around into the stall. These seats are vital to many.

Grab Bar

Simple solutions make sense, and a grab bar near spots that one could potentially lose their balance is practical and prudent. Install grab bars near sinks, stairways, doors, and the toilet- all areas where the individual could find themselves needing a bit of support and stability. Grab bars prevent the caregiver from needing to break a fall or catch a client when they lose their balance; these are amazing aids that are really so simple!

Portable Ramp

Sometimes the biggest challenges for those with physical limitations are outside their door when they are not expecting it. For example, imagine taking a loved one to an appointment; when you arrive, you must ascend three steps to reach the door to the building. Someone with leg pain, joint issues, or neuropathy may have difficulty with access. As a caregiver, you might try to help the individual climb the steps- after all, it is only a couple- but this could be setting the stage for an issue, incident, or injury.

Portable ramps present an option that is ready when you need it. These can be easily installed anywhere that you go and that has difficult access, such as steps or steep thresholds and door jambs. These ramps fold up and fit in the trunk of a regular size car, so they are always with you as needed. A portable ramp is an excellent aid that could potentially prevent a caregiver injury one day.

Adaptive Aids & Items

There are so many more adaptive aids and assistive devices! Visiting a mobility retail store or site can shed some light on the latest and greatest mobility aids to prevent potential injury. Many times, these items could be covered by insurance plans- talk to a mobility expert to find out more.

Learn more about protecting caregivers from potential injury with quality aids and equipment from Pacific Mobility; from stairlifts to shower seats, these simple solutions can be life-changing for both the user and those that provide regular care of assistance. Find out more about your options by speaking with the professionals at Pacific Mobility today!

Thinking of downsizing to allow for aging in place and preserve autonomy? Consider the many advantages of mobility aids, like a stairlift, in lieu or instead of an actual move. Moving can wreak havoc on everyday living and cause lots of undue stress; a stairlift may permit you to remain in your own home with less worry of a fall and greater accessibility. If you have been looking for ways to make home an easier and safer place to be, consider a stairlift instead of a move.

Sometimes a home can be a lot to maintain, especially if you live with physical disabilities or mobility limitations. Instead of facing the stress, expense, and uncertainty of a move, have you thought about mobility aids instead? Equipment, like stairlifts from brand names that you trust, can increase autonomy, improve safety, and preserve independence.

Thinking about downsizing? Consider a Stairlift Instead of a Move:

Cost

First and foremost, getting a stairlift is going to be much less costly than moving. While moving to a one-level home if you have mobility issues might seem like the only solution, it is only one option; consider the alternative of getting a stairlift and making your current dwelling more convenient and accessible instead.  If money is a contributing factor in your decision, know that stairlifts and aids are, in fact, cheaper than moving in most instances. It is that simple.

If stairlifts still seem out of reach financially or if your insurance fails to cover the costs, there are alternatives. Speak with a mobility aid professional to learn about options that include renting equipment or gently-used, pre-owned devices.

Convenience

Speaking of convenience, your stairlift will bring ease to everyday life. First, it will once again be feasible to go to the upper levels of the home or enjoy outdoor spaces. Yes, stairlifts can also be installed for the exterior areas of the home. Plus, moving is a lot of work. You may not have the space for all your belongings and sentimental items that you have accumulated in your current place. Staying put is a more convenient option made even better by the new ease that your new stairlift will bring to your home!  

Comfort

It really all comes down to your comfort and peace of mind. Moving and disrupting your familiar routine can cause emotional discomfort, even pain. It is stressful, exhausting, and sometimes sad. Stay in the comfort of your own home with the help of mobility aids, like a lift. It is much easier to have one installed and serviced than you may think and it will soon become a fixture that you use without a second thought. Your service technician will stay and demonstrate safe usage, answering any and all questions you may have.

Cooperation

A stairlift is the perfect cooperative arrangement between the user and their loved ones. Some family members may be worried and think that a change in the home environment is warranted; a stairlift makes the home safer and more accessible, while still allowing you to live life on your own terms. Mobility equipment is a great way to preserve independence in an effort to age in place, at your own home.

Coordination

You have a daily routine and you don’t want to disrupt that. Who wants to adjust to new providers, new surroundings, and a new schedule? Staying in your current home ensures you won’t have to do this and that you can continue to coordinate with your familiar resources and supports.

