disability

Are you or someone you love a senior? Help by supporting independence and taking strides to facilitate safety and autonomy in the senior’s home environment. From implementing mobility aids and equipment to enlisting the help of in-home care and services, there are many things that you can do to support aging in place.

One of the biggest worries of older individuals is a loss of freedom and independence. Prioritize maintaining autonomy and support aging in place so that you or your loved one can stay in their own home and live life according to their own wishes. One way that you can help out is to encourage mobility aids that improve access and support autonomy. More on that later!

Five ways to help a senior loved one maintain independence are:

Safety First

You can support aging in place by making sure the home environment is a safe one for your senior. This includes taking an inventory of the home surroundings to ensure there are no safety risks or hazards. Consider these issues, which can be easily resolved.

• Help them declutter and get rid of anything that could present a fall risk. Keep a clear pathway throughout the home for access.
• Enhance and maintain lighting all through the living environment- but especially at the top and bottom of stairs and steps.
• Check out adaptive utensils and implements that may make cooking, food prep, and everyday tasks much easier. Look at ways to improve convenience around the kitchen.
• Get a reaching tool for your loved one to make easy work of accessing out-of-reach items or objects. These are inexpensive and easy to use, found widely at mobility retail venues.

If you have concerns about your loved one’s safety, voice them. There are also area agencies on aging in most communities that offer services and resources to improve safety around the homes of seniors at little or no cost. This might include basic home repair grants or emergency resources to help pay for fuel or heating bills. Looking out for your loved ones doesn’t compromise their autonomy, it helps to put safety first.

Implement Mobility Aids

Visit a qualified retailer and implement mobility aids around the home for your loved one. This may include things like grab bars near the toilet and sink, as well as a shower seat or tub chair for ease in the bath. If your senior would benefit from the freedom a stairlift could provide, investigate it further! These can also be installed in outdoor spaces to allow for freedom outside as well as inside the individual’s home.

Always invest in mobility equipment from qualified retailers. This way you are assured of a warranty and service after the sale. Always opt for professional installation, too. Letting laymen install or repair your equipment, like a lift, for example, can nullify any warranty in some instances.

Enlist In-Home Care

Why not enlist some in-home care to help support your senior’s independence? This doesn’t have to be a skilled nurse if your loved one’s needs do not warrant it you could simply pay for an errand service or a few hours of companionship and company each week. Make sure that your loved one is receptive to the idea of people coming to their home and respect their wishes, first and foremost.

Try Technology

It is an amazing era that we are in, particularly in regard to technology. It is possible to implement technology that can help you check in and keep your independent loved one safe and secure. From doorbell security cams and smartphones to face timing with providers and life-alert systems, the technological options can help provide peace of mind when your loved one is living alone. Do your best to keep your loved one current and active on as much technology as you can muster. Make sure they are equipped with cell service and wi-fi, too!

Offer Alternatives

It has been touched on, but perhaps the most important way to support your senior’s independence is to respect their choices. If you disagree with their decisions or feel that they are not safe, offer alternatives and other approaches rather than assert control over the situation. Seniors that lose their ability to live life on their own terms often wither. Always be proactive and resourceful rather than bossy and reproachful.

February is National Senior Independence Month, which means it is the perfect time to address the needs of seniors when it comes to maintaining independence. Advocate for support as needed, and always put safety first.

Use these tips to create a safer environment for a loved one or yourself! Independence can be closely connected to accessibility, impacting holistic health and wellbeing- talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility to learn more!

If you look over the past years, it is quite amazing how mobility aids have improved over time. Availability and access have definitely increased, but so have affordability and overall selection, too. This means good news for consumers!

Its true mobility aids and equipment have come a long way. Past generations have had to struggle to find custom equipment to suit their needs, while retailers and vendors are widely found with convenient shopping options available widely. Are you considering mobility equipment for your home or workplace? The timing could not be better!

Consider the following ways that mobility aids have improved over time:

Availability

It is difficult to imagine now, but there was a time when the mobility aids available on the open market were very limited. There were some medical supply stores in some metropolitan areas that offered a limited variety, but typically, consumers had to drive or settle for shipping when it came to getting their mobility aids and devices.

