disability

If you live with a physical disability or mobility challenge, using the bathroom can be a daunting and potentially hazardous situation. It comes as no surprise that most accidental falls and subsequent injuries occur in the bathroom of the home. Troubleshoot your senior loved one’s bathroom to improve safety and reduce the risk of a nasty fall.  

Did you know that the bathroom is the most common area of the home for a nasty fall and injury? It is true. If you live with a mobility issue or physical disability, your risks are greatly increased. There are some things that you can do to make this area of the home safer, and to detect any possible fall risks that could be lurking.  

Also, don’t forget about Bath Safety Month in January, which is the perfect time to look at strategies to make the bathroom safer. Consider mobility aids such as shower seats and grab bars to enhance safety and lower the risks of an accidental fall.  

Troubleshooting your loved one’s bathroom? Here are some safety tips to keep in mind: 

• It is easy to install a toilet safety frame that will house items like toilet paper near the commode for easier access and lower risk of a fall when reaching.  
• Did you know that getting on and off the toilet makes up for almost 15% of injuries in the bathroom? Raising the seat about three or four inches can make a significant difference for those with physical limitations or mobility issues. This reduces stress and strain on the joints, too, including your knees and back.  
• Talk to a mobility professional about installing grab bars or safety rails on both sides of the toilet seat. 
• Make sure that any grab bars you install in the bathroom are equipped with a slip-proof grip that is comfortable and easy to grasp.  
• Enhance the lighting in the bathroom with LED bulbs and nightlights, too. Improving lighting in the bathroom, as well as any halls or stairs leading to the bathroom, can reduce the risk of an injury. A well-lit bathroom is easier to navigate and use.  
• Do you have a non-slip liner in your tub? Tubs and shower floors are slippery when wet. Reduce risks by investing in a shower bench or seat to prevent the hazards of a slick tub or shower floor. Create a clear path to the bathroom, moving items or objects that could get in the way. This may prevent stumbles, trips, and spills.  
• Consider remote lighting or switches that turn lights on and off with ease for late-night trips to the bathroom.  
• If the individual struggles with activities of daily living, like bathing, consider mobility aids like walk-in tubs or shower systems that will make showering and washing much easier and a lot safer.  
• Keep hygiene and personal items on a shelf or rack, positioned to be about arm height. This makes them easy to access as needed, without reaching or straining. For items in storage up high or down low, buy a grabber tool that will grasp those things that are just out of reach.  
• If the bathroom door presents challenges to those using it, consider replacing it with another option, like a swinging or sliding door system for optimal ease.  
• Avoid spraying air fresheners in the bathroom as the residue can create a slick surface and slippery floor. This could cause a fall.  
• While area rugs can be safety hazards, a non-skid rug pad or non-slip tiles can create a safer floor surface that reduces the risks of injury.  
• Always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning with chemicals and solvents in the bathroom. It is easy to be affected by the strong odors and become dizzy. This dizziness and a loss of balance could cause a fall.  

• Some family members feel more peace of mind when they install bathroom phones for their loved ones who have mobility issues or physical disabilities. This provides a way for the individual to reach out for help in case of an emergency.  
• If your loved one is prone to falls or lives with health issues, consider if a medical alert system might be a viable option. This allows your loved one to receive assistance when they are alone or when they are unable to access a phone. The system sends an alarm to authorities to respond and render aid, as needed.   

Do you or a loved one live with mobility issues or physical disabilities? This can increase your risk of an accidental fall in the bathroom. Fortunately, there are some steps that you can take when troubleshooting possible solutions. Make your- or a loved one’s- bathroom safer with quality mobility aids from Pacific Mobility. Visit the team to learn more about shower seats, grab bars, and lifts that can make the bathroom a much safer area of the home.  

The many advantages that stairlifts offer can improve quality of life. but how? By increasing accessibility, a stairlift can also provide confidence, autonomy, convenience, and comfort, too. These perks contribute to everyday life, making it better for the individual. Other mobility equipment can also improve quality of life, so talk with your providers to determine how you could benefit from these aids.  

