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When comparing stairlift manufacturers, the differences may surprise you. Consumers should seek reputable brands that are highly rated by buyers, while only shopping with vendors that demonstrate customer satisfaction and service after the sale.

When you think of mobility devices, stairlifts likely come to mind. A stairlift can maintain the autonomy of the user, while increasing access to second stories and upper-levels of the home and workplace. Before you spend money on what seems to be a prudent investment, make sure that you are aware of your options and that you are buying a brand that will last and serve for years to come.

Thinking of buying a new stairlift? It is a wise way to enhance safety and reduce risks:

If you want to increase and enhance accessibility around your home or workplace, a stairlift is an effective strategy. Falls present a serious risk to seniors, according to the National Safety Council and lifts can contribute to decreasing these hazards and preserving independence.

Some things that you may not realize about this danger include:

• Falls make up around 70% of accidental deaths among seniors.
• The majority of unintentional injury among seniors is due to a fall.
• Around 30k seniors are injured in a fall every week, and approximately 250 of these result in death.
• A hip fracture is considered to be the most prevalent injury resulting from a fall, and one-in-four suffering this injury die within one year.
• Over 20% of seniors that experience a fall will sustain debilitating injuries that compromise quality of life.

Compare stairlift manufacturers; the differences may surprise you: 

When looking for a stairlift, it may seem that any will be an improvement when installed in the home. Make sure to only buy reputable, quality equipment from companies that stand behind their product, and who will provide professional installation and service after the sale. Among the names that consumers rate highest are some that can be found widely, and that may offer just what you need to improve access in your space.

Consider some of the highest-rated stairlifts among American consumers before making your buying decision:

• Bruno

When shopping for a stairlift, seek out an ISO certified manufacturer with a wide range of mobility options- like Bruno. Bruno stairlifts have been revolutionary in their approach to assisting mobility-challenged consumers lead full and busy lives. Bruno is lauded for their state-of-the-art technological features, such as their patented swivel and signature seating. Furthermore, Bruno offers cost-effective solutions that will provide peace of mind and improve quality of life for consumers widely.

• Acorn

Customers that buy an Acorn stairlift often are taken by the company’s global presence and family-oriented mission. Acorn manufacturers, sells, and services stairlifts, which makes it a great option when looking for a device that will last and last. Acorn is also distinguished by their creative and innovative approaches, including clever design styles to suit the masses. Acorn stairlifts often features direct-current battery operation, smart technology, and their own ‘FastTrack’ system.

• Ameriglide

Another well-known and reputable stairlift manufacturer is Ameriglide. Ameriglide is primarily found in North America, and this company offers personalized measuring and professional installation. Don’t want to wait for an installation appointment? Ameriglide is one of the few manufacturers who encourage a do-it-yourself approach for consumers who want to trim costs. Servicing and repair options are available upon request.

• Stannah

If you want a fully-customizable stairlift, you may want to look closer at Stannah. Stannah has been helping consumers gain and increase independence for years, and a comprehensive assessment is available for interested buyers at no-charge. You can also gain more information about a Stannah stairlift at one of the over 200 Stannah dealers across the US.

• Up-Down stairlift Company

While Up-Down stairlift Company is not a manufacturer, they are considered to be a provider of quality accessibility equipment in the US. Up-Down stairlift brings some major well-known brands to clients across the country and provide service and installation arrangements for those that may find it difficult to access these provisions in their geographic locale.

• Pacific Mobility

Pacific Mobility has been providing consumers with quality stairlifts for over 60 years. Their trained team of professionals will assist potential buyers from assessment to installation, providing service and support long-after the sale. The mission of bringing accessibility products and high-quality home care has enhanced the everyday life of each individual that uses one of this company’s lifts, including the highly-rated Bruno.  Pacific Mobility is touted for their follow-up and personal attention, which has gained them positive reviews and critical acclaim.

When you are looking at mobility aids, know that you have many options. Don’t ever compromise quality and customer service when looking at costs of enhancing accessibility around your home or workspace. Consider these reputable manufacturers and providers before making your final buying decision.

 

 

 

 

 

 

An injury may leave you with the question, crutches or knee walker? Which is best for you? There are pros and cons to both devices, and many may find that either choice works well in improving mobility and access during recovery.

Your recovery from an injury or operation may depend on mobility devices to help you get around and rehabilitate. But which equipment is best for your distinct needs? Talk with the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility to choose the best option- that also works for your budget. Call today for a thorough needs assessment and consultation to get yourself on the road to recovery!

