aging

Falls are a prime reason for loss of mobility, accessibility, and independence- and visual impairment contributes to the risk of such an accident. It is vital for seniors to take care of their eyes throughout the lifespan, but particularly if they suffer from physical limitations. Pairing a mobility issue and inability to see clearly could be a recipe for disaster. Consider this during National AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month this February.

There is no better time than February to make a new commitment to preserving and enhancing your eyesight with AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month. Visual impairment can contribute to falls- which can have deadly consequences for older Americans. The CDC estimates that senior falls cost over $30 billion a year in health care costs; one in three adults, 65 and older falls annually which impacts the autonomy and life quality for at least 20-30% permanently. In many instances, simple mobility aids would have dramatically helped and, perhaps, prevented the fall.

Fall Risks

It may seem like a stretch to find a distinct correlation between vision and the heightened risk of falls, but the truth is that falls among seniors are debilitating and should be prevented at all costs- including by taking care of your sight. Intrinsic factors are causes of falls associated with the individual, like health risks or failing vision. Extrinsic factors are elements of your environment that contribute to the fall, like poor lighting or wet floors.

Intrinsic Issues

So, when it comes to intrinsic factors for a nasty fall, vision-related issues top the list, though the exact impairment may vary. For instance, some older individuals may experience a reduction in depth perception or a poor visual field. These may be brought on by glaucoma or diabetes-related vision problems. Some seniors may have a reduced sense of contrast sensitivity which may make it challenging to know when the sidewalk ends or a curb is present. All these intrinsic, vision-related issues can be the cause of a nasty, even life-altering fall.

Loss of Balance

With age often comes a decrease or loss of balance and subsequently, may result in a fall. Vision helps manage the vestibular system which encompasses the tissue and bone matter of the inner ear. When this area of the ear is disrupted or injured, a loss of balance and equilibrium may result. Since the vestibular system works in tandem with other sensi-motory systems of the body, a fall is practically inevitable. In the case of a loss of balance, see your medical provider pronto.

Age-Related Vision Loss

With age comes a loss of vision for many Americans, due to normal circumstances. However, some deterioration of sight may be related to issues that are not normal parts of the aging process. For example, cataracts are quite common but easily resolved with surgery. Without treatment, cataracts will be life-changing, possibly even blinding.  Since this condition is marked by a cloudiness of the eye lens, falls are not uncommon among those with cataracts.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration, or AMD, anyway? It is a serious eye condition that stems from degeneration of the retina, the part that distinguishes fine details in what you see. Individuals living with AMD have progressively declining or distorting vision that makes it hard to do everyday things, like drive, watch TV, or write. It can impact mobility as sight lessens, individuals with AMD rely on peripheral vision to navigate their way around- which could easily manifest in an injurious fall. AMD develops over time, so regular eye care visits and examinations are critical- particularly if you are over the age of 50. There is no cure for this disease and it will erode your vision making it far more challenging to live your normal life.

National AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month

February is National AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month. Though you may not have heard of this annual event, it is vital to share the value of eye care and maintenance. AMD and low vision lead the way as causes for vision loss in adults, 50 and over. It is estimated that nearly 15 million Americans live with this debilitating condition. Think you are at risk for AMD and Low Vision? Be cognizant of the symptoms and notify your eye care professional if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Wavy or wiggly lines
• Black spots that impede your range of vision
• Difficulty seeing fine details
• Colors are muted and less vibrant

Don’t run the risk of a nasty fall and subsequent loss of your independence; age in place by preserving and maintaining your vision with preventative visits to eye care providers. Could you use some help getting around? Come see the industry experts at Pacific Mobility. Mobility aids like grab-bars and canes can help prevent a fall that can have serious health- and life- repercussions. Don’t compromise your wellbeing; talk to the professionals to learn more today.

Don’t let a disability or limitation impact your efforts to reach goals and live your dreams. Take some inspiration from role models that have overcome obstacle-s including physical disabilities- to gain recognition, success, and fame in the world of sports. Garner motivation from five amazing athletes with disabilities to inspire your own dreams!

Feeling uninspired? Life can be tough, and obstacles may seem insurmountable, but take strength in knowing that you will get through it and can overcome. It can help to hear accounts of others facing difficult odds, including physical limitations and the need for mobility aids, to gather the motivation to get through another day.