Community

It can be tough to leave a home that you have become accustomed to and where you may have developed a sense of community. Perhaps you have beloved friends or neighbors nearby- or maybe your caregivers are close. Preserve this sense of communal spirit by staying in your home as long as your health permits. A stairlift may extend the time that you remain at home and age in place, according to your own needs and wishes.

Caregivers

When you choose to implement mobility aids in the home instead of moving, you won’t need to find new caregivers or providers to help. You will stay near familiar resources that you have become comfortable with. Also, mobility aids like lifts help to protect your caregiver from an accidental injury during ADLs and transport.

Conservation

Conserve your energy! Use it for the tasks and activities that you love, not a move! Moving is exhausting, even with help, both physically and emotionally. Give yourself a break and stay home.

Instead of moving, consider aids that assist in autonomy such as stairlifts. Visit the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility; they offer a free assessment of needs and the latest in quality brand mobility devices, including stairlifts by Bruno. Contact the team today to learn more.

Summer is a time of festive get-togethers and gatherings, particularly as it gets close to Independence Day here in the US. Part of conventional celebration during the July 4th holiday is often fireworks. Fireworks can present serious problems for people and pets and, in some cases, can be quite dangerous. Consider others when planning your fireworks this holiday season.

Do you celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks? You are not alone; fireworks bring in over a billion dollars each year in the US during fireworks season, which is typically the days around Independence Day. While there is nothing wrong with showing patriotism and celebrating the holiday, there are a few things that you may not have considered about fireworks- and how it impacts your neighbors, friends, and family.

If you really want to celebrate the season, think of how you may improve life for the better with mobility aids this summer- for yourself or someone you care about. From grab-bars and shower seats to stairlifts and ramps, these devices can increase convenience and improve life in so many ways.  

Before you celebrate Independence Day this summer, consider these five things about fireworks, first:

1. Fireworks are Dangerous

It probably comes as no surprise to hear that fireworks can be dangerous.  It is estimated that there are nearly 200 visits to emergency rooms in this country each day during the time preceding and following this holiday. Some of the most common injuries sustained include eye trauma and serious burns.

Additionally, fireworks are blamed for nearly 20,000 fires a year as well as over $100 million in property damage. Do you want to put your home or property at risk? If you still don’t believe that fireworks are dangerous, you should know that more fires are reported and responded to on July 4th than any other day of the year in the US.

2. Fireworks Trigger Trauma

Fireworks can be absolutely terrifying for pets, triggering many to run and flee. In fact, the sound can hurt the ears of dogs and babies. For anyone with sensory challenges, hearing issues, or a history of trauma, the sound of fireworks can be unbearable.  Please- be kind and consider that not everyone is a fan of loud fireworks.

3. Fireworks are not Eco-Friendly

Fireworks are not good for the environment. Modern fireworks contain charcoal, sulfur, and Perchlorates – the latter can pollute the air and cause issues with the thyroid gland. Furthermore, the residual Perchlorates left behind after the combustion can cause chemical or allergic sensitivities including breathing issues and lung irritation. The more colors and drama in the fireworks display, the more Perchlorates are being used; therefore, these cause more pollution and more harm.

4. Most Fireworks are not Legal

Plan on fines and possible problems if you buy illegal fireworks… Surprisingly, very few types of fireworks are legal. In California, most aerial explosives are prohibited by law. In fact, many kinds of sparklers are also illegal in this state. Make sure that you research your region to make sure you are not breaking the law and risking repercussions with illegal fireworks.  

5. Old Fireworks Cause Problems

Never use damaged or old fireworks that have not been stored properly. Always check and inspect your fireworks before you decide to use them- if they are damp or appear compromised, douse with water and dispose of them. If the fuse has been damaged or dislodged, do not use them! Visible damage or issues make them dangerous; many cities have fire stations that will help consumers dispose of fireworks if you want assistance.

Practice Fireworks Safety

Okay, so if you cannot consider celebrating the 4th without pyrotechnics and fireworks, use these tips to keep everyone safe:

• Never allow young children to handle or play with fireworks. Supervise with sparklers, as these can reach around 2,000-degrees Fahrenheit.
• Never get in the path of a firework when lighting the fuse; back away as soon as you have lit the firework.
• Never pick up or attempt to relight a firework that does not fully ignite.
• Never point fireworks at anyone; do not throw fireworks at anybody.
• Keep water or an operational hose nearby in the event of a fire.
• Always be slow and careful when handling and lighting fireworks.
• Do not carry fireworks in a pocket.
• Do not set off fireworks in any kind of metal or glass vessel.
• Do not buy fireworks that are not packaged and labeled for sale. Buying fireworks that are in bags or brown paper could be dangerous.
• After the fireworks have combusted and burned, fully saturate with water before you dispose of them.
• Do not immediately approach a lit firework that fails to work. Wait at least 15 minutes before dousing with water and discarding. complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding properly.