Crutches or knee walker? Which is best for you?

Crutches or a knee walker- it is a big decision. Know that either device will present you with a learning curve that requires practice and vigilance for new users. Take time and effort to learn the features and controls of both aids, and maneuvering your home and surroundings will become second nature. For the speediest recovery, stay off your feet as much as possible, and when you must get around, go to work, or complete an everyday task, use a mobility device for support. Before investing in either option, consider the pros and cons of both crutches and knee walkers to find which choice fits your lifestyle best.

Crutches

Crutches are a relatively inexpensive option during your rehabilitation and recovery, and it may be possible to rent a pair in some instances. Crutches can cause discomfort since you are putting all of your body weight on your under-arms, which may be irritating. Some other things to consider about crutches are:

• You can really move

You can get around pretty-swiftly on crutches if you have some strength in your upper-body or core. Another perk: you will build up your arms, back, and core quite quickly when using crutches over time.

• Crutches can hinder multi-tasking

When using crutches, you really won’t have the ability to carry, open, pick-up, or reach while moving. Crutches can also present some challenges when it comes to stairs.

• Crutches are great exercise

As mentioned, walking with crutches can build muscle in your upper-body, but you can also get a pretty-good overall workout when using crutches and recuperating from an injury. This can hasten your recovery time, too. Win-win!

• Crutches can be clumsy

Depending on your injury, you may find that you feel unsteady or wobbly when using crutches. Crutches can be difficult to keep upright, and you may find yourself constantly picking them up when they topple over.

Knee walkers

Knee walkers may be a viable option for those struggling with a leg injury or recovering from an operation. Typically, knee walkers cost more than crutches and they may be unstable if you lean too far on any side. Figuring out if a knee walker will work for you involves considering both the pros and cons of these clever walkers:

• Knee walkers are sturdy and stable

Knee walkers have a lower center of gravity and are low to the floor which makes them stable. The cushion for your knee is comfy and soft, allowing you to take a break when resting your cast or injured leg. This also prevents you from putting weight on your injured leg, which can help with your recovery.

• It can be a slow-go

Knee walkers take more time than crutches, and you may find challenges depending on the walker’s width. They can tread slowly on some surfaces, and stairs are a no-go. Narrow doors or hallways could present issues if your walker is wide.

• Knee walkers do the work for you

Another perk of a knee walker is that you don’t have to be in tip-top shape, or have significant upper-body strength, to utilize and use your device. While you won’t build your body using a knee walker, you also won’t work up the sweat that you might with crutches. Once you have familiarized yourself with the operation and features, you can move along quite consistently. Furthermore, it a hands-free operation, which could improve your ability to multi-task.

• There is less of a fall-risk with knee walkers

Knee walkers are less likely to slip on ice or wet surfaces than crutches, and they seem a bit smoother in use. One wrong step on crutches could exacerbate injuries, while this risk is diminished when using a knee walker during your recovery.

Life doesn’t stop when you sustain an injury or need surgery, and mobility aids may be the most viable solution to everyday life. Making the choice between crutches and a knee walker may seem insignificant, but it is a decision that can impact your ease, access, and comfort during recovery from an injury or operation. Talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more about obtaining equipment, devices, and aids to improve your overall quality of life.

Free stairlift? Find out why you can’t believe everything you read; while there are ways to obtain equipment without paying up-front, most are contingent on commitments, financing, and insurance contingencies.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. How is it possible to get a free stairlift? Many vendors may have consumers believe that this is viable, even common, but there are caveats and conditions that remind you why you can’t believe everything you read when it comes to getting mobility devices for your own home.

Free stairlift? Maybe, but here’s why you can’t believe everything you read:

While obtaining a free stairlift may be a fluke, there are ways to secure a quality stairlift without a lot of money. Talk with stairlift professionals to determine eligibility and precise costs associated with these amazing mobility aids. There could be options and resources available that you have not considered when looking for ways to enhance the accessibility of your home or dwelling. Some things that can impact what you pay and that could make a stairlift a practical option include:

Insurance.

