disability

Wondering whether a ramp or lift makes the most sense for your home environment? There are distinct advantages to both- as well as features that tease-out the best option for your living situation. Consider ease, permanence, effort, and costs before making a determination about which one suits you best- and always talk with qualified mobility vendors to learn more and gain insight into both aids.

If you want to increase accessibility around the home, you can’t go wrong with aids to make life a lot easier. When it comes to choosing between stairlifts and ramps, it is like distinguishing apples from oranges: these are both very-different aids with distinctive features and purposes. Before you buy the wrong equipment to enhance access and preserve autonomy, consider talking with a mobility professional to learn more about all your options.

A ramp or a lift? You decide:

Effort

The first consideration is how much effort it will require to gain access with a ramp versus a lift; since ramps are typically used in conjunction with wheelchairs, scooters, canes, walkers, or railings, it is hard to measure how much effort will be needed to enter or exit. In terms of helping navigate a small set of steps or stairs, a portable ramp will require effort to implement and move, as needed. Stairlifts are generally installed by the retailer professionally, so the effort lies in seating one’s self and using hand controls to ascend a stairway. In short, lifts do the work for you in most instances.

Permanence

Think about the permanence of the mobility aid; how long will you need or have a stairlift installed? The fact that ramps are portable and can be stowed away when not in use makes them very versatile, though they may not hold up well over time to heavy use or the elements. Stairlifts typically come with a warranty or guarantee, so they should be reliable for years to come. A stairlift is less versatile in terms of moving when not in use, though they are easy enough to navigate and pass on conventional staircases by non-users.

Value

A stairlift will generally retain its value over time, while ramps are more prone to deterioration due to the sheer nature of what they provide. While there is always a market for used mobility aids, selling a used ramp may not return as much of the investment as you could likely see from a stairlift.

Ease

What about ease of use? Lifts are considered easier due to the hand controls and operation with the touch of a button; ramps require you to do some work. When discussing ease of these varied mobility aids, it also is impacted by the user’s physical condition and nature of their mobility challenges.

Comfort

Let’s talk about comfort: is it more comfortable to use a ramp or a lift? If you have never experienced or tried a stairlift, you may be surprised at how comfortable and simple they are to use. The user sits on the chair at the foot (or top) of the stairs and secures themselves in with a safety belt; next, they use hand controls to ascend the stairs, with a similar platform on the opposite end of the stairs for exiting the stairlift.

As for a ramp, it may be more comfortable to not lift legs to climb stairs but if you use a chair or walker, you may find the incline is challenging or even painful. The best way to pinpoint which aids can enhance your quality of life and bring comfort is to discuss options with your doctor, and then visit a reputable mobility dealer in your region.  Plus, this will give you an opportunity to try and demonstrate some available options for yourself!

Rentals

There are rental opportunities and potential to try stairlifts from many vendors before you decide to purchase your own- or if you only need one temporarily for rehabilitation after surgery or an injury. As for ramps, you may also find these at medical supply rental companies, though they are usually the folding, portable kind. In a sense, both ramps and lifts have similar potential for consumers to rent.

Expense

If you are looking at a permanent ramp, you will need to consider the costs based on what a carpenter or contractor will charge plus materials. For portable ramps, no real installation is needed beyond initially setting it in place and securing it. As for stairlifts, installation couldn’t be easier as any reputable dealer is going to provide professional installation with purchase. Make sure that this is included in the arrangements that you make when buying your lift- or any other mobility equipment. Professional installation truly is the safest route to take.

Trying to decide between a ramp and a stairlift? There could be an argument made for buying both and using them in tandem or together to enhance overall home accessibility. Talk to a professional at Pacific Mobility to find out what distinguishes one from the other- as well as which equipment and aids make the most sense for your home, condition, and budget.

Sure, mobility devices and equipment can have a major impact on access, and safety, but what about the smaller joys of everyday living- how do these aids improve the enjoyment of life? Don’t overlook the simple pleasures that mobility aids make possible and safe- and that improve the overall quality of life for users widely.

When you think about installing or using mobility aids, what do you imagine? Sure, these devices and equipment can provide safe transport up or down stairs, provide support and security as needed, and reduce the risk of accidental injury, but what about improving overall enjoyment of everyday life? There are so many tasks that we may take for granted- but that can prove challenging, sometimes impossible, for those with physical limitations or disabilities.

