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Mobility experts urge long term care planning to ensure access and autonomy for seniors, and to facilitate independent living as long as possible.

It has been indicated that the three biggest concerns of seniors are a loss of independence, decline in health, and exhaustion of resources, more specifically, money. Planning ahead can not only help ease these fears and worries, but also make life a lot simpler for those that you care about. It is never too soon to begin long term care planning, and waiting until you suffer a debilitating illness or disability could be too late. Think about your independence and how you will get around the home, to your appointments and live autonomously; mobility devices may play a significant role in your quality of life as you get older, so don’t forget to include this in your careful planning.

Mobility experts urge long term care planning; here’s what you can do now:

While no one knows what the future holds, there are a few things that you can do now in terms of preparing for long term care down the road. These are simple steps to ensure that you clarify and communicate your wishes, as well as implementing sensible strategies to get there. Some things that you can start doing today are:

Speak out

The first and probably the most important thing that you can do right now is to make your wishes known. Engage in open communication with your family, friends, and caregivers to let others in on what you would want your life to be like if you were unable to live independently or if you were facing a debilitating illness. Talk candidly, and follow up with a written outline of your wishes, preferably notarized, to provide a clue and a reminder to loved ones of what your preferences are and will be – but more on that later.

Trouble-shoot problems

Play devil’s advocate for a moment and look around your home. Does that railing look safe? How steep are those stairs? Are these floors conducive to a wheelchair or walker? Try to identify potential problems with access, convenience, and safety to determine what your future needs may be. Talk with other peers to find what their biggest challenges, hurdles, and obstacles are when living in their own homes for some further insight. Discuss with a building contractor some ways to make your home more accessible and safe, as well as to obtain estimates of such upgrades.

Do your homework

Check out customer reviews and online information to evaluate what devices and equipment seem to support autonomy in old age or disability. Look for mobility experts that offer free consultations, professional installation, and support after the sale. Some merchants may offer rentals or trials that will allow you to experience and get a feel for the equipment before making a buying decision.

Get your affairs in order

Get your advanced directive in order; an advance directive is a way to lay-out your health care choices in the event that you are unable to make or voice these decisions later on. These typically fall into two categories: living wills and power of attorney for health care. These decisions become more complex and involved for individuals with existing physical disabilities or impairments, so be sure to ask for assistance from a trusted caregiver, provider, or legal professional. Not sure how to go about completing an advance directive? Many organizations that advocate for seniors, such as AARP (The American Association of Retired Persons) offer free advance directive forms that you can download and print-out.

Consult with the experts

Now is the time to talk with an expert about mobility options. Opt only for professional installation and buy from reputable vendors when you are ready to take the plunge and increase access around your home. Why wait for problems that can impact your autonomy and accessibility? Talk with someone now about the most pragmatic and sensible solutions to plan for your future needs.

Talk with mobility experts to ensure you have what you need now – and later: 

Visit a mobility expert to view some of the options for home installation as well as to determine what price-points are when making long term care plans. Discuss viable approaches to accessibility around your home, including challenging areas, obstacles, and spots that pose potential problems, such as a fall risk or injury. These professionals will be able to assess your current needs, as well as help you plan for a future that is as independent as possible.

There is no time like the present when it comes to long term care planning, and don’t forget to address the possibility of mobility aids, devices, and equipment when you look toward the future. Planning now ensures your wishes are carried-out and that no loved one is left to bear the burden of making your important life decisions. Take a careful look around your home environment; do you see potential hazards or access issues? Do some research and a little internet homework by reading reviews and feedback from consumers related to their mobility assistance to find options that you may not have thought of. Also, begin to get your affairs in order with an advance directive; it really is one of the most thoughtful things that you can do for your children and loved ones.

When choosing lifts, think of yourself as well as the other caregivers before buying. Convenience, versatility, and quality are key, as well as service and support from vendors.

Buying a lift or other mobility devices is a big decision and one that should take many needs into consideration. In addition to ensuring the well-being and security of the user, it also requires insight into the distinct needs of the caregivers with consideration into the home or place that the device will be used.

When choosing lifts, think of yourself as well as other caregivers

While it is imperative to think of the user when choosing and buying lifts, it is also integral to consider the needs of the caregiver, too. Caregivers will also be utilizing, modifying, and transporting devices, which makes it important to look for devices with them in mind. Furthermore, these aids can significantly reduce incidents of caregiver injury during lifts, transports, and daily routines.

