disability

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

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

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

1. Stairlifts are Difficult to Install and Operate

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

2. Stairlifts are Obstacles to Others in the Home

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

3. Stairlifts are Noisy

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

4. Stairlifts Won’t Fit your Stairs

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

5. You Don’t Need a Stairlift

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

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

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

It comes as no surprise that staying active is recommended to maintain health and longevity across your lifespan- but it is even more critical for those living with limiting disabilities to get regular and routine physical activity. The many benefits of exercise aside, failure to engage in some sort of regular physical regimen could cause complications and setbacks- including less mobility and accessibility over time.

It is estimated that around 15% of the global population live with some sort of disability- that is over a billion individuals afflicted. For many, everyday life can be made easier with mobility aids and devices– including engaging in a daily fitness regimen. Physical activity is not just important for those with physical limitations, but imperative.

Key Benefits

Exercise and movement, in general, are not just important but vital to preserving the mobility and range of motion that you currently possess. Surely, you have heard the old adage ‘if you don’t use it, you lose it’? This is made even more prophetic when trying to recover or bounce-back from a debilitating injury, illness, or operation. Some of the key benefits of physical activity for those with physical limitations and disabilities are:

Better overall health and wellness.

Exercise improves physical health and reduces the risk of many problems including diabetes, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

Improved mental clarity and focus.

Deep breathing and getting the heartrate up can help provide a clarity and clear mind that is refreshing- and that allows you to better concentrate and focus.

Increase in Autonomy.

Regular activity can make you stronger and more confident- both building blocks of independence and autonomy.

Chance to Engage with Others.

Activity can provide a venue for engaging with others and socialization. This can be a way to meet like-minded people organically.

Chronic Pain Management.

Fitness can help reduce inflammation and swelling that could be contributing to chronic pain. Working up a sweat also releases feel-good endorphins in the brain which can alleviate discomfort.

If you are feeling pain or any discomfort during or after physical activity, reach out to your doctor or practitioner right away.

Forms of Fitness

So, how are you going to get active if you have physical limitations? Talk to your provider about mobility aids that could make this a feasibility. Lifts, chairs, and railings may be all that you need to safely engage in your favorite fitness quests. Some beneficial and low-impact activities to consider at any and all fitness levels include these suggestions:

• Swimming
• Water aerobics
• Hand cycling
• Walking
• Wheelchair sports
• Yoga
• Resistance and Strength training

These are some simple ways to stay active that can be utilized by those that can and cannot stand independently.

Mood, Motivation, and Mental Health

Perhaps the most overlooked benefit of activity is how it impacts mood and mental wellness. Physical exercise is vital to mood and motivation, both key in recovery and rehabilitation from injuries or surgeries, too. It is common for those living with physical disabilities or limitations to become isolative and depressed; regular activity can fight this and elevate mood. It can make you feel less fatigued and more inspired throughout the day. A brisk walk or quick workout can also increase productivity and give you a boost anytime.

Rehab and Recovery

Another key benefit and critical incentive for physical activity is the progress that it can facilitate in rehabilitation and recovery from injuries, accidents, and surgery. Maintaining any mobility and flexibility is key in making gains with physical therapy and occupational therapy regimens. These practices go hand-in-hand to set the patient up for the best chance of recovery- and least limitations- possible. The more active a patient is able to be during their recovery phase, the better chance of a positive prognosis and favorable outcome.

International Day for People with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December is a great opportunity to observe and understand the role that physical activity plays in holistic health and wellness- especially for those living with disabilities. The theme for 2020 is ‘Not all Disabilities are Visible’, encompassing mental health issues, chronic pain conditions, and neurological disorders, brain injuries, and impairments that may not be visible to the naked eye.

For example, it is estimated that around 69 million people sustain Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) each year across the world. This is a type of disability that can be difficult to discern, but that impacts all areas of everyday life for those afflicted. Keep an open mind, be kind, and encourage activity whenever you get the chance!