Everyone’s insurance coverage is different, but typically Medicare guidelines do not cover the cost of a stairlift. While some individuals may meet the criteria for a lift chair- to assist in standing from a seated position- a stairlift is something that is most-frequently denied. The best way to ensure coverage of these life-changing devices is through home health care insurance coverage that takes care of equipment and home care in the event of a disability, injury, or illness.  In some instances, Worker’s Compensation coverage may defray the costs of these devices following an injury on-the-job, or those that are involved in auto accidents may find this equipment is cover. The best rule of thumb is to examine, assess, and plan supplemental insurance coverage options to have peace of mind now, and help with expenses later.

Financing Options.

Another practical way to obtain and install a stairlift with little money up-front is through financing and payment arrangements. Seniors often don’t plan on an incident or condition that debilitates their ability to move independently; talk with a manufacturer to find out how you can get a stairlift through financing alternatives, payment plans, or loans. The best approach to financing a new stairlift is to work with a company that you can visit and discuss in-person your options. This is the best way to get accurate information, pricing, and conditions without the risk of miscommunications, which can occur through email or online chats.

The Internal Revenue Service.

The Internal Revenue Service is another resource that could offer some viable ways to upgrade your home and improve accessibility. Call the IRS to determine if your home meets the qualifications for adjustments and valuable tax deductions. In some instances, the IRS may allow you to deduct the cost of installation and equipment, which could impact your overall cost of implementing a lift in the home.  For more information, refer to IRS Publication 502 for information and an online- calculator to estimate whether modifying your stairs qualifies it as a legitimate reason to deduct for medical reasons. You may choose to phone the IRS at (800) 829-1040.

The Government.

Another way that the government can help you secure a stairlift in your home is through grants. There are many grants offered for home modifications that can prevent fall risk through the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence. Also, reach out to the National Council on independent Living Center at (703) 525-3406 for additional ways to get the appropriate funding for mobility aids in your region.

Agency on Aging.

Is there an Agency on Aging in your area? These are excellent resources for finding funding to modify housing for disabilities and access. If you meet the criteria, some Area Agency on Aging sites can help you access resources from the Older Americans Act Title III for support in installing a stairlift. Reach out by contacting the Eldercare locator for more information regarding requirements and eligibility.

Let Pacific Mobility help you find an affordable alternative.

So, it seems that there are many ways to obtain stairlifts that might not clean out your rainy-day fund, but make sure to visit and speak with vendors directly. Make sure to only buy your stairlift from a reputable and qualified mobility aid professional that offers support, service, and customer satisfaction. Contact the experts in mobility aids to garner more information and options for your distinct situation.

In essence, there are no free stairlifts but there may be many options that make mobility equipment viable. Come talk to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility for mobility aids that work with your home, needs, and budget.

Give the gift of accessibility with accessories for your senior living with a mobility issue. Accessories can make simple tasks easier and increase independence for many.

Sometimes the little gifts and gestures mean the most- particularly when it comes to holiday gift-giving solutions for seniors. Anyone who has a physical limitation or mobility issue will appreciate and enjoy the increased access that small things like a basket for a wheelchair, reacher for kitchen cabinets, or a leg-lifter for independent dressing, can provide.  Before hitting the mall and buying that same sweater for someone you love, consider how a gift from Pacific Mobility Center will assist your loved one and potentially improve their overall quality of life.

Accessories can make simple tasks easier: 

Whether your loved one relies on a wheelchair, scooter, walker, or if they ambulate independently, some clever conceptions and useful accessories are available to help your loved one with mobility issues. Some great gift ideas include these suggestions:

• Baskets

Consider buying someone who uses a wheelchair or scooter a well-made and utilitarian basket that adapts to their mobility aid, and that will allow them the freedom of carrying their belongings, goods, or items from one place to another with ease. Look for styles that snap or Velcro to the frame of their aid, but that doesn’t interfere with the performance. This is one of the reasons why it is most prudent to buy these items from a certified mobility aid dealer, who has insight into the style, size, and specifications of these devices which may impact your buying decision.

• Bags

Another gift that will keep on giving and providing utility to your loved one is a bag that is designed to augment a walker. These typically resemble a pouch, of sorts, with compartments and enclosures for any smaller, personal items. Choose bags with the option of monogramming, embellishing, or personalizing for a special, holiday touch.

• Grabbers and reachers

Grabbers and reachers can help provide access to cabinets, cupboards, and shelves that may have posed risks and challenges previously. These are items that any senior can use, and that could improve the flow and function of their home during everyday activities. These are widely available and found in a gamut of styles and sizes, so check out your options carefully before buying. Also, make sure to only invest in high-quality devices to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage later.