Some things to think about include:

• Convenience

Convenience is key when making the decision to implement lifts and aids; after all, it if isn’t easy to use, it won’t be helpful or able to increase access. Talk with vendors about convenient controls, simple utilization, and about installation options to ensure everyone is able to master the utility of the device, and that it becomes a natural part of the home environment.

• Versatility

Another aspect to consider is how versatile the device is; will the lift transport various sized patients? How will it fit and meld with the layout and configuration of the home? Versatility may also include features such as curvatures for stairlifts, as not all stairways are linear and straight. Consider what your distinct environment looks like and how the device will need to be flexible and versatile to make it a pragmatic option for your living situation.

• Quality

Always opt for quality devices, made in the USA, that are backed by the retailer. Don’t skimp on features that will make your life ultimately easier, as this is likely a device that will be used regularly, perhaps daily. Don’t buy second-hand mobility aids as this could compromise safety, security, and longevity of the product.

• Comfort

Make sure that whoever is using or assisting with use of the device is comfortable, too. From the cushioning of the seat to non-slip grip handles, look for details that will contribute to overall comfort whenever possible. Even factors such as the fabric and upholstery of the lift’s seat can make a big difference, too, in both how it feels when seated to ease of caring and cleaning the surface.

• Installation

Make life a whole lot easier on all involved by seeking out a vendor that offers professional installation. You should never try to install a lift without expert assistance as it could compromise safety and put those using the device at risk of a potential injury, as well as cause property damage in the process.

• Overall performance

How accessible does the device make your home? Consider the potential and whether it actually makes the difference that you are hoping that it does. For instance, if you want a lift to provide access to your vehicle, how will the device be stowed or stashed once you- or the patient- are in the driver’s seat? Consider the entire scenario in terms of access and pragmatism before deciding which device or equipment makes the most sense for your situation.

• Support

Support and service after you buy your lift are going to be crucial; this is a need that both patients and caregivers are vested in. If something goes askew with the function, or if you are having difficulty operating it, who are you going to call? When you buy mobility devices from a reputable merchant, you will have support and service available to assess your situation and offer advice, which can be a compelling and invaluable feature for any consumer.

Consider a wide range of lift options:

Different lifts provide different access around the home; make sure to consider the user’s lifestyle and routine when making investment decisions and before augmenting the home environment. Some of the available options include:

• Stairlifts. Increase access around the home- including up-stairs, steps, or other areas that might have otherwise been inaccessible.
• Vehicle lifts. Maintain autonomy and get around easier with lifts for your distinct vehicle.
• Porch lifts. Sometimes the biggest obstacles are a rise, step, or ramp that leads to outside areas, like porches, gardens, and yards.
• Ceiling lifts. Provide security and safety with ceiling lifts designed to assist patients and caregivers during activities of daily living (ADLs).

Contact Pacific Mobility for a needs-assessment:

Buy your lifts and mobility aids from reputable vendors that will perform a thorough assessment of the individual’s needs before buying. Be dubious of businesses that are less concerned with the needs and preferences of the client, and that seems more focused on the sale. This also ensures the option of professional installation, as well as service and support after the purchase of equipment.

Five things to consider when purchasing a wheelchair are the size and shape of your body, your diagnosis, lifestyle habits, the property terrain, and personal preferences.

Think carefully when buying mobility devices to ensure you are buying the best, most helpful options. Just as each person and their needs are distinct, wheelchairs vary in many aspects and features that could make a significant impact on your overall accessibility, utility, and satisfaction. Work with professionals that have insight into the variances that make one wheelchair better for the individual than others.

When shopping for a wheelchair, there are a few questions to ask yourself:

• Where will the wheelchair be used most often?
• What kinds of activities are routine, and what are some things that you want the chair to provide?
• How do you plan to transport the wheelchair?
• How much time will be spent in the wheelchair?
• What features are most important to myself and my caregivers?
• What kind of surfaces or slopes are involved in traversing my property, and what accommodations will be needed to go from one surface to another?