If you are living with a physical disability and are ready to get moving, call on the team at Pacific Mobility; we are mobility professionals with decades of experience in mobility aids and equipment. Call for a comprehensive assessment and no-obligation consultation today. 

Accessibility and simply getting-around shouldn’t be difficult, but unfortunately, transportation can be a huge hurdle for those with physical limitations or mobility issues. Maintain quality of everyday life and preserve independence with aids that make transportation easier. After all, wouldn’t it be nice to have one less thing to worry about? Mobility aids and equipment can keep you safe, secure, and free.

Do you drive? For someone who is accustomed to transporting themselves from one place to another, loss of mobility or physical disabilities can jeopardize this, making everyday life much tougher. Simple tasks become monumental challenges that may hinder getting out of the house at all. Did you know that there are specific mobility aids and equipment that can not only make life easier, but more satisfying and enjoyable, as well.

Preserve your autonomy and make life easier with these sound suggestions:

Portable Ramps and Railing

Sometimes the simplest suggestions are the most dramatic- take for instance a portable ramp. These easy-to-handle ramps fold up and are easy to toss in the back of a car or truck, but just as easy to assemble and implement as needed. These provide a smooth transition over thresholds, steps, risers, and terrain that might otherwise be difficult, challenging, or impossible for someone with physical limitations or mobility issues. Portable ramps allow for versatility and flexibility, while also being at a very favorable price-point for buyers. These are a great transportation aid for someone who is needing assistance temporarily, too, such as those recuperating from surgeries or injuries.

Vehicle Lifts

When you think of transportation, vehicles likely come to mind. Vehicle lifts offer a clever and convenient way for drivers to maintain the freedom of getting behind the wheel. These lifts not only assist motorists get in and out of their car or truck, but they also offer a strategy for stowing other mobility aids, i.e. wheelchairs, while driving. Talk to a mobility retailer in your area about a demonstration to see for yourself the amazing potential of a vehicle lift- and to determine if your distinct vehicle is compatible with these mobility aids.

Free Standing Lifts

If transport implies assistance from shower to bed, or bed to chair, a freestanding lift might be the most prudent solution. Free standing lifts allow the user to be raised and lowered securely for ADLs or transport to another area of the home. These lifts also curb and prevent injuries that could be sustained by the caregiver when trying to lift or assist clients with severe limitations or disabilities. Caregiver injuries are common and can be debilitating, ending careers in many instances. Free standing lifts can provide rigorous support and aid to those who are unable to carry their own weight on the lower half of their body; these devices can be vital in recovery and rehabilitation.

Scooters and Wheelchairs

What about independent transport from your home into the community? Or, simply around the home and property where you reside? Scooters and wheelchairs provide this type of assistance for over six million consumers in the US daily. Would you benefit from a wheelchair or scooter? Their design and technology have come a long way over the years, and many models have impressive features that have the potential of changing life for the better. From adjustable seats to all-terrain tires, you can really hone-in on the best option for your distinct lifestyle, preferences, and mobility level when meeting with a mobility vendor and seeing different variations first-hand. Not sure if you are a candidate for mobility equipment like scooters or wheelchairs? Meet with a reputable mobility retailer for a needs assessment and talk to your doctor about the benefits of mobility aids for you.

National Patient Transport Week

Professional transporters and paid caregivers deserve some recognition for the work that they do in helping preserve quality of life for clients and patients widely. National Patient Transport Week is a time to laud these providers who often are responsible for getting compromised consumers to important appointments, medical procedures, or other vital commitments. National Patient Transport Week, typically observed the first week of November, provides a platform to encourage healthcare facilities, hospitals, and care settings to acknowledge and thank their patient transport provider team.

This opportunity to honor transporters should be expanded to include non-paid caregivers and transporters, like family and friends. Assisting others to maintain freedom while reducing fall risks is vital- if you assist or help another, thank you!

