disability

Studies show that holding on to anger or refusing to forgive can have detrimental health effects- both physical and mental. Practice letting go of old vendettas, conflicts, or problems and see how truly liberating it can be. Forgiveness can make everyday life better- lighter and brighter- which can have positive impacts on your overall wellbeing.

Do you forgive others easily? How about forgiving yourself? In fact, most of us judge ourselves much harsher than others and are reluctant to forgive ourselves for the most minor of errors, mistakes, or indiscretions. Holding on to anger or resentment does no good and judging harshly based on the past is a fruitless endeavor that fosters cynicism and ill health.

Practice forgiving others and yourself and note how much lighter and better you feel. In a world of uncertainty, being the first to forgive can free up energy and resources for other areas of life that are positive and productive. It takes practice so don’t be too hard on yourself if you lapse- just try again- it truly can make life better. Also, accessibility can also improve everyday life; reach out to learn more about mobility aids and equipment.

Why Should I Forgive?

It is natural to become angry or to have a conflict with others from time to time- however, prolonged anger can have negative health consequences and risks. Some of the repercussions of refusing or failing to forgive include an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Emotionally speaking, holding on to anger can create cynicism and a sense of dissatisfaction with overall life that can be deteriorating and even debilitating. Why should you forgive? You should forgive to improve the quality of your own everyday life; it is that simple.

What If I Cannot Forgive?

Sometimes, forgiveness requires time and perspective. Stepping away from a situation to carefully consider when and how to forgive may be needed to move on. So, what if I just cannot forgive someone- or myself? There are a few things that may help you forgive:

• Write a heartfelt letter related to the incident or event that you are angry or upset over. Whether you choose to mail the letter or not, just getting your feelings off your chest may be enough to pave the way to forgiveness.
• Do it purposefully to free yourself from the unnecessary burden of hanging on to anger. Consider how it is weighing your down.
• Put yourself in the other person’s shoes. If you are struggling with forgiving yourself, try to remember the time and situation objectively, and use empathy in understanding why you may have done, said, or felt the way that you did at the time.

Remember, forgiving someone else for something is as much about letting yourself off the hook as it is the other person; holding on to resentment can be exhausting. Forgiving oneself can be more challenging, but more on that later.

How Can I Move Past It?

The best way to move past an issue and forgive is to not let it gain traction to begin with. Learn some tips and tricks to abate your anger and get over conflicts fast. These are some tactics for times of duress or conflict:

• Step away.
• Breathe deeply.
• Shift your focus.
• Get some physical exercise.
• Take a hot shower.
• Take a little time to choose your words carefully.

Practice controlling and managing anger to prevent it from festering and becoming a major issue in your life. Anger is a natural emotion but don’t let it impact the quality of your life.

Practice Forgiveness

International Forgiveness Day is on August 1, 2021– why not make this the day that you will forgive somebody? This global event strives to create momentum and move toward an improved life quality for all who participate. Take responsibility for your role in whatever angst you have with someone else and be a part of the movement toward ownership and forgiveness occurring during this event. The aim is to pave the way for forgiveness and a more positive future experience.

Isn’t life difficult enough already? Try not to hang on to old conflicts or unresolved anger with others or yourself. Treat yourself as gently as you would an old friend- it really can soften your internal voice- which can have a ripple effect of positivity across your entire life. Forgiveness can take some work and you may fall back into old feelings of anger or confusion- be kind and patient with yourself. The more forgiving you are of yourself, the easier it will be to treat others the same way. Try it!

Forgive someone for something, but even more importantly, practice forgiving yourself. Everyone has regrets- let go of anger toward someone and see how truly transformative it can be. For all of your accessibility needs, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility.

The aim of therapeutic recreation is to improve all areas of function- physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual- and to foster full participation and quality of everyday life. These activities are usually overseen by a Recreational therapist or a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, which is a position that requires an advanced degree and licensure in the US.

It is estimated that there are over 19,000 licensed recreational therapists in the US- but what exactly do they do? The goal of Therapeutic recreation is to improve or preserve function, in all areas of life including cognitive, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social. The recreational therapist facilitates, supports, and coordinates activities with these goals in mind. From this, therapists may make therapeutic recommendations- including the need and benefit of mobility equipment or adaptive aids for their clients.

