disability

There is a lot of talk these days about handwashing, particularly as it pertains to the spread of Coronavirus during current times. The fact is that handwashing is important for many reasons and the transmission of illnesses and germs is not exclusive to the pandemic. Poor handwashing hygiene can lead to a host of serious and significant medical issues and diseases.

When it comes to staying healthy and well, handwashing cannot be overemphasized. Perhaps it is the current pandemic that has shed much light on poor handwashing and the potential risks. Handwashing has been determined to be a vital way of preventing the spread of infectious disease and illness in hospital settings, particularly in environments where others have compromised immune systems. Furthermore, germs can be spread in superficial touch to surfaces all around you- including any mobility aids and devices that you or your loved ones use.

Some common conditions that can be caused by failure to wash your hands include:

• Pink eye
• Hepatitis A
• Diarrhea
• Colds
• Food poisoning
• Acne and breakouts

It merits repeating that another repercussion of poor handwashing hygiene is the potential for transmission of germs and illness to those you come in contact with. For this reason, handwashing is a matter of public health and safety, particularly during this pandemic.

So, just how dirty are your hands? Use these tips to keep them cleaner and prevent the transmission of germs:

Healthful Handwashing Hygiene

How are you currently washing your hands? Using warm water and soap is key in preventing the transmission of germs. Make sure to remove any and all jewelry from your hands and fingers first, wet your hands, and then add soap. Vigorously rub the soap into a lather for a full 20 seconds, paying attention to between your fingers and the backs of your hands. Rinse well and use a paper towel to turn off the water; dry with a paper towel or air dryer, ideally.  

Routine Surface Sanitization

Make a bleach-based solution with one-part bleach to two-parts water to wipe down any mobility aids, equipment, railings, or other surfaces that are routinely touched or handled. Allow the surfaces to air dry. As for textiles, fabrics, or cloth surfaces, launder in hot water with detergent and bleach to get rid of potential contaminants.

Sanitary Solutions To-Go

When you leave the house, bring along a container of alcohol-based hand sanitizer, the kind that you rub in your hands and air-dry. This makes for a good substitute when you are not near a sink or water to wash hands, as needed. Sanitizing your hands with hand sanitizer doesn’t clean your hands, per se, but rather removes germs that could be transmitted to others.  

Use a dime-sized amount in the palm of your hands and rub together, getting between fingers, too. Rub until dry, usually up to 30 seconds, and keep sanitizer out of reach of children and pets as it can be toxic if ingested. If there is a sanitizer shortage in your area, you can make your own using aloe vera gel and rubbing alcohol; check out online tutorials to learn more.

Cough and Sneeze Protocol

To keep hands cleaner and germ-free, master the ‘vampire cough’. The vampire cough is when you cough- or sneeze- into your elbow or the crook of your arm instead of your hands. Try it!

Prudent Laundry Practices

Germs can also spread through towels and linens. If you use a cloth towel to dry your hands after washing, hang it up to dry after each use, and don’t forget to wash the towel frequently.

Dependable Disposable Gloves

Another tip for cleaner hands is to wear disposable gloves when the job gets too messy. Consider buying some sturdy disposable gloves when handling things like diapers or bodily fluids.

Informed Future Generations

The best way to inform future generations of the importance of proper handwashing is to model good behavior for them to replicate. Very young children need to wash their hands, so help them do it the right way. Consider keeping disposable anti-bacterial wipes nearby and help them to suds-up and rinse as needed. Demonstrate frequent handwashing and your kids will also learn good handwashing hygiene, too. 

National Handwashing Awareness

Believe it or not, but handwashing awareness is so vital to health and wellbeing that there is a national day to honor and observe it.  National Handwashing Awareness Day is celebrated on March 25^th widely and was due to a collaboration and partnership with UNICEF. The goal of this day is to bring awareness to the public regarding the prevention of Covid-10 and the current pandemic. What can you do to pay tribute to this special day? Wash your hands well and often!