Get inspired by the stories of these five amazing athletes that have overcome disabilities:

1. Bethany Hamilton, Surfer

At the young age of 13, nationally ranked surfer Bethany Hamilton lost her arm in a shark attack. Within weeks, she returned to her surfboard. She triumphed to win the Explorer Women’s Division of the NSSA National Championships. Since that time, a feature film was made of her life to great Hollywood acclaim.

2. Jim Abbott, MLB Pitcher

Anyone who follows baseball has likely heard the inspiring story of MLB pitcher Jim Abbott. Abbot was born in Flint, Michigan, in the 60s- without a right hand. He has played for the NY Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, Calgary Cannons, and Chicago White Sox, and he won gold at the ‘88 Summer Olympics. During his major league baseball career, he has had a total of 888 strikeouts. Jim Abbott shows that it may be these disabilities that make you the distinctive- and successful-individual that you are. The records set and accolades earned are a testament to the perseverance of this notable sports figure.

3. Kyle Maynard, MMA Fighter

Kyle Maynard is a mixed martial arts fighter that was born with a rare condition known as congenital amputation, resulting in his birth with no arms below his elbows or legs below his knees. He has strived to live an autonomous life despite his disability, becoming a champion wrestler, gym owner, skilled mountain climber, and record-breaking weightlifter. He travels widely, speaking to groups and organizations, sharing motivation and his ‘no excuses’ ideology. He is a best-selling author after publishing his autobiography also called “No Excuses,” all while supporting a number of humanitarian causes and efforts. Kyle Maynard embraces the message of not letting limitations or disabilities hinder you toward setting and reaching goals- dream big.

4. Melissa Stockwell, Swimmer

Army war veteran Melissa Stockwell returned from Afghanistan with a Purple Heart for bravery and an amputated knee. She lost her leg when serving abroad in 2004 when hit by a roadside bomb during a convoy. She began to swim as part of her rehabilitation at the Walter Reed Hospital, channeling some of her experience as a high school competitive diver. She competed in the 2008 Paralympic Games for the US and set the record in both butterfly and freestyle. She emphasizes that she can do anything despite missing her leg. She continues to speak and appear at veteran-related events and causes, inspiring with her determination and grit.

5. Team Hoyt, Runners

Finally, for a true story of inspiration and heart, consider Team Hoyt, Rick, and dad Dick Hoyt. In 1962, Dick and Judy Hoyt had their son, Rick, who was deprived of oxygen to his brain during birth. He was diagnosed as a spastic quadriplegic with Cerebral Palsy and Rick’s parents were advised to institutionalize him, which they refused to do. They focused on providing him a life of inclusion, despite how long it was or the difficulties that they would encounter. In 1977, Rick approached his father wanting to participate in a five-mile benefit run for a classmate that had been paralyzed in an accident. His dad Dick agreed to push Rick in his wheelchair, completing the five miles, next to the last participants across the finish line. Their story of perseverance in the face of adversity inspired then and continues to inspire today. As of the 2009 Boston Marathon, Team Hoyt had officially participated in 1,000 races. They now host and sponsor the Hoyt Foundation Boston Marathon team of runners.

Get inspired to do what you need to for progress toward your own goals and ambitions. Remember to do something today- and every day- that makes you better tomorrow. This may be setting goals for your business, working toward autonomy, or committing to something that enhances health and wellbeing.

When you want to improve access and optimize mobility, consult with the industry experts at Pacific Mobility; the right mobility aids may help foster independence which may be an effective first-stride toward your own goals and dreams. Don’t let a physical disability define you or curb progress toward your own ambitions; get inspired and take control.

Do you live with neuropathy pain? Neuropathy pain can impact all areas of your life- including mobility and independence. Neuropathy is primarily caused by complications from diabetes or alcoholism, but there are many other reasons why you may experience nerve pain. There are mobility aids that make neuropathy more bearable, while increasing accessibility and autonomy for sufferers widely.

Do you- or someone that you care about- suffer from Neuropathy pain? Around 20 million people are diagnosed with Neuropathy, a disorder characterized by a loss of sensation in limbs or regions of the body. Many people are diagnosed with neuropathy, but only some of those with this condition experience neuropathic pain as a symptom. Nerve pain such as from neuropathy can be debilitating and the loss of sensation can significantly impact mobility. The pain and loss of sensation may present a fall risk, which is very dangerous for seniors or those living with other medical issues. Can mobility aids help make neuropathy pain and numbness more bearable? The answer is ‘yes’.

