aging

If you are looking at ways that will significantly improve overall life quality and satisfaction, it starts with self-reflection. Five tips to improve your quality of life relate to autonomy, social engagement, health, mood, and finding your sense of purpose.

If you were to ask any senior what the most important aspect of aging is, they will likely say something that relates to quality of life. Quality of life encompasses everything from financial security to love and intimacy, and the definition will vary depending on who you ask. There are some universal ways that improve life quality for seniors, including issues pertaining to accessibility and mobility aids to social interaction and leisure.

5 Tips to help improve your quality of life are: 

Maintain Your Independence and Autonomy

Loss of independence and freedom is a very real fear of many older Americans, and some may worry about being forced to leave their homes or autonomous living situations. The key to maintaining independence in the home is accessibility; this may be based on if you are able to get around safely, complete activities of daily living (ADLs), and access the necessary areas of your home, as needed. If you struggle with a physical limitation, injury, or disability, you may want to consider mobility aids that facilitate autonomy and that can accommodate levels of independent living.

Engage Often and Battle Boredom

Another element of aging gracefully and maintaining quality of life is social engagement; whether this means getting out and about or having people come by and visit or take you out for leisure activities. Boredom can be debilitating for seniors or those with limited social outlets; battle boredom with plenty of interaction, stimulation, and recreational interests.

Stay Healthy and Well

Life quality is far better when you are healthy and feel good, which brings up fall prevention; over one-third of seniors over the age of 65 fall every year. Curb these incidents with non-slip surfaces, adequate lighting, and simple aids like grab-bars, which can cut-down on falls and prevent serious injuries. See your doctor regularly, get exercise when possible, and stay active and flexible as long as possible for optimal quality and enjoyment later in life.

Detect Signs of Depression Early

Depression has a way of sneaking up on you, especially if you are older or live alone. Depression is not uncommon among the elderly and lots of things can contribute to depression, like money trouble, health issues, or the death of someone close. Regular, routine appointments with your primary care provider may detect mood problems, but if someone you love is struggling, talk to them about it. A Geriatric Depression Scale screening tool may be used to assess feelings of depression or mood disorder among this population. Don’t let depression negatively impact your quality of life.

Find Your Purpose in Life

Finally, the key to overall quality of life is a sense of purpose. Everyone needs a purpose in life and a reason to get out of bed in the morning; this purpose may be derived from rewarding work, a close-knit family, or volunteer endeavors. Many still may not know what their purpose is, but trust that there is one. Figuring out your own purpose may not come easily; it requires contemplation, reflection, meditation, and, for some individuals, prayer. Finding a purpose at any age can greatly improve quality of life but know that you can’t adopt someone else’s purpose, but certainly, you can learn more about your own through others’ experiences so discuss freely with those around you.

The simple elements to improving quality of life will vary depending on who you ask, but these five tips are fairly-universal in their application and significance when it comes to overall life quality. Think about the things that are most important to you and how they impact your quality of life each and every day.

Commit to Change During Quality of Life Month in January

Commit to making your own life and situation better during Quality of Life Month in January. This period is designated as the perfect time to reflect on your quality of life and overall purpose; are you satisfied with your current situation? Take this time to commit to change the things that you can and that will make a difference in your life quality and satisfaction. Whether it is to visit an eye care provider for new glasses so that you can do more reading to investing in a stairlift so that you can once again sleep in an upstairs bedroom, the changes that you choose to make are as varied and unique as the individual.

If improving access is one of the benchmarks of your quality of life, it is time to evaluate and consider mobility aids. Learn more about your options and how your life can dramatically change with accessibility and mobility devices designed to make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Make today the first day of your new improved life!

Have you missed the second story of your home? What about access to your garden or outdoor spaces? Use your stairs again; install a stairlift in or around your home. Stairlifts can increase access and improve autonomy of anyone with physical limitations, which directly impacts overall quality of everyday life.

Have you been missing the upstairs of your home? Do you have full access to all of the areas of your home? If access is an issue for you in your living situation or home environment, consider how mobility aids might make your life a bit better and make your home a whole lot more accessible and enjoyable.

Take the Stairs Day

Celebrate National Take the Stairs Day on the 2^nd Wednesday in January; what better time to ‘take the stairs’? If you, yourself, don’t struggle with physical disabilities or mobility issues, consider what you may do to make the life of someone who does easier. From installing aids to accompanying someone to the store, there are many ways to show support and solidarity for the seniors or individuals with physical limitations any time of the year.

Wouldn’t you like to Use your Stairs Again, Install a Stairlift today!

