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disability

Is Your Home Set Up to Reduce the Risk of Falling?

September 1, 2020 By Jeff Conner

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!

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability

Staying Safe at Home and Away

August 25, 2020 By Jeff Conner

If you look for it, there seem to be dangers and safety hazards everywhere. Take some tips and make some efforts to stay safe at home- as well as when you are away- with some simple and sensible steps that can reduce risk of injury, incident, and issues- including death.

Play it safe at home and when away. Observe National Safe at Home Week, August 21-25, 2020, by taking strides toward creating a safer environment. The purpose of this observance is to raise awareness of hidden dangers lurking at home- and away!  Did you know that nearly 170,000 Americans died in 2017 as a result of unintentional, accidental deaths? Most occur at home or in close proximity, such as driving through the neighborhood. From mobility devices and security systems to poison control and smoke detectors, here is what you need to know to stay safe at home and away:

Have What You Need

Stock up on essentials for your home so that you are never forced to go out for something that you need, like pet food or water. Keep a small stockpile whenever possible. Also, pack a kit for when you go out- even if it is just taking a ride across town.

Some things that belong in your essentials kit include:

  • Personal protective equipment, including face mask, rubber gloves, and hand sanitizer
  • Bottled water
  • First aid supplies, including medications
  • Spare pair of eyeglasses or contacts, if possible
  • Food
  • Cash and coin

Keep a few simple supplies in the trunk of your car or in a bag by the door, for when you are away from home. Weather, traffic, and becoming lost are just a few incidents when this stash will come in very handy.

Reduce the Risk of a Fall

Falls are a true safety hazard. It is estimated that over 36,000 people died from falls in the US in 2017; it is the number one cause of death for people over age 65. The key to reducing the risk of falls is vigilance in maintaining a safe environment. Clearing clutter, improving lighting, preserving vision, and investing in mobility devices can be a powerful approach to reducing fall risk at home- and outside the home, too.

Avoid Poisoning

Read labels to avoid toxicity and accidental poisoning. Keep poison control’s phone number programmed in your cell phone to save time in the event of an emergency. A person can become incapacitated by poisoning with gas, chemicals, food, and drugs, though prescription drug poisoning or overdosing is the most common. Always take medications as directed and dispose or properly.

Stay Safe in the Car

Never get behind the wheel of a vehicle when you are under the influence or if you are overtired. Car accidents are the second biggest reason for unintentional accidental death in this country. Distracted and impaired driving are just two causes of accidents- and both are perfectly preventable. Be wary of getting in a vehicle with an inexperienced driver- particularly when conditions are challenging, like during storms or after dark.

Don’t Test the Weather

The weather can be wild and natural disasters are something you may not be able to control. You can, however, prepare for these disasters with emergency supplies on-hand. Stay inside and off the roads during these events. Coordinate an emergency plan with family before it is needed.  

Install Smoke Detectors

Do you have working smoke detectors throughout your home? It is estimated that a working smoke detector will cut the risk of dying in a fire by 50%. Since you are going to be buying smoke detectors, go ahead and beef-up your carbon monoxide detectors at the same time.  Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent killer, taking around 200 lives each year.

Use Safety in the Water

A person can drown any time of the year. In fact, around ten people drown each day and it is the leading cause for accidental death in children under the age of four years. Never leave a child in a bathtub alone- nor should you ever permit children to swim in pools unsupervised. Fence in your pool and keep it contained so that there is no chance of a child falling in the water.  Learn CPR; it could save someone’s life one day.

Holidays Have Hazards

The holidays present their own distinct challenges and safety hazards. Some common dangers include travel risks, fire hazards, cold weather, toy injuries, food poisoning, and risks associated with holiday decorations, like choking. During these times it can help to borrow a second set of eyes to evaluate your home environment- and to point out dangers that you may have missed.

