disability

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.

There is a high probability that you can have a stairlift installed for any stairs or steps that are in your home. From straight to curved and spiral to steep, stairlifts are filling the need and making homes more accessible for those with physical limitations or disabilities. Are there some situations that won’t accommodate a stairlift? The short answer is ‘yes’ but it is always best to speak with a stairlift and mobility aids professional to learn more.

If access and ease would be enhanced with a stairlift, talk to a qualified mobility aids and equipment professional to learn more about your options and to schedule installation. Worried that a stairlift won’t work with your specific stairs, steps, or risers? Speaking with a mobility professional can help to put your mind at ease. Typically, stairs should be at least 32” wide to accommodate a lift, and most conventional stairs are stable and sturdy enough for the heft and weight of a lift. Remember that the track extends usually up to nine inches from the wall, so consider this if you are dealing with particularly narrow staircases. Also, don’t fret about a load bearing wall to support the lift; stairlifts most commonly don’t secure to the wall for stabilization.

So, do stairlifts fit all stair patterns? Here is what you need to know:

Standard Straight Stairs

If you are a homeowner with straight stairs or traditional steps, you should be all set. Stairlifts are more versatile and accommodating than ever before. You can install lifts over any type of step surface, like metal, wood, tile, and even concrete. Also, obstacles like doors, landings, and heat registers or radiators are no problem, either! The best way to determine your stairlift options is to contact a qualified mobility retailer in the region and arrange a home advisory visit. Due to the current pandemic, this assessment may be able to be done virtually or via phone.  

Curved Steps and Landings

So, what if your home has winding or curved stairs? Seems like this could be a challenge, right? Fact; curved stairs and even those stairs interrupted with landings are ideal candidates for stairlifts, too. A curved rail makes it possible to navigate these tricky areas and make bends for the lift to traverse.

In fact, a curved stairlifts are specifically designed to go around turns and corners, and when installed by a qualified professional, can be customized to fit any stairs that you may have.  

Spiral Staircases

Who would think that you could get a stairlift for those intricate, spiral staircases? You can! Generally, the lift is installed inside the spiral formation of the stairs, which maximizes the room that others have available to pass and live with the lift on the staircase. There are some tips and tactics that can also optimize the space available at the top and bottom of the staircase to allow for the most secure, safe, and easy on and off for the user.

Porch and Deck Steps

Missing out on your outdoor living space due to accessibility issues? Change this with a porch lift, which is basically a version of a stairlift designed and configured for smaller steps or risers. Porch lifts are essentially a kind of platform lift that can offer access to raised areas of the home where a scooter, wheelchair, or physical disability could impede access. These are commonly found installed near porches and decks, but there are other spaces in the home environment that could benefit from these types of vertical lifts.

Inside and Outdoor Options

Can stairlifts survive both inside the home as well as outside? Yes, exterior stairlifts- such as porch lifts or pool lifts- are designed to stand-up to the elements, like weather, water, and pollutants. Manufacturers and retailers alike will encourage all buyers to invest in a cover (most new stairlifts offer this feature) to protect your lift when it is not in use. This will cut down on the wear and tear that the rigors of the environment can wreak, contributing to the lifespan of your stairlift.

Some Exceptions and Exclusions

Unfortunately, there are a few situations that make installing a stairlift impractical, expensive, and possibly impossible. For example, if your stairs are very narrow, installing a lift may be possible but could pose some safety concerns for others that use these same stairs. Beyond an unnaturally narrow set of stairs, it is feasible to fit practically any staircase with a lift of some kind, though it could get more expensive depending on the challenges and complexities of your unique situation. It bears repeating that the best approach is to speak with a reputable and qualified mobility retailer to find out more.

Considering a stairlift in- or out- of your home? Come talk to the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility; for decades, we have been providing unparalleled customer service and quality mobility aids with the potential to change lives. Call or visit us in the Bay Area to find out more about stairlifts for your distinct living situation.

It is even-more important, critical, to maintain healthy joints and bones when you have a physical disability or limited mobility. As we age, damage to joints and bones can be debilitating and difficult, if not impossible, to bounce back from. Take care of your bones and joints- observe Bone and Joint Action Week this October to learn more!

