disability

Celebrate the life you live through something that bring both joy and numerous holistic health advantages. Creativity is good for mental health, focus, and mindset; plus, it provides a purpose that is essential to healthy aging, too. Celebrate life through artistic pursuits in January, as a means of observing two distinct events: Inspire your Heart with Art Day and Celebration of Life Month.

Celebrate the life that you lead through something creative that provides fulfillment and joy. There are many advantages of art and creative pursuits that benefit holistic health and wellness. Continue to enjoy doing what you love with mobility aids and equipment to improve accessibility and enhance quality of life.

Celebrate life through art!

Art is Holistically Healthful

Did you know that art can have healthful impacts on your mind and body? It is true; there are numerous benefits of art and creativity in holistic health, including mental and emotional wellbeing. Some of the ways that art fosters holistic health includes these:

• A sense of belonging and unity with others shared over the common interest in art.
• A calming relaxation and stress reliever.
• A way to express oneself in a non-judged way.
• A sort of acceptance among peers.
• Engagement and interaction with others, from the person you purchase art supplies from to those that view your art.
• The act of creating can be meditative for many artists.
• Creating something provides a valuable sense of purpose.

These examples all have positive ripple effects on the artist’s mental health and wellbeing. Reach your full potential by tapping into some creative outlets. It can be a very therapeutic and cathartic experience.

What is Art?

What is art? Historically, art told stories and shared information with others in ancient civilizations and cultures. Later-on, it was used to convey beliefs, feelings, and thoughts- at times, spurring revolution or revolt. Artistic forms include classic methods, like painting, music, theater, poetry, and dance, but contemporary artisans have added many other avocations and arts to this list. Some other artistic pursuits may include:

• Photography
• Web design
• Sculpting
• Woodworking and carpentry
• Printing and printmaking
• Filmmaking

Art has the innate ability to inspire droves of people to try and do something new or unfamiliar; isn’t that powerful?  However, short of creating the next great masterpiece, how can a person celebrate life through art? There are many ways, including these:

• Visit a studio or art gallery.
• See a play or attend a concert.
• Read classic literature or invest in a current bestseller.
• Listen to, enjoy, or make music.
• Watch someone dance- or dance, yourself!
• Try a new handicraft, art, or project.
• Share some knowledge with a young person.
• Take a class or enroll in school.
• Write your memoir.

Not sure where or how to get started celebrating life through or with art? Use these tips to get your feet wet. Set aside a day in January to observe Inspire Your Heart with Art Day, which reinforces how art influences life quality and holistic wellbeing. Use this day to get inspired.

Celebrate Life with Art

Life is precious. Celebrate and commemorate the life that you have been given during Celebration of Life Month in January of each year. The goal of this month encompasses celebration- as well as the sharing and dissemination of information. Some objectives of this observance include:

• Educating yourself and others about ways to enhance life and overcome hardship.
• Read and take-in information, whenever possible. Attend events and educational experiences.
• Consider donating to worthy causes that help others.
• Be a witness to life in one way or another; grow a plant, adopt a pet, spend time with a senior.
• Meditate and pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of life.

What have you got to lose? Art is part of everyday life- it is everywhere when you look for it. From the videos that you watch online to the art adorning the walls of your doctor’s office, art is life. Celebrate life through and with art; do something that you may have enjoyed at other stages of your life- pick up a pen, brush, or other tool and get started. The sense of accomplishment and pride is beyond compare and can significantly improve your holistic wellbeing in a myriad of ways.

Is access an issue preventing you from a hobby or art that you enjoy? Talk with the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility for the latest in mobility aids, as well as quality installation, service, and customer support. Preserve your interest in art, maintain your autonomy, and improve quality of life with devices and aids that simply make everyday living easier; call or visit today! 

How safe is your bathroom? Are you able to access it with ease? January is Bath Safety Month and the perfect time to evaluate the baths in your home for safety issues. There are tips and tactics that can make the bathroom a much safer place- as well as implements that can improve access to the bath for those with physical limitations, disabilities, or issues.