If you or someone you love has physical limitations, talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; Pacific Mobility offers top-of-the-line mobility aids and devices to assist in accessibility. From scooters to stairlifts, come talk about how to enhance everyday life with the right mobility equipment in the Bay Area.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability

How to Customize and Personalize your Stairlift for your Personal Needs

August 18, 2020 By Jeff Conner

If you are going to invest in a stairlift, it makes sense to customize and personalize the device to suit your personal needs and preferences. Consider features like seats, rails, footrests, and materials when crafting your own custom lift- and also talk to a mobility retailer about inherent challenges, like curved or complex stairways, for additional customization and personalization options.

When it comes to mobility devices, there are few aids as life-changing as a stairlift. A stairlift can open up areas of the home that were previously inaccessible, facilitating autonomy and aging in place for those that use them. Furthermore, a stairlift can help reduce the risk of a nasty fall that could lead to subsequent health problems, rehabilitation, or even death; falls are the number-one cause of accidental death among those Americans over age 65.

A stairlift is a prudent investment, but why not go a step further? Consider having your lift customized and personalized to suit the distinct environment it will be installed in, as well as your own personal needs and preferences:

Seats

Probably the first thing that buyers think of customizing on their lift is the seat; it is easy to have the seat adapted and augmented to fit the user’s distinct preferences. Swivel seat options also increase accessibility and convenience, as they often turn a full 90-degrees for the user to exit when done using the lift. Power swivel seats are another option that buyers will find when perusing selections for purchase.  

Rails

Another very popular personalization made to quality stairlifts is a folding rail. The rail is what meets the step at the bottom of the stairway- permitting the user to safely exit the lift. A folding rail extends further, thus promoting a sense of safety and security for anyone who uses the device. Folding rails allow you to fold and remove them during times when the lift is not in use, preventing any kind of obstruction or obstacle near the lift. There are many different sizes and types of rails; the best way to find a good match for your lift and living environment is to browse buying options from sellers in your area or online. Make yourself familiar with the offered styles and take a few measurements of your own to see what may work best in your home.

Footrests

If you happen to live in an environment with others, you may choose to fold up your stairlift when it is not in use. This involves flipping up seats and seat arms, while also leaning to fold-in the footrest; save yourself the trouble and potential fall risk by investing in custom power or auto folding footrest options when personalizing your stairlift. This feature allows the footrest to automatically fold on its own when the seat is moved or flipped when not in use. Think of how this will save on your physically, day after day; this customization could be a compelling choice for those that live with chronic pain conditions, too.

Fabric & Materials

Do not underestimate the value of having options when it comes to the fabric and composition of your new stairlift. Sure, adding a folding rail or power options is a pretty common customization found among stairlift buyers, but what about things like the fabric choices and colors available? This may also be a significant concern depending on the individual’s sensitivities, sensations, and tastes; plus, many buyers want fabric and seats that coordinate and complement the rest of their home surroundings. Do not be afraid to ask your mobility representative about what choices you have- after all, you are the one who will be using the equipment for many years to come!

Curved Track

Maybe you live in a situation that makes a stairlift more complicated? If so, talk to a qualified mobility retailer about curved stairway options. Lifts can be adapted and installed to fit your distinct stairway, steps, or risers; don’t assume the task is an impossible one. Stairlifts are installed inside, outside, and even in a swimming pool! When reviewing your options in mobility aids and solutions, talk to a Bay Area mobility retailer to learn more, first.

Want to learn more about your customization and personalization options? Talk to an industry professional at Pacific Mobility; they can discuss options, features, and price- and get a lift installed in your home right away. Stairlifts can enhance independence and foster aging in place, whereas you stay in your own home environment as long as possible throughout your lifespan. Aging in place embraces making your own choices, which requires staying healthy and well in the meantime. Stairlifts curb falls, which can seriously compromise health and wellbeing. Don’t let accessibility impede your quality of everyday life; talk to a mobility aids dealer today.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability

Can Kindness Help you Live Longer?

