disability

Don’t you and your loved ones deserve the freedom and independence that comes from accessibility around the home? This is where a stairlift makes sense and can truly enhance and improve everyday life. Aging in place becomes a feasible goal for those with physical disabilities or mobility issues when they invest now in a stairlift.

With Independence Day 2020 upon us, it is easy to take for granted the independence that we do possess. For those living with physical limitations or disabilities, freedom may seem like a lofty goal. By bringing home mobility aids and devices, you could be opening up a whole world of independence and autonomy for anyone who struggles with a set of stairs, getting in and out of the bathroom, or driving their vehicle. Consider the many ways that mobility equipment, primarily stairlifts, can improve, enhance, and empower. Call and talk to an industry expert today!

All Kinds of Lifts

When you think of mobility lifts, think of more than a simple stairlift that accommodates a flight of steps in the home. While these basic lifts are life changing, there are other options that can enhance and elevate access beyond what you imagine. For instance, consider porch lifts that provide access to outdoor spaces, gardens, and the backyard; think about pool lifts that enable users to once again take a dip in their cool, refreshing pool- whenever they wish!

Some other lifts that consumers should consider include vehicle lifts which allow motorists to get back behind the wheel of their car or truck, while also safely stowing wheelchairs or scooters during the ride. The best way to review and pinpoint pragmatic options are to talk to a mobility expert and take a look at what is available in your area.

Installation Challenges

Know that installing a lift is no easy task if you are not a mobility professional or technician. In fact, allowing anyone other than a qualified tech to install, service, or make repairs to your lift can render any warranty null and void. Let the retailer assign installation and service equipment for you, which is why it makes sense to only buy from a vendor that has established positive feedback and customer satisfaction for long-term service and support options.

Furthermore, installation challenges like curved or very-steep stairs, can be simply addressed and resolved by someone with expertise in the field of lifts. Don’t sabotage your freedom by buying from a company that won’t stand behind what they sell over the long haul.

Aging In Place

For many people, the thought of leaving their home due to injury or illness is a frightening prospect. As we age, it may become more difficult- even dangerous- to stay unassisted in the home environment. A lift can help circumvent the difficulties and challenges that come with aging, or that arise due to physical limitations and mobility issues. Give yourself the chance to live out your life as you choose, in your own home, with the help of mobility equipment and aids, like a stairlift.

Future Functionality

A stairlift provides a future utility and function, too. It is there as needed for rehab or recovery, should anyone in the home require assistance after an injury, operation, or illness. Furthermore, these devices retain value and are an investment that pays for itself in overall convenience and improved quality of life.

Staying Safe and Holistic Health

Another prime purpose of a stairlift is to reduce the risk of a fall or injury that could lead to serious medical complications and consequences. It is estimated that every eleven seconds a senior takes a nasty fall that warrants medical attention; this can lead to exacerbated health problems, increased exposure to illness during hospitalization, and long-term debilitation. Falls spell trouble, particularly for those over age 60. A stairlift is a precautionary measure that not only helps the user access areas of the home that may have been off-limits previously but also can prevent accidents and injuries that can change life as we know it.

Honoring the Holiday

What better way to celebrate Independence Day 2020 than by investing in something that will increase autonomy and preserve freedom for years to come. The team of mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility can address your current accessibility deficits- while also predicting future needs to ensure you have the most functional, versatile equipment found. This 4^th of July, give yourself the gift of mobility with a high-quality stairlift from a brand that you can trust.

Want to hang on to your autonomy and independence? Talk with the professionals today at Pacific Mobility; they will discuss and demonstrate stairlifts that can work in any area of the home, job, or property. Call today for a comprehensive needs exam and to learn more about maintaining the freedom to live life on your own terms. 

If you have a physical disability or mobility limitations, can you afford to live without a stairlift? Don’t overlook the option of a stairlift in your home living environment. The access provided by these devices increases autonomy, safety, and overall wellbeing, contributing to the concept of ‘aging in place’ for many seniors widely. When you consider the benefits versus the cost, you really cannot afford to overlook the option of a stairlift- speak to a mobility professional today!

Don’t make the mistake of overlooking a stairlift to help you get around the home environment if you struggle with physical limitations, mobility issues, or disabilities. There are mental and emotional tolls that are brought on by physical impairments; a stairlift may provide what you need to take control of your living situation- and life!