Life is full of simple pleasures; consider these overlooked areas where mobility aids can truly improve the enjoyment of your life:

Family Meals

Sit down at the table with those you love and enjoy a meal. Family meals are daunting for many with mobility issues because the kitchen can be an unsafe and difficult-to-navigate space. First, identify the areas that present challenges. Are the cupboards or counters too high? Is the space too small and cramped? Are there fall risks and too much clutter in the way? Make sure to prioritize the safety of the occupant when making changes, and start with removing clutter, rugs or flooring that could be treacherous, and any items that block a wide berth through the kitchen space.

Next, use a reaching tool- inexpensive and easy to find at mobility and medical stores- to reach overhead and install pull-outs for lower cabinets and easy access to food and supplies. Make sure that the room is well-lit to make it easier to see what you are doing in the kitchen- and to prevent injuries that could occur from poor lighting.

Relaxing Bath

There is nothing quite as relaxing as a hot bath- and a cool bath in summer can be refreshing and restorative. Do you have easy access to your bathtub? Are you able to lower and rise to sit in the tub? When it comes to bathing, there are numerous simple aids that can make a huge difference when it comes to enjoying a bath- and most cost very little to install or implement. For example, grab bars near the tub and toilet make bathing and using the bathroom safer; a shower or tub seat can prevent nasty falls in the shower and reduce fatigue when bathing.

Still, if you require a bit more assistance, free-standing lifts can help lift and lower consumers with disabilities in and out of the tub. Stairlifts can provide easy access to upstairs bathrooms for those that may struggle with climbing stairs or risers.

Time Outside

If you have mobility issues, there may be obstacles to spending time outside and enjoying nature. Porch lifts are ideal for getting on and off porches, decks, or steps- portable ramps are an inexpensive solution that improves accessibility multifold. Railings and grab bars on fencing, steps, and retainers can be helpful; a cane or walker may provide a bit of stability for those concerned about taking a nasty fall. Do you swim? You may choose to make the investment in a pool lift that will ensure anyone with physical challenges gets a cool dip anytime- with confidence and convenience.

An Outing or Ride

Do you drive? If you miss driving but are unable to due to mobility issues, talk to a mobility aid expert to learn more. A vehicle lift may be the perfect way to preserve your independence and get back in the driver’s seat! Even those with other supportive aids, like walkers or scooters, are finding ways to augment and enhance their car or truck to facilitate a vehicle lift system. The freedom and autonomy this can provide is unsurpassed.

Entertaining Guests

If you yearn to entertain and engage with guests again when this pandemic is over, consider getting together on the deck or patio for a fire or a drink. Worried about the uneven surface of the lawn or obstacles that could cause you to lose your footing or balance? Canes are supportive, and so are scooters or wheelchairs. Use portable ramps to provide smooth access to porch entry doors or porch lifts for multilevel decks.  

An Afternoon Nap

If the act of retiring to your room for a quiet nap is riddled with complication, make things simple with a stairlift. Is your bedroom upstairs? Even moving to the first level to make everyday living easier doesn’t mean you will get the same peace and solitude that your own bedroom provides. Escape with an easy to use stairlift that makes the upper levels of your home accessible autonomously.

Are you missing out on life’s simple joys due to a physical disability or limitation?  Consider these basic pleasures- are you able to imbibe and engage in activities that you love? Talk to a professional at Pacific Mobility  to learn more about implementing and installing mobility aids that can improve quality and enjoyment of your life today. 

When it comes to accessibility, a stairlift can be transformative. There is so much more freedom and security for those with physical limitations or disabilities when there is a stairlift in the home environment. Five things that can be improved by the employment of a lift, from getting up in the morning to going to bed at night.

If you struggle with everyday tasks due to mobility issues or physical limitations, consider investing in a lift.  Integrating mobility aids , like stairlifts, into the home not only aids in access and convenience today, but also ensures independence and ease in the future. Simple, everyday activities don’t need to be a challenge or put you at risk of harm, talk to a mobility aids professional to learn more about your exciting options.