Causes of Neuropathy Pain

If you live with neuropathy, you know it can cause severe and frequent pain. But what causes neuropathy, to begin with? Some of the underlying reasons for nerve pain include:

• Alcoholism
• Diabetes
• Autoimmune disorders and disease
• Infections
• Diet
• Cancer
• Medications

Some of the discomfort that neuropathy sufferers live with are burning sensations, tingling, stabbing, and sharp, shooting pain in different regions of the body, most often, the extremities (arms, hands, legs, and feet).

Pain Relief

What can those suffering from neuropathy pain do about their discomfort? Medical providers often treat pain to prevent imbalance or dizziness with over the counter meds or pharmaceuticals. There are also holistic health approaches, like acupuncture, that aim to target the nerve itself. Some providers endorse using compression to help reduce and alleviate nerve pain; there are braces and supports widely found on the retail market that may help provide the right amount of compression.

Most providers concur that while exercise and physical activity are not likely to eliminate the pain altogether, it does provide some benefit in mobility and severity of symptoms associated with neuropathy. Low impact exercises are suggested, like yoga or swimming, to move and help flex muscles without causing more discomfort or injury.

Helpful Habits

Habits that contribute to chronic pain extend to neuropathic pain too; practitioners suggest any healthy life changes or habits reduce or curb the symptoms of neuropathy, including chronic pain. For example, make positive lifestyle changes including fine-tuning your diet or starting a regular exercise regimen. Join a gym! Do you smoke? Quit smoking to improve overall health, including respiration and circulation, which may impact the frequency and severity of your neuropathy symptoms. For many sufferers that have underlying diabetes or alcoholism, changing habits, improving diet, and abstaining from toxins (like alcohol) can dramatically improve neuropathy and reduce pain.

Neuropathy and Mobility

Mobility aids assist individuals with weakness or instability, or that need some help getting around – due to medical issues like neuropathic pain. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best mobility aids, equipment, or devices to alleviate stress on your body, relieve pain, and preserve autonomy. Chronic pain can compromise independence, which may have a negative impact on the lives of those that wish to age in place, i.e. staying in their own home as long as physically possible. Assistive aids like canes, crutches, and walkers can be just enough support to preserve an independent lifestyle.

Mobility Aids

When you think of mobility aids, think beyond wheelchairs and walkers; while these are valid invaluable examples of aids, there are some even-simpler ways to enhance autonomy and reduce neuropathic discomfort:

• A cane is an excellent source of support when standing or sitting, for those with neuropathy that may sometimes lose sensation in limbs, particularly their feet or legs.
• A grab bar near the sink, toilet, and stove can prevent accidents and falls that may occur when individuals with neuropathy stand for extended periods of time, or when they so to sit down.
• A reacher tool can make items that are just out of reach much easier to access, without the stabbing pains that can accompany straining with neuropathic nerve pain.

Talk to your practitioners about getting medical prescriptions for any of these aids, and then visit mobility retailers in your region to learn more and obtain pricing information. In Southern California, call on the industry experts at Pacific Mobility for more information.

Do you live with debilitating nerve pain? Pacific Mobility wants to help with high-quality mobility aids to make neuropathy- or other medical conditions- more bearable. Increase autonomy and accessibility with aids like lifts, walkers, grab bars, and more. Call for your free, no-risk needs assessment today.

Wondering what medical conditions merit mobility equipment, such as a stairlift? The fact is, there is a wide gamut of diagnoses that warrant the support and assistance provided by stairlifts. Learn a bit more about five common conditions made much more bearable with the accessibility of a lift in the home.

Do you struggle getting around your home environment? Is it possible that your life would be made easier with stairlifts and mobility aids to increase access? If you have concerns that you could be losing independence or if you struggle with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living), you might be a perfect candidate for a stairlift in the home. Before giving up your autonomy, learn more about how a stairlift can change life as you know it.

Five Conditions that may benefit from a stairlift in the home are:

1.       Neuropathy

If you live with neuropathy, you know how it can affect your mobility and independence. Not to mention, neuropathy is a very painful condition that ebbs into every aspect of everyday living. The two primary causes of neuropathy are alcohol abuse and diabetes, but kidney disease can also cause painful leg neuropathy in many sufferers. Over time, it may become extremely painful if possible at all to ascend stairs or navigate the home environment; a stairlift may make it possible to access upstairs spaces of the home and live with more freedom.