Can you afford to overlook the many advantages of mobility aids and equipment in your home? Some of the benefits of stairlifts include:

Money

Sure, stairlifts are an investment but think of the money saved over time. For example, individuals using lifts may not require outside services to complete ADLs (activities of daily living) but rather are able to do them independently with a lift. Furthermore, there are some funding sources like the VA or federal grant money that prospective buyers may be eligible for. Talk to a mobility vendor about Medicaid coverage, too, as that often will foot the bill for a lift. Still not sure if you can afford a stairlift? Ask about payment plans or rentals.  

Autonomy

A stairlift facilitates aging in place and autonomy by removing the need for assistance to climb a flight of stairs, access specific areas of the home, or even use the main bathroom of the home. Individuals can use other levels of the home autonomously, which may allow them to sleep in their own bed and regain control over their homes without sleeping in a makeshift bedroom that is more accessible or call in supports.  

Ease

So, how easy is a stairlift to use and maintain? The answer is very easy; as long as you utilize professional installation- typically offered by the retailer- you can rest assured that there won’t be structural damage or issues afterward. Stairlifts are designed to be discreet and to allow others to use the stairs that may not have physical disabilities. Lifts don’t block or present hazards when installed properly, taking up a minimal amount of space when not in use.  

Safety

The most compelling reason to look closer at investing in a stairlift is safety and fall reduction; did you know that every 11 seconds, a senior is treated at the ER for fall-related injuries in the US? That equates to around 12 million falls per year, affecting nearly one-third of all older Americans. What is worse is that over half of these incidents happen at home, where you are supposed to be safest! Falls can precipitate serious and significant health problems, with many never fully recovering from the accident. Once someone has taken a fall, it often happens again to at least two-thirds of these individuals within six months. Injuries sustained in a fall are the leading cause of death for Americans aged 65 and older, nearly 10,000 fatalities per year. This makes falls a leading social problem and important issue to be addressed widely; if a stairlift can help to curb a nasty fall, isn’t it worth investigating further?

Engagement

There is an organic element of engagement and even socialization involved in getting a stairlift. First, visitors may see it as a source of conversation and curiosity. Especially young children may find it fascinating, but please remind them that it is not a toy. Many may want to ask about the benefits and operation of the device, which leads to enhanced socialization with others- integral to overall wellbeing.

Freedom

The loss of freedom associated with mobility challenges can wreak havoc on mental wellbeing. When freedom is compromised, many can feel powerless and go through periods of depression. Maintain freedom in the home with a stairlift- or other mobility aid.  It may also curb the need for outside help to come in and provide services, which may seem intrusive or burdensome to many living with physical afflictions.

Self-Esteem

Finally, never underestimate the importance of esteem, purpose, and independence- especially for those living with a physical disability. Struggling to complete everyday tasks or ADLs can be embarrassing and cause many to lose their confidence. A stairlift aids in independence, which directly affects self-esteem. This in turn can help trigger a more positive mindset, which is invaluable in overall quality of life.  

Are you overlooking the convenience and ease that a stairlift can bring? To learn more about your mobility options, talk to an expert at Pacific Mobility. Preserve your quality of life and protect your independence today.

A pool lift makes the pool safer but pay heed to basic safety tips that can impact the performance and safety of the lift, too. For instance, supervise children and pets around the equipment and take care to clean and inspect routinely. With basic maintenance, you should enjoy swimming in your pool with the aid of your pool lift for many summer seasons to come!

Planning to take a dip this summer? If you live with physical disabilities or limitations, a pool lift may be the ideal equipment for your home environment this summer. Do you have a swimming pool? Know that there is more to installing a lift and maintaining safety around the pool than merely investing in mobility aids and equipment;  remember that safety starts when shopping for the device. Begin to educate and train others in the household of good practice and proper protocol regarding the pool lift.

Caring for Pool Lifts

Schedule regular inspections for your pool and pool lift to further ensure safety- saltwater pools can take a toll on the mechanisms inside your lift. An inspection identifies if the salt is corroding important fixtures that may impact lift performance and safety. If possible, store outdoor lifts inside during inclement winter weather conditions; a good rule of thumb is if you are not using the pool, bring the pool lift indoors.

Supervising the Lift

Consider other safety tips that will also prevent damage to your pool’s surface. Never allow children or pets to play or climb on your pull lift. This lift is an investment item and should be treated as such which means no tomfoolery near or around the pool deck talk to your mobility aid retailer about warranties that will provide coverage for consequential damage as well as provide peace of mind to homeowners widely.