Five Common Tasks improved by Employing a Stairlift are:

Going to Bed

Think about when you get ready to go to bed: is it difficult to access and get to your bedroom? How about your bathroom for simple toileting or bathing? A stairlift may make going to bed as simple as sitting on the comfy seat and moving from the platform to your bed to turn in. Sometimes, people fall when attempting stairs due to difficulty with their legs and lower extremities, like nerve pain, swelling, numbness, or pain; this could cause an accident when trying to manage stairs or steps. A lift helps prevent tripping or falls on stairs due to fatigue, footwear, or hazards, like rugs or flooring- which is a very real risk for older individuals that live autonomously. Turning in to bed is supposed to be a calming and relaxing time; a stairlift can help make this the case every night when you go to sleep.

Getting Dressed

By comparison, it can be difficult to get up and get ready for the day, too. The same standards apply as when you want to go to bed, though you may find getting to the bathroom to shower or toilet difficult when you wake in the morning. Stocking-feet, loose pajamas, or stiff joints from waking won’t be an issue for those that need to get up or down stairs when getting up in the morning. A stairlift ensures that you get where you need to without risk of a fall and possible injury that could derail you and cause major health repercussions. Getting up, getting dressed, and using a bathroom upstairs or down is no problem!

Cleaning House

The simple act of cleaning, toting equipment, like a vacuum, or lugging around cleaning supplies can be a challenge- often impossible with mobility limitations. A stairlift allows you to carefully transport your goods and yourself up and down the stairs of your home (or business!). Furthermore, the ease of using these lifts allows users to get on and off the device safely and independently- so they can then focus on their tasks, chores, or putting their items away.  

Gardening or Outdoor Chores

Do you spend much time outside? If you live in your own home or apartment, you may have garden chores or outdoor tasks that you like to do- or that you have relinquished to someone else due to your physical health. When it comes to mobility aids, porch lifts are an excellent indoor/outdoor solution that makes porches, patios, gardens, decks, and backyards accessible, once more. These can be installed on a variety of turf and terrain to make outdoor spaces accessible and enjoyable for users widely. These devices are resilient, too, so don’t let your climate or weather concern you; talk to a qualified dealer to learn more.

Running Errands

How do you currently run errands and get where you need to go, such as appointments? If driving a car is something that your current physical limitations have hindered, a lift can help. While a vehicle lift is not technically a stairlift, it performs essentially the same goal of improving access and maintaining safety for the user. Vehicle lifts allow the motorist to get behind the wheel and safely stow any mobility aids, like wheelchairs or walkers, while remaining independent. This eliminates the need for added assistance in some instances- and opens-up a whole new range of experiences, like errands and shopping, to the driver.  There are some restrictions in terms of the type of vehicle that can be augmented with a vehicle lift so make sure to discuss the potential and possibilities with a qualified mobility aids dealer.

If you are still unsure about stairlifts, consider rentals instead. Pacific Mobility Center is proud to offer a unique rental program for straight stairlifts – and are currently the only stairlift dealer in Southern California providing such a service. Everyone’s needs are different; rent a lift to determine if it makes your life easier and home more accessible. Talk to a professional at Pacific Mobility for assistance or to learn more today. 

It is impossible to predict when and if the need for mobility aids will arise; after all, when realization strikes, it could be the time to improve accessibility and safety around the home. So, at what age should mobility aids be in the home? That depends on several factors, which makes an ounce of prevention invaluable when it comes to enhancing and upgrading the living situation for access, convenience, and independence.

When it comes to accessibility and autonomy, at what age should mobility aids be implemented in the home? Since it is not possibly to predict what may or may not occur, it makes the most sense to assess your current health and physical condition: do you have physical limitations or chronic health conditions? This could be a contributing factor that makes preplanning for aging in place not just viable, but vital. Part of this includes the potential of integrating mobility aids into the home environment to preserve independence and safety, as well.

Factors that Compromise Mobility

There are many factors that compromise your mobility as well as future physical needs- even if you are unaware of these at the current time. For instance, what is your health history like? Do you have chronic conditions that could impact mobility later in life? Also, genetics can play a role as we age. If your parents had issues or conditions that affected their physical health when they got older, there is a chance that you may be susceptible to these same conditions.

Furthermore, lifestyles and habits are factors in mobility issues. If you smoke, you are more prone to smoking-related health issues like COPD and asthma. If you have suffered serious injury or major surgery, you may require rehabilitation that compromises your mobility- even if it is temporarily. There are numerous factors that may indicate changes around the home make sense for access and safety.