Okay, maybe installing a stairlift today is not practical or even feasible, but it is plausible to have a needs assessment and check out stairlift options imminently. Mobility vendors will set up appointments to come and install your lift and show you the proper operating procedures for optimal performance. Concerned that a lift will fit in your home? Stairlifts are now constructed to deal with inherent housing issues, like curved stairs, deep risers, or narrow flights. Talk more to your mobility dealer to learn about the basics that will help you get the most from your lift.

Wondering what else is available to increase access around the home? Some other mobility aids that may help include these:

• Different Types of Lifts

Don’t feel limited to a conventional stairlift when looking at accessibility options for your home; consider also styles such as freestanding, porch, and pool lifts to restore your access and independence around the home. Make sure that the mobility vendor you work with assesses your needs thoughtfully to find you the best aids and devices – that fit your budget – and that installation, service, and support are also part of the purchase.

• Bathroom, Tub, and Shower Aids

It is estimated that nearly 80% of falls sustained by seniors over the age of 65 occur in the bathroom. This is probably not surprising, given that there are potentially wet surfaces that could become slippery underfoot. Check out your available options in shower and bathroom aids, like shower-buddy, tub-seats, and rails that clamp on to the side of your tub. Make sure to add a grab-bar near the toilet and vanity to curb falls during activities of daily living (ADLs). The goal is to prevent a nasty fall and subsequent trip to the Emergency Room, as these can have a debilitating impact on the wellbeing, independence, and quality of life for a senior. Around 1.6 million seniors seek emergency treatment at the hospital due to a fall each year; in fact, around one-fourth of seniors over 65 that fall and break a hip pass away from their injuries within six months.

• Scooters, Chairs, and Walkers

If scooters, chairs, and walkers will help you gain access around the home, or elsewhere, why wait? Talk to your physician first to determine if you may be able for prescription aids covered by insurance. Visit mobility vendors to try, view, and demonstrate different styles and models to find the best one for your distinct needs.

• Bars, Canes, and Reaching Tools

Don’t underestimate the merits of something as simple as grab-bars, reaching tools, and canes when it comes to everyday assistance and ‘taking the stairs.’ These items are inexpensive, widely available, and simple to use. Check out the selection at mobility dealers and sites today!

• Vehicle Lifts and Devices

Get back in the driver’s seat with adaptive devices and equipment for your vehicle, like lifts and devices to open and close garage doors. Transportation can be a real hurdle for many seniors or individuals with any kind of physical limitation; and if you manage to get to your car or truck, how do you stow your equipment (like a walker or chair) when you are by yourself? Talk to the mobility team to find vehicle lifts that store and stash your device while you take your place behind the wheel. Technology is amazing when it comes to adaptive aids and assistance.

If you have areas of your home that are inaccessible due to stairs, consider implementing mobility aids to regain access and control over your life. Mobility aids, like stairlifts, can help you- or someone you love- become more autonomous and independent, which is something many struggle to maintain. Do something special this January and take the stairs, and while you are at it, show support for someone who can’t.

There are so many benefits of taking a bath, and how to do so safely remains an issue to be concerned with particularly for seniors or those with physical limitations. In addition to improved breathing, reduced pain, lower anxiety, and increased activity, bathing in a warm bath simply feels good and provides a sense of freedom.

Improve the safety of your home with Mobility aids for your everyday activities, like bathing. Taking a bath is much more than mere hygiene; there are distinct benefits for seniors and those with physical disabilities.

Some benefits of taking a bath include the following:

Better Breathing

Did you know that taking a warm bath improves respiratory function and helps you breathe better? The warm water speeds up heart rate, but don’t make the water too hot.

Calms Nerves

A warm bath helps to calm the nervous system, much like hydrotherapy. This submersion treatment is also great for tremors or pain issues.

Reduces Inflammation

A nice, warm bath can reduce inflammation and alleviate chronic aches and pains. Add some Epsom salt for extra therapeutic value and relief.

Lowers Stress

Is there anything as relaxing as a warm bath? It has been proven that bathing is a coping strategy that can be used to lower stress and anxiety levels in all age groups.

Fosters Activity

You have probably heard how aqua-style exercises and moving around in water is a great low-impact activity for seniors or those with physical limitations; a bath works much in the same way. Stretching and bathing provide movement and physical therapy that can be favorable for those with physical disabilities or age-related issues.

Oxygenates Blood

The warm water in the tub oxygenates the blood in your body, which helps it to flow better. This means improved circulation and less pain for many.

Stimulates Hormones

A warm bath can stimulate the pituitary gland and encourage it to secrete feel-good hormones. These hormones may help counter any existing hormone imbalance.

Produces Endorphins

Furthermore, the comfort and feeling of sinking in a warm tub can stimulate the production of endorphins in the pleasure center of your brain. The result is overall feelings of wellbeing.

Hydrates the Skin

Soaking in warm water moisturizes and hydrates the skin. Use after-bath products to help seal in the moisture.