Clearing the Track

Pay special attention to the track of your lift; the track is the essential component of any lift- pool, stair, or vehicle- that allows for the gentle movement and transport of the user. Obstacles, clutter, debris, or even dirt can impact its performance and cause issues. The track should be kept clean and clear, while also inspecting it periodically to ensure it is working up to par.  It helps to write down when you have the lift inspected, the pool cleaned, or other maintenance tasks.  Make sure to rinse down a pool lift and track daily when in use; use fresh water for this.

Watching the Weight

Never push the boundaries of your pool lift with extra weight. There are weight limits in place for a reason, though if the user needs more weight capacity, there are lifts intended for that purpose. Using the lift improperly, such as exceeding its weight limit, can be dangerous, damaging, and detrimental. Not sure of the weight limit for your device? Consult with the owner’s manual or the retailer to find out.

Safety Using the Pool Lift

Using a lift is easy, but make sure that you observe the manufacturer’s recommendations for use to ensure safety and longevity with your pool lift. Here are some other basic lift tips:

• Read and maintain a copy of your owner’s manual for the pool lift. Refer to it as needed.
• Keep any spare batteries for your lift or other mobility aids in a cool, dry spot. Do not store these outside or in areas where there are temperature fluctuations or extreme weather.
• Always keep a spare battery on-hand for your lift.
• Use a cover vigilantly to keep dirt and debris out of the pool. This also helps protect the lift from the elements.
• Only allow qualified mobility technicians to work on, service, or repair your pool lift. Allowing anyone besides a professional work on the lift may render the warranty null and void, in many cases.

Keep Rust at Bay

It is important to know that the gears, batteries, hardware, and terminals are impacted by corrosion and rust that can organically occur without regular maintenance and cleaning. Over time, the corrosion can damage the lift and compromise functionality.  

Basic Pool Protocol

With warmer weather and lazy days by the pool ahead, it merits reminders related to basic pool safety tips– whether you use a lift or not:

• Keep the pool clean and test the water for chemical treatment. Too much added chemicals can burn the skin, while too little can cause bacteria.
• Always cover the pool. It keeps kids and pets out and also conserves energy.
• Keep the area secure with a fence and a gate that locks.
• Inspect and maintain pool drains as well as the drain covers to prevent accidents and injury.

Remember that routine inspections help to keep equipment working optimally- while also keeping the user safe.

Do you have a pool? A lift can make it a more accessible place for those living with physical limitations or disabilities. Want to learn more about a pool lift for this summer? Call or visit to talk to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility today. 

A case could be made for the viability and merit of multiple accessibility ramps throughout the home. After all, when the aim is access, a ramp can be a very effective- and easy to implement- device. Before you concede on a single ram, or even one inside and one out, consider how various ramps could make a difference in the home environment.

When it comes to mobility aids and equipment, ease and access is the aim. So, it makes the most sense to utilize multiple devices and tools to make life more convenient. That said, if one ramp is good, couldn’t multiple ramps be better? Think about your home’s layout: are there steps, rises, or areas that could be made more accessible with the gentle slope of a ramp? Both mechanical and non-mechanical ramps have places throughout the home environment, and they go a long way toward reducing falls and injuries that can be debilitating and compromising to autonomy. Whether you need a little assistance or are reliant on mobility aids already, consider how ramps could improve the traffic and terrain of your home.

First, you should know that adding an access ramp to the home requires a permit from local building officials or municipalities; also, if you do not own the property but are a tenant, you will need permission from the landlord or owner before modifying the structure with ramps and other additions, unless you opt for the temporary solution of a portable ramp.

There is a case to be made for multiple accessibility ramps throughout the home, both inside and out:

Entry

Naturally, you will want to implement and install a ramp for the main entrance or exit in and out of the home. This will need to comply with recommended guidelines offered by the ADA, which can easily be found online. Specifically, you need to consider the slope and incline of the ramp to determine if it is feasible, accessible, and pragmatic for those using it in the home. Individuals that use manual wheelchairs, for instance, will benefit from less of an incline, while those with power chairs or scooters, may be able to utilize a steeper ramp, which also takes up less area and space overall. Make sure that the ramp does not present a hazard or risk to others in the home that may- or may not- use it routinely, but know that in terms of entry, a permanent, fixed ramp seems most prudent.