2.       Diabetes

In addition to neuropathy, diabetes can cause other consequences that make a stairlift pragmatic. For instance, chronic diabetes may lead to amputations of feet or legs, which make a stairlift a necessity. Additionally, anyone who struggles with the health repercussions of obesity may find going up and down stairs strenuous, if not impossible. A fall could cause serious compromise to the individual and any preventative measure- including mobility aids like stairlifts- are viable and worthwhile expenditures. Injurious falls lead in causes of hospitalizations and subsequent loss of independence.

3.       Arthritis

Do you live with arthritis? You may not realize how severe and debilitating arthritis can be; for many, it is a life-long affliction that they first experienced as a young child. If you have arthritis, a stairlift may be life-changing in terms of accessing areas of the home and doing for yourself. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis cause joint pain and stiffness, which can make ascending stairs very difficult. A stairlift can reduce stress and strain on these sore joints, improving pain levels and overall quality of life. Furthermore, the swelling and edema often associated with arthritis may make stairs simply too difficult on some days; a stairlift in the home offers an alternative that may be needed on some occasions, but not on others.

4.       Muscular Diseases

Conditions impacting the muscles make stairs difficult if not impossible; some conditions, like MD (Muscular Dystrophy), CP (Cerebral Palsy), MS (Muscular Sclerosis), and Parkinson’s, are examples of diseases that can impact muscle control and movement. Additionally, these strike mobility, often waxing and waning, which makes the option of a stairlift practical and reassuring. Some of these conditions are gradual and progressive, so a stairlift provides support as it is needed. Talk to your occupational therapist or practitioner to determine if a stairlift makes sense for the condition that you are living with.

5.       Respiratory Issues

Another reason to install a lift in the home could be due to respiratory disorders, like COPD or emphysema. Also, stairlifts may be advised for people living with lung or heart conditions that should limit physical activity that puts additional strain on their vital organs. Lifts allow folks that live alone the opportunity to age in place and stay in their own home, despite existing medical issues or conditions. For many, a stairlift provides enough support to allow them to live autonomously longer, enjoying access to the upper levels of their home, which may be where their bedroom or bathroom is located.

There are also a lot of times that a stairlift is used for short term use, such as a rental following surgery or as part of rehab. It can make it far more pragmatic for those in rehabilitative programs to garner independence while recovering and performing therapeutic exercises. It provides support that may make it possible for some to return home from skilled nursing settings as they recuperate and heal from operations, injuries, or medical issues. For many, this is a more therapeutic environment that provides motivation and incentive to heal.

Think your life would be easier with a stairlift? Talk to your provider, and come see the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility. The right equipment, including stairlifts, can restore a sense of security and control that may be missing in the lives of those living with chronic and acute medical issues. Check out what a stairlift can do for you; visit or call today!

If you think about it, vision impacts all aspects of everyday living- including mobility. Poor sight could contribute to a nasty fall which precipitates a slew of health-related problems. Falls are a prime concern of the aging population as these may cause a loss of independence and life-long mobility issues that require intervention or assistance. There is a link between glaucoma and mobility; here’s what you need to know.

January is National Staying Healthy Month, the perfect time to give some thought to your holistic health, including your vision. Are you at risk for glaucoma? If you are over 40, you could be; Glaucoma is a primary cause of blindness of people in this country and is a condition that manifests in damage to your optic nerve. There may be a genetic link to glaucoma, so if your parents had it, you might be at higher risk of having glaucoma, too. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness in a relatively short time so it is important to visit an eye doctor regularly to have your eye pressure monitored. If getting to your eye appointments is challenging due to physical limitations, call for consultation and mobility solutions to make life easier.

Lighting

Lighting is a common issue among those with glaucoma, and it is a number one reason why many seniors fall in the home. Bilateral glaucoma manifests in trips, bumps, and falls- which can quickly perpetuate into a long-term mobility issue. While good lighting doesn’t prevent glaucoma, it contributes to falling risk among anyone in the senior demographic, so there is a correlation between mobility and Glaucoma.

Gender

More than half, around 60%, of glaucoma cases in the U.S. are women. The number of people with glaucoma is expected to hit over six million by the year 2050, due to population, genetics, and lifestyle markers. This could present a significant healthcare crisis among the older population.