Today’s wide access and availability make it more viable than ever to obtain the aids that you need whether it be a grab bar or a stair lift! With so much availability, competing sellers, and buying options, shoppers can afford to be choosey and seek exactly what they want.

Selection

If you have ever had to settle for what you could get, you can understand how a broader selection of mobility aids is much better. Shoppers find a lot more selection and buying options than ever before, whether you are considering a reaching tool or a power lift. Even walkers have undergone a transformation, and instead of the conventional walker, you find rolling walkers, knee walkers, and a whole lot more! This allows users to get exactly what they need to improve mobility, which ensures they get optimal use from the device, too.

Innovation

Certainly, innovation over the years has contributed to the wide array of mobility equipment now available for purchase and installation into the home living environment and this same inventiveness has made it possible for these aids to be adapted to the home. Years ago, this type of accessibility was only found in commercial buildings, residential properties, and skilled nursing facilities.

So, let’s talk a little bit about some of the innovations found. Well, freestanding lifts have made it viable for individuals to age in place with the assistance of caregivers, and outdoor lifts make it possible to revisit the favorite areas of one’s property that may have previously been inaccessible. When it comes to invention, look for products made by brands like Bruno, who have exceptional solutions made with attention to quality.

Ease

Mobility aids are getting easier to use, too! When you have your equipment installed by a professional, there really is nothing to it! Simply order, wait, and observe as you are instructed by the technician on proper usage information and tips. These professionals will not leave you hanging they are available as needed by phone or online, too. They will demonstrate use and field questions until you are comfortable. Don’t worry you will get the hang of it in no time! Mobility aids are easier to use than ever before. From hand-held controls to convenient remotes, and sensors to keep you on track to top-rated customer support and service, ask about your options for enhanced ease today.

Affordability

Mobility equipment is becoming more affordable. As the range of choices expand, so do the price wars. Competitors are motivated to sell equipment, so they may try incentives and discounts to do so. Make sure that you never compromise quality or reliability for a few dollars, however. Look for vendors with a proven track record of providing top-notch customer support and services. Make sure that once you buy a mobility aid, you won’t be left on your own.

Convenience

It is also far more convenient to purchase and use mobility aids than over past years. No more driving to remote locations to look at limited selections of wheelchairs and toilet lifts. Instead, most transactions can be made online and from the comfort of your own home.

If you do have a desire to browse, online catalogs make it easy. Also, the modern times have created a lot more brick-and-mortar venues to peruse and shop, too. Call ahead to ensure the pandemic has not impacted their hours or caused closure in some regions.

Quality

You will never have to settle for subpar quality when shopping for mobility aids and devices. While times have changed, the attention and focus that Pacific Mobility puts on customer satisfaction through quality merchandise have not. Do not buy unfamiliar brands or second-hand equipment from private sellers. Avoid the hassle by only working with qualified mobility professionals in the area- like Pacific Mobility.

Thinking about mobility aids? The timing for investing in mobility equipment is perfect! Talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; they can show you the innovative and clever ways that mobility solutions have changed- and improved- over time. 

There are some situations when a stairlift is simply not the best option. Pacific Mobility does not want to sell their consumers aids that they do not need or that could be the wrong mobility solution for them. Talk to a qualified stairlift professional to learn when a stairlift is and is not the best option including some specific environmental concerns or when the individual is not able to operate the lift due to debilitation or medication, for instance.

Stairlifts are life-changing and a positive addition to the home for thousands but sometimes a stairlift is not the best option. Be wary of mobility vendors that try to sell you equipment, including stairlifts, when you have apprehension or simply do not want them. In some cases, a stairlift may not be right. Work with mobility professionals that won’t try to sell you something you don’t want, need, or will get the most from.

Sometimes a stairlift is not the best option, such as in these situations and scenarios:

Hazardous Surroundings

Are there inherent hazards in the home environment that make a stairlift less feasible? While stairlifts can accommodate practically any type of staircase or step, there are some hazards that might make it less prudent to consider a stairlift in the home. For example, if the home is in disrepair and there are issues related to stability near or around the stairs, a lift is simply not a good idea. Homes that are heavily water-damaged or that have electrical wiring issues are also not great candidates for a lift. In these instances, there are public resources that may be able to assist with upgrading and updating the home to be accessible and safe, while also preparing it for a potential stairlift later. A local chapter for the Agency on Aging would be a good place to start.