• Leg-lifters

Sometimes, a little help can go a long way in maintaining autonomy and living an independent lifestyle. For example, a leg lifter can help the user with dressing, bathing, grooming, and overall mobility around the home. These provide a means of getting leverage when lifting a leg or bending over so that putting on shoes- for instance- is no longer an obstacle to autonomy.

Give the gift that keeps on giving

Give the gift of safety this season with handy accessories, and rest easy knowing that you have provided a bit more convenience and accessibility to someone that you love. Consider other options such as door openers, canes, hand-rails, and bathing benches to provide a little bit of ease to someone who has physical limitations or challenges.

Are assistive accessories not enough?  

While these aids and devices are helpful and user-friendly, does your loved one need something more assistive? Talk with reputable mobility aid vendors to find additional solutions that will increase the access and improve life for your senior.

Check out how lifts can make life easier:

• stairlifts. stairlifts are life-changing devices that increase access to a second level of the home for those that have difficulty with steps and stairs. Make sure to only buy from certified vendors that offer professional installation for optimal satisfaction and maximum utility.
• Ceiling lifts. Ceiling lifts make life easier and safer for those you love, as well as those that you trust to provide care and assistance for the senior. These typically help elevate the individual for transports, hygiene, or wound-care, without running the risk of injuring either the patient or the caregiver.
• Vehicle lifts. Vehicle lifts make driving a reality for those that may struggle due to mobility aids. These not only help the user get into the driver’s seat, but they also allow the motorist to safely stow their chair, scooter, or walker during the transport.
• Porch lifts. A porch lift can make rises, steps, porches, and patios more accessible and less of a fall-risk for those that live with mobility issues. Inside and out, a porch lift can make life a lot more convenient for seniors that choose independent living.
• Pool lifts. Feel like taking a swim? Make the most of a pool with a pool lift. This gently raises and lowers the user into the water, safely and securely, to facilitate and help them enjoy their pool more fully.

Talk with the experts about increasing access and convenience

Visit or talk with the professionals at Pacific Mobility Center to find the perfect holiday gifts for someone living with a mobility issue. Give a senior something under the tree this year that has the potential of changing their life for the better!

Mobility devices increase independence and preserve autonomy for those living with physical disabilities or limitations. Increased access protects independence, which leads to overall quality of life.

It is estimated that there are around 18-million people in North America living with mobility issues. This makes the need and demand for mobility devices more prevalent than ever before. Encourage your loved one with physical limitations to be as independent as possible through the installation and use of mobility aids and equipment. Allow your loved one to age in place and respect their desire to be autonomous with tools and devices that can increase convenience and function, whether you want to increase access in the home, at the office, or even for your vehicle!

Mobility devices increase independence in several ways:

High-quality mobility devices increase independence for users in a wide variety of ways, from helping homeowners access second-level areas, to assisting individuals to drive to and from appointments. Depending on the physical limitation, lifts can help broaden access around the home while also protecting caregivers from incidental injury when transporting physically-impaired clients. It is imperative to only allow professional, qualified technicians install, repair, or modify your mobility aids, lifts, devices, and equipment. Allowing someone to tamper with your device may not only nullify any warranty, it can also present a safety risk and hazard to those using it.

Consider these mobility aids and devices:

• stairlifts

A nasty fall on a step or stair can significantly impact the health and well-being of a senior or other person with mobility issues. Avoid this potential disaster with stairlifts, which safely transport the user up the stairs or steps with ease. Whether you have a straight or curved stairway, and regardless of the riser-depth, stairlifts can create a convenience that allows free-range and full-access to their home or workplace.

• Ceiling lifts

For individuals living with mobility issues that make activities of daily living (ADLs) challenging, keep your loved one and their caregivers safe with a ceiling lift. These devices gently raise the user so that they can dress, groom, or engage in activities, such as physical therapy, with much more ease. This also helps ensure that caregivers don’t suffer injuries or problems when transporting and caring for your loved one.

• Vehicle lifts

Don’t let a mobility issue impact your ability to drive; a vehicle lift can create a safe way for individuals to get in-and-out of their vehicle, while also storing wheelchairs, scooters, or other aids securely. This enables your loved one to maintain their freedom and attend appointments or commitments independently, which fosters self-confidence and contributes to quality of life.