August 11, 2020 By Jeff Conner

So, can kindness help you live longer? While most won’t dispute that it can help you live better to be kinder and gentler to all around you, can it actually prolong or extend your lifespan? Consider some compelling reasons why it makes good sense to be kind- especially in today’s often harsh world.

As National Be Kind To Humankind Week approaches this August, 25th-31st 2020, everyone is reminded to be kind. It can be tough to put others first during a time that can be described as nothing short of challenging; but, what can you do to make the world a better, kinder place? Consider the ripple-effects of a single, random act of kindness; it can be extraordinary! While it may be tough to remain optimistic during this pandemic, think of how your actions may actually be interconnected with your overall health and wellbeing.

So, can being kind help you live longer? Consider these benefits to simple kindness:

Better Relationships

Many researchers feel that the relationships of an individual contribute to their health, wellbeing, and longevity. In fact, to be kind may enhance your social supports and extend your life. Empathy- or the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes- is something that can spur a person to be kind; go ahead and consider someone else’s situation, perspective, and circumstance. Relating to others fosters friendships, and friendships nurture solidarity; this sense of solidarity and connection with others may contribute to a healthier, longer life.  Be a friend!

Improved Affect

Affect is a form of non-verbal communication; typically, it refers to your facial expressions, gestures, and body language. Social researchers indicate that when you have low, positive affect, you may struggle with anxiety. Anxiety is directly connected to mood, interest, participation, and focus. Researchers assert that when individuals engaged in acts of kindness, it improved affect and, thus, reduced the angst and anxiety previously noted. It should be mentioned that this occurred rather quickly, too, as many participants showed significantly better affect within a month of involvement in the study.

Good Feelings

If you feel good, there is a good chance you will live a long life. Did you know that good deeds actually trigger feel-good endorphins in the brain, boosting serotonin, and creating a bit of a euphoria? Random acts of kindness can trigger feelings of overall wellbeing and life satisfaction; be altruistic! It feels good!

Heart Health

The American Heart Association reports that around every 40 seconds , someone in the US suffers a heart attack. Kindness may help with that statistic. According to medical professionals, acts of altruism and kindness cause the release of a specific hormone that dilates blood vessels throughout the body- including the heart. The ripple-effects is lower blood pressure which can reduce the risk of heart attack overall. Kindness actually fosters good heart health!

Less Anxiety

As mentioned, kindness can improve affect which contributes to anxiety, but it also can help reduce the stressors that are in your own life or situation by providing a glimpse into someone else’s frame of reality. Doing something to help others lets you forget about your own troubles for a little while and bask in the feeling of service to others. Being in this position may also offer unique insights that groom you into someone that can handle stress and strife calmly, making these incidents less of a health consequence.  There are several old adages that reference putting yourself in someone else’s position to fully appreciate your own; kindness can help you achieve this perspective and provide feelings of life satisfaction for those willing to give to others.

Lower Illness Incidence

The hormone produced by acts of kindness and altruism also helps lower inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation is connected to a wide range of health issues and problems, from chronic pain and migraines to obesity and cancer. Every time the feel-good hormone is released, you lower your inflammation and subsequent health risks.  It seems that the kinder you are, the more powerful the anti-inflammatory properties these acts possess. Fascinating, isn’t it?

So, does kindness help you to live longer? Many experts would say ‘yes’! Consider all these possible benefits and scenarios to ascertain that kindness and the feelings that kind acts incur do improve overall health and wellbeing in ways that are significant and directly correlated to longevity and life expectancy. Want to live longer? Be kind to those around you; engage in random acts of kindness. It is possible that this might be the key to a longer, more fulfilling life.

Talk to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility for mobility aids and devices to improve overall quality of life for someone living with physical limitations or disabilities. Want another way to enhance daily living? Be kind; according to some experts, it may help you live longer!