If you live with a physical disability or limitation, you can improve quality of life with mobility aids, including stairlifts. Stairlifts open up a world of possibilities for those living with accessibility issues, such as having to ascend and descend stairs to use the bathroom, bedroom, or other areas of the home. These advantages may seem inconsequential to some, but to those with mobility issues, these perks change lives. 

How does a stairlift improve quality of life? Here is what you should know: 

Accessibility 

When you have issues related to limited accessibility, it can affect all areas of everyday life. For instance, it can make simply getting in and out of the bathroom a chore, or it may require you to have a caregiver for assistance. Additionally, it may impact activities that you enjoy doing, like work, driving a car, or taking a swim. Stairlifts, vehicle lifts, and pool lifts may restore the freedom to engage in these things, greatly restoring your accessibility and improving quality of life.  

Safety 

Falls are a leading cause of accidental injury and death among seniors. Stairlifts can make a treacherous situation- navigating stairs or steps with a mobility issue- much safer. A stairlift in the home may alleviate the necessity of a care provider to help with using a bathroom, getting ready for bed, or cooking a meal, by making the upper and lower levels of the home much easier to access and a whole lot safer. This can also provide an invaluable peace of mind- but more on that to come!  

Convenience 

A stairlift brings an element of convenience to the home environment that may have previously been missing. No longer do individuals need to plan, worry, or troubleshoot going up or down stairs in their dwellings; now they can ascend and descend at will, whenever the need or desire arises. The convenience of being able to access and use upstairs spaces like the bathroom, for instance, can be life-changing and may permit many to remain in their own homes longer.  

Ease 

Does a stairlift seem like a daunting prospect? It may be much easier than you anticipate. When you purchase a brand-name stairlift from a reliable and reputable retailer, you will have the benefit of professional installation, service, support, and a resource to reach out to when you have questions or concerns. The installation technician will demonstrate the proper way to use your new lift and will not leave until you are comfortable with the operation, as well. Additionally, if you encounter an issue with your lift, the technician will come and make repairs, as needed. The ease of a stairlift in the home is unsurpassed for anyone with a physical limitation or mobility challenge.  

Confidence 

The accessibility and ease of a new stairlift can also build up your confidence. No longer are you dependent on someone to help you up or down the stairs in your home. Also, loved ones and caregivers may gain a sense of confidence and worry a lot less when they are away. By taking back some of your autonomy and independence, you may feel a surge in self-esteem and be more able to do the things that you want to do, when you want to do them. A stairlift in the home can be a liberating experience for anyone who lives with a mobility issue or disability.  

Autonomy 

We keep mentioning autonomy but what does that mean exactly? Autonomy is closely connected to freedom and independence, and the ability to do things on your own terms. This is a precious aspect of everyday life that many lose when their health falters or they sustain an injury. This can result in a dependency on others that can erode self-esteem and confidence, leaving many to feel hopeless about aging in general. Mobility aids are designed to help preserve as much independence and autonomy as possible, contributing to a boost in overall quality of life.  

Aging in Place 

Aging in place is the term used to describe the ability to live life as you wish for as long as possible. For many seniors, that includes the ability to remain in the homes that they have lived in and loved for years. Mobility aids and enhanced accessibility may make this possible for many, without the need for supervised living situations or relocation. 

Want to improve your overall quality of life? Improve accessibility and enhance safety with quality stairlifts and mobility aids from Pacific Mobility. For generations, we have provided our customers with reputable and reliable equipment that improves everyday living; call or visit us today!  

Do you have a stairlift? During the holidays, use care to keep decorations and trims away from certain parts of your lift. There are some basic and fundamental practices recommended for the safest operation of your stairlift; keep these in mind when preparing and decorating for the season. Here is what you should know!  