Regulates Body Temperature

The water in the bath regulates your body’s core temperature: warm water in the tub helps to warm you up, while cool water helps to cool you down. It is that simple.

Feels Good

A toasty-warm bath simply feels good and helps to restore a sense of autonomy, even if you need mobility aids or assistance to do so. It is a familiar activity that could bring a sense of comfort and calm to the individual.

Bath Safety Month in January is the perfect time to consider mobility aids and equipment to make the bath safer. Devices including the shower buddy, shower-seats, grab bars, and free-standing lifts are a few, depending on your limitations and needs. Bathroom on the second floor of your home? Talk to our representatives about a stairlift for your residence to make the bath more accessible.

Some additional bathroom safety measures for seniors include:

• Keep the floor free of clutter or obstacles that could cause a fall.
• Make sure that the flooring is in decent condition, free from edges, tears, or carpeting that could cause someone to fall.
• Go ahead and install grab-bars near the tub, shower, and toilet, just to be safe.
• Use non-slip bathmats inside and outside the tub and shower.
• Avoid buying and using bath oils or products that could leave a slippery residue behind and cause a nasty fall.
• Think about incorporating a portable phone or alarm in the bathroom to call for help in case of an emergency. A pay-as-you-go cell phone on the vanity or extra landline could be helpful in the event of a fall.

It is estimated that around 80% of seniors’ falls are in the bathroom, partly due to the wet conditions, slick surfaces, and inherent hazards of this space. Be vigilant and proactive about making the bathroom a safer place for a senior, someone with a physical disability, or yourself! Talk more with a qualified mobility dealer to find the right options for your living situation, as well as the best solutions for your needs.

If mobility aids will make your bathroom a safer place to be, than resolve to implement them for Bath Safety Month in January. Taking a bath is far more than an activity of daily living; there are many benefits of taking a bath for seniors or those with physical limitations. Evaluate your bathroom and talk with a mobility expert to keep your bathroom safe for anyone who uses it.

 

Maybe a stairlift or a new wheelchair is not in your buying-budget, but when shopping for loved ones that have physical limitations or mobility issues, small items make a big impact and great holiday gifts, as well. From step-stools and slippers to grab-bars and magnifiers, simple gifts like these can improve the overall quality of life each and every day.

Think outside the box; there are many small, inexpensive mobility aids that help seniors or those with physical limitations manage the day to day activities easier and improve everyday living. While it may not seem like some of these smaller tools can make a big difference, these inventive items can contribute to overall independence and autonomy- which is huge.

Small items make a big impact and great holiday gifts, as well

Sometimes the smallest details make all the difference. When it comes to assistance and accessibility in everyday life, something as seemingly insignificant as a handle or grab-bar can be life-changing. Consider what family or friends with mobility limitations might be able to use on an everyday basis, and that could improve the overall quality of life in a big way.

Some small aids to help with day-to-day-activities include:

• Grab-bars. If there is even the slightest chance that you or someone you love could fall, grab-bars are a good idea. These should be placed in spots that make sense, like near sinks, the toilet, and steps, depending on the layout and particulars of your home.
• Don’t think that ramps involve major construction and a lot of money; there are many affordable and easy portable styles that can be invaluable in preventing a nasty fall or injury.
• Reaching and grabbing tools. Think about putting reaching tools in someone’s stocking this year. Many healthy seniors fall or sustain injury simply from trying to access something that is just out of reach.
• A lazy Susan. Reconfigure and refresh a commonly-used cupboard or cabinet with a handy lazy Susan. These can expand the area inside that is accessible to the resident, making it much easier to find what you are looking for, every day.
• Canes and walking sticks. Canes and walking sticks are great ideas for anyone, but especially for seniors or those with physical limitations. Having the support of a stylish cane or wooden walking stick could be just enough to prevent a fall and assist the user in everyday activities.
• Step-stools with railings. Another clever aid that makes an excellent gift to share widely is a quality step-stool with railing. These will help those living in their own homes with tasks and chores that they do every day. Furthermore, it may curb risks associated with individuals attempting, trying, or climbing to access items that are up high.
• Slip-proof shoes and slippers. A pair of slip-proof shoes or slippers is another underrated aid that could be life-changing for your recipient. Talk to physicians and mobility retailers to find brands endorsed by the experts and rated highly by consumers.
• Magnifiers and readers. Another low-cost idea of a small aid could be a magnifying glass or a pair of readers. Reading glasses are widely-available at a broad price-point, and anyone that uses them for up-close tasks and activities can never have too many pairs.
• Easy apparel. If you struggle with buttons, snaps, or zippers when dressing, consider adaptive apparel, like pull-on pants or Velcro-secured tops. These make activities of daily living (ADLs), i.e. dressing, much easier and more independent.
• Adaptive utensils. Talk to your area’s mobility retailer to find out more about adaptive utensils, pens, toothbrushes, and other necessities that could be a helpful idea. Some of these items have larger handles for easier grip by those with physical limitations.