When you are ready to invest time and resources into mobility aids to enhance accessibility, speak with the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility. Live life to its full potential and get where you need to go with transportation aids that simply make life easier. Check out the various ways and equipment that can truly change life for the better; call or visit to learn more today. 

There is no question regarding the fact that a stairlift increases accessibility, but exactly how does this mobility aid make life easier? The answers will vary, but common themes emerge that could surprise you! If you are interested into making life easier with a stairlift in your home, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility today.

Doesn’t everyone deserve a break? If mobility aids or equipment can make life easier, why wouldn’t you want them in your home? Consider the many varied ways that these devices, particularly stairlifts, can make life easier, autonomous, and more accessible for you or somebody that is living with a physical limitation or disability.

Truthfully, it is quite amazing how life just gets easier with a stairlift:

Stairlifts Facilitate Freedom

Freedom comes at a cost. For those living with physical disabilities or mobility issues, that cost could come in the form of mobility aids, such as stairlifts. If you are determined to live on your own or age in place, stairlifts will help to facilitate that choice and preserve your freedom.

Activities Of Daily Living (ADL) are Easier

Do you currently have assistance with performing ADLs, or that is, activities of daily life, like dressing, bathing, or toileting? Would a stairlift and access to upper floors make a significant difference? It is amazing how much easier- and safer- ADLs can be when using a stairlift. Many that require daily help in the home have issues with transport; either physical disabilities or limitations due to rehab or a recent injury impede where and what they can do around the home. For this reason, a stairlift could be the very thing that helps these individuals complete ADLs unassisted- while reducing their need and reliance on any outside assistance.

Stairlifts are Avoidable

When speaking of short-term need for mobility aids, like lifts, it is important to note that you can easily avoid a stairlift if are using the steps and not the lift, itself. That is, the device is discreet and streamlined enough to accommodate non-limited individuals or those that do not have physical mobility issues. The seat can be folded down and covered as needed, and the track is not intrusive so it doesn’t pose any potential obstacle. It is important to remind children to not play on or near the stairlift for safety reasons, and to discourage pets from accessing the lift or track, as much as possible.

They Reduce Risks of a Fall

Safety comes first and without it, your freedom and autonomy is at risk. Stairlifts reduce the risk of taking a nasty fall and injuring yourself. Did you know that injuries sustained in falls is the number-one reason why seniors present to emergency rooms and hospitals? Falls can erode and deteriorate overall wellbeing, making autonomy and aging in place less viable and unlikely.

Stairlifts gently transport the user over thresholds, steps, and upstairs, to access pertinent areas of the home. No more tripping, stumbling, or renovating the home to accommodate first-floor living: a stairlift gives access and entry while reducing the risk of a fall.

They Come with Warranties

Don’t worry about being left to our own devices after investing in stairlifts. When you buy new mobility aids from reputable retailers, you will be buying a warranty on your equipment. This ensures and protects you from performance or operation issues, providing you with access to the service and support needed to get our stairlift working well again fast.

Mobility Aids Open Up Possibilities

Has it been a while since you were able to freely go upstairs, independent, and as you wish? If so, imagine the freedom and possibilities that could come from a stairlift to transport you safely, securely, and comfortably up and down, at your will. You can use your own toilet, sleep in your own bed, or put away a load of laundry without the risks and limitations that stairs can bring for someone with a physical disability or medical condition. It is that simple: mobility aids, like stairlifts, open up possibilities that we all deserve.

Support is Available

So, who are you going to call when you have difficulty getting upstairs? If you use a stairlift in your home or dwelling, you will call the retailer for service and support after the sale. Plus, there is a distinct feeling of peace that comes from knowing the investment you have made in mobility equipment is guaranteed and warrantied- no regrets or buyer’s remorse later.

Ready to improve everyday living and make life easier overall? The time is right to speak with the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility. For years, the qualified and reputable team have been assessing, installing, and servicing mobility aids in the area, supporting owners widely. Call and start with an assessment to determine the best devices and equipment for your distinct needs; there is no obligation or cost to speak with us. We are waiting to hear from you! 