Vehicle

If you have physical challenges that create issues when you want to drive or ride in your vehicle, consider how a ramp can help. There are portable ramps as well as lifts that are designed for individuals with mobility limitations who want to get back behind the wheel of their car or truck. These lifts often can be folded up and placed inside the vehicle, providing versatility and convenience wherever you go!

Porch

Many with physical limitations miss spending time outside, such as on their porch, which may be difficult due to steps, stairs, or locale. Portable ramps or fixed ramps- depending on the porch configuration and location, can solve this conundrum and allow entry to the porch, patio, or other outdoor space, providing full access and autonomy at home.

Thresholds

Even out the bumps and borders inside the home with threshold ramps. These are small and easy to install, providing a smooth terrain over doorways and entries that can create an unobstructed path for those with a physical limitation or disability. Talk to a mobility dealer to learn more about these clever and necessary fixtures.

Yard and Garden

Miss spending time in your yard and garden? Consider the perks of installing ramps around your landscape so that you can enjoy full access to outdoor spaces. Worried about modifying the property to accommodate a fixed, mechanical ramp? Instead, opt for a portable ramp that can be moved and modified to suit your needs.

If you plan to take a DIY approach to construct ramps throughout the home, make sure to follow the recommended ADA guidelines to ensure the ramp is up to code and safe for regular use. All things considered, it may be most practical to buy ramps from mobility vendors for ease and satisfaction.

Multiple accessibility ramps are going to make the home more convenient, safe, and accessible- which all contribute to your own overall autonomy, independence, and quality of life. Choose from permanent ramps that alter the layout of the home to simple portable solutions that can go wherever you go. A lot of factors come into play when figuring out the best ramps for a distinct living environment- it can be quite insightful and helpful to talk to an industry professional. Consider the difference ramps will make throughout your home and talk to the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more.

You really cannot be too careful, particularly in today’s world of social distancing amid the pandemic. There are some basic items that consumers should have on hand that will improve safety and increase mobility in the home- as well as protect the individual when they venture out. Set yourself up a basic kit including items that can be accessed at a moment’s notice or taken in-hand when leaving the home environment.

You likely have some items laying around the house that could potentially protect you- or someone you love- from becoming injured or ill. From a nasty fall to COVID-19, it pays to set yourself up with a kit of basic items and essentials that can be used to prevent and protect users in these times of uncertainty. Furthermore, discuss mobility aids and equipment with providers to determine if these devices may create a safer home environment that preserves independence, autonomy, and accessibility for years to come.

Some everyday items that can improve mobility and overall personal safety include:

Grabbers and Reaching Tools

When you think of mobility aids, it is easy to consider things like stair lifts and walkers, but there are many simple tools that can greatly assist in access. Reaching or grabbing tools extend the individual’s reach, which helps them avoid nasty falls or loss of balance when going about everyday life. These items allow users to access the items that they need- whether up high or down low- while lessening the risk of a debilitating injury from a fall in the home. Did you know that injuries and health-related complications are a major compromise to independence? Reduce this risk by investing in a simple grabber or reaching tool; talk to a mobility aid vendor in the area to learn more.

Rubber or Latex Gloves

The world has become a very unclean place; wearing a pair of protective gloves can protect you from picking up germs and bringing them home. Think about how many hands touch common items that you see in the grocery store, at church, in a taxi- anywhere that you go; provide yourself with a protective buffer between you and every other person that you encounter and wear a pair of rubber or latex gloves. These are not uncomfortable to wear- particularly if you take care to buy the right size. Furthermore, they are discreet and subtle so nobody will look at you funny if you wear a pair when out doing your daily errands. Buy a box at a medical supply store to keep on-hand, pun intended.

Lazy Susan

A Lazy Susan used to be a common item found in the home, usually on the dining room table. People are discovering the convenience of adding one of these turntables to cabinets and drawers to make items more accessible to reach and easy to handle. Some modern cabinet companies will install Lazy Susan’s in cupboards so that items never get pushed to the back, out of reach, or the homeowner. Buy a couple and add them to the cabinets that you use the most- in the kitchen or bathroom, for instance- and stop bending and reaching for the things that you need.

Face Mask

It is hard to believe that the world has come to this, but everyone is wearing a face mask in public places now. While it is not easy to find inexpensive face masks in traditional venues, like medical supply stores, right now amid the pandemic, it is easy enough to fashion one out of hair elastics and a scarf or bandana. If you sew, stitch yourself up a couple with a basic online tutorial to show you how.  Typically, dollar stores and discount retailers are perfect places to find face masks that will protect you and those around you from transmitting germs, saliva, and illness to one-another; if supplies are low, check back and stock up when supplies allow.