So, what is Therapeutic Recreation?

Basically, recreational therapy consists of activities to improve function. From playing a game to going out in the community, the goal is to improve or maintain participation in everyday life. The therapist strives to reduce the client’s discomfort or stress while reinforcing their cognitive and motor function. Over time, therapeutic recreation should help give the client a newfound sense of confidence and less anxiety surrounding situations or socialization.

Some Therapeutic and recreational activities for older individuals include:

Art

Art and crafts are a great way to inspire creativity and joy- while also helping with motor skill function and communication. Painting, drawing, and coloring can relieve anxiety or stress. It may also help to distract those living with conditions or disorders that cause other symptoms, like tremors or aphasia, feel more comfortable and confident. Some other art and crafting ideas for recreational therapy include these:

• Pottery or working with clay
• Wood arts
• Collage and mixed media projects
• Photography

Animal Assisted Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy is finally recognized for the amazing holistic benefits that it offers so many. From detecting low blood sugar in diabetics to predicting seizures in children, therapy animals can be an added support and assistance that works wonders. There are many different types of service animals, from dogs that assist individuals with blindness to pets that provide emotional support to owners out in the community; talk to your provider or doctor to determine the right route for you, as well as any documentation needed.

As for recreational therapy, many therapists implement animals into treatment. Pets are comforting and calming; seniors and children can benefit greatly from spending time with animals.

Cooking  

Cooking is an activity that builds many different skills, from cognition to motor skills. The memory of favorite recipes, going out for the groceries and even preparing the meal all engage and improve the client’s skillsets. The reward is something tasty or a fulfilling meal that brings the individual closer to their own autonomy and independence. There are mobility aids that can assist in the kitchen for those with physical disabilities or limitations, too.

Puzzles and Games  

What kinds of puzzles and games do you enjoy? Brain games can be a great therapeutic strategy to helping someone with dementia; it boosts memory and cognition- both of which are helpful to anyone struggling with brain injury, too. Games can stimulate the mind and challenge individuals to think critically and compete- which means they are engaged in the activity.

A simple jigsaw puzzle is another great form of therapeutic recreation, as it affects the fine motor skills when you must pick up pieces and put them together. It also causes you to use memory as it pertains to filling in the pieces of the puzzle. Puzzles may also be a social outlet for some. Many times, people that live together in assisted living, group homes, or residential facilities will sit around a table to do puzzles. This fosters engagement and socialization, both primary goals of therapy.

Music 

Music can be extremely therapeutic and soothing to many. Studies have shown that individuals with chronic or progressive conditions that impact cognition and memory, like Alzheimer’s disease, can have moments of clarity and less stress when listening to music that they may have liked at previous times in their lives. Depending on the physical condition of the client, chair dancing is another way to enjoy the calming effects of the music while also engaging motor skills and preserving flexibility. Some clients and patients may enjoy singing as a means of building self-esteem and gaining joy; the therapist will plan activities and interventions based on their assessment of the individuals.

Recreational therapy is an engaging way to foster overall health and wellness among senior clients and those living with physical disabilities or mobility limitations. Want to improve your accessibility with mobility aids and equipment? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more!

When shopping for mobility aids and equipment, you may wonder: are stairlifts the best option to allow and provide access to all areas of your home? Well, the answer heavily relies on your distinctive living situation, but yes- in many cases, a stairlift is precisely what consumers need for accessibility, ease, and safety at home.

Thinking of enhancing the access that you have around your home? Perhaps it is difficult to get in and out of your bathroom to use the toilet or bathe; maybe you have started sleeping on a couch or in a downstairs space. When it comes to mobility equipment, all promise to make life easier, but a stairlift may be the most life-changing and transformative of all aids on the market.

Consider the following to determine if stairlifts are the best option for you to access all areas of your home:

Bathroom

Where is your bathroom located? If you need to use the upstairs bathroom, you could have a problem; and many older homes are only equipped with one bathroom for the entire household. Sure, a portable commode is one solution, but if you want to hang on to your autonomy and independence, you may want a little bit more.

A stairlift can be used daily to go up and down stairs smoothly and seamlessly. Users quickly adapt to their stairlift, and the installer will fully demonstrate the operation and performance of the lift. Reputable vendors will make sure that the consumer is comfortable and confident using it before they exit your home. Getting ready for the day, taking a shower, or getting up in the night to use the bathroom is much easier in a multilevel home when you have a stairlift.  