Not Clinically Warranted

Another circumstance when a stairlift is not necessary is when it is not medically merited, that is, maybe you simply do not need one! It may also be the opinion of your provider that you climb stairs in your home, either for the physical activity or for recuperative reasons. Perhaps you have had a joint replacement surgery and your physician believes climbing stairs is in your best interest. Even if you could benefit from a lift for a short time, it may not seem worth the effort for very brief rehabilitative periods in some cases. Again, talk to mobility vendors as well as your own practitioners to come to a consensus about which mobility equipment will be the best option for you, your needs, and your living environment- it may not be a stairlift!

Medication Danger

Is the primary user on medications that could make operating a stairlift dangerous? The best way to know for sure is to discuss such mobility solutions with the individual’s primary physician or provider. They will have a sense of any medications that could impair the user and make it dangerous for them to self-transport up and down stairs in the home, without supervision or assistance. If the user has a lack of coordination or balance that could cause them to fall on the landings, a stairlift may not be the best choice for the situation.

Debilitating Disease

Does the user have a disease that is fast-moving and debilitating? Is there a chance that they won’t be able to get the most use and money’s worth from a stairlift? In these instances, it might make better sense to rent a stairlift. This provides the chance to benefit from the accessibility, but also the chance to opt for something different as the needs change and arise. Also, if the individual is simply too weak or uncoordinated to use a lift it could pose more of a hazard than a help.

Other Options are Better

Do you even need or want access to the upstairs of your home? In some situations, a stairlift is not offering much more access than the individual already has. Consider how often and for what reason you want to go upstairs, or down, and whether a stairlift is prudent. Also, if your needs are temporary, such as recovering from an operation, you may want to consider renting a lift rather than installing one of your own. Stairlifts are not always the right solution. Talk to a mobility professional to find out what other options exist.

Sometimes a stairlift is not the right mobility solution. At Pacific Mobility, we care about our customers and won’t sell costly mobility aids that are not the right option for the client. Fortunately, there is a wide range of aids and equipment to suit any and all mobility needs. Don’t get pressured into a stairlift when it is not the best solution for you. Call or visit the professionals to learn more today!

Foot care is even more crucial for those with limited mobility or physical limitations. Poor foot care can lead to issues with your feet that further impair movement, cause pain, and could precipitate a fall. Do you have diabetes? Foot care is critical to these individuals to prevent life-threatening infections.

Foot problems can exacerbate mobility issues, further hindering access while also causing chronic discomfort or pain. Taking care of your feet is more than an activity of daily living- it is a proactive and necessary health precaution that can prevent infection and illness. If you have issues with your feet, consider using mobility aids; it can help you avoid serious risks to your overall wellbeing.

Some tips for proper foot care include the following:

Measure Your Feet

Did you know that there is a national observance dedicated to measuring your feet? It’s true. Measure Your Feet Day on January 23rd aims to inspire you to measure your feet regularly to ensure well-fitting footwear. After all, your feet are the basis of your mobility, accessibility, and balance. Do not let ill-fitting shoes hinder you. Give your feet a bit of extra attention. Remeasure your feet and see if they have grown since the last time you checked!

Pay Attention to your Feet

Daily Foot Care is a lot more than merely washing and drying your feet. It includes wearing moisture-absorbent socks, tending to any wounds or blisters, trimming your nails, and keeping your feet safe from potential infection. Make sure that you are drying your feet thoroughly to prevent moisture from becoming trapped and change your socks each day.

Some more foot care tips include these!

• Switch shoes and rotate the pairs that you wear regularly. During wet weather- or if you are prone to perspiration- give shoes a day between wearing to dry out.
• If you walk around barefoot, make sure to wash your feet well after. It is best to avoid being barefoot outside, if possible.
• Try to trim your toenails at least every two weeks and use a file or emery board to smooth down the edges and corners after. Have a professional trim them for you if you have trouble seeing your toes, difficulty reaching them, or if you live with medical issues, like diabetes. Even a superficial nick or cut can cause big problems for people with diabetes or circulatory issues.
• Use clean nail clippers or scissors. Sanitize them periodically by immersing them in alcohol.
• If you notice a discolored toenail, avoid putting nail polish on it. Let it breathe and, hopefully, heal and keep your physician informed.

