Pacific Mobility Center

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Honoring Those That Have Served

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Pacific Mobility recognizes and honors veterans this November for Veterans Day- and year-round. Veterans with physical disabilities or mobility issues are encouraged to come see what we can offer to them to preserve autonomy, independence, and quality of life, which they so richly and rightly deserve. Pay homage to a veteran today.

When it comes to quality of life, nobody deserves it more than a veteran of the Armed Forces. After fighting for the rights of millions of people that they have never met, they deserve to have the necessary implements and mobility aids needed to preserve quality of life. Please honor someone on Veterans Day in November and show some compassion for those that fought for our freedom.

Some ways to aid or assist a veteran in November include these tips:

Support Independence

Perhaps the greatest way to honor a veteran is to do what you can to support the independence of one or someone that you love. Assist with a ride, groceries, or a kind word and ask what- if anything- you could do to help them out. When it comes to those living with physical disabilities, this is the kind of offer that helps them to age in place while maintaining autonomy, dignity, and quality of life. Thank you in advance for whatever kind act you choose to do this Veterans Day.

Reduce Fall Risks

Falls are the biggest health challenge facing seniors and this extends to older Veterans, too. A fall can exacerbate current medical issues and compromise independent living. Falls cause seniors to break bones and require rehabilitative care, and many never fully recover. These factors all contribute to life-changing consequences for the senior, such as moving to assisted type living. Reduce the risk of a fall by maintaining a safer environment for the senior with these tips:

  • Buy a reaching tool for them to use in the kitchen.
  • Reconfigure cabinets to hold the most used items nearby.
  • Remove clutter and debris from around the home that could be a tripping hazard.
  • Install railings on steps, stairs, or landings.

Ask providers and mobility vendors about other steps that you can take to ensure the safety and reduce falls for your loved one.

Engage and Interact

Got a friend, neighbor, or family member that has served in the military? Make time to listen and really hear what the individual is saying to you, without watching the clock or playing on your phone. Ask them about an experience, place, or person, and allow them to reminisce for a few minutes. Show them photos of loved ones or a recent trip and share a few special moments together. Bring a little gift, like a small plant or favorite snack, just to show them that you care.

Respect Choices

Listen to how you communicate with a senior in your life; do you show them respect? Make this Veterans Day in November the time to change the way that you talk to others, including veterans, seniors, or those that you provide care for. Instead of lecturing or admonishing for circumstances or situations, encourage and motivate with kind, gentle words. Maybe the choices that they make seem impractical to you but respect them and let them live autonomously as long as possible.

Improve Access

Do something that improves the access and subsequent independence around the home, like install grab bars. These work great near the sinks, toilet, tub, as well as the top and bottom of stairways or steps. These are inexpensive to buy from mobility dealers and can go a long way in improving access and reducing hazards.

Enhance Safety

Take a few minutes to do a safety check at the home of a beloved veteran or senior. This includes moving or removing area rugs that could be dangerous and changing light bulbs to enhance lighting. You may also move furniture to ensure a smooth, wide berth through the home and keep any front steps or porch free from obstacles, ice, or hazards.

Donate to Causes

Donate generously to causes that are related to Veterans’ issues, like VA programs. Some programs, like animal-assisted therapies, only work when citizens donate their time, resources, and in this example, pets to help others. Share unwanted clothing or belongings to VA centers and hospitals widely and many have thrift stores or other ways of supporting their offerings with these used items. Drop off a can of food to local food banks that veterans and seniors frequent or spend a few bucks to purchase gift cards for these local venues.

Work with a vendor that will collaborate to find the mobility aids covered by your insurance or VA benefits. Pacific Mobility wants to make the process as easy as possible so that those deserving of equipment get it fast. Pacific Mobility recognizes and appreciates the sacrifices made by veterans of the Armed Forces. Come see us for a comprehensive evaluation and no-obligation estimate for mobility aids In Southern California. We look forward to serving you.

Type and Location make all the difference when installing grab bars

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Grab bars are a simple solution to preventing falls and increase mobility but know that the type and location make all the difference when installing these aids. Talk to mobility vendors and retailers to learn more about the top spots to install grab bars, as well as the types and styles of grab bars that make the most sense for you and your home environment.