Upstairs

Many falls are incidents that could be avoided with proper fall risk assessment. This includes using mobility aids to carry or transport goods throughout the home. If you lose your balance with your arms full, you run a bigger risk of getting hurt. Everyday supplies and items, like laundry or groceries, can be the reason you take a tumble and end up at the ER. A stairlift allows you to carry your load upstairs with ease, and since stairs are one of the prime spots that cause fall-related injury, this makes the home a lot safer overall.

Outdoor Spaces

Depending on the layout of your home, you may need to navigate stairs to get out to your vehicle or off the porch. Stairlifts can be adapted and customized to fit any stairway- even those that are outside in the elements. The ability to get in and out of the home with ease- especially if you live in an upstairs apartment or multi-family dwelling- can be huge and it directly contributes to your autonomy and independence.

Talk to your mobility retailer about other types of lifts that can help with maintaining your freedom, like a vehicle lift or pool lift. These are both constructed to help get you in and out of vehicles and swimming pools, while you continue to enjoy the activities that you love doing.

Bedroom

Consider how a stairlift may change how you go to bed each evening- do you currently sleep upstairs? Many people have given up ever returning to their bedroom to sleep as the risks of going up and down stairs are just too great. A stairlift can provide a little bit of extra support that may make the difference between living independently or needing a caregiver at bedtime. Plus, it gives you the freedom to enjoy your bedroom without turning your living room or family room into a makeshift place to sleep. Start living life on your own terms with a stairlift!

Some Final Words about Accessibility and Stairlifts:

• Stairlifts are more affordable than you may think; some vendors provide rentals to determine if you will use and adapt to a lift in the home. Also, ask your retailer about refurbished models if you are working within the confines of a budget.
• Stairlifts can be fitted to any kind of stairway, including curved, steep, and outdoor steps and risers.
• Stairlifts are remarkably easy to get around and live with, so don’t worry that a lift will inconvenience others that live in the home.
• Buy lifts from a qualified seller that offers full installation, service, and customer support.

The Centers for Disease Control estimate that nearly three million seniors are seen in hospitals and Emergency rooms each year for fall-related injury; around 20% of all falls cause serious injury, with hip fractures and head injury being the most common. Do not risk a debilitating fall in your home; talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility about stairlifts and accessibility.

It is simply a fact of life that socialization impacts overall health and wellbeing; that is, staying social and interacting with others across the lifespan is healthy and vital in maintaining quality of life as you age. Those that are homebound or that live with physical limitations may find it easier to isolate and withdraw- foster socialization and engagement with some tips for maintaining social wellness when it is difficult to leave the home environment.

Do you get out and about regularly? For many homebound individuals, social wellness and engagement are tough to find and difficult to pursue. Particularly for those just venturing out post-pandemic, it can be a scary prospect to leave the house. Prolonged social distancing is leaving many feeling depressed, lonely, and worried about their wellbeing. Garner peace of mind with mobility equipment that can make getting out of the house viable, safe, and possible for those that have previously been stuck inside.  

Eating Out

Start getting out more with a simple meal at your favorite restaurant or with friends. Call ahead to ensure the venue is accessible, and whether you may need to bring your portable ramp to get in the front door. With the Americans with Disabilities Act, restaurants and establishments are adhering to federal guidelines that make public places handicap accessible to all customers.

If you are going to a friend’s, bring a reacher or cane to offer support in less familiar surroundings. That is, a cane or walking stick can help stabilize you on rough terrain or uneven ground, and a reaching tool can make it possible to help out in the kitchen without putting yourself at fall risk trying to access out-of-reach items.

In the Garden

Even if you are not planning a garden party, getting out in the sunshine to enjoy your flowers is something that you may enjoy sharing with a neighbor or loved one. Those with physical disabilities may find it hard to access their outdoor spaces and gardens, without mobility aids. The ground may be off-kilter or uneven and the grass could be slick; make sure that you have something along that provides support and stability for your outing. Outfit your own exteriors with grab-bars and railings so that you always have firm support when outside your home. A portable ramp makes a cost-effective alternative to a permanent ramp and may offer the right amount of access for anyone visiting you as well.