• Porch lifts

Something as simple as stepping outside to enjoy the fresh air, some sunshine, or the garden can be truly joyful. Don’t let your loved one be deprived of this pleasure; look at porch lifts to increase access from a porch or patio to other areas of your property. If you happen to have a pool, consider a pool lift for those that enjoy a swim but that have difficulty getting in-and-out of the water.

Increased accessibility preserves and protects autonomy

Physical limitations can impact more than access, a disability can lower morale, decrease social engagement, and hasten any existing medical conditions. Assistance through the use of mobility devices and equipment helps to preserve autonomy for those living independently. Fostering the inherent desire for independence can contribute to the overall quality of life experienced by your loved one that is living with a mobility issue.

Access improves overall quality of life

Studies show that people thrive with regular social engagement and interaction with others. Provide a means for those with physical disabilities or limitations to participate in community activities, visit friends, attend appointments, and run errands. This may include augments to the home, office, or vehicle, which can restore some of the freedoms that may hinge on overall quality of life.

Talk to the experts in mobility aids for a thorough assessment

Don’t ever purchase mobility aids without a thorough assessment of needs; this will save you time, energy, and money later, and ensures that you have the right equipment to facilitate access for your loved one. Buy your mobility aids from reputable and certified retailers with experience in the field, and a proven track-record of professional installation and customer satisfaction. While second-hand equipment may seem like a bargain, the safety risks and problems that it may bring are not worth it. Protect those you love and make the investment in quality lifts and aids.

It is estimated that one in five older Americans (age 65 and older) have a physical disability. This has led to increased choices and options when it comes to mobility aids and devices to increase access. Technology continues to improve upon conventional lifts and equipment, so the time is perfect to update, improve, and enhance the home, office, or car to improve the access and quality of life for someone you love.

Rely on the experts when it comes to questions related to how to take care of your new stairlift for years of dependable service, as well as to ensure user-satisfaction after installation of the device.

Once your mobility devices are installed, preserve performance and satisfaction with routine maintenance to keep your stairlift working smoothly and providing the assistance that you- or your loved one- needs and depends on. Don’t ever permit those that are not qualified to work on or make repairs to your device, as this can present serious safety risks to those utilizing the equipment in the home.

Some other ways to maintain and take care of your new stair life include the following:

Start with the power source

Never attempt to make repairs, adjustments, or maintenance on your stair life until after you disconnect from your power source. Unplug the lift carefully before proceeding and use caution when assessing damage or problems, preferably under the watchful eye of a mobility device professional. Make sure the charging device has been disabled by unplugging it from your electrical outlet first and foremost.

Re-check the device to ensure it is ‘off’

After you have unplugged the lift from the power source, make sure to turn off the breaker switch on the carriage of your stairlift. Depending on the type and style lift you are using, the location may vary so refer to your owner’s manual and defer adjustments to the vendor and their installation experts. Never assume that your lift is off and unplugged; always verify and confirm by manually checking the device independently.

Use gentle cleaning solutions

You will want to clean your lift and the mechanisms periodically to preserve functionality and prevent germs and bacteria transmission during use. Use a commercial spray cleaner recommended by the manufacturer or retailer of your lift, and some soft paper towels to clean the rail of your stairlift. You can also use this method to clean the copper strips on your device. It warrants repeating: always make sure that your battery charger has been unplugged and the circuit breaker has been turned off before you begin to clean your stairlift.

Keep an eye out for streaking

Keep a watchful eye out for signs of black streaking along the rail of your lift. Dust can build up and gather around greased mechanisms which creates this debris. Use a damp cloth with a household cleaner to wipe the rail clean, but don’t spray the cleaning solution directly on the rail itself. Furniture polish wiped on the copper charge stripping can prevent squeaking and keep your lift running smoothly. Make sure to wipe the rail and stripping dry after cleaning to prevent problems, such as rusting.

Restore the power to your device

When you clean or make adjustments to your stairlift, it is integral to completely disconnect the device from any and all power sources. Once the maintenance has been performed, it is time to reconnect your device to the power source. First, plug the battery charger back into the electrical outlet; next, turn your circuit breaker switch on. The stairlift should now be clean and ready to go!

Keep your device well-maintained

Make sure to provide the very basic maintenance tasks warranted to ensure your stairlift provides you with many years of smooth and satisfying service. In addition to periodic cleanings, you should have your lift serviced- annually, for instance- by a certified technician, trained in the field of mobility aids and equipment. This is an excellent way to identify any issues early and address them before running the risk of malfunction, property damage, or safety hazard later.  These experts are also the way to approach moving or relocating a stairlift or updating and upgrading devices as needed or desired.