Preplanning your Accessibility Needs

So, how do you preplan what your accessibility needs will be? Well, in some instances, it requires taking a hard look at the home environment and identifying any potential obstacles or challenges proactively. Think about it in terms of getting around the living situation and completing ADLs, or activities of daily living. Some ADLs include:

• Bathing
• Eating
• Toileting
• Dressing

If the current configuration of the home interferes with these basic everyday tasks, it can impact the individual’s autonomy- make changes that make sense over time. From installing grab bars near the toilet to converting a downstairs room into your bedroom, there are changes that can be made now to help later-on.

While building or constructing ramps to access your entrance or door may not be feasible at this time, it does seem sensible to invest in portable ramps for easy entry- as well as a convenient way to ensure access wherever you go. These can be folded and packed up to be kept in a vehicle, too. The price point makes them a popular choice among consumers widely.

Ways to Move Forward

The best way to move forward is to speak with a qualified mobility professional. They should offer you an idea of what is available, what is covered by your distinct insurances, and provide demonstrations or information, as needed. Next, let them discuss a needs assessment with you to find exactly what mobility aids and equipment makes the most sense. From here, you can survey your buying options and narrow it down to what you do- or do not- want. Set up an appointment schedule with the vendor for support and service of your equipment, if applicable.

Safety First

Regardless of how you choose to move forward and proceed with enhancing mobility and access in the home, always maintain safety first. That is, make upgrades that are within the safety guidelines put forth by the ADA, and always hire qualified professionals for these augmentations. When buying mobility aids and devices, it can be unwise, even dangerous to purchase second-hand equipment from unlicensed sellers. Buy mobility aids from reputable professionals that provide installation, technical support, and service or repairs, as needed. These modifications and enhancements are investments in your home- as well as in your own autonomy as you age.

Keep these points in-mind when considering ways of improving or upgrading the home. Many of these features will not only benefit you- but the whole family during various stages of life. From rehab after a hospital stay to ease when moving in or out of the home, many accessibility enhancements make everyday life easier for the entire household.

So, are you ready to make changes around the home to improve access and safety? You are never too young or too healthy to begin thinking about ways of improving access around the home. From ramps and lifts to grab bars and railings, a professional at Pacific Mobility can assist and provide you with the information needed to make prudent, practical decisions. Call to learn more.

How safe is your home? Falls are identified as being the number-one cause of injuries among the older population; many times, falls are fatal for seniors. Make sure that your home is set up to reduce the risk of falling and decrease the chance of an injury. Some tips include seeing your doctor regularly, maintaining healthy life habits, clearing up your living situation, and using mobility or assistive devices in the home. Need more help? Ask your primary physician about a referral for occupational therapy services and assessment.

Part of staying safe in the home includes doing whatever is needed to reduce the risk of a fall. This is applicable to anyone who is getting older but most particularly to those with some sort of physical limitation, disability, or medical issue. It is estimated that one out of three older Americans will fall this year, but only around half of those that fall go to or speak to their doctor about the incident. Falls comprise the main cause of injury among seniors, including injuries that lead to death. Professionals agree that mobility aids can reduce the risk of falling, thus decreasing related injuries and damages- discuss the wide range of options with a mobility aid professional today.

Consider these tips to set your home up to reduce the risk of a fall:

See your Doctor

It is important that you see your doctor or practitioner regularly as you get older for preventative care and medication management, as needed. Your provider will be able to identify any drug interactions or factors that could contribute to you taking a nasty fall.

Stay Active

Want to prevent a fall? Stay active and flexible as you age. Make sure that you get some type of physical activity each and every day, while also keeping your weight within a healthy range. Again, visits to your primary physician can tease out what this weight should be as well as the best diet to serve your nutritional needs at this stage in life.

Take your Time

Many chances of a fall could easily be reduced by simply taking more time when standing and moving around the home. When standing up from a seated position, you can reduce your risks by keeping both hands free; that is, put down anything in your hands and use them, instead, for stability when rising.  

Get Rid of Risks

Get rid of clutter, belongings, or items that could be hazards and cause a fall in the home. This includes rugs, cords, wires, and stuff that is taking up space or that could be in the main pathways through the home. It may help to hire or enlist someone to assist with decluttering.