Are there safety issues in your bathroom? If you have physical limitations or mobility issues, small obstacles can become big barriers to independence and aging in place. Plus, many of the access hurdles found in the bathroom are easily resolved with basic mobility aids and equipment– which may be covered at least in-part by insurance plans and coverages. If your bathroom could use some updating to be safer, consider doing it in January, Bath Safety Month. National Bath Safety Month reminds consumers to take some extra care and use precautions to prevent a nasty fall and subsequent injury. Stay safe and enhance accessibility to your bathroom with the following tips:

The Toilet

Bathrooms are notoriously dangerous places due to the often-cramped quarters and sometimes slick surfaces. Using the toilet presents additional challenges for those with mobility issues or problems with balance. For instance, sitting and standing from the commode can be problematic and cause falls- a raised toilet seat can be helpful. These are particularly beneficial for anyone with joint pain or stiffness.

Furthermore, a grab bar positioned near the toilet can be an excellent source of support and stability for those using the facility. These are inexpensive to implement, but make sure that they are installed properly in a secure wall stud to prevent problems later.

Tubs and Showers

Perhaps the most common source of falls is those endured while bathing. Many may underestimate the hidden hazards in showering or bathing, which can result in failure to use precautions. Precautions include clear floors with non-slip coverings, like bathmats, but make sure that there are no curled or loose edges that can trip you up. Simply standing for a prolonged period to wash can also cause trouble for some; a shower seat or tub chair may solve that issue.

If you are renovating the bath, consider using a frameless shower that does not require lifting of legs to enter; these also are compatible for wheelchairs, which typically can roll right in the stall.  Again, grab bars and railings are always prudent and practical. Talk to a mobility retailer in your region to learn more.

The Floor

Take a good look at your bathroom floor? What is the condition of the tile or floor covering? Slick, ragged, or cluttered floors are a recipe for disaster- especially for anyone that may have some physical limitations. Prevent slips on slick surfaces with adhesive treads; these are often found inside tubs or along the side of the shower area. Skip the scatter rugs as these can easily trip you up and cause a fall.

Lighting

Ask someone who has recently experienced a fall and many may report that it was due to poor lighting. Poor or inadequate lighting can cause anyone to stumble, fall, and often sustain injury. For seniors or those with medical issues, this can be devastating. Replace and enhance lighting throughout the home but pay special attention to the bathroom. First, improved lighting will make it easier to complete your everyday ADLs (Activities of Daily Living), like dressing, washing, and getting ready for the day, and second, it could curb energy costs and save you money each month. Opt instead for new and efficient LED lights, bulbs, and fixtures. These are cooler to the touch when in use and they last a lot longer, so you won’t need to climb up to replace them as often. They also provide a better illumination that can be life changing while making life much easier.

Steps and Stairs

Are there steps or stairs between you and the bathroom in your home living situation? If going up and down stairs presents challenges, you may want to discuss the feasibility of installing a stairlift in the home. The misconception of lifts is that many feel they do not qualify for these aids; the truth is, the time to get one is before you take a nasty tumble on the stairs. Don’t resolve to live your life on the first floor due to mobility issues or physical disabilities; talk to a mobility professional about a stairlift and live life to the fullest, upstairs and down!

Create a safer bathroom environment for you, or someone you love, with these tips and suggestions. Visit the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility for the latest in mobility aids, devices, and equipment- plus the expertise and customer support that has earned them a fine reputation and loyal consumer audience widely. Call or visit the team today!

There are many reasons to ‘take the stairs’ when given the option; but what about those that cannot? This January, consider observing National Take the Stairs Day by moving more and increasing access for those that may have physical limitations or mobility issues. Furthermore, this is the perfect time to visit whether a stairlift may be a prudent option when you choose to take the stairs, too.

If you do not live with physical disabilities or mobility issues, it can be hard to fathom the difficulties and access problems faced. After all, it is easy to overlook accessibility- that is, being able to move about home, work, and community, untethered by challenges or hurdles. When it comes to access, mobility aids and equipment are life-changing, but many who would benefit miss out.  National Take the Stairs Day, an annual observance on the second Wednesday each January, provides a platform to educate and enlighten groups widely about how fortunate those that ‘take the stairs’ are, and how to improve accessibility in an effort to improve and enhance quality of life, overall.

How does access contribute to quality of life?

Convenience

The convenience of being able to readily access areas of the home, work, or community cannot be overlooked. Think about what it would take to do the things you enjoy doing regularly if you lived with physical limitations or disabilities; consider how it would impact everyday convenience. Plus, preparing for and being ready to access areas, such as a public bathroom or your outdoor home living space, takes time- and time is a most precious commodity.