Bone and Joint Health Action Week is the perfect time to pay some attention to your own health and wellbeing; are your bones and joints healthy? Damage, injury, or compromise to bones and joints can impact all other areas of life, bringing pain, discomfort, and inconvenience to many. There are some things that you can do now to help prevent issues with bones and joints later- as well as tips to reduce discomfort when you already struggle with this affliction. Bone and Joint Action Week is observed in mid-October annually, and strives to spread awareness and engage those impacted by bone or joint issues. If you live with limited mobility, use mobility aids and equipment to protect yourself against bone or joint trauma and injury.

Healthy Bones and Joints

It is estimated that over half of adults in the US are impacted by musculoskeletal conditions, that is, an issue with bones or joints. It is further reported that one-in-three adults seek medical attention for a problem with bones or joints, such as a broken bone. Bone and joint conditions comprise the leading cause of physical disability and chronic pain, causing problems for millions widely. Some other examples of bone and joint issues include arthritis, back pain, osteoporosis, and spinal conditions. These conditions impact a far larger demographic than many realize- it is important to know that there are many struggling with the same conditions and that there are networks in place to provide support and information globally. Bone and Joint Action Week attempts to provide another platform to bring attention and spread light on bone and joint health- as well as how integral it is to overall holistic wellbeing.

Issues with Bones and Joints

It is estimated that around six-million people break a bone each year in this country, including fractures and cracks. The most common injury sustained is a fractured or broken arm, accounting for around half of all broken bones. This injury is common among all ages, but seniors face the most serious repercussions of a broken bone when it comes to healing, recovery, and long-term prognosis. An injury, such as a broken arm sustained in a fall, can be debilitating, and devastating for someone over the age of 60, costing them their mobility, autonomy, and independence.  

Protecting Bones and Joints

Perhaps the most relevant and impactful thing that seniors- or anyone- can do to prevent issues with joints and bones is to prevent any injury that could potentially cause trauma to the body. The first thing to consider is how to avoid falls and reduce the risks associated with a fall, which as mentioned, can be catastrophic. Some basic tips that may reduce the inherent risks of falling include these:

• Wear slip-proof footwear when walking around the home, rather than bare feet or socks only.
• Avoid wearing loose or ill-fitting clothing that could easily snag or fetch, causing a fall.
• Outfit your pets’ collars with a tiny bell or tags that make noise when they walk. This will provide a warning that they are underfoot, potentially preventing a fall.

Always ask your medical professional for other advice pertaining to reducing the risk of a fall. They may have insights that could possibly prevent a nasty injury.

What You Can Do

You can help. Observe Bone and Joint Action Week this October with habits and activities that focus on maintaining healthy bones and joints. This includes your diet, fitness, and lifestyle choices that can protect and preserve your physical wellbeing, while avoiding those things that can put your body at risk.

Some things you can do during Bone and Joint Action Week include:

• Engage in low-impact exercise that will be beneficial for joints, like swimming. The natural resistance of the water provides the perfect buffer for joints; talk to your doctor before beginning any fitness regimen.
• Pay attention to your diet and what you are eating. Try to incorporate foods that contribute to bone health, like dairy and dark, leafy greens, which are rich in Vitamin D.
• Try to reduce fall risks around the home. Declutter and get rid of any scenario that could cause you- or somebody else- to take a nasty fall. Falls can lead to traumatic injuries that many seniors do not recover from.

Furthermore, make it a mission to share what you learn about healthy bones and joints with others; awareness is so important!

Pacific Mobility has been serving the mobility needs of the Bay Area for generations. Trust in a company with proven expertise and a solid reputation for all your mobility aids and equipment; call to talk to a qualified mobility professional today!

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

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

A ramp or a lift? You decide:

Effort

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

Permanence

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

Value

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

Ease

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

Comfort

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

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

Rentals

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

Expense

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

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

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

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

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

Family Meals

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

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

Relaxing Bath

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

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

Time Outside

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

An Outing or Ride

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

Entertaining Guests

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

An Afternoon Nap

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

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

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

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

Five Common Tasks improved by Employing a Stairlift are:

Going to Bed

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

Getting Dressed

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

Cleaning House

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

Gardening or Outdoor Chores

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

Running Errands

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

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

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

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

Factors that Compromise Mobility

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

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

Preplanning your Accessibility Needs

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

• Bathing
• Eating
• Toileting
• Dressing

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

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

Ways to Move Forward

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

Safety First

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

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

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

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

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

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

See your Doctor

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

Stay Active

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

Take your Time

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

Get Rid of Risks

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

Upgrade the Lighting

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

Watch What you Wear

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

Look for Nonslip Surfaces

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

Live on One Level

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

Use Mobility Aids

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

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

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