When you are recuperating and rehabilitating from an injury or medical procedure, mobility aids can provide invaluable support and access. From walkers and canes to lifts and wheelchairs, these devices help prevent further injury during recovery- facilitating healing. These same aids make sense for longer term usage, as well- such as in the homes of seniors or those living with medical issues or conditions. Talk to your doctor to determine the best aids for your situation.

If you are recovering from surgery or an injury, mobility aids or equipment can make life easier, while also ensuring that you are safe from falls and subsequent injury. It makes sense to plan-ahead and implement access wherever and however possible- from ramps and lifts to grab bars and railings. These installations are ideal for seniors that want to age in place- as well as those that want to create a more accessible living environment for someone with physical limitations or disabilities. Whether temporary or long-term mobility aids can help.

Some other strategies include these healthy living tips that enhance accessibility and safety around the home:

• Secure steps and stairs with sturdy handrails for support going in and out of doors, homes, or accessing other areas of the home.
• Arrange furniture thoughtfully, working toward maintaining a wide pathway through the entire home’s living space.
• Get rid of small scatter rugs that could cause stumbles or falls. For area rugs, consider adding double-sided tape to secure the rug to the floor.
• Use non-slip adhesive tread to steps, stairs, and landings for added grip underfoot.  
• Be vigilant about keeping your floors clear and clutter-free at all times- particularly stairs or steps.
• Watch out for loose cords or wires, such as your cable wire or extension cords; ask for help in securing these out of sight and out of the way.
• Make sure that you have ample light throughout the home, but especially on stairways. Have a switch at both the top and bottom of the staircases to make them safe.
• Always use a non-slip rubber mat or sticky treads to the inside of the shower stall and tub.  
• Install grab bars near the toilet, sink, and tub in the bathroom for an added support, as needed.  
• Raise the toilet seat to help prevent falls when standing or sitting. These are easy to install and found at your mobility retail venue.
• Invest in a shower or tub bench. These are small enough to permit others to shower around them but make it a lot easier for those with limitations to get in and out to bathe.
• Use a few night-lights throughout the home to illuminate dim corners and spaces.
• Set your water heater to a safe temperature to prevent accidental scalding. Consider setting it around 120-degrees F to avoid burns.
• Unplug your electrical appliances when they are not in use. This creates a safer living environment but might also cut down on your utility costs over time!  
• Install a touch lamp near the bed for fast and easy illumination.
• Use reachers and long-handled mitts for bathing and ADLs (activities of daily living) like getting dressed.
• Ask your doctor about openers for tricky medication bottles or vials.
• Modify your bed with portable rails to help you get in and out independently.
• Talk to a mobility vendor about dressing sticks to help get feet dressed and pull on socks without the risks associated with bending down to do so.
• If you struggle with joint or muscle pain, you could benefit from arthritis gloves. These gloves help ease the pain and allow you more flexibility with your fingers and hands.
• Invest in a safe stepstool with a safety rail for reaching tall or high regions of your home. Don’t ever use a chair to access these items- you could easily fall.
• Reconfigure cabinets and cupboards so the items you use most are within reach, around waist-level is recommended.
• Get rid of clutter and objects that are taking up space and crowding your living environment.
• Consider buying a firm sofa that will provide more support when you sit or stand. Lift chairs have mechanisms that can give a boost to those who struggle with mobility issues; talk to a mobility retailer to learn more.
• Get rid of any loose, swivel, wiggly, or damaged furniture that could end up causing an accident or injury. Plus, this gives you a chance to streamline the living space and create more room to get around.

Are you recovering from an injury? Do you struggle with accessibility issues around the home? You could benefit from mobility aids and devices to increase access and everyday convenience. At Pacific Mobility, we have decades of experience in matching our clients with the right mobility equipment; call today for a no-obligation assessment.