After asking yourself these questions, you may reveal the features and specifications that are warranted in your new chair, which will help to narrow-down potential options. Next, consider five instrumental and integral factors that can make-or-break your choices, ultimately finding the right chair to suit your distinctive needs. It is reported that the right wheelchair can be interpreted by the brain as being an extension of your body; make the transition and adaptation as comfortable and seamless as possible.

Five things to consider when purchasing a wheelchair are: 

1. Body size, shape, and build

Physical build of the individual using the chair is an important thing to consider before buying. This includes age, as children and adults require different chairs. Gender, body-weight, and height are also considerations that a reputable vendor will look at when trying to find the right chair for you. This is why it is so important to meet with mobility pros for an assessment to determine which options are most viable and pragmatic.

2. The underlying diagnoses and medical needs

The reason you are using the wheelchair is also a pertinent consideration; this may relate to your strength and endurance, which may rule-out manual or electric options. Individuals living with paralysis or amputation will have distinct needs, while those using the chair for poor balance and fall-risk will have others. Discuss this with during initial consult to rule-out wheelchairs that simply are not suited to your physical condition and medical needs.

3. Your lifestyle and habits

Naturally, your lifestyle and activities that you engage in regularly are important elements that can impact your buying decision. If you plan on doing specific tasks in the chair, and whether you intend to use the chair for mainly sitting, can make a certain chair more suitable than others.  Some individuals may only need the chair for transportation, that is, getting from one spot to another while others may want the ability to access any and all of life’s activities and opportunities while using their wheelchair. The choice is yours!

4. The lay of the land

The terrain of your home and property are also key when making your decision related to buying a wheelchair. Some buyers may only plan on using the chair when they are at home, or when they visit their local community. For this reason, variances in wheelchair wheels, shocks, and comfort may point to the best option for your needs. If you frequently use the sidewalks or roadways, live in a rural or rugged environment, and even if you plan to use the chair camping often are key factors to consider before buying a chair.

5. Personal preferences and impressions 

Don’t overlook your own personal preferences, tastes, or impressions when selecting your new wheelchair; know that your new chair is an investment in mobility and access, inside the home and out. Ask friends, family members, or others that utilize mobility devices and chairs for their input and level of satisfaction to help make informed buying decisions.

Mobility device experts are the resource for finding the perfect chair

After buying the right chair, will you fully-understand the features and operation of it? Work with mobility vendors that are experienced with a proven record of satisfying customers and providing support after the sale. This ensures you have a reputable resource in the event of questions or issues later.

Don’t try to navigate the world of mobility aids alone; seek out assistance and support from experienced, reputable vendors that have your satisfaction in-mind. Try to come up with a list of basic needs, wants, and features to consider during your search for the perfect wheelchair, and share this with your mobility expert or representative to narrow-down your potential options.

Poor balance may be an indication of upcoming mobility issues and how you can help includes reaching out to mobility experts about aids, equipment, and strategies to prevent injury.

Problems with coordination and balance are common among seniors over age 65, and contribute to the 25% of falls endured by this demographic annually. Poor balance should not be ignored; it could be a sign of an underlying and very-serious medical condition. It is pragmatic to be proactive when it comes to implementing mobility devices for seniors that demonstrate issues with balance before accidental injury occurs.

Poor balance may be an indication of upcoming mobility issues; how you can help:

Don’t overlook issues with balance as it could be a sign of more serious mobility problems to come. Be proactive about finding ways to circumvent poor coordination, while also looking for reasons why it is manifesting.

Some things you can do to help a senior demonstrating balance issues include:

Fall-risk assessment

It is important for a licensed provider to perform a fall-risk assessment on any senior during routine appointments to identify balance issues. Furthermore, this can also help to tease-out the contributing factors, which might include an infection or certain medications. These risk assessments may also recognize the need for specialized treatment options, such as occupational or physical therapy, to assist in helping the patient maintain coordination and prevent falls.

Install devices

Don’t wait for an accident to install devices that aid in mobility and access for seniors. September is National Preparedness Month, which is the perfect time to install equipment that could prevent a fall or improve access for individuals, especially over age 65.

Utilize aids

Make use of aids that help with balance. From grab-bars to reaching tools and canes to walkers, these aids can come in-handy when seniors lose their balance or go about their daily routine. Doctors can prescribe these devices, or you may simply pay for installation to make the home a safer, more-accessible dwelling.