Upgrade the Lighting

A lot of falls are due to poor lighting; how is the lighting around your home? Stairways are a particular safety issue and deserve lighting improvements with switches convenient to both the bottom and top of the staircase. LED bulbs illuminate better than traditional incandescent and are far more energy-efficient and cool to the touch.

Watch What you Wear

Another way to curb the risks around your home is to watch what you wear. Try to avoid loose garb that could potentially fetch-up and cause you to fall. Also, wear sensible shoes that will provide the stability needed to traverse the floors of the home- and wherever else you happen to go!

Look for Nonslip Surfaces

Invest in nonslip surfaces underfoot, like bathmats, nonskid runners, or stair treads. These simple solutions can improve the safety of moving around the home greatly. These may also help prevent the fall or accident of a guest in your home, making these prudent updates that are also inexpensive to implement.

Live on One Level

Does your home have stairs? Does it make more sense to live on one level? If this is a feasible option, then it can also greatly improve access and prevent falls for seniors living in their own homes.

Use Mobility Aids

Did you know that mobility or assistive aids, like handrails, can prevent many falls in the home? Whether you are in need of a simple grab bar or handrail, or if you are looking to invest in major mobility improvements, like stairlifts, a visit to an area professional can help identify the best equipment for your distinct physical condition and living situation.

If you are not sure what you need to help reduce your risks around the home- or if you are concerned about falling- ask your physician to make a referral to an occupational therapist. This practitioner can assess your needs and make suggestions about solutions that curb the risk of fall or injury at home.

Make sure that your home is set up to reduce any risk of a nasty fall; use these tips and talk to a professional at Pacific Mobility to check out aids and assistive devices or to learn more!

If you look for it, there seem to be dangers and safety hazards everywhere. Take some tips and make some efforts to stay safe at home- as well as when you are away- with some simple and sensible steps that can reduce risk of injury, incident, and issues- including death.

Play it safe at home and when away. Observe National Safe at Home Week, August 21-25, 2020, by taking strides toward creating a safer environment. The purpose of this observance is to raise awareness of hidden dangers lurking at home- and away!  Did you know that nearly 170,000 Americans died in 2017 as a result of unintentional, accidental deaths? Most occur at home or in close proximity, such as driving through the neighborhood. From mobility devices and security systems to poison control and smoke detectors, here is what you need to know to stay safe at home and away:

Have What You Need

Stock up on essentials for your home so that you are never forced to go out for something that you need, like pet food or water. Keep a small stockpile whenever possible. Also, pack a kit for when you go out- even if it is just taking a ride across town.

Some things that belong in your essentials kit include:

• Personal protective equipment, including face mask, rubber gloves, and hand sanitizer
• Bottled water
• First aid supplies, including medications
• Spare pair of eyeglasses or contacts, if possible
• Food
• Cash and coin

Keep a few simple supplies in the trunk of your car or in a bag by the door, for when you are away from home. Weather, traffic, and becoming lost are just a few incidents when this stash will come in very handy.

Reduce the Risk of a Fall

Falls are a true safety hazard. It is estimated that over 36,000 people died from falls in the US in 2017; it is the number one cause of death for people over age 65. The key to reducing the risk of falls is vigilance in maintaining a safe environment. Clearing clutter, improving lighting, preserving vision, and investing in mobility devices can be a powerful approach to reducing fall risk at home- and outside the home, too.

Avoid Poisoning

Read labels to avoid toxicity and accidental poisoning. Keep poison control’s phone number programmed in your cell phone to save time in the event of an emergency. A person can become incapacitated by poisoning with gas, chemicals, food, and drugs, though prescription drug poisoning or overdosing is the most common. Always take medications as directed and dispose or properly.

Stay Safe in the Car

Never get behind the wheel of a vehicle when you are under the influence or if you are overtired. Car accidents are the second biggest reason for unintentional accidental death in this country. Distracted and impaired driving are just two causes of accidents- and both are perfectly preventable. Be wary of getting in a vehicle with an inexperienced driver- particularly when conditions are challenging, like during storms or after dark.

Don’t Test the Weather

The weather can be wild and natural disasters are something you may not be able to control. You can, however, prepare for these disasters with emergency supplies on-hand. Stay inside and off the roads during these events. Coordinate an emergency plan with family before it is needed.  