Veterans Day 2020 is the perfect time to pay tribute to and gratitude for our service members, past and present. Give thanks to a veteran for their sacrifice to support the freedoms that we enjoy today- despite the uncertainty of the current pandemic. Consider ways that you can make a difference in the life of someone else- a veteran or civilian- as a way of honoring the holiday this month.

Honor veterans across the map this month for Veterans Day- and consider ways that you could pay tribute and make a difference. Do you know a vet that has limited mobility? Is there someone that you love that could benefit from mobility aids or equipment? Get connected with industry experts that can assess, install, service, and support your equipment from the day that you bring it home. Whether you are considering a stairlift for upstairs access in the home or a ramp for the front door of your business, work with a reputable mobility retailer in the area that will stand behind what they sell- while also providing you with the highest quality devices around.

Honor Veterans- and seniors- widely with these suggestions:

Reduce Risks Related to Falls

Falls are a big deal. Injuries sustained in falls can be catastrophic for seniors or those that are living with other medical conditions. In fact, falls are the biggest reason why older Americans go to hospital emergency rooms. Complications arising from a seemingly mild fall can derail the independence and overall health of a senior- making them more vulnerable and susceptible to life-threatening illnesses, infections, or issues. How do you help lessen the likelihood your friend or family member doesn’t take a nasty fall? Consider safety and risks in the living environment first; discuss aids and equipment that can improve mobility for those with physical limitations or disabilities.

Convert to One-Level Living

One-level living could reduce risks of falls related to going up and down stairs in the home. Is there issues with the steps that could cause a fall, like loose carpeting or narrow risers? It may be most practical to help convert home environments into one-level situations to reduce the burdens on your senior, veteran, or loved one.

If living on one-level is not feasible, talk to a mobility professional about installing a stairlift. These are often more affordable than consumers realize, and they can provide peace of mind and safety for both seniors and their loved ones. Concerned about curved stairways or exterior steps? Don’t be; there are stairlifts available to accommodate these distinctive situations.

Promote Pets

Animals can have a therapeutic impact on owners or handlers. For instance, a VA hospital once studied residents when they implemented an aviary on-site. Normally withdrawn and quiet individuals began to initiate conversation and engage others about the birds in the aviary. Spending time with animals, including dogs or cats, can be cathartic and provide a sense of purpose, companionship, and calm. If a pet at home is not practical for your loved one, consider spending time at local venues- such as libraries or senior centers- when they have visits from therapy pets.

Install Simple Aids

Do not overlook the simplest ways to help a veteran, senior, or person living with a physical limitation; simple aids like grab bars and railings can go a long way to creating a safer environment. Grab bars make sense near sinks and the toilet but be creative and take the individual’s daily habits into account when modifying or installing grab bars. For instance, if the individual spends a lot of time outside, it could be prudent to install a handrail around the perimeter of a porch or patio- or to position a grab bar near the trash receptacles. Furthermore, installing new LED light bulbs can illuminate dim surroundings and potentially prevent a slip or fall. Put tread strips on slick surfaces and use reflective tape to mark thresholds or doorways.

Create a Wide Berth

Pay some respect to a veteran by helping them carve out an easy path through the home- particularly important if they use a wheelchair, walker, or scooter to get around. A wide berth that enables those living there to easily access all areas of the home for activities of daily living should be the goal. Smooth out the door jambs with thresholds from hardware stores.

Respect Autonomy

The least any of us can do is to respect the wishes and autonomy of a veteran- actually, for any senior who has earned the right to live life on their own terms. While safety should always be on the forefront, respect the choices and preferences of those you- or someone else- is trying to assist.

Support Aging in Place

Aging in place relates to the concept of providing seniors the freedom to live life as they wish, in their own homes, and as independent as possible. Certainly, many may have assistance or support from outside sources- including informal supports like family or friends. Additionally, home care could be an option for those that do live with medical issues or mobility limitations. Assess the home for ways to enhance and improve quality of life- with the resident’s approval and consent, of course.