Risks

Are you at risk for glaucoma? You are more at risk if you are of African-American, Irish, Russian, Japanese, Hispanic, Inuit, or Scandinavian ancestry. Some other things that make you more likely to contract glaucoma during your life include:

If you have risk factors for glaucoma, it is even more important to have regularly scheduled eye exams, at least once every six months to a year, and have your eyes dilated and eye pressure tested.

Fall Reduction

A fall can create a lot of hurdles for a senior; first, a fall can cause eye trauma that contributes to glaucoma. It can also be a side-effect of the debilitating vision loss caused by glaucoma and increased eye pressure. The key to preventing mishaps and medical conditions of all kinds is fall reduction; i.e. improve lighting, remove obstacles, and wear footwear that provides stability and balance. This is where mobility aids can come in helpful. A grab bar can reduce the risk of slipping and falling in bathrooms or during ADLs; a reaching tool can prevent potential injuries caused by bending over and trying to access things that are just out of your reach. Furthermore, falls can create a loss of independence that can deteriorate mood, mental health, and overall quality of life. The long and short of it is to reduce falls through vigilance and awareness, whether for you or for someone you love.

Mobility Risks

So, let’s consider what happens when your sight is impaired due to undiagnosed glaucoma. First, a fall is more likely to occur- particularly in those that have physical limitations or that are older. Falls can lead to injury, further eye trauma, or infection- including the often- fatal C-Difficile infection, which can be contracted through germs and bacteria all around us. It is safe to say that there are a host of complicated risks associated with a fall due to impaired vision due to glaucoma, both undetected as well as in diagnosed cases.

National Staying Healthy Month in January is a day set aside to encourage and facilitate people to get healthier, through prevention, education, and area resources. It is a time that motivates and inspires us- every one- to do what they can to preserve their health and wellbeing.

Want to stay healthier, longer? Make sure that you visit your eye care professional regularly to be tested and monitored for glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness in this country. What better way to honor National Staying Healthy Month this January than with an examination by your eye doctor or practitioner. Another way to pay tribute to National Staying Healthy Month is with mobility aids and solutions from Pacific Mobility. The link between glaucoma and mobility exists; resolve to do something about it by increasing access and autonomy with mobility aids and equipment today. Call for a no-commitment needs assessment.

January is National Staying Healthy Month, which makes it the perfect time to consider ways to make the home more healthy, safe, and secure. One way to create a healthier environment for some is to install a stairlift; stairlifts increase access and convenience for seniors and those with physical limitations, conditions, or disabilities. Learn more about ways to make the home this January, and year-round!

January is National Staying Healthy Month, which makes it practical to consider ways to make the home a healthier, safer environment. Part of making the home healthy for seniors or those with physical challenges may include mobility devices, aids, or equipment. Make a resolution to create a healthier home and overall lifestyle with mobility solutions; call today to learn more.

Stairlifts can help you stay healthy in the coming years; here’s how:

Fall Reduction

Stairlifts generally help reduce fall risks associated with navigating the home, stairs, and areas of the home living environment. They can reduce stumbles and falls that could lead to serious decline and deterioration for those who are older or that have other medical issues and conditions. Stairlifts make the home a much safer place to be, which in turn, preserves the health and wellbeing of those that live there. Do stairlifts help you stay healthy? You bet they do!

Increased Independence

Individuals that have access around their home will be more independent- it is that simple! With independence often comes a feeling of holistic health and wellbeing- plus, you are less likely to suffer a fall or accident that could derail independence and compromise quality of life. In essence, the freedom to live your life, your way, can lead to increased health.

Assists with Aging in Place

For those fighting to stay in their own home, a stairlift may facilitate aging in place. By being able to access upstairs bedrooms, bathrooms, or other areas of the home, it may not be necessary for assistance when seniors live alone or struggle with medical and mobility issues. Having the ability to stay in a familiar, comfortable, and sometimes sentimental setting can improve health in a wide range of ways, including mood.

Preserves Autonomy

When seniors begin to feel their autonomy slipping away, depression and angst can follow. This can lead to a whole host of emotions that may leave some feeling without purpose or hope. It can be said that to preserve autonomy helps with a sense of self, enhanced mood, and a reason to get out of bed each day. Mobility aids, such as lifts, preserve this autonomy and help by providing the assistance needed to live comfortably and safely.