Comfort

Accessibility is not always comfortable. Sometimes, mobility aids are awkward or ill-fitting, and you may not find the precise equipment that solves access issues on your own. It pays to speak with a mobility retailer or professional who knows the ins, outs, and details regarding walkers, chairs, scooters, and lifts. Being able to access your upstairs bedroom to sleep in your own bed, for instance, is an issue of comfort that directly influences your overall quality of life.

Ease

The ease of being able to get where you need to go, when you need to get there, is another access issue that impacts quality of life. So many take the ease of transporting themselves from point A to point B for granted; anyone with physical limitations can appreciate accessibility especially when it is easier for them. What are some ways to make access easier for others? Consider ramps, wider doorways, and leaving a wide berth through the home or workplace; these can all be helpful to those utilizing mobility devices or equipment.

Autonomy

It is human nature to desire to be independent and autonomous, but we all need a bit of assistance from time to time. Access is a huge part of autonomy, as well as a barrier to living an autonomous and independent life for someone with physical impairments or disabilities. An inability to get around and complete ADLs (activities of daily living), could influence whether you are deemed capable of living on your own- and whether you age in place.

Aging in Place

Speaking of aging in place, accessibility can either facilitate or prevent this from happening. Aging in place refers to the ability to live out one’s days as they see fit, from living independently in the family home to sharing a dwelling with a friend, family member, or roommate. The ability to make choices pertinent to how you live demonstrates aging in place, which is often denied to those that have issues with accessibility and, subsequently, independence.

Purpose

Does access interfere with your purpose and everyday goals? It has been shown that a sense of purpose is integral for seniors- it is what helps us get out of bed each morning. If it is difficult or impossible to access areas, places, or sites to participate in activities that bring about a sense of purpose, it can have a significant impact on mental health and wellbeing.

Socialization

As human beings, interaction with others is key to health and wellbeing. Socialization can be hampered by a lack of accessibility; places and activities that were once enjoyed may be difficult to attend due to access issues. This can limit and even cease socialization- which may lead to isolation, depression, and even chronic health issues.

Care

Do you have access to your care providers? Doctors, practitioners, and aides should be made aware of any accessibility issues, like transportation or an inability to get up stairs and steps, to ensure continuity of care. If you simply cancel appointments, these providers may not realize your challenges- they may be able to help!

Do you- or someone you care about- live with mobility issues or accessibility hurdles? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to find devices, aids, and equipment that improve access and enhance quality of life for consumers widely. Call to learn more today.

While most will eagerly admit to hoping to live a long life, the quality of each day and year of said life is everything. While life quality is subjective, a few vital components of quality of everyday life include interpersonal relationships, security, accessibility, and health. In fact, quality of life is such an overarching concern of many older citizens, January is used to observe ‘International Quality of Life Month’ across the globe.

As people age, they pass through the stage of emotional development, dubbed by Social theorist Erik Erikson, as the ‘Integrity vs. Despair’ phase of life. This is when older people start to reflect on their life and determine if they are pleased or not pleased with how their lives have played out. For many that live with physical disabilities, chronic health issues, or limited mobility, quality of life can be jeopardized. For this reason, it makes sense to look at ways to improve everyday life- such as mobility aids and equipment– as well as other ways to contribute to a sense of purpose, comfort, and convenience, that add up to an improved overall quality of life.

What constitutes quality of life- and why is it so vital?

A Sense of Purpose

Experts agree that a sense of purpose is interconnected to quality of life. A sense of purpose is what gets you up and out of bed each day, and how you can close your eyes feeling satisfied and fulfilled, for the most part, at night. Finding this purpose can be more complex, however, depending on how you interact with the world around you, in addition to your overall health and wellbeing.

Some find purpose in the job that they do or the people that they help, while others may find this purpose in feeding a pet or donating their time to a worthy cause.

In fact, a sense of purpose is so entwined with our holistic wellbeing that early theorist Erik Erikson includes this in his stages of life development. When people hit their 60s, they begin to reflect and look back at what they have done in their life; are you satisfied with how things turned out? This stage is referred to as ‘integrity vs. despair’ and it asserts that either you feel a sense of accomplishment and integrity in what you have achieved, or you feel a sense of despair and regret. Purpose can remove regret and replace it with a sense of success and achievement.

