disability

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.

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.