Facilitates Mobility

Moving around makes you feel good and healthy; unfortunately, physical activity may present risks that make it counterproductive and challenging, overall. A stairlift may help those that would otherwise not be able to move about their living situation freely, move around and complete ADLs (activities of daily living). Some examples of ADLs that a lift helps facilitate include bathing, dressing, preparing meals, and getting ready for bed.

Encourages Evaluation

Nothing that you implement around your home to preserve health and wellbeing substitutes for regular medical checkups and evaluations. Obtaining a stairlift puts you in the loop of providers and practitioners, that may get your medical needs met. For this reason, a stairlift and associated assessments are the perfect opportunity to address health conditions and make changes that improve overall health and wellbeing. Put simply, popular healthy aging tips often include seeing a practitioner or provider routinely.

Honor National Staying Healthy Month this January with some mobility aids and solutions from Pacific Mobility

National Staying Healthy Month offers a range of tips to preserve health, from what you eat to how you sleep. Mobility is an element of holistic health, so pay tribute to this national observance by doing something to maintain mobility, like install an aid or stretch to increase flexibility. Groups, agencies, and resources widely promote the benefits of staying mobile, from fitness classes to transportation services; take advantage of these- or other similar offerings- to promote National Staying Healthy Month in January.

Ready to make the home a healthier place? One element of holistic health and well-being is mobility and access. Mobility means a lot more than merely getting around; it encompasses a number of traits needed for aging in place and preserving independence. Make your home more accessible with a stairlift- or other device- that allows individuals the freedom to live autonomously. Stay healthier, this January and year-long, with resources such as stairlifts. At the very least, reach out to a reputable vendor in the area and ask for a no-obligation demonstration. You may be surprised at how different life can be with a stairlift in the home; call to learn more today.

Don’t let age deter you from becoming a blood donor; age does not disqualify you from donation. There are many compelling reasons why donating blood is vital, from medical need to the feeling you get from giving the gift of life. Reach out for assistance, if needed, but do your part and donate blood, if you are an eligible donor.

January is National Blood Donor Month; do you donate blood? Eligible people are encouraged to donate blood for vital surgeries across the country that save lives. A shortage in donated blood is a healthcare crisis that affects us all. If physical limitations or medical issues hinder your ability to donate blood, consider mobility solutions and community resources that may assist.

Are you a blood donor? Why you might want to consider donating:

The Need for Blood

The need for blood cannot be overemphasized; in fact, there is a need for blood every two seconds for treating accident victims, cancer patients, hemophiliacs, and surgery patients. It is estimated that approximately one-in-seven of those going to the hospital need blood. Giving blood contributes to the prevention of a national health crisis or a shortage of blood.

No Alternative for Blood

There is no manmade alternative for blood; it can’t be manufactured. Blood for medical treatment comes from donations- be part of preventing a healthcare crisis by donating blood if you are eligible to give. Not sure about your eligibility? More on that later…

Gift of Life

There is something truly special about giving the gift of life by donating blood. Since the nation’s blood supply comes from people that care enough to donate, it is a vital role that you play. Think about how the blood that you donate could save lives, providing another day, another hug, another memory, for someone else. It is the gift of life and there is no other feeling quite like it!

Fast & Easy

Some people are reticent to donate as they feel it takes too much time and they are simply too busy. In fact, donating blood only takes about an hour, though there are variables that could contribute to a longer or shorter wait. Things like whether you have donated before and the number of people that show up to donate impact how long it takes to donate blood. Generally, it is a fast and easy process!  

Your Age

In general, you can never be too old to donate blood. Don’t’ let age be the reason that you don’t try to be a donor. Up until 1978, people over age 65 were not permitted to donate blood. Unless you have other health issues, you should be fine to be a donor.

Eligibility

This brings us to eligibility to be a blood donor: who should and should not donate blood? Surprisingly, a mere 37% of the population is eligible to donate blood, and of these people, only around 10% donate blood regularly.  

Some reasons you may not be eligible to donate blood include the following:

• All prospective blood donors are required to fill out a detailed health history form and questionnaire that serves to rule out those with certain medical problems as potential donors. Some of the conditions that bar a person from donating blood include dementia, a recent history of cancer, a recent history of heart disease, viral hepatitis, H.I.V. infection, and certain heart rhythm disorders. Also, if you take certain types of medications, like anticoagulants, you are ineligible to be a donor.  
• Blood banks require that blood donors weigh a minimum of 110 pounds typically.
• History of IV drug use, medical infection, or recent travel to specific geographic areas are other reasons you may be deemed ineligible as a blood donor. 