Ease and Accessibility

Another element of quality of life is access; can you get where you want or need to be? From physical limitations to mobility issues, a lack of accessibility can have grave consequences for those affected. Completing basic activities of daily living (ADLs), like dressing or eating a meal, can become problematic without support. Furthermore, getting out and asserting one’s autonomy can also be riddled with obstacles when access is limited.

Mobility aids and devices, like wheelchairs, scooters, and lifts, help. These aids provide independence for the user- which directly and positively impacts quality of everyday life.

Rewarding Relationships

Socialization is considered key in healthy aging, and if you live with any physical limitations or illness, you know how important it is to have support. Supportive and rewarding relationships can come in the form of your friends and family, or caregivers and neighbors. It could also be the connection that you have with your partner, spouse, or even a pet! Reach out and care for someone- or something- else. It truly is a therapeutic experience.

Comfort and Security

Who doesn’t want to be comfortable? Naturally, this is also an element of overall life quality. From being able to sleep in your own bed to using the toilet safely, comfort and security are interrelated. Plus, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you will not fall or that you can safely get outside to your vehicle can be huge; these are components of life quality that should not be underestimated or ignored. Furthermore, these are easily modified and enhanced with mobility aids and equipment around the home environment, both inside and out.

International Quality of Life Month

Interested in learning more? Want to make moves now to improve quality of life later? Make time to observe and become educated about International Quality of Life Month in January this year. Some of the objectives of this observance is to find your purpose, and to be brave about asking for what you need or want- particularly if it will improve your- or someone else’s- quality of life. Also, this is a time that calls for reflection and contemplation. Be empathetic and put yourself in someone else’s shoes; you never know the impact that you could have.

For more information about accessibility as well as the aids and equipment to make life far easier, talk to the industry experts at Pacific Mobility today. 

Thinking about getting your Flu shot? We think you should- it is estimated that nearly 200k people in this country are hospitalized for the Flu every year; if you are over the age of 65, you are at greater risk of complications- even fatality- from influenza, or the Flu. There are some distinct advantages of getting your Flu shot, and you can talk to your doctor to learn more!

In light of National Influenza Vaccination Week, observed in 2020 from December 6-12, we encourage you to consider getting your flu shot. It is even more integral for seniors to get flu shots to prevent serious complications and hospitalization from this common affliction. It is estimated that around 200,000 people are hospitalized with the flu each year. Depending on your physical health, age, and history, the flu can be fatal. If you have a compromised immune system, live with physical limitations that merit mobility aids and devices, or are over age 65, talk to your doctor about the risks associated with Influenza today.

Did you get your flu shot yet? We encourage you to do so- and here is why:

The Flu

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) asserts that you can reduce the chance of contracting flu-like illness by over 60% with a flu shot; this can significantly impact the number of people presenting at hospitals and Emergency Rooms with symptoms of the flu. The efficacy of the vaccine varies from one year to the next, depending on the prevalent strains and the individual’s immunity, health, and physical condition.

At-Risk Populations

That being said, there are specific populations that are more at risk for contracting the flu, and who may suffer significant medical issues as a result. Some demographics that may be more vulnerable to the Flu include:

• People with chronic health conditions, like diabetes and COPD.
• Individuals with a history of stroke or heart disease.  
• Seniors over age 65.
• Women who are pregnant.
• People with cancer, HIV, or AIDS- all of which impact the immune system.

Your doctor, provider, or practitioner is in the best position to recommend whether you are- or are not- a good candidate for a Flu shot this year.

New Strains

If you have had a Flu shot in previous seasons, it still makes sense to have one each year. Your immunity to the Flu declines over time, plus, viruses and strains are always changing and evolving. Get your Flu shot to prevent the most common and prevalent Flu strains of the current year.

Never Too Late

There is a misnomer that once Flu season starts, it is too late to be vaccinated. This is not true. While the Flu season typically peaks in January to February, you are still at risk for the Flu well-into April. Even with the protective measure of a Flu shot, make sure that you protect yourself from transmission by wearing a mask in public, good handwashing hygiene, and social distancing efforts- especially if you are medically compromised, are a senior, or have immune system issues.