A Flashlight

A flashlight with working batteries (check them periodically) is something else to keep in your kit. This can illuminate and help make the home more accessible- while also preventing a fall from a lack of proper lighting.

Bleach

Keep a gallon of bleach on-hand to quickly sanitize surfaces, apparel, and linens. Bleach is a rare commodity when consumers are worried about COVID-19, so try to always keep a gallon for your own protection, as needed.

Hand Sanitizer

Always carry a small amount of hand sanitizer with you and be vigilant about sanitizing when leaving and returning to the home. Use the sanitizer when out in public or after handling things, like store products or money, and after touching your face. This small step can save you from carrying germs and potentially contracting an illness, like Coronavirus.

Cash

While cash is not necessarily an item that helps you be healthy or mobile, it is something that can help in the event of an emergency or crisis. Even a few bucks tucked away can be a real lifesaver if you need to leave the home, pay for a cab, or rent a hotel room due to circumstances or unforeseen situations. Remember that not everyone is accepting cards right now, so a bit of cash could come in very handy.

Want to learn more about how mobility aids can make the home environment a safer place to be? Talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; they have been serving Bay Area residents for years, and offer convenient needs assessments to help pinpoint the best mobility solutions for their clients and customers. Stay safe; call or visit to learn more today.

Stair lifts bring functionality to the home, expanding and extending utility for those who rely on these devices daily. From accessibility and ease to convenience and versatility, the automation elements of a stair lift make it very viable to operate regardless of physical limitations. Perhaps the most important aspects that a stair lift adds to the home setting are overall safety and autonomy, providing independence and improved quality of life for those living with disabilities.

Do you live with a physical limitation or disability? If you do, then you may appreciate how life-changing mobility aids can be. It is estimated that more than 90 percent of people over 65 plan on aging-in-place, that is, stay in their own home- independently- as long as possible. This is in lieu of communal, assisted, or residential living options. For this to happen, seniors must stay healthy, avoid falls, and be realistic about needs in order to get them met; mobility aids, like stair lifts, make this viable for many.

Access

After all, doesn’t it all come down to access? Stair lifts make second levels, porches, patios, and even outdoor living spaces accessible. For some, this could be life-altering, allowing them access to areas of the home that had been prohibitive before. For others, this may allow them to engage in activities enjoyed, like gardening or taking a hot bath, which contribute to overall quality of life. Access with ease is what stair lifts bring to the daily function of your home; isn’t that a worthwhile investment?

Convenience

When you install stair lifts, you are adding convenience to your home. The payoff in time, effort, and safety is immeasurable. Users that previously could not carry items, belongings, or things like laundry upstairs can safely complete routine chores and ADLs (activities of daily living), with much less stress and strain.

Versatility

Worried that installing stair lifts can compromise the use of your stairway for those around you? Don’t be; stair lifts are narrow enough and customized to allow for others to safely and comfortably walk past. Talk to your mobility retailer to learn more about the versatility offered by the various manufacturers. Be cognizant though of safety tips that include teaching others- primarily children and pets- to leave the lift alone and never to use it as a toy. Foster good habits that include staying off the lift and keeping toys or belongings away from the device’s track.

Safety

The risk of injury for seniors is a very real concern that should be prevented at all costs. Falls are debilitating, often leading to chronic and life-long problems. Living situations that contain fall hazards, like steep steps or flooring issues, can be detrimental to the wellbeing and safety of seniors living there. Since the majority of senior falls occur in the home living environment, it is critical to adapt safety measures- including stair lifts- to reduce catastrophic falls and the repercussions.

In addition to mobility aids, consider issues surrounding lighting, flooring, carpets, and clutter to help create a safer home and curb the potential for a nasty fall.

Automation

The technology that modern stair lifts bring to the home is amazing. From a simple keypad, users can control and command their mobility devices to suit their needs. This automation at the touch of a finger brings a foreign functionality to the home for many, who may not be as tech -savvy as their younger peers. However, mobility manufacturers pair their technology with easy-to-use devices and remotes, so even a novice can easily adapt to controlling their stair lift independently, with ease.