Know that each state and blood bank can impose their own guidelines and additional regulations, as they see fit. Some may require additional medical history or documentation for donors over age 75, such as the state of New York. In these instances, prospective donors are evaluated individually before donating blood.

What If?

Nobody wants to think of the worst-case scenario, but what if there wasn’t enough donated blood? What is blood was unavailable when you, a loved one – anyone – needed it? If everyone eligible to donate blood became complacent and decided they didn’t need to donate because someone else would, the likely outcome will be a blood shortage and healthcare crisis. Do your part and become a blood donor.

Don’t let your age or physical condition deter you from donating blood. There are area agencies and resources that will help with access and transportation for donors widely; check your municipality to learn more. For mobility solutions, consider talking to the industry experts at Pacific Mobility to increase accessibility and improve everyday living. From stairlifts to grab-bars, we offer mobility aids and devices that preserve independence and enhance safety.

Radon testing is imperative, especially for those that spend extended periods of time in their home like seniors or those with limited mobility. January is National Radon Action Month- and the perfect time to have your home- or the home of someone you love- tested for radon. It is a low-cost way to ensure a safe and healthy environment, free from radon carcinogens and toxins.

Radon is something that everyone should be concerned with and routine testing of the home should be a routine occurrence. This is a particular issue facing those that spend extended time indoors, such as seniors or those with limited mobility. Since January is National Radon Action Month, it makes sense for radon testing, since this invisible, odorless gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Some ways to observe and further the cause of National Radon Action Month is to consider the impacts of radon and sensible ways to lower its risk in the home. Whether you are concerned for a housebound loved one or your own wellbeing, this is the time to make modifications that reduce the risk of radon exposure.

The good news is that you can test and lower radon levels in the home quite-simply, and the EPA endorses that January be a time to pay attention to radon and radon testing widely. When assisting individuals with mobility solutions, make sure to assess the radon situation in the home environment, too.

Here’s what you need to know about radon testing your home:

The Problem with Radon

The problem with Radon is that it is cancerous; in fact, radon is the leading cause of death by cancer in this country, according to experts. It is estimated that around 21k people die each year from the consequences of exposure to Radon, which primarily includes lung cancer. This is a distinctive situation as the connection between radon and subsequent lung cancer has been proven by healthcare experts. In sum, the problem with radon is that it is a poisonous, carcinogenic gas.

Home Ventilation

It can be a catch-22 situation: you want to seal up your home from the elements, yet you need proper ventilation and airflow in the home. A home that is too tight or super energy-efficient can trap toxins, like radon. Homes become a kind of vacuum, sucking in and holding on to radon gas.

Radon Seepage

When you find through radon testing that radon is detected in the home, how did it get there? Well, radon can seep into the home from the soil, which is why porous surfaces, like concrete foundations, can be the door that radon uses to get inside your home. Gaps in floors and walls are also prime entry points for radon gas. There are a lot of variables that contribute to the radon level, so if your neighbor has low levels, it doesn’t mean yours are the same.

Radon Zones

Radon can be a problem for residents widely, however the EPA issued a map that identifies the most-prone areas for high radon levels. This map of EPA radon zones, color-codes counties into zones, with zone 1 having the highest predicted levels and zone 3 having the lowest. The EPA asserts, however, that radon is commonly found in any and all zones. There are many variables to consider, from environmental to your own personal lifestyle, that could account for varying levels of radon from one residence to the next.

Lowering Radon Levels

If you find that your radon level is high, don’t delay action. Use these strategies to lower your levels:

Prompt Response

If your home is tested and the radon is high, don’t panic. There are things that you can do to reduce the levels and, no, you don’t have to pack up and move out. The most serious consequences of high radon levels come from prolonged exposure; the important thing is that you now know what the level is. Talk to an abatement specialist or contractor to learn more about mitigating the high radon level in the home by ventilating the home with PVC piping to move radon out of the space.

Why wait until January? Contact your local municipality, agency on aging, or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for more information about radon testing today. For mobility solutions and tips for aging in place, contact Pacific Mobility to learn more.