Out and About

If you use mobility equipment, you likely know that it can impede jumping in your vehicle and going out and about. You may require a driver these days- or at least help to stow your mobility devices before getting in or out of the vehicle. A vehicle lift is an excellent option for your personal vehicle that you drive primarily. These provide assistance in stashing your chair, scooter, or walker so that you can easily get behind the wheel. Being able to get where you want to go is a huge part of socialization and reclaiming your own independence. After the pandemic, a nice, long drive could be quite therapeutic for you. There is nothing quite like being on the open road!

Friends Over

Maybe you just want to start small with a few friends over following the uncertainty and chaos of the pandemic. Make this more feasible with a few simple suggestions and aids to make socialization comfortable and safe:

• Adhere to any social distancing guidelines that are in place for your region. In some areas, citizens are encouraged to gather outside or to limit the number of guests in the home.
• Remove clutter or anything on the floor that could pose a fall risk to you or your guests. You don’t want anyone experiencing an injury during your first post-pandemic party!
• Make the meal easy on yourself; order out or host a potluck. This curbs the time and labor that you will need to put in, and it also keeps guests out of the kitchen trying to help out and cook. While this is a kind offer, it can create a chaotic and crowded scenario that may add to access issues.

When inviting company over, provide a portable ramp for use by your friends that may benefit from it. Even those that do not use mobility aids or devices may appreciate the much lower impact of walking up the ramp rather than ascending a flight of stairs or risers. Contemporary portable ramps offer smooth access to both indoor and outdoor areas of the home- but can then be picked up and moved as desired.

July is officially Social Wellness Month and this year’s theme is ‘taking back your health and wellbeing. This echoes the importance of engaging with others to build a supportive network that can reach out and fill in gaps as needed. Everyone needs social support from time to time- make sure that your social needs are met to maintain your best quality of life, for as long as possible.

Want to learn more about mobility solutions to maintain your social wellness? Talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility. They offer high-quality equipment, complete installation service, and customer support to all their customers; call or visit for a comprehensive needs assessment today.

There is no time like July 4^th to assert and achieve a measure of autonomy and independence- particularly if you live with disabilities or mobility issues. After all, autonomy is a vital part of aging in place and making decisions that impact your life and the way that you live. Increase your independence with devices and equipment that improve accessibility in and around your home.

Celebrate Independence Day by doing something that increases your own freedom and overcomes hurdles. Consider making the choice to utilize mobility equipment, like lifts, ramps, and chairs, that can make your environment more accessible, convenient, and easy to navigate. What better way to assert your own autonomy this July 4^th? Enjoy the comfort and convenience that these aids offer.

Consider these tips to achieve a measure of autonomy and independence this summer:

Sample Some Mobility Solutions

Create your own sense of independence with the high-quality mobility equipment that can make your home, yard, and vehicle a lot simpler and more accessible. Does your home have a second level? Do you struggle with ascending the stairs? Stairlifts can help; in fact, there are numerous devices, aids, and gadgets that increase independence for users in a wide variety of ways, whether it be getting you in and out of the shower safely or assisting you in driving your vehicle out and about. The possibilities are endless. Make your life easier so that you can be more independent without worry or strain. Here are some mobility solutions that may work for you:

Stairlifts

A stairlift may seem like a big step- pardon the pun- and it is, however, it also is an effective way at creating a safer home environment with less risk of a fall. Some individuals have abandoned access to the upstairs of their home- why? Enjoy the convenience of a stairlift to transport you upstairs, around curves, and up risers to your bedroom, bathroom, or other areas of the home that may be up a level. Furthermore, stairlifts can be installed outside, too, so your porch, patio, or favorite outdoor living space is accessible to you.

Pool lifts

Do you have a swimming pool? Some individuals with physical limitations may struggle to get in and out of their pool, which can impact how frequently they choose to swim and enjoy their amenities. Especially for those consumers that live in Southern California, a pool is something that you should be able to use and enjoy; a pool lift makes it smooth and seamless to get in and out of the water.

Car and Vehicle lifts

Individuals with physical disabilities that impact getting in and out of their vehicle may miss driving. A vehicle lift can help those with mobility aids, like chairs, stow their equipment and safely get behind the wheel. A mobility issue may impact your ability to drive, which in turn, compromises your overall autonomy and freedom. A vehicle lift may preserve your independence and let you enjoy driving once again.