It is important to get a good look at all areas of your feet, so if you are having trouble, use a small, handheld mirror for a better vantage point.

Stimulate the Circulation

A lot of problems with feet are caused by poor circulation, and seniors, are prone to circulation problems. Do you always feel like your hands or feet are cold? This is a sign of poor circulation. It is important to keep blood moving in all areas of the body, and the numbness caused by poor circulation can be immobilizing and cause falls.

Even more seriously, poor circulation in the extremities can lead to big issues among those with diabetes. In fact, many suffer amputations due to a lack of blood flow in their legs or feet. A warm foot soak with Epsom salt can be soothing, and cause blood flow, improving circulation. Another solution is to treat yourself or someone you love to an invigorating and therapeutic foot massage!

Wear Comfortable Shoes

As mentioned, well-fitting footwear is vital to maintaining foot health, but also make sure that the shoes you choose are comfortable. This will go a long way in preserving posture and helping you get around with more ease. Also, comfy shoes prevent sore blisters and wounds on your toes or heel that can impede movement. Assess your shoes for good arch support and do not choose footwear that is too snug or tight.

See a Foot Doctor

Do not suffer in silence with corns or bunions, they really hurt! These are common foot issues that happen typically due to a lot of wear and tear on your feet. This is also more prevalent the older that you get. Do not try DIY corn treatments, but instead, see a doctor for proper care and treatment. Furthermore, the longer you let these situations persist, the more painful and debilitating they can become- see your provider right away.

Use these tips to provide your feet with proper care to prevent a wide range of health issues and repercussions. If you live with medical issues like diabetes, it is even more critical to take care of your feet. For mobility aids and enhanced accessibility, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility today!

Since around 235,000 people are injured in falls sustained in their bathroom each year, it makes sense to focus on enhancing bath safety widely. January is National Bath Safety Month, which is the perfect time to assess and reevaluate how safe your bathroom is- and how you can reduce the risks of falls. As the hazards increase with age, safety for seniors may include bathroom modifications and aids that include shower seats, grab balls, and enhanced lighting.

National Bath Safety Month is in January, is your bathroom as safe as it could be? The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) report that around 235,000 people show up at emergency rooms in this country due to injuries from falling in their bathrooms. They also assert that among seniors, one out of every four will experience a nasty fall this year. To be fair, the bathroom is inherently hazardous due to wet surfaces and slick floors particularly for seniors or those with mobility issues. Circumvent the dangers of your bathroom with mobility aids that curb the risks and enhance personal safety.

We take bath safety very seriously- and you should, too. Here are some suggestions that can help make the bathroom a much safer place:

• Invest in and install sensor lights that will illuminate these areas as needed- without the reaching and searching for switches that may precipitate a fall. This is a safety measure for late-night trips to the bathroom.
• Make sure that the fan is working in the bathroom- and consider implementing a timer. When the room is not well ventilated, moisture and condensation may take longer to dry. This could create a slippery surface and hazardous environment, particularly if it goes unnoticed. A timer ensures the fan goes on and off periodically, keeping moisture at-bay.
• Install grab bars throughout the bathroom and exterior areas. These can be subtle and discreet- but still provide a helping hand and sturdy support, as needed. Place them on secure stud-beams near stairs and doorways- as well as close to the tub, toilet, and sink. Grab bars are an inexpensive approach that could be invaluable later-on.
• Do you or your loved ones use an emergency call button system? Why or why not? These are an excellent line of defense for those that live alone- or that live with chronic medical issues or mobility limitations. A button is non-intrusive but there when you need it the most!
• It is a resource that often goes unnoticed, but if you keep an Alexa-abled device in the bathroom, you may be able to simply tell Alexa to ‘call 9-1-1’ if an emergency arises. Isn’t modern technology amazing?
• Make the effort to change and augment the threshold of the bathroom doorway. This is easy enough to do with some transition tape or stripping, but it can make a huge difference for anyone trying to navigate with a cane, walker, or chair into the bathroom. This is easily a DIY project!
• Get rid of throw rugs or runners that could cause a potential fall risk. Instead, use some non-slip bathmats and keep them near the sink and tub, where it could possibly be slick. Use bathtub treads- you know, those textured stickers- to prevent slipping during ADLs, or activities of daily living.
• A shower seat is inexpensive and easy to move around, as needed. These are available widely and provide a sturdy place to sit during showering or bathing, which can decrease the risks of a fall and related injury. These are an invaluable tool for ADLs.
• Make showering as easy as it can be with a hand-held shower head. These allow the user to control where and how they will bathe- rather than be struggling to position themselves under the water and showerhead. This may provide a better sense of balance for some users, which could prevent falls. Some have extra features that further increase ease, such as a pause function that is initiated on the shower head handle.
• Raise the toilet seat to prevent injuries caused when bending, sitting, and rising from the bathroom toilet. Toileting is one of the areas that could prevent individuals from aging in place and staying in their own home, longer. A raised seat simply makes it easier and less straining to do so. Talk to a mobility retailer about options compatible with your bathroom and toilet. These are more affordable than you might think!
• If you decide to go the extra mile and remodel the bathroom with safety in-mind, consider a frameless or walk-in shower system. This can help those with physical limitations get in and out of the shower safely- while also providing a means of access for wheelchairs and walkers, too.

Make your bathroom safer with these suggestions- and with mobility equipment and aids from Pacific Mobility. Create a safer home that improves the overall quality of life for all who live there. Call or visit today!

National Take the Stairs Day seems like a well-meaning initiative, but what about those individuals that have mobility issues or limitations? Let’s have a National Take the Stairlift Day, as well, in the name of inclusivity but also to promote autonomy and foster independence among those that may rely on these aids for activities of daily living.

Surely you have heard of National Take the Stairs Day when people skip the elevator and ascend steps and stairs with abandon. What about those that simply cannot climb stairs, due to a physical challenge or mobility issue? Sometimes stairlifts can be more beneficial to an individual than just the fitness aspect of taking the stairs. They represent independence and signify autonomy for many. using mobility aids is worthy of observance and should be embraced. These devices and equipment offer freedom and accessibility to those that use them. Let’s have a National Take the Stairlift Day, as well!

Here are some reasons why:

Represents Autonomy

A national observance such as this symbolizes autonomy. It fosters a sense of freedom and independence in all who celebrate. It reminds folks far and wide to not take mobility for granted and symbolizes a means of holding on to autonomy for as long as possible. The stairlift in and of itself represents independence for the user; after all, lifts increase and enhance access, which goes a long way toward autonomy.

Garners Solidarity

There is something about a common goal that brings people together like a national observance. National Take the Stairlift Day is the perfect platform to garner solidarity and get people to come together and join forces. There is strength in numbers. The advocacy and social policy potential are limitless.

Instills a Sense of Confidence

When people get together to take the stairlift, this may build a sense of confidence in those that use mobility aids regularly. It is an empathetic way to share an experience and try to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, that is what these National observances are all about. Sure, taking the stairs aids in physical wellbeing, but taking the stairlift may help with emotional health and provide newfound self-esteem.

Reduces the Risk of Falls

A stairlift can reduce falls and significantly lower the potential risk of a fall. For this reason, doesn’t it make sense to learn more about them? If someone in your family would benefit from the accessibility and safety of a stairlift, speak with a mobility retailer. Remember also that we are all getting older every day. Consider future needs when deciding on whether a stairlift is worth the investment. We believe it most certainly is!

Preserves Independence

The of comfort using a stairlift helps to preserve independence. After all, if you can adapt to a tech-savvy device like a stairlift, what can’t you do? Being able to visit second floors and upper levels of the home living environment can open up a whole new world and improve quality of life right away. Think of how your own home is configured and what you would miss out on if you could not access an entire level or floor. Stairlifts allow residents to use and enjoy upstairs areas, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and home offices which is a compelling reason to consider one for your own living environment.