A grab bar is an inexpensive way to make the home a safer, more accessible place. The most common areas for these aids tend to be bathrooms, as well as other often wet or slippery spaces, such as kitchens and exteriors. When visiting your Southern California mobility dealer, discuss where you want to install the grab bars to determine the best type of grab bar for the situation and environment. This is a case where one size does not fit all.

 

Wall and Floor Bars

Wall and floor grab bars are the kinds that can go where you go; they are portable and can be secured to the floor or along a wall in a snap. Usually, you will find wall grab bars installed in the bathroom, near the toilet. This offers needed support getting up and down from the toilet, which is a common scenario that can cause nasty falls. Furthermore, the location of these bars reduces wrist strain that can occur when a senior uses a typical low-standing toilet without such support.

The Superpole

For support wherever it is needed, a Superpole may be the answer. A Superpole can be installed just about anywhere in a home where support may be needed. It extends from the floor to the ceiling, offering vertical support for individuals that need assistance getting up and down from beds, toilets, or tubs. These grab bars are inventive and contemporary with comfortable grips that help assure your hands won’t slide. These are easy to install but know that reputable mobility vendors offer installation for these devices- and all the products that they sell. There is a weight limit for safe use of the Superpole, and typically it is 300 pounds, though there may be heavy-weight options available that can support up to 400 pounds. Talk to your mobility dealer to find out more.

Straight Wall Mount Grab Bars

A common grab bar solution is usually found with straight wall mount bars. These are the grab bars that you often see utilized in public places, like restrooms. One of the advantages to this type of grab bar is that they are easy to install and mount, while also found in a wide range of sizes including 18”- 36” most frequently. You could choose complementary colored grab bars to be cohesive with your décor, though the most common styles have stainless steel surfaces.

In residential settings, a straight wall mount grab bar is ideal to be positioned near the toilet, as well as inside the shower stall or tub area. Some homes find these bars useful near steps or risers, where a railing may not be present. You have a lot of installation options with these grab bars, as they can be installed horizontally, vertically, and diagonally. Depending on where you put them and what you need, the position of the grab bar will vary. Rely on your mobility vendor to guide you in terms of which ones make the most sense and which direction they should be installed for optimal safety.

Soap Dish Grab Bar Combo

Why not let your grab bar multi-task as a soap dish? The Soap Dish Grab Bar brings two distinct purposes to the home: a useful bar to lend support during bathing or showering and to hold your soap and shampoo! Any device or grab bar that makes this typically slick and dangerous area a bit safer is well worth pursuing. These are usually crafted from stainless steel to be mounted along the wall of your shower.

Grab Bar with Shelves

Again, if you want your grab bar to do a little bit more, consider investing in the Grab Bar with Shelf type. This bar allows you a place to store the items that you use in the shower nearby, which makes bathing inherently safer. These are installed differently, however, usually in the left or right corners near the showerhead or faucet.

Sometimes the simplest solutions are right under your nose: make common-sense strategies to decrease fall risk around the home. For instance, make sure that you use a non-slip mat near the tub and shower, as well as some sort of tread or mat inside the bath as well. These are found widely to accommodate various size fixtures.

Ready to make your home a safer, more secure place to be? Talk to the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility today; they can point you in the right direction for the best grab bars to suit your needs. Since the location you plan to install the grab bar is critical, they will also tease-out the best type of bar for these installations. This can save you a lot of inconvenience as you adjust to utilizing your grab bars- while also preventing potential falls and injuries. Call our mobility experts today!

Still on the Fence about Getting a Stairlift? 5 Good Reasons to Move Forward

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Consumers that are still on the fence about getting a stairlift may need reminding of at least five good and sensible reasons to move forward and invest. Lifts have longevity- and as long as you purchase from a reputable mobility dealer in the area, you can expect it to be a prudent and practical investment that holds its value, provides accessibility, and improves lives.

If you struggle with physical limitations or accessibility issues, a stairlift can be a lifechanging mobility device. Sadly, many consumers assume that these aids are either cost-prohibitive or too complicated- both of which couldn’t be further from the truth. Sure, a stairlift is a big investment, and a decision to not take lightly, but before you rule out the benefits of moving forward with a stairlift, talk to an area mobility dealer; it may be more affordable and viable than you think.