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability

Tools and Aids to Make it Easier for your Loved One

August 4, 2020 By Jeff Conner

If someone you care for or about lives with physical disabilities or mobility limitations, consider tools and aids that make life a lot easier for this loved one. From stairlifts to canes, scooters to grab-bars, there are numerous options that are both discreet and adaptable to the distinct home environment. Visit mobility retail vendors to learn more.

Is there someone in your life that lives with physical limitations or disabilities? Guide them in the direction of tools and aids that can make every-day life a lot easier. From mobility aids to simple strategies, you can be the liaison between them and an improved quality of life that contributes to daily independence.  By the way, Senior Citizens’ Day is on August 21st; do something meaningful for an older American to honor this day. President Ronald Regan declared this a special day in 1988, asking Americans to increase awareness and engagement with seniors widely. Talk to your loved one about mobility devices that can preserve their autonomy and improve their quality of life.

Honor someone special in your life with tools and aids that can make life a whole lot easier for them- while providing peace of mind for caregivers and loved ones:

Everyday Essentials

Don’t minimize the dangers and fall risks around the home, throughout everyday life. There are simple, cost-efficient ways to enhance safety and security, like grab-bars, reaching tools, and a good cane; These may be purchased through mobility vendors or covered by some insurance carriers depending on your medical condition and history. Consider installing grab-bars near sinks, toilets, and steps- anywhere that you could use a bit of support to prevent a fall.

Step and Stair Strategies

Stairs and steps present distinct challenges for those with limited mobility. Even if it is possible to climb stairs, these areas of the home environment are risky and could be the cause of a nasty fall. Did you know that around 9,500 seniors die in the US each year from injuries sustained in a fall? Play it safe with some high-tech equipment to enhance safety and quality of life for those living in their own home. Talk to a vendor about stair-lifts and ramps to make access a lot easier and more secure. Railings can also add a level of support, but a lift may be the key to aging in place for seniors with physical limitations.

Added Assistance

What about those that just need a little bit of added assistance when getting around the home or community? Well, there are practical solutions for this demographic, too; consider canes, scooters, reaching tools, and even wheelchairs to help make the transition from one space to another, or one task to the next. These are mobile tools, that is, they can go where the primary user goes without issue or incident. Naturally, scooters and wheelchairs may require additional considerations to transport safely such as by vehicle or public transportation.

Individual Independence

If you ask a senior about what is important to them, many will respond that it is their independence that is key to their quality of life. In fact, many want to age in place and remain in their own home environment despite challenges, obstacles, or shortcomings that may make this a difficult task. Make staying in the home a lot easier with lifts, ramps, and bathroom implements or aids that facilitate activities of daily life (ADLs), like dressing or bathing. For example, an inexpensive shower seat can make it feasible for a senior to bathe and perform daily hygiene while also being supported, potentially preventing a fall. After all, the surfaces in the bathroom are particularly slick and slippery; this is a room that makes sense to augment for safety first.

Access Away

What about when you leave the comfort of home? Well, that is when aids and devices like vehicle lifts, portable ramps, canes, and wheelchairs become prudent to wellbeing. Maintain the pleasure and convenience of driving your own vehicle with lifts and portable ramps that go where you go, when you want to go there.

The common component of all these approaches is to reduce the risk of a fall and subsequent injury. Injuries are debilitating, particularly for individuals over the age of 60. Falls can lead to complex and complicated health repercussions, loss of independence, and even death.

Find out more about mobility aids, tools, and devices that can improve overall quality of life for a senior or somebody living with physical limitations. Talk to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility; from grab-bars to stair-lifts, the team at Pacific Mobility has got you covered. From rentals to brand new aids, the team will complete a thorough needs assessment online and follow up with sales, service, and support, as needed. You will never wonder who to call about your mobility devices or where to look for an answer to a question; call or visit today.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability

Can You Safely Use A Stairlift If You Are In A Wheelchair?