Provides Purpose and Hope

Being stuck in a room or being forced into decisions regarding your living situation is exactly what mobility aids and devices attempt to prevent. There is nothing wrong with needing a bit of assistance, a mobility aid, like a stairlift, can provide hope that you can stay in your home and live life on your own terms. It further reinforces that you can do what you need to do and access all areas within your home. This can create a sense of purpose and optimism about the future that we all need. Take the Stairlift Day may be a gentle nudge for many to improve their own quality of living with one of these clever and convenient mobility aids.

Assists with Aging in Place

Stairlifts provide a critical function in homes and living situations where someone has a mobility issue, challenge, or limitation. For some, stairlifts are the feature that allows them to stay in their own home, safely, to age in place. Aging in place emphasizes the individual’s right to live as they wish, typically, to stay in their own home, as they get older. Part of aging in place is maintaining accessibility to perform ADLs (activities of daily life), which is often the criteria by which seniors are assessed for independent living and home health support.

Let’s have a National Take the Stairlift Day! The folks at Pacific Mobility are here to ensure you have the mobility equipment that you need to live autonomously and comfortably. Call or visit to learn more today!

Mobility aids that focus on quality of life are the ones that enhance everyday living and expand access. Consider the many ways that these aids- including stairlifts and ramps- can improve and enhance your life, living situation, and surroundings.

In January, International Quality of Life Month, puts the attention on seniors and how they might enhance everyday living. The key for many may lie with mobility aids that improve and increase accessibility around the home and living environment.

It has been studied and shown that accessibility and quality of life are connected. For seniors, quality of life may be synonymous with aging in place which allows the individual to stay in their current home environment across the lifespan. Access plays a role in aging in place, as challenges with accessibility may compromise independence. For instance, if a senior can’t navigate a way to the bathroom in their home, this can jeopardize remaining in the home.

International Quality of Life Month can represent a new beginning for those living with mobility issues or accessibility hurdles. Reflect on your life, and how it may be enhanced each day. It may come down to something as simple as mobility aids that support autonomy, like a shower seat or improved lighting on a stairway. Some may have greater challenges that merit consideration of lifts or wheelchairs, talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best approach to take. Make the move to improve your quality of life this January!

Mobility aids change life for the better- consider these mobility aids that focus on quality of life:

Stairlifts

If you live in a home with stairs or steps, mobility issues can present challenges to living independently. A stairlift can remove this hurdle and make the entire environment accessible! Stairlifts should always be professionally installed to maintain any warranty on the equipment and to optimize safety and performance. Stairlifts are non-intrusive on stairs so they do not interfere with others using and navigating the stairs.

When it comes to stairlifts, you have a lot of options. Talk directly with a member of our team to learn more!

Scooters & Wheelchairs

Scooters and wheelchairs are typically prescribed by your healthcare provider to improve mobility and provide ease. While certainly scooters and wheelchairs can improve life significantly, it makes the most sense to visit a mobility retailer to find the right device for you which may include testing, trying, and observing a number of options.

The wrong chair or scooter may cause you grief over the long run, so see what you have available, and don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions!

Ceiling Lifts

If you are confined to a bed due to physical disabilities or recent surgery, a free-standing lift/ceiling lift may be key to improving quality of life and fostering recovery. Ceiling lifts make it feasible to get in and out of bed, the tub, or your chair when depending on others for aid. These devices also improve the conditions for caregivers, reducing the risks of an injury that could derail and disable them, too.

Free-standing lifts are able to be moved around, from one spot to the next, with ease and comfort. Visit to see a ceiling lift in action!

Ramps

When it comes to improving conditions around the home, you can’t go wrong with ramps. Even portable ramps offer access and assistance that help many remain autonomous and in their own homes. Consider also that a portable ramp makes it possible to carry this convenience along with you creating accessibility wherever you go! What could be a greater gift than this?

As for permanent ramps, talk with contractors about specifications for ADA-approved modifications that improve access. There are often tax incentives available for homeowners making these adjustments.

Vehicle Lifts

Do you drive? A vehicle lift opens up a whole new opportunity for those that may have thought their driving days were behind them. Vehicle lifts help the driver get in and out of their van or truck, while also providing a way to stash a scooter or chair so that they can get behind the wheel. The freedom and independence of driving are a liberating experience for many!