Autonomy

Stair lifts bring autonomy to the home- in fact, many might argue that this is the most important function of any mobility device. A sense of autonomy is far more than merely navigating the home- it is combatting the many age-related stigmas that can compromise independent living. Aging in place may not be viable for many due to health-related issues and needs; mobility aids like stair lifts make it feasible for others. Talk to your doctor, provider, or practitioner about the advantages of installing mobility aids, like stair lifts, in your home living environment: does it make sense? The ability to live independently according to your own preferences, pursuits, and predilections is worth the investment of devices and equipment that help make this possible… Isn’t it?

Thinking about a stair lift? If you live with physical limitations or disabilities, a stair lift can add many features and functionality to everyday living in your home environment. Before buying, make sure that you buy from a mobility aids vendor that provides impeccable service after the sale and support to ensure long-term satisfaction. This is why it makes sense to buy your stair lift from Pacific Mobility; the team at Pacific Mobility are waiting to enhance and improve your quality of life. Call or visit today. 

In today’s world, you can’t be too careful when it comes to contamination and infectious disease. That’s why it makes good sense to clean your mobility aids- from grab bars to stair lifts- regularly. There are tips and tricks to make the job effective and efficient, though it is always prudent to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific aid that you are cleaning and disinfecting to be safe.

Do you use or rely upon mobility aids of any kind? Play it safe and make sure to disinfect; when bacteria and viruses lurk on the surfaces around the home, even your trusted mobility device is vulnerable. For example, infectious coronavirus can be debilitating even deadly for those with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions. Don’t risk your wellbeing; disinfect your devices, aids, and implements periodically.

COVID-19

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that consumers disinfect all high-traffic surfaces in the home from viral bacteria, like COVID-19. Some of these surfaces include your phone, doorknobs, light switches, and the handles to a wheelchair, if applicable. It is suggested that you wear disposable gloves when cleaning with household cleaning and disinfecting products, and then toss out the gloves when you are done. The key is to first remove germs by cleaning the surface thoroughly and follow up with disinfecting which means applying chemicals to the surface after. Always follow the directions on the label of your cleaning products and don’t mix chemicals that could result in toxic reactions.

Want a cheap disinfecting cleaning solvent that you likely have in your home? Combine five tablespoons of bleach to a gallon of regular tap water for a topical disinfectant that costs pennies per application.

Wheelchairs and Scooters

Cleaning a wheelchair thoroughly may be challenging as the primary user could have some mobility challenges that make getting the key areas difficult. Wheelchairs are prone to germs as they are regularly handled and touched widely. Make sure that you clean your own hands well before and after working on your wheelchair- as well as any time that you come in from being outdoors or away from the home.

You may find it interesting that COVID-19, Coronavirus, lives on hard surfaces for up to three days; use a solution of at least 70% alcohol to wipe down and disinfect the spots that are most handled, like the grips, arms, and wheels. Spray with the bleach solution mentioned above, but never use baby wipes or personal cleansing wipes to clean these surfaces.

Some spots to pay close attention to when cleaning a wheelchair or scooter include:

• Joystick
• Mouth controls
• Headrest
• Armrests
• Side guards
• Wheelchair Back
• Handles and grips

Beyond your wheelchair, other frequently touched equipment and medical supplies should also be disinfected. These include:

• Any supplies or devices that are in contact with your mouth
• Oxygen tanks
• Steering wheel and door handles on vehicles
• Transfer seats
• Medications

Share this information with caregivers and loved ones that assist you or that regularly visit your home.

Stairlifts

It is easy to overlook disinfecting a stairlift, but don’t. These surfaces get touched frequently by many people, besides the primary user, so it warrants special attention. Dust and wipe down the lift periodically; plus, regular cleaning extends the life of your lift. Be careful using wet solutions to the power lift, and always disconnect power before cleaning the device. A damp cloth should be ample for wiping down the seat and track, followed by a disinfecting solution of bleach and water.

When it comes to the rail of your lift, vacuuming is the most effective and easy way to rid it of the dust and debris that can accumulate and impact the performance of the aid.

Other Tips to Stay Safe

There are other surfaces and spots that merit attention and special cleaning to prevent illness or transmission of germs, such as Coronavirus. Some of these other tips include:

• Make a habit to carry and wear plastic disposable gloves any time you leave home. Invest in a box from a medical supply vendor or online.
• Avoid touching your face as much as possible when out and about.
• Never touch any metal surfaces when in a communal vehicle or public trans, if possible.
• Encourage caretakers to wash hands and use sanitizer.
• Always wash your hands before using sanitizer. Sanitizing with an alcohol-based product doesn’t clean the germs away, and the two habits need to go hand in hand. If you are not near a sink, then sanitizer is the next best thing until you are able to properly wash up.
• Wash and sanitize things like your car or house key fob regularly.