Ramps

If you are thinking about a ramp, consider one of the new portable ramps. These fold for easy transport and storage, so you are never caught without a way to gain access to where you want to go. Also, these ramps are a cost-effective alternative to building a more permanent structure. These work for chairs and scooters, but also help with a low-impact, low-rise entry to your home, porch, or other areas of your property.

Turn to Technology

Technology makes it easier to be independent and it continues to build on and develop solutions for those that live with disabilities or limitations. Stay connected and keep on top of the latest developments in technology that are geared toward making life easier for individuals with mobility issues.

Accept Offers

When someone with a disability is trying to live autonomously, they may get a lot of offers of help or assistance- accept them. Let others do things that make your life more accessible, and therefore, more autonomous. When you are able to complete your activities of daily living, like preparing meals or bathing, you are more likely to age in place and live life on your own terms. If part of this independence is allowing someone else to participate and share in your life, let them. Enjoy the kindness of others whenever possible!

Stay Social

Some individuals may isolate or withdraw due to physical limitations that impact their comfort in socializing. Socialization is an integral part of the healthy aging process; studies indicate that those who interact regularly with others experience higher life quality and overall life satisfaction. Mobility aids are one way to foster social venues and engagements.

You are Not Alone

It may also help give you a boost to know that nearly one-in-five seniors over the age of 65 live with some type of disability. In this country, that equates to around 18 million people; you are not alone. This also reinforces the point that quality mobility solutions are widely used and needed- don’t you deserve this very same advantage in your own home? Call or visit a mobility professional to learn more.

Do you yearn to be more independent? Make your home a more accessible and convenient place with these suggestions- and assert your own autonomy with quality equipment and mobility aids from Pacific Mobility in the Bay Area today. 

Are you on the fence about whether a stairlift is right for you and your home? Buying mobility aids and equipment like stairlifts is a big decision that requires some thought; will a stairlift provide the accessibility that you need to improve everyday life? You do have options when it comes to mobility solutions, like stairlifts; consider these when making your own personal choices.

Could mobility aids and devices make your life easier? Stairlifts are the perfect solution for those that live on two levels- that is, especially when you have a bath or bedroom on a separate level that you want to maintain access to. Furthermore, there are outdoor styles of lifts that can make it possible to visit your porch, patio, pool, and other outdoor areas that may have been off-limits previously due to physical limitations or mobility issues. Before you jump into anything, consider all your potential options and alternatives to make an informed decision that you will be satisfied with later on.

Not sure if a Stairlift is the right solution for you? Consider these options:

Quality Equipment

First and foremost, you only want to buy quality equipment that is made in the US and that is serviced by a qualified mobility retailer. Look for brand names like Bruno, that instill trust and reliability in the consumer. These brand names will be easier to service, repair, or find parts for- if needed- and have a record for high performance and customer satisfaction widely. Shop around and see what other customers say about Bruno or other distinct brands in mobility equipment.

Professional Installation

You only want to buy equipment like stairlifts from those that offer professional installation of the device. Did you know that allowing someone other than an authorized technician to install equipment can nullify the warranty? Be wary of ever allowing anyone to make repairs, augments, or changes to your stairlift, or other mobility devices. It is simply too risky.

Leases and Rentals

If you are unsure how you will adapt to a stairlift, or if you only need one for the short term due to an injury, surgery, or rehabilitative purposes, you may want to consider a rental. Rent or lease your mobility equipment from a reputable vendor that will install, uninstall, and remove equipment for you, when possible. This is also a good way to determine how a stairlift can improve accessibility and whether it is the right solution for you. Talk to the team to learn more.

Product Warranties and Guarantees

When weighing out your options, remember that it can pay to have a warranty or some type of guarantee from the seller that you will be happy with the equipment. There are different types of warranties available, so speak with your distinct retailer to discuss terms that will work for you. However, you may want to reconsider buying anything that doesn’t offer some sort of warranty against damage.

Second-Hand Devices

An alternative that you- as a buyer- have is to purchase second-hand devices and aids. Be wary of buying equipment from private sellers that don’t guarantee your satisfaction or that are selling something as-is. Reputable mobility dealers often offer second-hand or gently used equipment that has been turned in by other consumers that are upgrading their devices. In these instances, you may have more of a guarantee behind the equipment to ensure your satisfaction, as well as someone who will service and support you after the sale.