Still on the Fence about Getting a Stairlift? Five good reasons to move forward are:

1.      Stairlifts increase access and convenience in the home. Perhaps the number-one reason to move forward are issues related to access and convenience in the home environment. After all, isn’t that why people invest in stairlifts, to increase accessibility? Many buyers report the thrill of being able to revisit second stories and other levels of their home, including their bedrooms and bathrooms. This convenience alone makes getting a stairlift a prudent and practical decision.

2.      A stairlift is an investment that holds value over time. Know that your stairlift will hold value and is an investment that can be used for years to come- either by you or by someone else. Some vendors offer a buy-back program or will allow for trades. This is pertinent information to garner when making buying decisions or when talking with mobility aid professionals. Furthermore, you may be able to rent or buy second-hand devices from reputable dealers in the region; do not invest in equipment from private parties, however, if possible. These devices are typically not covered by any type of warranty or support after the sale, which can be problematic for consumers who need installation or service advice once the stairlift comes home.

3.      Stairlifts increase safety in the home. There is no doubt that stairlifts increase and enhance safety around the home. First, they provide a gentle and effective way to navigate steps, stairs, or risers to access specific areas of the home. This may help to curb fall hazards in and around the home for seniors or those with physical limitations- which may contribute to a more secure and therapeutic home environment. All of these factors also are relevant when it comes to aging in place, but more on that next.

4.      Stairlifts support seniors ‘age-in-place’. Seniors that choose and desire to live in their own home environment as they grow older is considered aging in place. This lifestyle relies on in-home supports and health prevention to stay in the setting as long as possible with the aim being quality of life. Stairlifts support aging in place as they prevent nasty falls which are reported to be a major obstacle to seniors staying healthy and in their desired living situation. Falls are to blame for health deterioration and hospitalization, which can compromise staying in the home.

5.      Stairlifts improve lives. Finally, stairlifts improve quality of life. By maintaining autonomy and independence, seniors or those with physical limitations have more options and choices, which play a role in overall quality of life. Access and good health are factors that contribute to independence and living life on one’s own terms. Is this something that you are interested in preserving, protecting, or attaining? Talk to a mobility aid professional to learn more today.

When choosing a mobility retailer, make sure that you work with one that has established expertise in selling mobility equipment and that stands behind what they offer. You can glean a good sense of most companies by checking out online reviews and rankings from prior customers and patrons. Be wary of vendors that push products and that could sell you something you don’t really need. Look for courteous sales representatives and skilled installers that offer service and support after the sale.

In Southern California, visit the professionals at Pacific Mobility; we are a family-owned and operated business for over 60 years and we look forward to helping you with your mobility needs! We will support your decision to invest in a stairlift and bring you the highest quality products to consider but we do not want to sell you something you don’t need. We want your loyal patronage more than a quick sale and stand behind the equipment that we sell. Consumers and clients highly-rate our customer service; call and speak with us today to learn more about innovative mobility solutions.

Inspired Ways to Celebrate International Day of Older Persons 

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October 1st marks the observance of International Day of Older Persons, which is the perfect time to reach out and give to a senior that you know or care for. Since freedom and autonomy impact quality of life, consider mobility aids and solutions for those struggling with physical limitations or disabilities. Make it a mission to learn more and disseminate information to seniors that could improve their situation and simplify everyday living.

Does someone you know live with a physical limitation? Sadly, mobility issues can affect their independence and impact their desire to age in place, at home. There are some solutions: mobility aids may be just the right amount of support and security to endorse seniors that want to preserve their autonomy. Observe ‘International Day of Older Persons’ this October and become more empathetic to the seniors in your life. While visiting nursing homes or spending time with relatives may seem like a proper way to spend the commemorative event, try something a bit more inventive that could have lasting benefits for a senior.

Make it a year to remember; some inspired ways to celebrate International Day of Older Persons this October 1st include:

  • Take someone to lunch. Plan to take someone dear for a leisurely lunch. Make time to chat and listen, relishing the time spent with this person.
  • Send a senior a special delivery. Send or take a senior a care package with both practical and luxurious goodies for them to use and enjoy. Some awesome items to include in packages are snacks, grooming items, socks, magazines, stationery items, and postage stamps.
  • Bring love to the bathroom. Help a senior with mobility issues stay safe in the bathroom by installing grab bars near the sink or toilet. These are not expensive but can prevent a nasty fall and serious injury for someone you love.
  • Handwrite a note. Mail or hand-deliver a senior a beautiful greeting card with a handwritten note inside. Feeling crafty? Make your own card!
  • Sing a song or two. Consider going to sing some songs at a nursing home or senior center but check with the activities staff first to make sure it is permitted. Don’t sing? Read poetry or from a favorite book to seniors that want to lend an ear.
  • Build a ramp. Build someone a ramp for a wheelchair or walker. Make sure that it adheres to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines regarding handicap accessible ramps.
  • Think ahead for spring. Even though it is fall, think ahead to spring and plant bulbs in a community garden for seniors to enjoy later-on. Buy a couple of beautiful potted Mums to share with a special older person right now.
  • Bake a batch of cookies. Bake a batch of cookies or treats to share with a neighbor, relative, or other senior that has a sweet tooth. Pick up cute an inexpensive cookie platters and containers at a dollar store to give without worrying about getting it back later.
  • Have some tea or coffee. Host a small tea party or invite an older person out for coffee at a favorite local spot.
  • Plan to feed your friend. If you are already cooking a meal, go ahead and prepare a little extra. Bake and freeze a few meals and drop them off to a friend.
  • Offer them a lift. Why not offer a ride for appointments, errands, or shopping? This means a lot to a housebound senior or someone who doesn’t drive. They will try, but don’t let them give you gas money! Tell them that this one is on you.
  • Spend time with animals. Engage seniors with therapeutic pets; visit a shelter, bring a dog to visit, or do something special for the senior’s pet, if applicable. Offer to take the pet to an appt, buy kibble, or help groom…this will mean a lot to an animal lover.
  • Learn more. Take time to talk to a mobility expert about investing in mobility aids, like lifts or wheelchairs, for your loved one. There are inventive mobility solutions waiting that have the ability to change lives- check them out!

Sometimes the smallest gestures mean the most. Know that the underlying mission of this observance is to spend time and empathize with older persons. Don’t let money be the reason you skip International Day of Older Persons; simply extend a hand of friendship to a senior that you care about.

Do something to change the life of a senior that you love for the better; call the mobility experts to learn more about innovative ways to increase accessibility and improve mobility. Mobility directly influences the quality of life- look closer at tools and aids that may help seniors maintain their independence and dignity, throughout the lifespan.

How Impaired Mobility Impacts Mental Health 

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Impairments in mobility have a direct and significant impact on mental health and wellbeing. In fact, issues surrounding mobility and autonomy for seniors can play a role in life quality and longevity. Consider this during Mental Health Awareness Month in May; reflect, learn, and share insights and information that may help those struggling with mental health decline.

Become a more informed patient, caregiver, or consumer regarding how impaired mobility impacts mental health and wellbeing. In fact, mental health is a hot social topic currently, responsible for holistic health issues widely. Mental Health Awareness Month in May sheds some light on the plight of those living with mental health issues and illnesses, but how does mobility come into the picture? Preserve your own autonomy and quality of life by enhancing access with mobility aids or devices, as needed.

Limited or impaired mobility impacts mental health, period:

Become More Aware

Perhaps the most important thing for consumers to do is to become more aware, more specifically, be open to mental health awareness. Mental Health Awareness Month is in May of each year and is a great time to become more educated that on the factors that influence your overall mental health and wellbeing. After all, nobody knows you as well as yourself- protect yourself and preserve quality of life by identifying issues with mental health sooner, instead of later.

If left untreated, mental health issues like depression and anxiety can impact overall independence, autonomy, and quality of life. This is especially threatening for seniors that may strive to stay in their own homes and age-in-place.

Do You Know the Signs?

Do you know the signs of a problem or what to look for? Some of the symptoms of mental health issues may include:

• Feelings of sadness or nervousness.
• Muscle weakness, tension, or lethargy.
• Headaches or chronic, physical ailments.
• Mood changes, impatience, anger, or irritability.
• Less motivation, ambition, or energy. Lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
• Issues with routine function, either at home or work.
• Difficulty paying attention or concentrating. Issues with memory; forgetfulness.
• Changes in sleep or eating habits.
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or shame.
• Unhealthy behaviors, such as drinking, smoking, or using drugs.

If you or someone you care about is exhibiting any of these signs or experiencing these symptoms, call for help today.