Talk to your mobility retailer about the kinds of vehicles that are best adapted to lifts.

Shower Aids

Taking a shower is an activity of daily life; the Shower Buddy provides a way to take a shower in the home when you have mobility challenges. The Shower Buddy helps to reduce the need for transfers and lifting that could result in a fall, as well as injury to caregivers. Plus, shower buddy maintains the user’s dignity, a prudent investment.

Improve accessibility and enhance the everyday quality of life. It really is that simple; talk to the team at Pacific Mobility and find out more about mobility aids and equipment that can increase the quality of your life. From grab bars to stairlifts, we offer sales, service, and support for all the products that we sell.

The best gift this season is to take care of your health. Getting a flu shot may be one of the best gifts for you and others. If you have risk factors, including age or medical issues, the flu can pose very serious risks and repercussions. Make National Influenza Vaccination Week in December the time that you go and get your flu shot this year!

It is that time of year when many people schedule their flu vaccine. Have you had your flu shot yet? Older people have more serious ramifications from Influenza, and it could have debilitating effects on their overall health. In fact, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that people over age 65 comprise around ¾ of flu fatalities, and around 70% of all hospitalizations related to the Flu. This illness can have lasting impacts on holistic wellness and even mobility- talk to a mobility aid and equipment retailer to learn more.

Flu Shots

The CDC recommends that everyone over six months old should get a flu shot once a year. Are there people that should not get this shot? Yes, children under the age of 6 months should not get the flu shot, as well as individuals that have had a life-threatening or severe reaction to a flu vaccine previously or that have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine. Your primary care provider should be able to provide more information pertaining to the ingredients of the flu vaccine for you. Talk to your doctor to learn more.

National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW)

National Influenza Vaccination Week, in early December, is the perfect time to schedule your family’s vaccinations. Flu season is coming at the height of winter, so get your flu shot now. The benefits of getting the flu shot include preventing you from coming down sick with the flu, of course, but also it can impact the severity and protect others that make have weak immune systems or medical complications. Furthermore, getting vaccinated against the flu helps relieve stress on public health resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Make an informed decision regarding your flu shot. Here are the answers to some of the most common and frequently asked questions related to Influenza and the vaccine:

What is influenza?

Influenza, or the flu, is an infection of the respiratory system that is caused by a virus. The flu impacts everyone differently, ranging from cold-like symptoms to flu fatality. Those most at risk include seniors, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with medical or health issues.

How long does the flu last?

If you come down with the flu, plan on symptoms lasting around a week. The most severe symptoms typically dissipate after a couple of days, but you may feel tired and week for a couple of weeks.

Is the flu contagious?

The flu is very contagious and it is easily spread. If someone sneezes or coughs near you and they have the flu, they could transmit it to you through a surface or something that they touched.

When is the flu contagious?

Young patients with the flu are contagious for a week or longer after getting sick, while adults are usually contagious 24 hours prior to symptoms of the flu and about a week after symptoms manifest.

When is flu season?

Flu season is in the fall and winter in this country, though it peaks in the height of winter. Flu season can last well into spring, often until May.

Can someone spread the flu if they don’t have symptoms?

Yes, adults can spread flu germs before they even know they are sick! Typically, adults are contagious a full day before any symptoms emerge. A flu shot is a good preventative against unknowingly being around someone who has the flu and is contagious. Further protect yourself against contracting the flu with vigilant handwashing.

Can you have flu without a fever?

Yes, you can have the flu without ever having a fever. A fever, however, may be a prevalent symptom for some people that come down with the flu. The symptoms vary based on many factors, including age, medical history, and whether you have had a flu shot.

Can you get the flu from the flu shot?

The flu vaccine contains only elements of an inactive flu virus or none at all, so you cannot get the flu from the flu shot. It is simply not possible. There have been many myths and urban legends that convey how getting the flu shot is essentially contracting the flu- but this is not the case.

Anyone could be at risk for contracting the flu- have you had your flu shot yet? For more information about mobility solutions and accessibility, talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility today!