Serious Risks

It is estimated that nearly 90% of flu-related deaths afflict those over age 65; over half of those hospitalized for flu symptoms are seniors. The CDC reports that in light of the current pandemic, flu vaccination is even more vital in preventative care for seniors and anyone who has a medical issue or condition.

Studies show that getting a flu shot can significantly cut down on older adults ending up in the hospital or presenting at their local Emergency Room or unit. Furthermore, it cuts down on the patient’s need to use a ventilator by almost 50%. Even if the shot doesn’t prevent you from getting a flu strain this season, it can make an impact on the severity and longevity of your symptoms- which means you feel better, faster.

Insurance Coverage and Cost

Finally, know that most insurance coverage covers preventative care, including things like the Flu shot. Make sure that you visit a health care practitioner that falls under your insurance carrier umbrella, that is, that is part of your network so the vaccination is covered by your policy. Many workplaces, pharmacies, and charitable groups also offer Flu vaccination clinics or low-cost options for those that do not have insurance coverage. Cost should not be a reason to be unvaccinated; ask your doctor about area resources or do a search online for low or no cost Flu shots in your region.

What are you waiting for? Want to learn if you are a good candidate for the Flu shot? Consult with your provider or practitioner. For mobility aids, devices, and equipment, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility. We want to increase your accessibility, enhance autonomy, and improve quality of everyday life; call or contact us today!

There is a lot of talk these days about handwashing, particularly as it pertains to the spread of Coronavirus during current times. The fact is that handwashing is important for many reasons and the transmission of illnesses and germs is not exclusive to the pandemic. Poor handwashing hygiene can lead to a host of serious and significant medical issues and diseases.

When it comes to staying healthy and well, handwashing cannot be overemphasized. Perhaps it is the current pandemic that has shed much light on poor handwashing and the potential risks. Handwashing has been determined to be a vital way of preventing the spread of infectious disease and illness in hospital settings, particularly in environments where others have compromised immune systems. Furthermore, germs can be spread in superficial touch to surfaces all around you- including any mobility aids and devices that you or your loved ones use.

Some common conditions that can be caused by failure to wash your hands include:

• Pink eye
• Hepatitis A
• Diarrhea
• Colds
• Food poisoning
• Acne and breakouts

It merits repeating that another repercussion of poor handwashing hygiene is the potential for transmission of germs and illness to those you come in contact with. For this reason, handwashing is a matter of public health and safety, particularly during this pandemic.

So, just how dirty are your hands? Use these tips to keep them cleaner and prevent the transmission of germs:

Healthful Handwashing Hygiene

How are you currently washing your hands? Using warm water and soap is key in preventing the transmission of germs. Make sure to remove any and all jewelry from your hands and fingers first, wet your hands, and then add soap. Vigorously rub the soap into a lather for a full 20 seconds, paying attention to between your fingers and the backs of your hands. Rinse well and use a paper towel to turn off the water; dry with a paper towel or air dryer, ideally.  

Routine Surface Sanitization

Make a bleach-based solution with one-part bleach to two-parts water to wipe down any mobility aids, equipment, railings, or other surfaces that are routinely touched or handled. Allow the surfaces to air dry. As for textiles, fabrics, or cloth surfaces, launder in hot water with detergent and bleach to get rid of potential contaminants.

Sanitary Solutions To-Go

When you leave the house, bring along a container of alcohol-based hand sanitizer, the kind that you rub in your hands and air-dry. This makes for a good substitute when you are not near a sink or water to wash hands, as needed. Sanitizing your hands with hand sanitizer doesn’t clean your hands, per se, but rather removes germs that could be transmitted to others.  

Use a dime-sized amount in the palm of your hands and rub together, getting between fingers, too. Rub until dry, usually up to 30 seconds, and keep sanitizer out of reach of children and pets as it can be toxic if ingested. If there is a sanitizer shortage in your area, you can make your own using aloe vera gel and rubbing alcohol; check out online tutorials to learn more.

Cough and Sneeze Protocol

To keep hands cleaner and germ-free, master the ‘vampire cough’. The vampire cough is when you cough- or sneeze- into your elbow or the crook of your arm instead of your hands. Try it!

Prudent Laundry Practices

Germs can also spread through towels and linens. If you use a cloth towel to dry your hands after washing, hang it up to dry after each use, and don’t forget to wash the towel frequently.