Your Body and Mind are Connected

Did you know that your physical condition directly influences mental health and wellbeing? If you live and suffer from physical health issues, you are likely to be at-risk for mental health problems, too. Chronic pain, an infection, or limited mobility all can take a toll on your mental wellbeing, causing you stress, duress, and anxiety. Similarly, if you experience depression or mental health issues, these may manifest in physical ailments or episodes. Body and mind go hand-in-hand; remember this connection to stay holistically healthy.

Socialize to Stay Healthy

When mobility impacts socialization, you may notice mental health struggles. Research is increasingly recognizing the value of engaging with others and human interaction as a key element of longevity and quality of life. If you cancel outings or isolate due to limited mobility, your mental health is at risk. Socialize to stay healthy and implement mobility equipment and aids (like lifts or walkers) as needed to preserve these interactions. It is really that important.

Exercise Stimulates Endorphins

Many have indicated that exercise helps mental health; if your mobility prohibits regular exercise, you may find yourself experiencing the symptoms of mental health decline. Exercise is often prescribed to combat mental health issues like anxiety and depression; furthermore, it is effective at reducing aches and chronic pains. Preserving mobility through aids or other is well worth the effort as it may keep you moving; exercise stimulates endorphins which makes it a great, all-natural mood stabilizer.

Science Says It’s True

Can something as simple as mobility aids help mental health? We say yes… science seems to agree. Without this assistance when needed, a lack of access may lead to isolation, social anxiety, depression, and a decreased quality of life.

Mobility contributes to autonomy which often directly relates to mood and mental wellbeing.

You Can Help

But, what can you do? Talk to providers, caregivers, and anyone who will listen about issues that are impacting your holistic health. The stigma of mental health issues is over and people are much more open about problems and struggles- helping providers effectively treat their patients. Know that reporting these symptoms to your providers is the first step in moving past them and getting on with your life.

Call the mobility experts today and learn more about your options. Are mobility issues impacting your quality of life and mental health? Don’t live another day without the tools that you need for access, convenience, and joy in everyday life; contact us today.

Mobility Aids May Improve the Outcome After Critical Care 

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Mobility aids may improve outcomes following critical care for illness or injury, as they may provide the level of therapeutic support and rehabilitative stability that makes mobility feasible. Getting up is vital to recovery; mobility aids may help particularly when it comes to aging in place.

There is nothing that ages and debilitates like an injury or illness, and for seniors or individuals with pre-existing health issues or disabilities, it can be catastrophic. After leaving a critical care or skilled nursing setting, a rehabilitative program is integral to recovery and a favorable long-term prognosis. For support and stability during this journey, mobility aids may fit the bill and provide needed assistance during this vulnerable time. Furthermore, a quick recovery and positive outcome preserve autonomy and independence, both key elements of aging in place for seniors.

Physiotherapy

If you are discharged from critical care or a skilled nursing setting, you will be provided with a discharge plan that likely will include some form of physiotherapy. This will often occur at home with home health aides or therapists that make the rounds for their patients recovering from an illness or hospitalization. You may be commanded to appointments with physical and occupational therapists, which can be challenging if you are suffering from mobility issues or limitations after your stay. If your stay was prolonged, you may have atrophy in muscles that have not been used regularly. An effective rehabilitation plan is integral to return as closely as possible to a former level of mobility and function, restoring muscle mass, which makes physiotherapy invaluable. Remember that the longer one is hospitalized, the longer it will take to recover. Make the most of the options that are offered and consider physiotherapy, with the aid of mobility devices or equipment, when you go home.

Autonomy

Maintaining mobility is an important part of preserving autonomy as we age. Sure, there are solutions, assistants, and tools that can aid in getting around, but protecting one’s independence fiercely includes proactive measures to protect from health having possible impacts on aging in place. From dressing independently to driving around to do errands, there are tools and aids that will make these tasks a bit easier and less of a chore, which may hasten and expedite your recovery following a critical care issue or health problem. Get up and around quicker with a little bit of help.

Rehabilitation

Mobility directly relates to prognosis and recovery when it comes to a serious health issue, a critical care episode, injury, or illness. It can hinder or hasten rehabilitation progress; this further reinforces the validity and value of mobility aids during this period of recovery. From heading to a doctor appointment to independent physical therapy, a simple mobility aid or tool may offer the right amount of support and confidence needed to achieve what needs to be done. Mobility is concerned a key component and critical piece of post-hospitalization care for all patients, but most especially seniors.