Ask the experts how to take care of your new stairlift for years of dependable service and satisfaction

Reach out to the experts when you are seeking advice regarding the care and maintenance of your mobility aids, including your stairlift. Professional installation ensures that you won’t experience performance issues after the sale, and will also shed some light on the operation and functionality of your device. Furthermore, your stairlift retail professional can be a great resource for troubleshooting or support if you encounter difficulties or have questions related to your mobility device.

Among all mobility aids available, stairlifts may be the most life-changing for those with physical impairments, limitations, or disabilities. These devices not only increase access, they can improve the overall quality of life for the thousands of consumers that rely on them daily. Make sure that your stairlift is working up to par, and prevent problems with some simple, yet important, maintenance. Keep your lift clean and debris-free, and watch for signs of streaking along the rail. Make sure that you arrange periodic service visits from a certified technician to diagnose and repair any potential issues before they become problems.

It is our honor to assist and recognize Veterans on Veteran’s Day, and aim to pay respects to these brave individuals every day with simple gestures that can greatly improve quality of life.

Do something for someone that has sacrificed for you and yours: honor and take time to assist those that have served in the armed forces. Many veterans face issues that make mobility devices part of everyday life. Do something to recognize the more than 9.4 million veterans in this country this Veterans Day, by doing small things that can make an impact on the access and comfort of a disabled senior.

It is our honor to assist and recognize Veterans Day

This Veterans Day, make sure to recognize the underlying meaning of this important but often overlooked holiday. Veterans Day started November 19, 1919, as ‘Armistice Day’, which marked the end of WWI. In 1926, Congress deemed it a national annual holiday, becoming officially observed in 1938. The holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 by then-President Dwight Eisenhower, dubbing this day to serve as a way of honoring Americans that have served in the war. The holiday is recognized in Arlington, Virginia, with a national ceremony of remembrance at the Arlington National Cemetery.

Parades are nice, but some simple ways to honor seniors that have served include these gestures:

Help facilitate interaction and socialization. Go out of your way to help to foster engagement among veterans and peers; this might include a ride to a community event or accompanying a disabled veteran to a VA center or clinic. Provide social outlets, whether it is shopping or a local theater production, that will get the senior out and about, engaging with others. Check local assisted-living facilities and VA hospitals for activities, gatherings, and events that could be a chance to bring together like-minded peers. Social interaction has been shown to have many health benefits, so this can have an impact on overall well-being.

Treat veterans to the healing power of pets. Do you believe in the healing power of pets? Studies show that petting a dog or cat can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and alleviate stress; it is further asserted that pets provide companionship to seniors or shut-ins that brings purpose and joy to everyday life. If it isn’t feasible to give a pet to a senior that you know, consider taking your loved one to a local shelter, aviary, or farm to visit and interact with the animals. Some assisted living facilities may have scheduled visits from therapy-dogs or service animals; check local bulletin boards and online resources for more information.

Do something that improves accessibility. Do something to increase access to buildings, yards, or areas of the home for someone with a mobility issue or disability. This could include building a small ramp for a senior or installing a grip-bar for a disabled veteran. When someone has access, they have autonomy, and this can be integral to the identity and well-being of a senior who is trying to live independently or that has limited support and resources.

Advocate for independence. Advocate for the senior, veteran, or a loved one that is trying to live an independent lifestyle. Be the voice that argues for better living conditions, home renovations, or in-home care that allows some seniors to live in their own homes. Make efforts and advocate for solutions that improve autonomy, like stairlifts or walkers, and talk with the senior about allowing respite care or in-home caregivers in for additional services and support. While it may seem like an obvious solution to make life safer and easier, respect the senior by involving them in any discussion regarding their care and living arrangements.

Offer someone a lift. Sometimes, something as simple as a ride can be a blessing. Offer to give a senior, loved one, or veteran a ride and make their day a little bit easier. Many disabled seniors don’t want to ask for rides, especially when they require time, effort, or energy to get in and out of a vehicle. Think of the time that these individuals have given to others- whether serving in the military, being a parent, or working- and share some of it back with the offer of a lift.