Dependable Disposable Gloves

Another tip for cleaner hands is to wear disposable gloves when the job gets too messy. Consider buying some sturdy disposable gloves when handling things like diapers or bodily fluids.

Informed Future Generations

The best way to inform future generations of the importance of proper handwashing is to model good behavior for them to replicate. Very young children need to wash their hands, so help them do it the right way. Consider keeping disposable anti-bacterial wipes nearby and help them to suds-up and rinse as needed. Demonstrate frequent handwashing and your kids will also learn good handwashing hygiene, too. 

National Handwashing Awareness

Believe it or not, but handwashing awareness is so vital to health and wellbeing that there is a national day to honor and observe it.  National Handwashing Awareness Day is celebrated on March 25^th widely and was due to a collaboration and partnership with UNICEF. The goal of this day is to bring awareness to the public regarding the prevention of Covid-10 and the current pandemic. What can you do to pay tribute to this special day? Wash your hands well and often!

Use these tips to practice healthful hand hygiene and prevent a wide host of illnesses and afflictions. For mobility solutions with the potential to change lives for the better, call on the team at Pacific Mobility. 

When it comes to accessibility and comfort of those living with physical limitations or mobility issues, a bit of pre-planning can go a very long way. Consider implementing ways to aid and assist those that may use mobility devices or that struggle with access; thinking about these situations and solutions now can make it easier, and more welcoming, for your family, friends, and guests, all year long!

If you want to cut down on the stress of holiday gatherings and family celebrations, consider the needs of friends, family, and guests, first. This is particularly key when loved ones rely upon mobility aids and devices regularly. 

When it comes to accessibility and comfort- just like the holidays- a little pre-planning goes a long way:

Clear the Floor

Do family and friends with physical limitations a favor by clearing the floor of any potential fall hazards or risks. This includes small rugs, loose tiles, or belongings; clear the floor and provide a wide berth- if possible- through the home. This ensures that those using wheelchairs or walkers are able to navigate their way from one room to another, as desired. Don’t overlook outdoor living spaces either, such as the porch or patio. Make sure there are no obstacles to entry and exit from the home.

De-Clutter

Along the same note, de-clutter the home in general to provide more space and adequate room for mobility equipment or guests with physical impairments. Removing clutter also makes it easier to identify grab-bars, rails, and find these installations as needed. What good is a grab-bar if it is covered up by furniture or other items?

Install Rails and Grab-bars

Speaking of grab-bars and railings, experts in the industry will recommend that anyone with coordination, balance, or physical problems install grab-bars and railings throughout the home to reduce fall risks. These are low-cost ways to provide support when sitting, standing, or navigating throughout the home.

It makes sense to install these implements where they will be most useful and used- i.e., near the toilet, tub, sink, and any steps. Make sure that these are securely installed to hold up to wear, tear, and weight on a regular basis.

Get a Grip

Help those in the home that should not extend to reach for items or tasks by providing ‘reachers’ and grab-tools. Add textured treads to steps, stairs, or slippery surfaces throughout the home to help reduce the risk of anyone taking a nasty fall. Assist with pull outs that prevent anyone from an injury when bending down, squatting, or trying to reach items that are under cabinets, cupboards, or appliances. By the way, a good quality reaching tool makes an excellent holiday gift idea!

Purchase Portable Ramps

Have you- or someone you know- ever tripped coming in or out of a dwelling due to the thresholds in the doorway? These can be an obstacle for anyone, but they present a real hurdle for those with physical limitations or mobility issues. Smooth out this rough terrain with an easy-to-install portable ramp, that you can take down and with you as needed. These are an inexpensive and temporary solution for those that want to make it easier to get through doors, over thresholds, or up risers all around a home or property. Plus, these ramps are made to be weather-resilient so you can use them indoors and out.

Go One-Level

Another way to prepare for company that may have mobility challenges is to reduce living space to one-level; that is, make all essential areas of the home accessible by relocating them to the main floor of the home. Don’t have a downstairs bathroom? Buy a simple toilet chair that will permit use wherever you have room and privacy. Transform your living room or home office into a guest bedroom so that those staying over will not have to use stairs or put a simple daybed in the corner of an eat-in kitchen. There are lots of ways to enhance accessibility and provide support to those with mobility challenges that, with some pre-planning, can make the holidays a lot easier for all.