Outcomes

Sadly, hospitalizations can have negative effects on an individual’s level of mobility, particularly when they are dealing with other health issues and concerns. When you are immobile, there is a decline in function that may- or may not- be restored later. Some of the contributing health episodes include falls, dementia, or infection. The longer a patient goes without moving around and completing ADLs (activities of daily living), the harder it will be to recover and restore to the previous level of functioning.

National Critical Illness Awareness Month

National Critical Illness Awareness Month in October is the perfect time to garner and glean information related to your own mobility, health, and recovery. Make a point to learn more about critical illness prevention, treatment, and patient care- all which may help if you find yourself recuperating from a critical care incident or illness. It is estimated that nearly one-and-a-half million people in this country experience a heart attack or stroke annually; find out more about preventing and recovering from critical illness or injury during this vitally important observance.

It makes the most sense to reach out and work with mobility vendor in your region, but make sure that it is a reputable and recognizable one. There are significant reasons why you should not invest in second-hand or private-sale equipment; work with a local mobility retailer that has established a reputation in the California community with online feedback and customer reviews.

Ready to learn more about mobility aids? Recovering from an illness or injury? Recuperate quicker and preserve your freedom; call the mobility experts today and find out what options exist to make your life easier, and your home environment more accessible. Don’t let mobility issues or health episodes cause obstacles to your autonomy and aging in place. Call today to learn more.

Should you plan-ahead for mobility issues?

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Thinking about the future and planning to age-in-place can be complicated; for instance, should you plan-ahead for mobility issues? Depending on current health challenges, this is not an unwise strategy. Autonomy and independence are compromised when health deteriorates, or injuries arise. Circumvent this outcome by planning-ahead for such situations.

Is it possible to plan-ahead for physical limitations or mobility issues? The industry experts at Pacific Mobility believe so- in fact, preparing for future health crises may be key in preserving autonomy and aging in place later-on. It is estimated that nearly half of Americans older than 75  report issues with walking, standing or lifting; how can you preserve your independence when physical needs and hurdles increase?

Protect and Preserve your Mobility

Mobility encompasses much more than the ability to walk independently. Mobility also includes the ability to complete activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing or preparing meals, as well as the ability to safely navigate the home environment with the ability to venture out into the community, as needed or desired.

Maintain Mobility as You Age

Maintaining mobility is imperative for quality of life as you age; specific mobility issues can impede independence and prevent people from performing ADLs, like eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and moving safely, which may jeopardize independent living and aging in place. Problems with ADLs is a primary reason behind nursing home admissions or implementation of in-home health aides.

Continue to Engage

When you suffer from a reduction in mobility, it may also impede your level of social engagement. Social engagement has been studied and found to be an integral component of holistic health and wellness across the lifespan. Reduced mobility may decrease your level of participation in family activities, hobbies, leisure activities, and socialization. Continue to engage as you age and get out into the community; this may reduce your risk for depression and curb isolation. Planning ahead must involve facilitating social engagement and interactions, whether this means integrating supports, maintaining a vehicle, or moving closer to loved ones.

Assess your Health

Make sure to have your health assessed regularly by your provider or practitioner and be realistic about your overall level of wellness; do you need to lose weight? Move more? How is your blood pressure or other factors related to a heart attack or stroke? Even minor physical issues including muscle weakness, poor balance, excess weight, or chronic pain all contribute to and worsen mobility issues or physical disabilities. Consider also how cognitive impairments, like dementia, vision, or hearing issues can impact your ability to live independently when combined with physical challenges. It may require clever planning and inventive mobility solutions; talk to a mobility expert to find a good fit for you.

Get Proactive

But, what can you do about it now? There are many different approaches and tactics that you can take to plan ahead for potential mobility issues, challenges, and disabilities. For example, are you doing what you can to improve your chances at remaining mobile the older that you get? Some of the proactive things that you can do now for better health- and mobility- later include:

  • Start a physical activity regimen to maintain strength, balance, and flexibility. It is never too soon or too late to make these important lifestyle changes.
  • Make changes in the home that reduce trip-and-fall hazard, like replacing flooring or de-cluttering the home.
  • Invest in mobility aids, like grab-bars and reaching tools, that can make everyday life easier while reducing the risk of an injury.
  • Are you overweight? Take-off excess weight and keep it off. Eat a diet that is rich in fiber to also help you feel lean and limber.
  • Think about other, overall health strides that you can make. For example, if you smoke, quit; this will reduce risks of stroke, heart attack, and respiratory issues. Hauling an oxygen tank around wherever you go is not going to assist with your mobility.
  • Look at alternative transportation resources in your area in case your driving is restricted due to a health or mobility issue.
  • Work on flexibility and range of motion with low-impact activities like swimming or yoga. Start now.