Use these tips to practice healthful hand hygiene and prevent a wide host of illnesses and afflictions. For mobility solutions with the potential to change lives for the better, call on the team at Pacific Mobility. 

When it comes to accessibility and comfort of those living with physical limitations or mobility issues, a bit of pre-planning can go a very long way. Consider implementing ways to aid and assist those that may use mobility devices or that struggle with access; thinking about these situations and solutions now can make it easier, and more welcoming, for your family, friends, and guests, all year long!

If you want to cut down on the stress of holiday gatherings and family celebrations, consider the needs of friends, family, and guests, first. This is particularly key when loved ones rely upon mobility aids and devices regularly. 

When it comes to accessibility and comfort- just like the holidays- a little pre-planning goes a long way:

Clear the Floor

Do family and friends with physical limitations a favor by clearing the floor of any potential fall hazards or risks. This includes small rugs, loose tiles, or belongings; clear the floor and provide a wide berth- if possible- through the home. This ensures that those using wheelchairs or walkers are able to navigate their way from one room to another, as desired. Don’t overlook outdoor living spaces either, such as the porch or patio. Make sure there are no obstacles to entry and exit from the home.

De-Clutter

Along the same note, de-clutter the home in general to provide more space and adequate room for mobility equipment or guests with physical impairments. Removing clutter also makes it easier to identify grab-bars, rails, and find these installations as needed. What good is a grab-bar if it is covered up by furniture or other items?

Install Rails and Grab-bars

Speaking of grab-bars and railings, experts in the industry will recommend that anyone with coordination, balance, or physical problems install grab-bars and railings throughout the home to reduce fall risks. These are low-cost ways to provide support when sitting, standing, or navigating throughout the home.

It makes sense to install these implements where they will be most useful and used- i.e., near the toilet, tub, sink, and any steps. Make sure that these are securely installed to hold up to wear, tear, and weight on a regular basis.

Get a Grip

Help those in the home that should not extend to reach for items or tasks by providing ‘reachers’ and grab-tools. Add textured treads to steps, stairs, or slippery surfaces throughout the home to help reduce the risk of anyone taking a nasty fall. Assist with pull outs that prevent anyone from an injury when bending down, squatting, or trying to reach items that are under cabinets, cupboards, or appliances. By the way, a good quality reaching tool makes an excellent holiday gift idea!

Purchase Portable Ramps

Have you- or someone you know- ever tripped coming in or out of a dwelling due to the thresholds in the doorway? These can be an obstacle for anyone, but they present a real hurdle for those with physical limitations or mobility issues. Smooth out this rough terrain with an easy-to-install portable ramp, that you can take down and with you as needed. These are an inexpensive and temporary solution for those that want to make it easier to get through doors, over thresholds, or up risers all around a home or property. Plus, these ramps are made to be weather-resilient so you can use them indoors and out.

Go One-Level

Another way to prepare for company that may have mobility challenges is to reduce living space to one-level; that is, make all essential areas of the home accessible by relocating them to the main floor of the home. Don’t have a downstairs bathroom? Buy a simple toilet chair that will permit use wherever you have room and privacy. Transform your living room or home office into a guest bedroom so that those staying over will not have to use stairs or put a simple daybed in the corner of an eat-in kitchen. There are lots of ways to enhance accessibility and provide support to those with mobility challenges that, with some pre-planning, can make the holidays a lot easier for all.

Choose the Right Environment

When planning your holiday festivities, why not consider whose home will work best for all family, friends, and guests? If one of those involved has a layout or location that will make others more comfortable, then that is the right environment for the gathering. Let people offer up their homes this holiday, but make sure that they are aware of the challenges and limitations that some guests may have. A bit of planning goes far but empathy and understanding are what truly make the event special for all involved.

If mobility aids, devices, and equipment could increase your accessibility and improve quality of life, call on the team at Pacific Mobility. With generations of expertise and experience in helping find the right mobility solutions for the consumer with physical limitations or disability. Why wait for the holidays to contemplate convenience and comfort in your home? Call to learn more today! 

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.