Use these tips to create a healthier environment with cleaner mobility aids and devices. Talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more about how mobility aids can improve your quality of life today.

Got concerns about maintaining your stairlift? There are numerous things that you can take care of yourself that contribute to the performance and longevity of your mobility aid. Talk to your vendor- and review the manufacturer recommendations- for more suggestions specific to the brand and model that you use or own.

You should only allow a qualified technician to work on, repair, install, or modify your stairlift, but there are some basic maintenance tasks that you can conduct- on your own- to protect and maintain your mobility aids, specifically, your stairlift. Plan on regular inspections and service visits for any new lift in order to ensure it performs optimally for years to come.

What is the Point?

So, what is the point and purpose of cleaning a stairlift? Basically, keeping your device clean and clear ensures that it operates well for years- it helps with the longevity of the device. In today’s era, it also makes sense to decontaminate and clean the lift regularly, if only to remove germs and bacteria such as COVID-19.

There is a Right Way to Clean a Lift

There is a right and wrong way to clean and disinfect your stairlift; first, you should regularly wipe down the device with a damp cloth, followed by a wipe down with a bleach-and-water solution. When dust builds up, it can interfere with the sensors and operation of your lift. Cleaning is a simple and effective way to maintain the investment that you have made in your stairlift.

Watch out for abrasive or toxic solvents when cleaning your lift, too. Use water and a soft cloth, as well as the bleach solution, but always refer to the manufacturer’s recommended cleaners typically outlined in the owner’s manual. Also, never mix or combine cleaning agents!

Keep the Rail Clean and Clear

Vacuum and wipe the rails to keep them free of debris, dust, and pet dander- all that can cause interruption and interference with your device. Over time, even a thin layer of dust can become compacted and stuck, causing problems with your lift and transport. Nobody wants to deal with this issue- keep it clean and clear, instead. Ask caregivers to assist in cleaning and dusting the rail and track regularly, like weekly, to ensure a smooth ride.  

Perform Basic Tasks to Improve Performance

Still wondering what you can do to preserve and maintain your stairlift? Consider some other tasks that you can do with the assistance of your mobility aid technician, owner’s manual, or online supports. These are routine tasks that contribute to the overall performance of your lift:

• The track should be lubricated every few months to prevent problems with free movement.  
• Avoid using solutions, solvents, and detergents that are harsh and damaging.
• Only use a lubricant that has been approved and recommended by the device’s manufacturer.
• Check the moving parts of your lift, like the swivel seat, arms, footrest and cable, to make sure they don’t wobble or are not loose.  
• Does the seat’s locking mechanism work securely? The seat’s swivel should be lubricated once to twice a year.
• Sprinkle the indoor trailing cables lightly with talcum powder; outdoor trailing cables should be sprayed with silicone periodically.
• Keep the battery completely charged and have a spare on-hand when possible. The battery in your lift is usually recommended to be replaced every year, possibly two years depending on usage. Prevent moisture from damaging the charger by keeping it in a dry, cool location between uses.  
• Tighten and evaluate any bolts or screws to make sure they are secure and mounted.  

Also, make a point to inspect the device, particularly the wheels and track, to see that they are working well and smoothly, without cracks or visible damage. Replace wheels that do not seem to be moving freely; call your mobility vendor for support and service.

Steer Away Kids, Clutter, and Pets

Perhaps one of the most important things that you can do to preserve and protect your lift is to keep clutter, pets, and kids away from it. This is not a toy, and should never be used by children, two riders, or be piled high with belongings or clutter. Keep things off the stairs and away from the track, too.

Schedule regular stairlift maintenance to ensure that your lift is working well and has no issues. Typically, the retailer offers maintenance contracts, though some vendors- like Pacific Mobility– offer service and support for all the lifts that they sell. Call and speak to a representative to learn more.  

Got more questions regarding the care, operation, or maintenance of your stairlift? Talk to the experts at Pacific Mobility today. For over 60 years, Pacific Mobility has provided consumers with top of the line mobility devices and equipment across Southern California. We look forward to helping you, too!