Large mobility aids and devices aside, these smaller items, products, and tools can make a big impact on someone’s life. Talk to mobility vendors and professionals to learn more about other options for your loved one – or yourself!

Gift-giving with a purpose

Instead of giving the usual gifts, try to think of something that has a purpose for your loved ones with limited mobility or physical challenges. Give them a gift that they may not buy or have thought of for themselves. Some simple aids, tools, and items will mean much more and serve a greater purpose than a box of candy or holiday Poinsettia. You will be contributing to your recipient’s autonomy and independence! What greater gift could there be?

Ready to check out some mobility aids in the area? Come talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility and learn more about how small aids can make a positive impact and significant difference in the life of someone you love this season.  From grab-bars and ramps to stair and platform lifts, visit a retailer today to see more mobility options for yourself.

Online shopping is growing by leaps and bounds but, should you purchase mobility aids online? The risks are great when it comes to buying these products from vendors that may not provide the service and support after the sale that is key in customer satisfaction with lifts, chairs, and other mobility aids.

Everyone is shopping via the internet these days, and it is tough to beat the convenience of ordering items that you need and having them delivered to the door. There are, however, some exceptions to this trend in that there are simply some things you should not buy online. While brick-and-mortar stores may seem fewer and further between, it makes the most sense to buy specific things from local merchants, vendors, and retailers for optimal satisfaction later-on, after the sale. When it comes to mobility aids, there are a lot of features and characteristics to consider that may not be effectively conveyed via the internet. This increases the incidence of dissatisfied customers which in the case of a mobility aid like a stairlift, can have life-altering consequences.

So, it comes down to this: should you purchase mobility aids online?

The answer, in short, is probably no. There are some inherent problems with online shopping that could put you at risk of being dissatisfied and disenfranchised; some of the problems found when making any online purchase could include:

• Digital payment issues.
• Unclear information pertaining to warranties or services.
• Delivery or shipping problems, including inflated costs.
• Quality concerns.
• Lack of security when shopping from some vendors.

The internet may not be the best choice when buying something as important as a mobility aid to increase accessibility. In fact, the risks of a problem implementing your new device could make this a costly, even hazardous, option in some situations.

Websites may be deceiving

It is difficult to tease-out what information is true and valid on the internet from all the sites, stores, and users; the truth is that you can never really tell a company’s reputation from a pretty website. Be skeptical when reviewing and browsing online, especially when you are planning to engage in a business transaction, make a sale, or provide personal and sensitive information to another party.

Do your due-diligence

The smokescreen that the internet provides scammers is what makes due diligence so important. Don’t give out personal information to vendors without researching the company thoroughly. If these seems excessive, consider that around 15-million Americans have their identities stolen online each year. Researching those you plan to buy things from or pay money to makes good sense.

Try before you buy

Buying your mobility aids online also eliminates the opportunity to try and test-out the available equipment and devices. How will you know which lift seat is the most comfortable or which walker is the right size? Buy from a merchant that can offer you a demonstration, too, which will help you immensely when you attempt to operate it in your own home.

Watch out for scams

While any retailer or store could potentially go out of business or close, it is not uncommon for web merchants to shut-down and then, re-open under another name. This is a great way to dodge unhappy customers or aggressive creditors.

Put a face to the name

It is easier to garner a sense of security and reassurance when making an investment, such as buying a lift or scooter, when you can talk to the sales reps in-person. You may be able to establish a relationship with your merchant, which creates a continuum of care as your mobility needs change or progress.

It can be difficult to assess the quality

What about the quality of your mobility device? It can be mighty difficult to assess quality from a picture online, without seeing it in person and trying it out for yourself. Unless you do some homework related to brands, it may be challenging to discern what you are actually buying.

What is your recourse?

Probably the biggest deterrent to buying something as important as a mobility aid online is this: what is your recourse if you are dissatisfied? Who will you call, contact, or message? If you are fortunate enough to reach someone by phone, it is possible that they are in an entirely different state, country, or continent than you are.

Work with merchants who will assess your distinct needs, first

Buying your mobility device, aid, and equipment from a brick-and-mortar business makes sense in most cases. These local vendors work hard to improve the lives of their customers – and are readily available for support later-on. As a patron, you deserve this level of service; in fact, you should demand it.

Don’t try to navigate the world of mobility aids without a reputable and trusted professional by your side. Look for local vendors that have a documented track record of satisfying their customers while providing sales, service, and support that has earned them high ratings and loyal patrons. When you are ready to consider mobility aids to increase your access and autonomy, visit the qualified team at Pacific Mobility for more information.