Service and Support

So, speaking of service and support, when it comes to something like a stairlift, you want to have a reliable resource available to come and address the situation if something goes wrong. How will you know how to use the device? The seller should offer to come and install and then demonstrate the device for the buyer; also, this makes it easy if and when you need repairs. Typically, vendors offer annual inspections of equipment to tease out any problems and maintain the device to keep the warranty active. Speak with your mobility dealer to see if this is their protocol, as well.

Other Equipment

Certainly, you have a lot of other options when it comes to mobility equipment that goes far beyond stairlifts. Sometimes simple solutions like grab bars and shower seats can make a significant difference in everyday life- without the need for anything more. The best way to determine your needs and the best options are to visit a mobility professional and see what they have to offer. This may be in-person, on-site, or online; the choice is yours!

When considering your mobility options, call on the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility; they have years in the field and possess the inside scoop on quality brand mobility equipment and devices. For solid service after the sale in the Bay Area, you cannot go wrong with Pacific Mobility. Call or visit today!

Got summer travel plans? Make the time away much more enjoyable with some simple solutions to enhance accessibility, increase convenience, and offer comfort when away from home. Nobody wants to deal with a situation where they are not being accommodated; bring what you need to make your vacation relaxing and restorative- without hassle and headache.

Going away? It is safe to say that if you live with a mobility issue or physical limitation, you may run into some sort of situation or challenge that makes you rethink how you travel. It might be that there are stairs where you did not expect or the bathroom is not big enough for your much-needed mobility aids; avoid these scenarios and focus on your trip. Bring a few items from home that can truly make all the difference.

Try some solutions that can make your summer travel so much more enjoyable:

Don’t Shirk on Planning

The most important thing that you can do to improve how your trip goes is to plan, plan, plan. Call ahead- never assume- and make sure that you will have the things that you need. It can help to comprise a list of things that are important to you, such as handicap accessibility, in-room refrigerator, and distinct amenities. Find out where your room will be or how people navigate the town or city that you are visiting. If transportation around might be problematic, call your hotel for recommendations. While the unexpected can still happen, preplanning takes a lot of the worry out of visiting an unfamiliar place.

Take Time to Find the Right Place to Go

Speaking of your accommodations, take time and make the effort to find the right place to stay. This will be a place that is accessible and convenient- as well as safe for you to visit and stay. Consider that you will be spending the majority of time away in your room or lodging- sleeping, lounging, eating- so make sure it meets your distinct preferences and needs. If it does not, keep looking. That is the beauty of preplanning; you allow yourself the time to find this out before leaving home.

Invest and Carry a Portable Ramp

Depending on the nature of your mobility issue, you can’t go wrong when you invest in a portable ramp. Even if you don’t use a chair or scooter, a ramp has great potential to improve accessibility and keep you safer. Portable ramps are an insurance policy- kind of like tire chains are for a pickup truck- and having one in your vehicle when traveling ensures you won’t ever take a tumble trying to get up steps or navigate difficult terrain.

Confirm it is Pet Friendly

Are you planning to bring a service or support animal? Call ahead to make sure your hotel or host will accommodate your pet. While you are legally permitted to bring a licensed service dog into most public places, there is a lot of gray area surrounding other support animals, like therapy pets. Either way, ask about provisions for your pet including a place to walk and nearby supplies to keep you covered throughout your stay.

Install a Vehicle Lift

If this is a big trip or journey, you may want to make the leap and install a vehicle lift in your car or truck. These typically make it possible to stow your mobility aids securely and get behind the wheel of your vehicle. If you are planning on making the trip solo or if you plan on driving during the trip, a vehicle lift can make a momentous difference. Talk to a mobility professional to learn more.

Consider the Creature Comforts

Wherever you go, bring along the creature comforts that you enjoy. Some people need a fan for circulating the air but also to provide a white noise that drowns out any traffic din or sounds that could keep them awake. Others use sound machines for white noise and enjoy listening to the sound of rain, the ocean, or a wide range of other olfactory sensations. These simple comforts will help you relax and sleep well, which is integral for a pleasant travel experience.