Build core strength

One of the reasons why it is important for seniors to engage in physical activity daily is to maintain and build core strength. Since protein is the building-block of lean muscle mass, it is integral to ensure a diet rich with protein every day. Consider exercise groups, a personal trainer, and dietary supplements to maintain core body strength throughout the lifespan.

Implement equipment

Look to the experts for professional installation of equipment that maintains the senior’s autonomy and independence in the home. Don’t scrimp on these devices; buying second-hand equipment from unqualified sellers could actually perpetuate an accident or injury- rather than prevent one.

Talk to Pacific Mobility about proactive measures for poor balance:

Don’t try to go it alone. Work with sellers and companies that can provide for your future needs, while offering installation and service after the sale. Considering options that may not be warranted now could prevent an accident in the future. No price-tag can be put on the feeling of freedom that comes from mobility; check out options that will provide this to your senior:

Lifts

Lifts do just that: they lift the patient to better-access around the home. These are not reserved for those individuals in chairs or scooters, but to anyone who wants to maintain full-access to their surroundings. Indoors and out, lifts can be life-changing for many. Ask about:

• stairlifts.
• Vehicle lifts.
• Porch lifts.
• Ceiling lifts.

Door-openers

Reaching out to open or close a door may be all it takes to endure a nasty fall. Prevent this from becoming a reality with automatic door-openers that allow the user to maintain free hands and balance during their passage. Again, professional installation is key in satisfaction and optimal utility.

Shower aids

Activities of daily living (ADLs) include bathing and showering, which can pose risks for seniors with poor balance. Since the bathroom is a key room in any home, make sure that it is safe and accessible with shower aids, grab-bars, and other modifications to fit the residents. Shower aids prevent falls, slips, and injuries, and could improve the user’s sense of autonomy while offering support during use.

Customized needs

No two seniors’ needs are the same; for this reason, equipment, devices, and aids should be customized to fit the needs and distinctions of the user. Comprehensive assessments will identify areas that the senior could benefit from assistance and prioritize the right approach to take. Be wary of any company that offers to sell you mobility equipment without a thorough assessment first.

Call now and take action with a needs assessment and mobility aids to prevent injury. This, in turn, can preserve autonomy and maintain independence for seniors. Consider how you can address poor balance and avoid injuries that could compromise quality of life for those affected.

The most significant way to honor National Preparedness Month in September is to be proactive: Don’t wait to install accessibility aids. Prevent injuries with mobility devices now.

September is National Preparedness Month, reinforcing the need to be proactive and ready for anything. This focus easily extends to individuals that could be facing impaired mobility or physical limitations now, or down the road. Take action and ensure that you are prepared for whatever comes by adapting to mobility devices now, and by talking with mobility aid vendors about the most practical options for your distinct situation, limitation, and medical condition.

Be Proactive: Don’t Wait to Install Accessibility Aids

There is no better time to install your accessibility aids and mobility devices in your home- or the home of someone you love. These require professional installation to ensure safety, comfort, and convenience, so work with a reputable retailer that offers high-quality products. It is important to only buy from companies that offer customer support and service after-the-sale for optimal satisfaction and utility of whatever device you choose.

The time is now to install these aids and enhance access and improve mobility:

stairlifts

A stairlift can open-up a whole new world to someone who has limited access to the various parts of their home environment. Going upstairs, accessing toilets, and even checking out your yard or garden may seem challenging, if not impossible for someone with a mobility issue. stairlifts can get you to areas of the home that were once inaccessible, safely, securely, and comfortably.

Some of your options when it comes to stairlifts include:

• Straight lifts
• Curved lifts
• Exterior lifts
• stairlift rentals

Make a commitment to renting or trying a stairlift to enhance quality of life for someone you care about that lives with a physical disability or mobility issue.

Porch lifts

Porch lifts are so convenient and provide a simple platform that is easy-to-use and navigate. The user simply rolls their chair, scooter, or walker onto the flush-platform, and once securely positioned, is raised to conquer rises, steps, and inclines that were once difficult to manage. Porch lifts can prevent falls, reduce injuries, and maintain autonomy for those living in the home.