Install Smoke Detectors

Do you have working smoke detectors throughout your home? It is estimated that a working smoke detector will cut the risk of dying in a fire by 50%. Since you are going to be buying smoke detectors, go ahead and beef-up your carbon monoxide detectors at the same time.  Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent killer, taking around 200 lives each year.

Use Safety in the Water

A person can drown any time of the year. In fact, around ten people drown each day and it is the leading cause for accidental death in children under the age of four years. Never leave a child in a bathtub alone- nor should you ever permit children to swim in pools unsupervised. Fence in your pool and keep it contained so that there is no chance of a child falling in the water.  Learn CPR; it could save someone’s life one day.

Holidays Have Hazards

The holidays present their own distinct challenges and safety hazards. Some common dangers include travel risks, fire hazards, cold weather, toy injuries, food poisoning, and risks associated with holiday decorations, like choking. During these times it can help to borrow a second set of eyes to evaluate your home environment- and to point out dangers that you may have missed.

If you or someone you love has physical limitations, talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; Pacific Mobility offers top-of-the-line mobility aids and devices to assist in accessibility. From scooters to stairlifts, come talk about how to enhance everyday life with the right mobility equipment in the Bay Area.

If you are going to invest in a stairlift, it makes sense to customize and personalize the device to suit your personal needs and preferences. Consider features like seats, rails, footrests, and materials when crafting your own custom lift- and also talk to a mobility retailer about inherent challenges, like curved or complex stairways, for additional customization and personalization options.

When it comes to mobility devices, there are few aids as life-changing as a stairlift. A stairlift can open up areas of the home that were previously inaccessible, facilitating autonomy and aging in place for those that use them. Furthermore, a stairlift can help reduce the risk of a nasty fall that could lead to subsequent health problems, rehabilitation, or even death; falls are the number-one cause of accidental death among those Americans over age 65.

A stairlift is a prudent investment, but why not go a step further? Consider having your lift customized and personalized to suit the distinct environment it will be installed in, as well as your own personal needs and preferences:

Seats

Probably the first thing that buyers think of customizing on their lift is the seat; it is easy to have the seat adapted and augmented to fit the user’s distinct preferences. Swivel seat options also increase accessibility and convenience, as they often turn a full 90-degrees for the user to exit when done using the lift. Power swivel seats are another option that buyers will find when perusing selections for purchase.  

Rails

Another very popular personalization made to quality stairlifts is a folding rail. The rail is what meets the step at the bottom of the stairway- permitting the user to safely exit the lift. A folding rail extends further, thus promoting a sense of safety and security for anyone who uses the device. Folding rails allow you to fold and remove them during times when the lift is not in use, preventing any kind of obstruction or obstacle near the lift. There are many different sizes and types of rails; the best way to find a good match for your lift and living environment is to browse buying options from sellers in your area or online. Make yourself familiar with the offered styles and take a few measurements of your own to see what may work best in your home.

Footrests

If you happen to live in an environment with others, you may choose to fold up your stairlift when it is not in use. This involves flipping up seats and seat arms, while also leaning to fold-in the footrest; save yourself the trouble and potential fall risk by investing in custom power or auto folding footrest options when personalizing your stairlift. This feature allows the footrest to automatically fold on its own when the seat is moved or flipped when not in use. Think of how this will save on your physically, day after day; this customization could be a compelling choice for those that live with chronic pain conditions, too.

Fabric & Materials

Do not underestimate the value of having options when it comes to the fabric and composition of your new stairlift. Sure, adding a folding rail or power options is a pretty common customization found among stairlift buyers, but what about things like the fabric choices and colors available? This may also be a significant concern depending on the individual’s sensitivities, sensations, and tastes; plus, many buyers want fabric and seats that coordinate and complement the rest of their home surroundings. Do not be afraid to ask your mobility representative about what choices you have- after all, you are the one who will be using the equipment for many years to come!

Curved Track

Maybe you live in a situation that makes a stairlift more complicated? If so, talk to a qualified mobility retailer about curved stairway options. Lifts can be adapted and installed to fit your distinct stairway, steps, or risers; don’t assume the task is an impossible one. Stairlifts are installed inside, outside, and even in a swimming pool! When reviewing your options in mobility aids and solutions, talk to a Bay Area mobility retailer to learn more, first.