July 28, 2020 By Jeff Conner

Wondering about the safety of a stairlift if you use a wheelchair? The truth is, lifts are particularly prudent and safe for those individuals that rely on a wheelchair or scooter. Don’t let assumption regarding restrictions due to a wheelchair turn you away from exploring how a stairlift could change and improve everyday life. Talk to a mobility professional and learn more today.

If you rely on a wheelchair, access can be challenging. A lift can be a solution to improving accessibility inside the home, outside your property, and even into your vehicle. It makes sense to discuss, demonstrate, and check out the many mobility aids and devices available for people with physical limitations, including those that utilize wheelchairs.

So, can you use a stairlift safely if you happen to be in a wheelchair? The answer is ‘yes’:

Modern Technology

Stairlifts for wheelchairs are a testament to the modern technology and contemporary designs of recent years. These lifts now have built-in sensors that detect obstacles, objects, or issues before they become a safety hazard. Furthermore, there are mechanisms in place to prevent collisions which provide a smooth, seamless ride for the user.

Battery longevity is another concern and modern lifts are outfitted with batteries that endure and backup options. A power outage won’t derail your utility of a stairlift when you have a battery backup for electrical components.

Durable and Dependable

Stairlifts are durable and dependable, they can accommodate the added weight of the chair as long as it has been designed to do so. Swivel seats will help users adjust and ride, while most control is handled from simple remote access. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations pertaining to usage and enjoy the feeling of freedom to move about the home at-will.

Safety Standards

It merits repeating that you should only use the lift as it is intended to maintain safety, as well as to prevent costly damage to your lift. When used properly, the ease of moving the chair onto the platform, securing belts, and pushing a button to get where you  want is incomparable. Stairlifts designed with wheelchairs in-mind are operated on smart technology, that is, it can detect things in its path or when there is a mechanical issue or failure. You are in good hands!

Compact Size

Stairlifts take up a lot less space than you may think. Stairlifts can be constructed and configured to fit pretty-much any home or living situation. Typically, the stairlift vendor will visit to measure and look at where the lift is to be installed, which ensures the best fit and long-term satisfaction for the client. Furthermore, a professional mobility technician can install your lift within a day, usually, which means accessibility is not far away!

Inside and Out

A great advancement in mobility aids and equipment is that lifts are becoming more versatile. They can be adapted for indoor and outdoor locations, providing access to yards, gardens, porches, patios, and even pools! Consumers can have lifts installed on their vehicle so they can drive and stow their wheelchair or scooter safely and easily. The only non-negotiable is that you should only allow an industry professional install and make repairs to your lift. If you allow anyone that is not qualified or certified to work on your stairlift, it may nullify any warranty on the device but also opens you up to costly damages, repairs, and even injuries, if human error occurs. Play it safe and buy from a reputable company that offers installation, service, and support after the sale.  

Professional Support

On the topic of buying from a professional, consider the added convenience that you will experience. You always know that there is someone available to help if you experience issues or have questions pertaining to your equipment. Furthermore, you are never ‘stuck’; we stand behind every lift that we sell! Make sure that the company, seller, or vendor that you choose to do business with does the same.

Autonomy to Age in Place

One of the greatest attributes among older Americans is autonomy and when that is compromised by physical disabilities or mobility issues, it can jeopardize the freedom to live life the way that they want. Making modifications to the home, such as installing stairlifts, can provide that little bit of support and assistance that makes it possible to live life independently. This freedom to ‘age in place’ can contribute to greater self-esteem, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life.

Ready to learn more about stairlifts and safety? You can rely on the expertise and experience of Pacific Mobility; we have an established reputation of serving the Bay Area with over 60 years in the industry. For customer satisfaction, top-notch service, and unsurpassed support, contact the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility today. 

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability

Guidelines for an Enjoyable Summer Vacation

July 21, 2020 By Jeff Conner

With summer vacation drawing near, how can consumers enjoy their time but still stay safe during this pandemic? With some careful preparations, planning, packing, and protocols, it is possible to have an enjoyable holiday without worry of COVID-19 risks. Furthermore, it makes sense to honor National Vacation Rental Month in July by taking the time and effort to make the most of time away.