Ceiling lifts

Ceiling lifts are instrumental in assisting individuals with mobility issues, as well as providing support to caregivers who could very easily get hurt during a transport, lift, or ADL. Caregivers, nurses, and aides risk musculoskeletal disorders and injuries when attempting to transfer or move their patients that suffer from limited mobility; in fact, it is a major source of injury to workers in this field of healthcare. Ceiling lifts do the actual lifting for the caregiver or aide, allowing them to focus on assisting the patient in other ways, without fear of injury or incident.

Vehicle lifts

Get your vehicle adapted to any driver with vehicle lifts that not only support the patient getting in the driver’s seat, but that also stow the owner’s chair, scooter, or mobility device for them. This requires professional installation and service to ensure compatibility, and to provide instructions regarding use and recommendations. These devices can be life-changing for people who want to maintain autonomy and preserve their independence.

Do something: September is National Preparedness Month

Do something to be proactive in September, National Preparedness Month. The overriding theme of this year’s National Preparedness Month is “Disasters don’t plan ahead. You can.” This extends to preventing accidents and injuries through early implementation of mobility devices or aids to assist those living with some sort of physical limitation. After all, it would be a disaster to experience or witness a nasty fall by a loved one that results in pain and permanent disability; be vigilant in preparing ahead for accommodations that may be needed now, or at some point later on.

Some other ways to prepare during National Preparedness Month include:

• Talk with family and caregivers to develop a concrete plan in the event of a set-back, crisis, or emergency.
• Do something for someone else- a neighbor, coworker, or friend- that helps them with access or mobility. For example, build a ramp, fix a step, or bring lunch.
• Talk with mobility device vendors about installing a lift in your loved one’s home, and discuss costs, configurations, and considerations. Make a commitment to act early and get devices installed promptly.
• Advocate for or contribute to a cause that benefits those living with physical mobility. This could include attending a conference related to aging or donating your time and energy to a hospital fundraiser.

The time to act is now, rather than later, when it comes to installing devices and mobility aids to increase access and mobility for someone you care about. Don’t wait until it is warranted; plan-ahead and acclimate the individuals and caregivers with operation and maintenance of these tools. Talk with the experts about Pacific Mobility for further information and consult regarding the best ‘next-step’ for you, your loved one, and caregivers.

The best tools to help reduce the risk of falls include providing safe access to all areas of the home. Some options include stairlifts, vehicle lifts, porch lifts, and patient lifts.

Did you know that falls are the leading cause of fatal injury among seniors aged 65 and older? This reinforces the need to implement safety and access around the home, potentially with the use of mobility devices. The risk of a fall is great and increases with age especially when the individual has limited mobility. Create peace of mind with tools that will not only reduce the likelihood of a potential injury but that will also help to improve access, autonomy, and quality of life.

The best tools to help reduce falls:

There are many small devices that can aid greatly in mobility, such as ‘reachers’ and grab-bars; for safety, security, and fall reduction, more elaborate and reliable equipment is warranted. Visit authorized mobility aid suppliers to find streamlined devices that can help to increase safe access around your home. Perhaps the most effective tool is a lift, although there are numerous types to look for:

stairlifts

It is reported that the most impactful effect of a fall is losing the ability needed to live independently. stairlifts remove obstacles and barriers that could stand in the way of autonomy for someone with mobility issues. Fortunately, there are different types of stairlifts to accommodate any steps, stairs, or risers in your home. Indoor and out, straight and curved, a stairlift can get you from one point to another safely, comfortably, and conveniently.

Straight stairlifts help reduce stumbles and injuries that can come from access in a second story or multi-level home.

Curved stairlifts are the perfect solution for your unique steps and winding staircases. These remove the obstacles of corners and curves.

Exterior stairlifts make your outdoor features accessible again! From your garden or pool, porch or patio, you will have access to your home’s exteriors.

Straight stairlift rentals provide the opportunity to try a lift for yourself. Worried that you won’t be able to use a lift? This will put your mind to ease before making the investment. Talk to a representative about renting a lift for your home.

Vehicle lifts

Not all vehicle lifts are the same, and it is important to have a lift that is compatible with what you drive. It is estimated that around two-thirds of individuals who take a fall will experience another fall within the next six months.  Getting in and out of your vehicle presents challenges, particularly for seniors or those that are recuperating from a previous fall or injury; as for stowing a wheelchair or scooter, let the lift do it for you! Make sure to work with mobility aid professionals who can point you toward the right type of lift for your vehicle the first time.