With Christmas fast approaching, many may want to deck the halls and decorate their home. If you have a stairlift, this should not deter or hinder your plans but do keep some basic safety strategies in mind to maintain and protect mobility aids.  

When it comes to stairlifts and holiday decorations, is it a good idea? Here is what you need to know:  

Leave Lifts Be 

Instead of focusing on decorating a stairlift to make it congruent with your design scheme, keep it clear and undecorated. Stairlifts meld well with most interiors- decorating them is counterproductive and could actually prove hazardous to the user. The best rule of thumb is to leave stairlifts be.  

Choose Color 

Instead of decorative items, consider a holiday-themed color scheme instead. Choose colors that either make the lift almost disappear from sight- or consider pops of color that will distract and lead the eye around your space. Lifts are often white or beige- consider using bold blues, vibrant greens, and shimmering metallic shades throughout the room to decorate the space without clutter or hazards. The result can be a stylish room where guests don’t necessarily see the stairlift first.  

Distract with Décor  

If you are concerned that an unadorned stairlift during the holiday season is an eye-sore, try visually distracting guests and visitors with a busy design scheme that takes the attention away. For instance, try decorating the stairway wall leading up and down with photos, pictures, or décor that take the eye away from the lift itself. Another idea is to decorate the platform at the bottom or top with festive floral pieces that are aesthetically appealing, making sure they are not in the way of using or exiting the lift.  

Should You Decorate? 

So, the real question is: should you decorate at all? Naturally, you may want to put up some festive décor to welcome in the season. The best advice is to keep it simple and don’t worry too much about making the stairlift fit a seasonal theme. Instead focus on integrating the stairlift into your seasonal scheme with color, accents, or lighting- not so much on decorating the lift in and of itself.  

Stay safe and protect your investment with some prudent and practical suggestions for stairlifts during the holiday season. Some tips for the safe operation of your stairlift include these suggestions: 

• During the holidays and all year round, deter children from playing on or around your stairlift. Always supervise children when they are near to ensure safety. Remember that the stairlift is not a toy, but an important piece of mobility equipment. Ask your retail professional about lifts that come with a child-proof, child-safe feature.  
• Try to keep the seat folded in when not in use. This will curb crowding and reduce the risk of bumping into those using the stairs or steps where the lift is installed. It also provides more room on the stairs during festivities for those who use them, without interfering with your mobility equipment.  
• Are you familiar with your stairlift’s obstruction sensors? New lifts have censors installed that will stop the operation of the lift when they detect an obstacle or object in the way, like a toy or your pets. This can also alert you of any decorative holiday items that could be in the way of safe stairlift operation. 
• Speaking of pets, make sure that pets are well out of the way before operating your stairlift.  
• Make it a rule that you do not carry or drink liquids on or near the stairlift. A nasty liquid spill can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to your stairlift. If you are transporting liquids, use covered containers and take great care when doing so.  
• Avoid long, flowing clothing or oversized, loose-fitting apparel when using a stairlift. This opens the possibility of your garment becoming caught under the mechanics of your lift.  
• Do not use the lift for moving or transporting heavy pieces of furniture or objects. 
• A stairlift is designed to transport only one person at a time, so do not carry others- even small ones- when using the lift to ascend or descend the stairs. Be cognizant of the weight restrictions for your distinct lift and refer to the owner’s manual as needed.  

Got more questions related to a new stairlift? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility today. We have been serving the needs of southern California for generations; come see us. Happy holidays! 

The holidays can be stressful enough, don’t run the risk of an injury from a fall. Mobility aids like canes and ramps can help to reduce the risks of a fall, which can lower your chances of sustaining an injury. Falls are the leading cause of accidental fatality among seniors; don’t let an accident spoil your festive holiday. Consider the following mobility aids that can make the holidays a little bit easier!  

The holidays will be here soon; if you have a physical disability or mobility challenge, consider quality mobility aids to make life easier. From shower seats and stairlifts to simple grab bars and portable ramps, you can reduce your risk of an accident or injury while making everyday ADLs (activities of daily life) more convenient and comfortable.