Do you have summer vacation plans in place? It is not too early to begin making plans and preparations for your time away- particularly amid the unpredictability of the pandemic. There is no reason to cancel your vacation plan or reservations, but it does make sense to begin preparing for what might be a different vacation than any other that you have previously taken. Also, if you have physical limitations or mobility issues, talk to a reputable retailer about mobility aids and devices that will help you enjoy your time and experiences to the fullest.

Risks Surrounding COVID-19

Coronavirus has certainly put a cramp in many consumers’ vacation plans this summer. If you ask the experts, they will tell you that there really is no way to prevent the risk of exposure to COVID-19 when going away on vacation. The best way to completely avoid contracting Coronavirus is a staycation, or put simply, to stay at home. Even though traveling increases the risk of becoming infected, there are precautions and tips that can help reduce the chance that you will contract COVID-19 when you travel.

Preparing to Leave

According to an industry study, planning a trip frustrates and burns-out more than one third of vacationers (37%) – before they even leave! The purpose of a vacation is to unwind and relax so if planning for time away is that stressful, it may be best to stay home. Start early when possible and take your time planning your vacation online; make planning the vacation enjoyable. The more thoroughly you plan, the less stress you will have to deal with while you are away.

Part of planning and preparing for your trip includes checking out the guidelines and rules in place at your vacation destination. Some areas may still have stay-at-home orders or be hot-spots for COVID-19 cases. There may also be mandated quarantines for visitors. Do your due diligence online and follow those guidelines when traveling. Make sure to ask questions to ensure you have a solid understanding before you leave- which may prevent hassle and headache during your time away.

Packing What to Take

Depending on how you are traveling, you may want to pack food and water in the event establishments are not open in your vacation destination or during your trip. Make sure to pack face masks, as some areas may mandate this, and enough hand-sanitizer to get you through your journey. Remember that face masks can be hard to breathe through when you get them wet so do not wear it swimming or when bathing.  

Readying the Rental

Vacation is not the time to stop vigilant sanitizing and hand washing. Ask your hotel or host what they are doing to clean and prepare considering the pandemic; bring sanitizing wipes to give surfaces a quick disinfectant before settling in, and throughout the vacation. Ask about cleaning practices and do not feel odd asking tough questions; they should be prepared to answer.  Use the wipes or sanitizer to wipe the steering wheel of the rental car, doorknobs in the lodging, and common areas on boats or planes. Turn on fans, vents, or other features that help circulate the air whenever possible, too.

Extra Care for Consumers

When planning and preparing for vacation, take a little extra care for seniors and those using mobility aids. Ensure that no one in the traveling party has been sick or had exposure to someone who is sick. Since the virus is less likely transmitted outside, plan on outdoor activities during your vacation like the beach, hiking trails, or national parks. Remember to stay six feet away from others and observe social distancing rules during your vacation- regardless of where you go.  

National Vacation Rental Month

July is National Vacation Rental Month, and celebrations include booking a stay in a vacation rental home. This is a bit different than other vacations in that you have at-home amenities, like a kitchen and separate sleeping space, so it can seem more casual and relaxed. This may be a comfortable and convenient option for families taking time away for the first-time following fears surrounding COVID-19.

Enjoy your vacation with the right mobility aids to ensure autonomy and access during your time away. Talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility to learn more or to schedule your no-obligation needs assessment today! Use these tips to help make going away this summer safe and enjoyable. 

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability

Carrying Good Habits Learned from COVID-19 into the Future

July 14, 2020 By Jeff Conner

As we move past the pandemic and begin to resume normal everyday life, there are some habits and hygiene that should follow each and every one into the future. From handwashing to social distancing, there are some habits learned from COVID-19 that make sense moving forward for holistic health and wellbeing now through post-pandemic.