Some distinct types of vehicle lifts are:

• Joey lifts.
• Curbside lifts.
• Meridian lifts.

Porch lifts

Nearly 9,500 deaths of seniors occur each year related to a fall, and outdoor falls are more common among seniors than indoor incidents. Plus, seniors that live independently may have difficulty or delay in getting assistance when they take a tumble outside their home. Porch lifts reduce the risk of a fall outside, while also providing smooth and easy access to all of your most beloved outdoor spots. A professionally-installed platform raises and lowers your chair, scooter, walker- to create a smooth terrain and provide you with the assistance you need.

Ceiling lifts

The benefits of ceiling lifts are two-fold: first, you are reducing the risk of a senior taking a fall, and second, you are decreasing the risk of caregivers to become injured or hurt during transports and lifts. One out of every 200 falls reported among seniors in their late 60s causes a fractured hip; this makes the need and demand of ceiling lifts quite high, especially in healthcare settings. If you want to ensure added safety and possibly avoid an individual falling during transport, therapy, or activities of daily living, a ceiling lift is a good way to go.

September 22^nd is Falls Prevention Awareness Day:

Falls prevention awareness day is on September 22, and the theme for 2017 is ‘Ten years standing together to prevent falls.’ This should prompt a sense of solidarity and encourage networking among those impacted by falls, such as seniors, their loved ones, caregivers, and providers. Do something proactive to enable and assist a senior, and that will decrease their risk of an injury from a nasty fall. This seems an appropriate way to honor this special day, and likely most congruent with the mission behind it.

Before buying mobility aids or equipment, work with the experts to assess needs and determine the best devices for your lifestyle. Make sure that vendors offer professional installation, for safety and service, after the sale. Visit Pacific Mobility for assistance, information, and support while you work to reduce falls in your home.

Lifts and Hoists Training and Maintenance Matter… A Lot!

Hoists provide a means to transfer somebody who has limited mobility whilst not putting too much strain on either the carer, or the person being moved. This makes them a necessity in care homes where they are used to help people up if they’ve fallen, help them to stand, or help them to move.

As hoists are used to move people with limited mobility, it’s incredibly important that they’re operated safely and correctly. This article will inform you all about the proper usage and maintenance of hoists, so you can be sure you’re using them safely.

Using a hoist safely

There are a number of different types of hoist including ceiling track hoists, portable overhead hoists, and mobile hoists. Whilst all are fairly similar in terms of how they work, they each differ in terms of the job they’re designed to do.

There are a number of safety concerns when using a hoist, such as choosing the wrong sized sling, selecting the wrong type of hoist for the task, and failure of equipment due to poor maintenance. It’s also possible to have a mobile hoist overturn when it’s being manoeuvred over difficult terrain.

Bearing in mind these possible safety concerns, there are a few things you can do to you pre-empt and prevent potential issues before they occur.

Firstly, make sure the right sized sling is being used, and that it’s the right sling for the type of hoist you’re using. Secondly, it’s important to use the right type of hoist for the task. Using the wrong type of hoist can mean that the person isn’t supported properly, or that there’s a risk it might overturn. It’s a good idea before hoisting the person to assess the situation and think through the process of lifting the person before you actually carry out the task.

It’s also a good idea to ensure that you don’t leave people a vulnerable person unattended whilst they’re in the sling. This way, even if there is an issue, you’re on hand to rectify it as quick as possible.

Hoist maintenance

It’s also important to maintain the hoist equipment on a regular basis. For example, in the United Kingdom, the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) requires that lifting equipment be inspected thoroughly every 6 months. Doing this will minimise the risk of equipment failure.

Patient Comfort

Another important aspect of using a hoist safely is to ensure that the person is comfortable. This means staff should be trained to safely and carefully maneuver the patient into the sling following standard procedures. This will minimise the chances of injury and also make the whole process a lot less stressful for the person being transported. Make sure you use the right hoist for the job, size the length of the loops correctly to fit the person, and always have the right number of carers needed to operate the hoist.

Hopefully this information will help you when it comes to using a hoist safely to move someone. The main concern is to ensure that the person is comfortable, and that the process is carried out slowly and carefully. If you stick to this, you’re sure to move the person without any issues.