Make the holidays a little easier this year with these mobility aids: 

Ramps 

Getting in and out of your home is a lot simpler with a ramp. Ramps help anyone traverse steep or narrow steps with ease. Ramps can be used for entry into the home or to smooth out a threshold inside and make it safer to navigate. Did you know that you can also buy portable or temporary ramps, too? These can be folded and taken with you, so you have access and accessibility wherever you go. These are a viable option for individuals with temporary needs, like recovering from surgery or an injury. Consider how a ramp can make the holidays a little easier this year!  

Grab Bars 

Another simple, easy-to-install option is a grab bar, or two! Grab bars can be securely installed to provide a means of support in areas of the home that could precipitate a nasty fall. For example, grab bars near the top and bottom of stairs or steps make sense, and they can offer a sturdy and stable spot to grab when approaching stairs. Another prudent place for a grab bar is near the sink, toilet, and shower. Talk to a mobility professional to find out more or to purchase grab bars for the holiday this year.  

Reaching Tools 

Another often overlooked aid that is perfect for the holidays- including gifting- is a reaching tool. These ‘reachers’ or ‘grabbers’ reduce the risk of you needing to reach and fall, providing an extended arm to grasp the items that you need. These typically have a claw on the end that is simple to operate, allowing you to reach in, under, or overhead to access needed items, objects, or belongings. Reaching tools are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, so they are a convenient way to enhance access with no installation or hassle. There are many to choose from, too; search online for tools with features that make the most sense for you. 

Stairlifts 

If you really want to improve accessibility around your home for the holidays, consider how a stairlift can change life for the better. Stairlifts open a whole new range of opportunities for those who struggle with climbing stairs. Ascending and descending stairs is no longer an exhaustive or risky chore and don’t worry there is a stairlift that will fit and work in every home. From curved and straight, to steep and narrow, there is a quality stairlift that can be installed to create a more accessible home this holiday season. Don’t forget that you can also have a stairlift installed in outdoor spaces, such as in a garden, from a porch, or into your pool! 

Lift Chairs 

Want to give someone with mobility issues a gift this season? Invest in a lift chair. These comfortable, high-end recliners gently move up and down to assist the user as they get up and down from their seat. These are perfect for those recovering from surgery or an injury, but also ideal for those living with chronic or progressive conditions. Lift chairs can be selected to coordinate with the rest of your home décor, too.  

Shower Seats 

A shower seat or bench is another must-have mobility aid this season. These slide easily over the wall of a tub or inside a shower stall depending on your distinct bathroom configuration. These inexpensive seats allow the user to bathe or wash with the security of a stable place to sit. This can be helpful for those with physical disability or mobility challenges, as well as those who suffer from vertigo, visual impairment, or other conditions that could increase your risk of a fall. These seats are typically easy to put together and do not require professional installation, Check out online options and visit local mobility retailers to see what they have in stock.  

Make your holidays a little easier with these mobility aids. To learn more, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; we have been providing quality mobility equipment widely for generations. Call or visit us today!  

With the holidays fast approaching, you may wonder whether you should gift a stairlift, or other mobility aid. The truth is, the benefits of a stairlift- and other devices, too- include things like convenience, comfort, and independence, so why wouldn’t you want to share that with a loved one? This Christmas season, consider giving a quality stairlift as a gift to someone with mobility challenges or limitations. Call or visit us to find out more!  

Want to share a gift with someone special that keeps on giving all year long? Consider the practical and often life-changing gift of quality mobility aids and devices like a stairlift. Mobility equipment can increase accessibility, making everyday life easier, which can improve the overall quality of life for the user and their caregivers.  

Falls are the leading cause of accidental fatality among seniors, and most of these falls occur in the home. Making the home more accessible is key to preventing such incidents and the repercussions that may impact overall health and mobility. Aids and equipment may reduce the risks while creating a safer environment for loved ones.  