Take time for a conversation. Got some free time? Pay a visit to a veteran that you know and make the time to talk without looking at a watch or hurrying out the door. Sometimes simply listening is something special for someone who doesn’t get out much or that has limited social interactions. Keep the cell phone in your car or turned-off to prevent distractions, if possible.

Honor a veteran this Veterans Day, and every day

Don’t wait around until November to show a veteran appreciation for their service, while simply doing something for someone else. Use these tips to make an impact on the life of someone that lives with a mobility issue or disability- and that has dedicated a portion of their life to protecting the lives of all Americans.

Do something thoughtful and kind any time, but pay particular attention to helping someone with a disability increase access with mobility aids when observing the Veteran’s Day holiday this year. Talk with mobility retail professionals to find the best aids to enhance access, increase independence, and improve quality of life for someone you care about.

Mobility aids and devices are not the most prudent place to scrimp or save; DIY lifts and ramps could cost more in the long run, as well as pose potential problems and risks to the user.

If you think you are saving money when buying second-hand or installing your own mobility devices and equipment, think again. The installation of lifts and aids should only be completed by a professional to ensure the device works properly and safely, plus you may find that used purchases are not backed by any type of satisfaction guarantee. Improper or unprofessional installation of devices, like ramps for instance, can create problems and become a real headache.

Doing-it-yourself could cost you more in the long run; don’t sacrifice the following for a few dollars:

Compatibility

How will you know if someone else’s used device is compatible with your needs? Are you sure that it can be integrated into the spot that you need it to be? Buying from a qualified mobility retailer ensures compatibility, comfort, and cohesion with the user and their distinct living situation. Are you also certain that it is the best option for your mobility needs? It may make sense to consider a short-term rental to pinpoint whether this is the right device. Deciding on the right aid involves consideration of many factors as well as a thorough assessment of needs; shirking this responsibility and skipping this step is a disservice to the consumer buying the equipment.

Convenience

Installing a device or mobility aid is not necessarily easy to do. Equipment is heavy and specialized tools may be needed. Do you have the right tools and skill-sets to install a lift? How about the ability to build a ramp? The ease of professional installation can’t be overstated or underestimated. Before going the DIY route, consider who you will call if the installation process goes south.

Safety

There is no guarantee of safety when you buy from someone other than a reputable merchant or qualified retailer. Mobility aids are utilized to provide safe and secure access; if you are unable to parlay all concerns about the condition and operation of the device, you are defeating your own purpose. Do yourself – and your loved one – a favor and buy from a company that stands behind their product and that will help familiarize you with the operation of the device before leaving you on your own.

Warranty

Will you get a warranty on used mobility aids or devices? Probably not. Mobility aids that come from reputable merchants will provide some sort of warranty in the event of damage or dissatisfaction, which is key when making an investment in something like mobility equipment or devices. After all, if the device fails to perform as soon as it is installed, what recourse will you have? If you work with a trusted name in mobility aids, your satisfaction is the priority.

Utility

The key to staying safe – and keeping your loved one secure – is the operation and utility of your device. This requires a professional to show you the proper way to use the mobility aid. Since someone’s well-being is dependent on the lift working seamlessly, why risk this peace of mind with a shoddy or dated device. The careful eye and inspection of installation professionals bring another measure of assurance and support that makes it a prudent investment to make.

Performance

Be wary of buying devices from online classifieds, social media, or sight-unseen. There is no guarantee of performance, quality, or longevity, and you could be buying someone else’s headache. Installing a lift anywhere in a home or workplace is not something that can be done singlehandedly. Professionals arrive in teams to swiftly install, inspect, test, and support users to ensure optimal performance and ultimate satisfaction with your device. The problems and headaches that can arise when buying second-hand could drive-up the price and make it a less cost-effective approach to improving accessibility in your home.

Hiring a professional can save time, potential problems, and money

The most efficient approach to installing mobility aids and devices is to hire a pro. Buy your equipment from a vendor that offers installation, which also ensures you will have access to service and support after the sale. What could be more frustrating than attempting to install a device with little-to-no assistance? Make things easy on yourself and buy from a qualified and reputable vendor that provides professional installation.

Before you leap into a purchase or deal on mobility devices, consider whether the savings is worth it. After all, it is imperative that mobility aids are safe, work properly, and are maintained, and second-hand equipment may not guarantee these provisions. Furthermore, second-hand vendors may not provide the thorough needs assessment to pinpoint the most practical device for you and your distinct living situation, which could result in equipment that is not as useful or user-friendly as you had hoped.