Want to learn more about your customization and personalization options? Talk to an industry professional at Pacific Mobility; they can discuss options, features, and price- and get a lift installed in your home right away. Stairlifts can enhance independence and foster aging in place, whereas you stay in your own home environment as long as possible throughout your lifespan. Aging in place embraces making your own choices, which requires staying healthy and well in the meantime. Stairlifts curb falls, which can seriously compromise health and wellbeing. Don’t let accessibility impede your quality of everyday life; talk to a mobility aids dealer today.

So, can kindness help you live longer? While most won’t dispute that it can help you live better to be kinder and gentler to all around you, can it actually prolong or extend your lifespan? Consider some compelling reasons why it makes good sense to be kind- especially in today’s often harsh world.

As National Be Kind To Humankind Week approaches this August, 25^th-31^st 2020, everyone is reminded to be kind. It can be tough to put others first during a time that can be described as nothing short of challenging; but, what can you do to make the world a better, kinder place? Consider the ripple-effects of a single, random act of kindness; it can be extraordinary! While it may be tough to remain optimistic during this pandemic, think of how your actions may actually be interconnected with your overall health and wellbeing.

So, can being kind help you live longer? Consider these benefits to simple kindness:

Better Relationships

Many researchers feel that the relationships of an individual contribute to their health, wellbeing, and longevity. In fact, to be kind may enhance your social supports and extend your life. Empathy- or the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes- is something that can spur a person to be kind; go ahead and consider someone else’s situation, perspective, and circumstance. Relating to others fosters friendships, and friendships nurture solidarity; this sense of solidarity and connection with others may contribute to a healthier, longer life.  Be a friend!

Improved Affect

Affect is a form of non-verbal communication; typically, it refers to your facial expressions, gestures, and body language. Social researchers indicate that when you have low, positive affect, you may struggle with anxiety. Anxiety is directly connected to mood, interest, participation, and focus. Researchers assert that when individuals engaged in acts of kindness, it improved affect and, thus, reduced the angst and anxiety previously noted. It should be mentioned that this occurred rather quickly, too, as many participants showed significantly better affect within a month of involvement in the study.

Good Feelings

If you feel good, there is a good chance you will live a long life. Did you know that good deeds actually trigger feel-good endorphins in the brain, boosting serotonin, and creating a bit of a euphoria? Random acts of kindness can trigger feelings of overall wellbeing and life satisfaction; be altruistic! It feels good!

Heart Health

The American Heart Association reports that around every 40 seconds , someone in the US suffers a heart attack. Kindness may help with that statistic. According to medical professionals, acts of altruism and kindness cause the release of a specific hormone that dilates blood vessels throughout the body- including the heart. The ripple-effects is lower blood pressure which can reduce the risk of heart attack overall. Kindness actually fosters good heart health!

Less Anxiety

As mentioned, kindness can improve affect which contributes to anxiety, but it also can help reduce the stressors that are in your own life or situation by providing a glimpse into someone else’s frame of reality. Doing something to help others lets you forget about your own troubles for a little while and bask in the feeling of service to others. Being in this position may also offer unique insights that groom you into someone that can handle stress and strife calmly, making these incidents less of a health consequence.  There are several old adages that reference putting yourself in someone else’s position to fully appreciate your own; kindness can help you achieve this perspective and provide feelings of life satisfaction for those willing to give to others.

Lower Illness Incidence

The hormone produced by acts of kindness and altruism also helps lower inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation is connected to a wide range of health issues and problems, from chronic pain and migraines to obesity and cancer. Every time the feel-good hormone is released, you lower your inflammation and subsequent health risks.  It seems that the kinder you are, the more powerful the anti-inflammatory properties these acts possess. Fascinating, isn’t it?

So, does kindness help you to live longer? Many experts would say ‘yes’! Consider all these possible benefits and scenarios to ascertain that kindness and the feelings that kind acts incur do improve overall health and wellbeing in ways that are significant and directly correlated to longevity and life expectancy. Want to live longer? Be kind to those around you; engage in random acts of kindness. It is possible that this might be the key to a longer, more fulfilling life.

Talk to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility for mobility aids and devices to improve overall quality of life for someone living with physical limitations or disabilities. Want another way to enhance daily living? Be kind; according to some experts, it may help you live longer!