Choose the Right Environment

When planning your holiday festivities, why not consider whose home will work best for all family, friends, and guests? If one of those involved has a layout or location that will make others more comfortable, then that is the right environment for the gathering. Let people offer up their homes this holiday, but make sure that they are aware of the challenges and limitations that some guests may have. A bit of planning goes far but empathy and understanding are what truly make the event special for all involved.

If mobility aids, devices, and equipment could increase your accessibility and improve quality of life, call on the team at Pacific Mobility. With generations of expertise and experience in helping find the right mobility solutions for the consumer with physical limitations or disability. Why wait for the holidays to contemplate convenience and comfort in your home? Call to learn more today! 

Do not be fooled by the common and misguided misconceptions surrounding stairlifts in the home- many people that would benefit from these mobility aids often never delve deeper into the possibility and potential due to preconceived notions. Before you make a decision regarding a lift in your home, let’s clear the air about these five common stairlift misconceptions.

If you don’t know where to turn for the facts, it is easy to get a lot of misinformation related to mobility equipment, like stairlifts. The truth is, it is easy to enjoy the many benefits of mobility aids and devices– as long as you don’t let some common consumer misconceptions get you down.

Let’s clear the air about these 5 common misconceptions surrounding stairlifts:

1. Stairlifts are Difficult to Install and Operate

No! Stairlifts are easy to install- and experts will advise you to only buy from retailers that provide in-home, professional installation service. Make sure that the company you buy your lift from is also willing to service the equipment after the sale; this is important and pertinent to maintaining a warranty on your stairlift, and other mobility aids, as well. Forget the misconception that stairlifts are difficult to install and hard to use- the truth is, they couldn’t be easier!

2. Stairlifts are Obstacles to Others in the Home

Another misnomer surrounds the ability of others in the home to use the stairs or steps around the lift- don’t worry; you can! Stairlifts are designed to allow others to pass the lift by, without tripping on the track or bumping into the seat. Stairlifts have come a long way over the years, and manufacturers recognize the diverse needs of their clientele- as well as the families that live with or support them. For this reason, stairlifts are unobtrusive and noninvasive, providing support as needed and standing discreetly by when not in use.

3. Stairlifts are Noisy

Do not fall for the misguided report that stairlifts are noisy and bothersome- that could not be further from the truth. Contemporary stairlifts are quiet and user friendly, with settings and adjustments that can customize seat and lift to your distinct preferences and specifications. Every consumer has different needs and tastes; stairlifts are designed to have some versatility to appeal to a wider audience. Talk to your vendor or retailer to find out what features are available and how to optimize your use and the performance of the lift. They should be happy to share their expertise with you!

4. Stairlifts Won’t Fit your Stairs

Stairlifts are made to fit a very wide range of stairs, steps, and risers. Stairlifts can be installed indoors and out, making them a viable option for practically any and all stairs in your home or business. Got a spiral staircase? No problem; there is a stairlift for that. Got steps with landings or curves? Don’t worry; there is a stairlift to fit those, too. As long as you buy your lift from a qualified mobility retailer, you should be able to find a stairlift and accessibility solution for any steps or stairs in your environment. Contact our team to learn more.

5. You Don’t Need a Stairlift

How does someone else know what you- the customer- does or does not need; if a stairlift improves your life quality and accessibility, you definitely need and deserve one. This is perhaps the biggest misconception when it comes to stairlifts: whether an individual does need one or qualifies to get one. The best way to determine if you do- or do not- need a stairlift is to speak with someone who knows a little bit about them and that can potentially demonstrate stairlifts in-use. While insurance carriers may require the insight and referral of a primary care physician to cover the cost of lifts, it really comes down to the type of coverage that you have and your physical prognosis.

This brings about another area of much confusion and misinformation. Misconceptions about cost are very common and contribute to many not researching and securing stairlifts of their own. While insurance policies often cover the costs, a mobility retailer should be able to discuss possible financing options with you when you call to inquire about pricing. Stairlifts are often more affordable than the customer thought!

Want to learn more? You can call on the team at Pacific Mobility for the facts regarding stairlifts and whether they are the right choice for you. The service professionals will provide info, assess your needs, and schedule installation from their top-rated team at your convenience. Furthermore, you can rely on our team to support and service your stairlift after you have made the decision to install a stairlift. Do not let your life be impacted and mobility limited another minute; call today.