Fireworks Safety Month in June is the perfect opportunity to learn more about using fireworks safely. This month is set aside to teach and inform safe ways to handle and enjoy the season, without causing harm to anyone else.

Celebrate the 4th of July but consider doing it without fireworks this year. Think about how it impacts those around you- as well as possible repercussions on the environment. However, if you are going to participate in fireworks, use the provided tips and tactics to ensure your holiday is happy and safe.  Also, for quality mobility aids and equipment, reach out to Pacific Mobility; make this the year that you enhance accessibility and improve everyday living!

When it comes to mobility aids, buyers have a lot of choices. So, how do consumers assess which will be the best and most suited aid for their distinct needs? The answer to pinpointing the perfect equipment to help with accessibility and mobility lies in a simple checklist and a thorough understanding of your options.

If you live with a mobility issue or limitation, you have a lot of options when it comes to aids and devices to make life easier and more accessible. There are so many choices, in fact, that it may seem daunting to dissect and discover which equipment makes the most sense for your situation, but there are ways to make it easier.

So, how to assess the best mobility aids to suit your needs? Consider this simple checklist:

The Home. The first thing to consider on your checklist is the actual home environment: is it conducive to mobility equipment? Is there room for lifts and ramps? Are the doors wide enough for chairs and scooters? Talking to a reputable and knowledgeable mobility retail professional can be very insightful and often pinpoints the best mobility aids for your home or living situation.

Your Access. The next thing to determine is your level of accessibility. What kind of assistance makes the most sense? Is this an ongoing need, or only occasionally? The layout and configuration of your home also comes into play when evaluating your level of access and assessing the best mobility aids for your needs. Are there stairs in the home- can you climb them? Ask yourself these questions.

Your Budget. What is your budget? Obviously, this is a relevant issue when making the decision to invest in mobility aids. Are you looking to make a bigger purchase of something like a stairlift or is an inexpensive grab-bar what you seek? Budget matters, so talk to your mobility retailer about financing options as well as second-hand alternatives, as well, which may help to curb out-of-pocket costs.

Insurance? Do you have insurance that will help cover the cost of mobility equipment? Our team of mobility professionals can help you get to the bottom of that- while also helping you find equipment that is covered by your insurance policy or policies.

Versatility. Sometimes the best option is something that has some versatility. For instance, a portable ramp- as opposed to a permanent one- has the versatility of being able to be removed and repositioned, as needed, where needed. These can also be very cost-effective strategies to enhancing accessibility while curbing the expense.

The Time Frame. Do you need a mobility aid temporarily- or is this something you want to invest in for the long-run? The time frame for equipment can help tease out if buying or renting suits you best. Not sure at this point in time? In this case, consider all your options before making purchase decisions as there may be a better choice if your needs are short term. Your time frame is key when assessing for the best mobility solution.

Your Caregivers. What is your caregiver’s role in your accessibility? Are these formal supports, hired and paid for, or are they family members and loved ones? Depending on the extent of your needs, caregivers may put their own wellbeing on the line to assist with ADLs (activities of daily living); some mobility equipment keeps caregivers in mind and helps protect them, too. For example, a freestanding lift can be utilized to prevent caregivers from injuring their backs or necks during difficult transfers or lengthy transport. Also, if you have no caregivers that assist you regularly, this is key to assessing needs and finding the right mobility solution for you.

The Installation. How do you plan to set up and install your mobility aids? Is this something that is within your own capabilities? If not, it makes the most sense to buy equipment from a company that will provide full-service support, before and after the sale, to ensure your aids are set up properly and working optimally. In fact, allowing a novice or layman to install your mobility device, such as a stairlift, may render any warranty null and void so make sure to read and understand the terms of your agreement.

Your Prognosis. What is your health prognosis? Are your medical conditions or limitations due to a progressive illness or affliction? This also is relevant to your mobility needs assessment as you may benefit from equipment that offers a broader range of assistance and that can be helpful to you across the span of your condition- and that won’t become obsolete in the near future.

Always buy your mobility equipment from a retailer that cares about your wellbeing and satisfaction with the device. Make sure that you are provided with a needs assessment that helps target the best options for your needs, environment, and budget. Call or visit the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more today.