 Coronavirus has certainly changed the way that we all do things now, from visiting the doctor to the way we bid family and friends goodbye. The stay-at-home orders and social distancing have forced both citizens and businesses to get creative, while also adhering to the guidelines asserted by municipalities and the federal government, including the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Where do mobility aids and devices fit in to this equation?

Here are some COVID-19 habits that should be adopted moving forward:

Healthy Hand Hygiene

Are you still following good hand hygiene guidelines? Washing hands with hot, soapy water is a good start; but you may need to incorporate disposable paper towels and alcohol-based sanitizer, as well. The lack of handwashing supplies continues to be unpredictable, primarily due to the demand, but some retailers are restocking these essentials so keep an eye out to refresh your own stash of these products.

Washing hands for a full 20-seconds each time you come in or leave the home can help. Some have resorted to wearing disposable gloves when out and about or when in contact with someone else. Wearing gloves can be a helpful way to prevent transmission if someone in the home is feeling under the weather. The best habit that you can carry forward is frequent and thorough hand washing with hot water; it is that simple.

Safety and Sanitization

Along with sanitizing your hands comes sanitization of other surfaces around the home- including your mobility aids, too. Invest in alcohol-based wipes to clean and sanitize handles, handlebars, remotes, levers- any areas that are frequently touched by hands. Talk to your mobility vendor or consult with the manufacturer’s recommendations for products that will clean and sanitize these surfaces safely and without doing damage to the device.

Social Distancing

Seniors with compromised immune systems benefit from Coronavirus-era social distancing guidelines. The implementation of this regulation widely could prevent transmission of a lot of illnesses, germs, and bacteria- including COVID-19. While it has taken people a while to understand and embrace social distancing, many regions continue to prohibit large gatherings of more than ten people- or have limits on the number of patrons, guests, or shoppers allowed in a venue at one time.

It makes sense to stay a few feet away, and to curb kissing, hugging, and handshakes, while the pandemic still poses valid risks for seniors or other populations. As we adjust to saying goodbye with a wave or showing affection by blowing a kiss rather than close personal contact, the risk for contracting illness during this difficult time is hopefully being reduced widely.

Protective Face Masks

When you do go out in public, do you wear a face mask? The jury is out on whether handcrafted face masks curb the risk of transmitting COVID-19, but since it is droplets of saliva that carry this virus, it could be an effective protocol to continue practicing when out in public places. Furthermore, it helps keep your own body fluids contained, which may help protect others from you, as well.

Need a mask? These can be found crafted by artisans and sewing hobbyists across the globe; check online selling platforms to find inexpensive masks that are machine washable, too. It is important that you wash the mask frequently when worn to prevent respiratory illness. Want to make your own? There are dozens of online tutorials that can instruct you how to make your own mask- whether you sew or not.

Simply Stay at Home

Another effective strategy to combat the spread of illness is to simply stay at home. While you may have essential business to conduct, it makes the most sense and is safest to simply avoid unnecessary travel, trips, and activities until the risks have subsided. When will this be? While it is purely speculative, those at risk for serious medical issues, like seniors or those with health conditions, should plan on staying at home as much as possible in the imminent future, per the CDC, and limit non-essential business outside the home whenever feasible.

Experts suggest that it takes approximately 30 days for a behavior to become instilled as a habit. Since the pandemic has lasted well beyond a month, many of us are engaging in hygiene habits and Coronavirus protocols instinctually and without reservation. Can these practices keep you safe and healthy beyond COVID-19? Health care professionals say ‘yes’ and encourage us all to continue being vigilant in this time of uncertainty.

 When the fear of COVID-19 passes, don’t forget about some of the habits learned during the pandemic. Many of these protocols make sense moving forward, to ensure safety and illness prevention in the future. To learn more, talk to the professionals today at Pacific Mobility; they offer insight and expertise into mobility aids and equipment to help make life safer, easier, and more accessible. 

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.

24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: aging, disability, News and Views

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