Should you give a stairlift as a gift? Absolutely- and here’s why!  

Independence 

What greater gift is there than independence? Share the gift of mobility and autonomy with a loved one who lives with physical disabilities or mobility issues. A stairlift allows them the full enjoyment of their home, with the confidence that they can access areas that may have otherwise been impossible to reach. Give the freedom for others to travel freely about their dwelling- it is something that is invaluable and life-changing.  

Safety 

Giving a gift that increases safety is a wonderful idea, particularly when it comes to mobility aids and equipment. A stairlift provides a safe way to ascend and descend stairs that may lead to bedrooms, bathrooms, or other essential areas of the home. While reducing the need for individuals to ask for assistance, it offers a safe alternative to preserving autonomy. Furthermore, it can lower the chance of a nasty fall and subsequent injury when accessing the upper or lower floors of the home.  

Peace of Mind 

This increased safety and independence can bring peace of mind, too, for the users, caregivers, and loved ones. There is great comfort in knowing that a loved one can access all areas of the home safely and that they can complete their activities of daily life (ADLs) with more ease. A stairlift can reduce the risk of a slip and fall when climbing stairs. Family and friends may worry about individuals with mobility challenges; a stairlift reduces worry and instills confidence. It is a great gift all around.  

Comfort & Joy 

Naturally, we all want to enjoy the comfort and amenities of our own home. A stairlift provides a sense of joy that comes from spending time in any desired area of the home, like a favorite bedroom or master bathroom, so it can offer increased quality of life. Those who have lived with mobility challenges and limitations on where they can easily go in their home can erode joy and impact comfort; a stairlift can restore the sheer enjoyment of spending time in the home.  No more missing out on things happening in other areas of the home- stairs are no longer a barrier to access. What a gift!  

Money 

It may seem ironic that investing in a stairlift now can save money later but it is true! When an individual with mobility challenges loses autonomy, they may be forced to live in an assisted or nursing setting. A stairlift and other mobility aids may keep some seniors in their own homes, longer. Aging in place refers to the desire to remain at home and a stairlift can help achieve this! Senior facilities, home health care, and medical services cost money; preserving independence and holistic health is essential to preventing these expenses. By avoiding a nasty fall and injuries now, you can maintain mobility longer, which may save you money, too.  

Life Quality 

If you think about it, all the perks of a stairlift contribute to a better overall quality of life. What could be a better gift to share with someone? Whether you or your loved one is struggling with mobility issues, recovering from an injury, or dealing with a chronic condition, a stairlift can help. They are safe, easy to operate, and comfortable to use. Always buy from a reputable, qualified mobility aid retailer offering professional installation and after-the-sale support. Review customer feedback to learn more.  

Want to give the gift of a stairlift to someone special this year? Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; they have generations of experience with quality mobility aids and equipment- and they can help point you in the right direction, too. Call or visit today!  

Not all disabilities manifest in physical symptoms that are easy to spot. In fact, millions struggle with hidden disabilities, ranging from chronic illnesses to mental health issues. The signs and symptoms of these disabilities may not be visible to everyone, yet still present distinct challenges and limitations to those afflicted. Determining what constitutes a disability is a far-reaching and complex task.  

It is estimated that around 26% of people in this country live with a disability of some kind, which means that one in four Americans are afflicted. This includes hidden disabilities, which are less discernible and not always apparent. In some instances, mobility aids can improve accessibility and make life easier.  

So, what constitutes a disability and what are hidden disabilities? Here is what you should know: 

Invisible Disabilities 

When talking about hidden disabilities, you are discussing a vast range of chronic conditions, illnesses, and issues that may not be apparent or visible to the naked eye. Often these disabilities are conditions that involve auditory problems, learning disabilities, or mental health issues. Some other conditions that could manifest into a hidden disability include these: 

• Autism and Aspergers 
• Use of prosthetics 
• TBI, or traumatic brain injury 
• Diabetes 
• Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 
• Alzheimer’s Disease 
• Fibromyalgia 
• Anxiety 
• Arthritis 
• Chronic Fatigue 
• PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 
• MS, epilepsy, or cystic fibrosis 
• Migraine headache sufferers 
• Many more 

One way to look at a hidden disability is as a condition that creates challenges or hinders you, but that is not readily seen by others. Hidden disabilities may require special accommodations, including accessibility or communication modifications. Some individuals living with a hidden disability may also benefit from the use of mobility aids, equipment, and devices, too.