Bring your Own Pillow

Are you one of those people that can’t sleep with anything buy your favorite pillow? Then, you better bring it on your trip. If you use a therapeutic wedge pillow, bring that to ensure you are able to elevate and incline when laying down in an unfamiliar bed. You certainly don’t want to risk a stiff neck or sore back due to poor sleep during your time away; bring your favorite pillows and sleep like a baby.

Got summer travel plans? Make the time easier and far more enjoyable with these simple solutions. While it is always nice to get away, bring along some comforts of home that also help with accessibility and autonomy. For other mobility aids and solutions, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; they offer quality equipment with top-notch service and support widely.

Help protect those that care for and help your loved ones. Caregivers are at risk of injury every time they support, assist, or transport someone with physical disabilities or mobility issues. There are ways to curb accidents and reduce risks- including mobility aids that support and stabilize the patient and the caregiver. Talk to mobility professionals to find out more about equipment and devices that can protect your caregiver from a potentially debilitating injury.

You may not realize it, but mobility aids are intended to protect caregivers just as they are intended to assist the individual using them. That is, mobility devices like stairlifts and shower seats can protect those supporting someone with a disability or mobility issue- with fewer accidents and injuries. It is estimated that over 34 million people provide unpaid or informal care to someone else, such as a relative or neighbor; it would be very easy for these helpers to sustain an injury during support, transport, or ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) since they have not been formally trained or taught in most cases. Furthermore, those that are injured on duty or when providing free care to others could risk their own livelihood, health, and security.

Do you provide care to someone- or, do you have a caregiver? Take a closer look at some aids that can help to protect these providers from injuries:

Freestanding Lift

Caregivers that help individuals get in and out of bed, shower, eat, and other Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) put themselves at risk for getting hurt. The stress and pressure of lifting and transporting someone with physical disabilities and limitations are great, one wrong move and both people could be seriously injured.

A Freestanding lift looks like a sling hanging from a wheeled base that can be moved around with ease. The sling has controls to be lowered and lifted, thus reducing the strain and stress on the caregiver. Common caregiver injuries include back issues and chronic pain; a freestanding lift can help prevent this from happening.

Shower Seat

Giving someone else a shower or bath is not always an easy task; furthermore, it is made more challenging with the slick surfaces and increased fall risk in an inherently wet environment. A shower seat provides a secure and stable place for the individual to sit while the caregiver is able to swiftly assist with less worry. These seats also make getting in and out of walled tubs and showers with high thresholds without needing to raise their legs high- which may be difficult or painful for those with mobility issues. The user can turn and sit on the seat, allowing the caregiver to lift their legs and turn them around into the stall. These seats are vital to many.

Grab Bar

Simple solutions make sense, and a grab bar near spots that one could potentially lose their balance is practical and prudent. Install grab bars near sinks, stairways, doors, and the toilet- all areas where the individual could find themselves needing a bit of support and stability. Grab bars prevent the caregiver from needing to break a fall or catch a client when they lose their balance; these are amazing aids that are really so simple!

Portable Ramp

Sometimes the biggest challenges for those with physical limitations are outside their door when they are not expecting it. For example, imagine taking a loved one to an appointment; when you arrive, you must ascend three steps to reach the door to the building. Someone with leg pain, joint issues, or neuropathy may have difficulty with access. As a caregiver, you might try to help the individual climb the steps- after all, it is only a couple- but this could be setting the stage for an issue, incident, or injury.

Portable ramps present an option that is ready when you need it. These can be easily installed anywhere that you go and that has difficult access, such as steps or steep thresholds and door jambs. These ramps fold up and fit in the trunk of a regular size car, so they are always with you as needed. A portable ramp is an excellent aid that could potentially prevent a caregiver injury one day.

Adaptive Aids & Items

There are so many more adaptive aids and assistive devices! Visiting a mobility retail store or site can shed some light on the latest and greatest mobility aids to prevent potential injury. Many times, these items could be covered by insurance plans- talk to a mobility expert to find out more.

Learn more about protecting caregivers from potential injury with quality aids and equipment from Pacific Mobility; from stairlifts to shower seats, these simple solutions can be life-changing for both the user and those that provide regular care of assistance. Find out more about your options by speaking with the professionals at Pacific Mobility today!