These are strategies that you can- and should- start any time. These basic practices will help keep you as mobile and autonomous as possible, by paying attention to basic, holistic wellness. Planning-ahead for mobility issues may seem cynical, but it is a practical and reassuring way to live out your life the way that you choose, where you choose. Aging in place is about living on your own terms, without being forced due to health or mobility problems.

Talk to the mobility insiders at Pacific Mobility in California to learn more about planning ahead for things like mobility issues. They will help to steer you in a direction that complements aging in place and an autonomous lifestyle as you age. Call today.

Stairlift not working? Here’s a few common issues that could be the cause

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There are a few common issues that could be the cause behind a stairlift failing to work properly. If you experience issues with your stairlift not working, consider these culprits and consult with your mobility aid retailer to schedule service for your equipment.

If you experience issues with your stairlift, know that it could be a simple fix. Before you allow anyone to augment, modify, or make repairs to your lift, consult with the seller, vendor, or manufacturer guidelines for servicing the lift to ensure you do not nullify any warranty or insurance.

Stairlift not working? Here are a few common issues that could be the cause:

The Key

Is the key to the lift in the correct position to turn on? That is the first item to check when your stairlift won’t work. Usually, your key switch is on the top stair landing but it can vary from model to model. Next, check the on/off switch, located on the arm of the chair. These sound like simple solutions – and they are- but they are also very common culprits behind a non-working stairlift.

Power Supply

A red indicator light should tell you if power is reaching your lift; is the red light off? If so, check your circuit breakers to make sure you didn’t trip the system.  Also, make sure that the outlet you are using is functioning. Consider dedicating an outlet that is always on and that you know how to reset if necessary. Also, it is not a bad idea to invest in a surge protector for your stairlift.

Battery

Another switch that you will need to look for is the battery disconnect switch, which also serves as the primary shut-off switch for your lift. These switches can be tricky to find as the manufacturers usually put them in spots that won’t get jarred, banged, or battered easily.

Fuses

Could you have a blown fuse? Check your fuse box and replace the blown fuse, or if you are not comfortable, call your electrician to take care of this for you. Many modern models of lifts come with an automatic device that will help to reset your lift’s power. Keep some fuses and other basic tools for your lift on hand to use in the event of an outage or issue; it sounds so elementary but makes such a significant difference in convenience later.

Safety Switches

There are many switches involved when checking out your lift and safety edge switches are the next ones to evaluate. These are often on the footplate and the carriage; check them to make sure they are in the proper position for your lift to operate.

Swivel Seat

Your lift should instinctively transition to an upright position when the user gets up from the lift; if this isn’t happening, there could be an issue with the swivel seat that is affecting overall operation. It could be related to the springs inside the seat, but the best way to proceed is to have it looked at by a qualified mobility aid service technician; call your retailer to schedule service provision.

Rack Hinge Rail

There may be something wrong with the rack hinge rail of your lift; these can be sensitive so even new carpet or an obstacle can cause the lift to stop working. Have you had new flooring put in recently? This may also impact the overall functionality. Check carefully and thoroughly for obstructions; things all clear? It could be time to call in a professional to diagnose the issue.

Connectivity

Is your lift making a lot of uncommon noise? Some sounds, noises, or beeping could be indicative of a problem with the electrical system, including things like a loose connection somewhere. If the noise that you hear is more of a grinding sound, it could be a problem with damaged or deteriorated rollers.

The Joystick

Could there be something askew with your stairlift joystick? The joystick is used for operating the lift and controlling the call switch—both of which merit the attention of a service professional if you suspect they are not working as they should. You may still be able to use your lift, however, with the remote control that came with the lift, if applicable.

Prevent common problems with simple maintenance on your lift. Get your lift serviced and inspected regularly to ensure safe operation and longevity, when it comes to your mobility equipment.

If you are experiencing difficulty with your stairlift or if you are interested in learning more about installing a lift in your home or business, consult with the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility. A free, no-obligation assessment can indicate if a stairlift is a good fit for you; call to learn more today.