Are you a veteran? If you have served, hats off to you! At Pacific Mobility, we love and appreciate our veterans; let us make your life easier with quality mobility aids to improve accessibility and convenience. Everyday life has its difficulties and you deserve to overcome these with ease; call to talk to the mobility industry professionals today.

How safe is your bathroom? Even those that do not currently have physical disabilities or mobility issues benefit from the safest bathroom possible; plus, a safer bathroom can reduce the risk of a nasty fall and injury. What does it take to make the bathroom safe? Start with a thorough inspection of the space, add some simple mobility solutions, and integrate common sense strategies.

It is said that most falls and subsequent injuries occur in the bathroom; if you think about it, this makes sense. After all, the bathroom is prone to being damp and slick underfoot- and rarely is this room of the house carpeted for extra tread. When a senior or someone with limited mobility takes a fall, the results can be catastrophic. Falls are to blame for the deaths of around 9,500 people each year in this country; seek out solutions, mobility aids, and equipment that will reduce this risk and help to keep you safe.

What type of mobility aids do you need to make the bathroom safe? Start here:

Grab on to Something

Start with something small but significant when making your bathroom safer: grab bars. Grab bars are no more than well-crafted handles that allow a firm hold that can stabilize and support as needed. These are inexpensive to buy and easy to install. Make sure to place them near the toilet, sink, and door- anywhere that could potentially offer benefit to the resident.

Sit Down

Buy an inexpensive shower seat for the tub or shower stall. These simply provide a stable, non-slip spot to sit while bathing which can be helpful for those that struggle with physical disabilities, pain, or vertigo- and could prevent a slip and fall that could be debilitating.

Need a Lift?

Depending on your needs, a lift can make using the bathroom much safer and accessible for those with physical limitations. There are a variety of lifts available from stair and vehicle lifts to freestanding lifts that can be moved around the home. A portable transport lift can help get an individual in and out of a tub or shower, while a stairlift may be all that is needed to provide access for the consumer to use their bathroom independently. Any way that you look at it, a lift can assist the user in getting to and using the bathroom in a safer, more secure way.

Raise the Seat

Simply raising the toilet seat a few inches can prevent a fall and a lot of problems- and it couldn’t be easier! There are some specifically designed devices that slip over the commode that raise the seat so the user does not need to bend all the way down to sit. Anyone with joint issues, arthritis pain, or knee problems will appreciate and be better able to use the toilet. This eliminates the need for assistance in getting up, too, in many cases; just make sure that there is a sturdy handrail accessible for those using the facility.

Forget the Frame

Frameless showers provide a smooth transition into the shower to bathe or wash, especially important for those that use any kind of mobility aid (i.e. wheelchair or walker) that can’t navigate the threshold of a conventional shower stall. There is no lifting of legs or maneuvering around to enter the shower- which may make it far more comfortable and accessible for a wide range of consumers to utilize. Talk to a mobility professional about the specifications and guidelines- or to learn more about making the shower safer.

Broaden the Berth

How is the entry and pathway going in and through the bathroom? Is the door wide enough to accommodate mobility aids, like walkers or wheelchairs? The ADA offers recommendations pertaining to the width and measurements of doors and facilities so refer to these if upgrading or renovating a bathroom to be more accessible.

A simple thing that anyone can do to make the bathroom safer for those coming in and out of it is to reduce the clutter and potential fall hazards that could be in plain sight. Simply look around and consider using the bathroom if you have a mobility issue or rely on mobility equipment; what are the challenges? Use this as a map to guide you in removing obstacles and creating a safer environment.

Never underestimate the importance and value of good lighting. This is particularly necessary in the bathroom, to prevent accidents and falls. While not a mobility aid, per se, investing in proper illumination is money well spent toward maintaining a safer bathroom- and home!

Is your bathroom as safe as it could be? Talk to the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility to brainstorm and update your bathroom to be a safer environment for all who use it. Consider these tips when configuring and constructing your bathroom- and reduce the risks and complications associated with a nasty bathroom fall.

When winter weather comes, it can wreak havoc on your exterior mobility aids, that is, any of your equipment that is exposed to the elements or weather. There are some specific ways to preserve and maintain your exterior mobility aids that will prolong their life and improve how they perform- including regular routine inspections from a qualified mobility aid professional to ensure equipment is up to par and problem-free.

Weather, the elements, and environmental influences, like pollution, can have an impact on your mobility aids and equipment– particularly those that are installed or intended for use outside. The climate that you live in plays a role in how you should preserve and protect your aids for wintertime usage, but there are some standard recommendations from manufacturers that merit attention and adherence.

What should you do to winterize your mobility aids and equipment that are exposed to the elements? Here is what you should know:

Basic Care and Service

The first benchmark of basic preventative care is regular service and inspections to ensure equipment is working properly. The perfect time to do this is before winter when conditions outside could get unpredictable. This reduces the risk of having heavy scooters or outdoor lifts fail to perform when they are needed the most. If you own or rent mobility aids or devices, like lifts or scooters, make sure to have these serviced before winter sets in by a reputable and qualified mobility professional in your area. If you buy new equipment from recognized vendors, you will likely have access to support services through this retailer; failure to have equipment inspected regularly could impact the status of any service warranties. Talk to your distinct retailer to learn more.

Preparing Pool Lifts

Whether you are planning to use your pool lift year round, or if you have hopes of putting it in storage until spring, it is integral to give the lift a good cleaning before winter rolls around. Next, apply a layer of wax to help repel dust and dirt during down-times; talk to your mobility aid retailer for specific wax recommendations. If you are planning on uninstalling the lift for winter, store it in clean, dry condition in a clean, dry place. Remove the lift’s battery and put it on the charger so that it is ready to go when you are ready to swim in the spring. If you are using the lift year-round in the California climate, go ahead and use a protective cover during winter or foul weather to protect the device. In fact, a cover is a prudent investment for any piece of mobility equipment, especially those that are intended for outdoor use.

Taking Care of Stairs

When it comes to exterior stair lifts, these are designed to hold up to the elements, but don’t overlook regular service visits and an inspection at least once a year.  The rails on your lift are metal and the seat for an exterior lift is typically molded plastic, which is resilient to wind, sun, and weather. Make sure that you invest in and use a protective cover to help prevent deterioration over time. Also, look for exterior lifts that feature closed rail systems, which will contain the mechanics of the lift so that it is resistant to the rigors of being outside.

Precautions for Portable and Permanent Ramps

If you regularly use permanent ramps to gain access to your home or place of business, make sure to keep them de-iced and routinely salted, depending on the climate that you live in. Since freezing temperatures are not the norm in the Bay Area, we suggest regular attention when snow does occur (or for clients that live in the northern California region) so that it doesn’t impact the condition of the ramp. Furthermore, leaving ice, water, and snow on the ramp can prevent your chair, scooter, or feet from gaining traction, which potentially could result in a fall.

Portable ramps are easy-enough to install and uninstall as needed or depending on the season. Make sure to thoroughly clean and dry your portable ramp when not in use to remove contaminants and debris that could degrade the surface. Stow in a trunk, garage, or near the door for fast access all year round.

Maintaining your Ride

For scooters or chairs that are used outside routinely, pay special attention to the tires: do they need air? How is the tread? There are accessories that can be purchased and added to improve tire performance on rough terrain or in foul weather; talk to a mobility dealer to learn more. Have the chair or scooter inspected and fully charge your batteries before winter comes.

Winterizing your mobility aids prolongs their life and improves their performance. Got other questions about how to care for your mobility aids or devices? Talk to the industry experts at Pacific Mobility to learn more.