 Additional Challenges 

Perhaps the fact that others can’t easily recognize someone’s disability can lead to additional challenges and struggles. Many may assume that the individual does not need accommodations for their disability or fail to acknowledge the disability at all. This can result in expectations and experiences that are disappointing and even discriminatory, at times.  

Additionally, many may be unfamiliar with the symptoms of those living with hidden disabilities. For example, if you have sensitivity to stimuli and sensory experiences, a typical office setting with fluorescent lighting and chaos could cause distress and disturbance. Individuals with anxiety or migraine headaches may be triggered by these types of work settings.  Wide open spaces or extensive commutes may be difficult for those living with mobility issues or who experience chronic fatigue. These types of disabilities may not be understood or validated in the workplace, but they are still legitimate conditions that deserve empathy and understanding when it comes to accommodations. In fact, it is the law.  

Accommodations for Individuals with Hidden Disabilities 

Someone with a hidden disability is entitled to accommodations under the law, such as in the workplace. Reasonable accommodations include any adjustment or modification to the work environment or actual job that allows them to perform their essential functions and enjoy any benefits of the job. So, what are some accommodations for individuals with hidden disabilities? Here are some examples:  

• Flexibility regarding the job roles, duties, and tasks 
• Reserved parking for staff and employees on-site 
• Access and accessibility to the entrance, work area, and common spaces on the job 
• Alternative means of presenting training manuals, guides, or onboarding materials 
• Provision of technology or equipment to aid in the performance of job-related duties 
• Change the presentation of tests and training materials 
• Changes in work schedule, including remote or work-from-home options 

These modifications exhibit care for the team, staff, and employees, which may result in valuable returns of increased productivity, boosted company morale, and an improved bottom line. It is a win-win situation.  

If you are a hiring manager or business owner, make sure to familiarize yourself with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to ensure you are accommodating your team to perform their jobs. This law not only prohibits discrimination against those with disabilities, but it also provides for equal treatment in terms of accommodations, access, services, transportation, communications, and overall employment for those living with a disability.  

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 

Since 1992, people across the globe have recognized and observed International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The purpose of this day is to promote support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of anyone with a disability and is scheduled for December 3, 2023, this year. Spreading awareness and demonstrating empathy are two excellent ways to honor and commemorate this day of observance.  

If you or someone you love lives with a disability, mobility aids may help. Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to find the best equipment and aids to help your loved one- and to improve accessibility, safety, and quality of life, too. We have been assisting individuals with quality mobility devices for generations; call or visit today.  

Around 16 million people live with COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, in this country. This condition makes it hard to breathe, often due to prolonged exposure to air pollution, smoke, fumes, chemicals, or even dust. This disease is not uncommon among those who work in factories, mines, or on farms though it can occur widely, without these risk factors. COPD makes it difficult to breathe, so physical activity may be limited. Mobility aids can help and in some cases, can transform lives.  

It is estimated that approximately 16 million people have COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, in the US alone. This is a significant condition, often called chronic bronchitis or emphysema, which manifests in breathing difficulty. It is often caused by exposure to pollutants like chemicals, fumes, dust, and smoke and is often associated with working on farms, at factories, or in mines.  

When it comes to living with COPD, physical activity is key. Maintaining a regimen that alleviates strain on your lungs will help make breathing a bit easier, as well as promote longevity. Protect and preserve your respiratory system and reduce COPD symptoms with regular exercise. Mobility aids can make activity easier and less strenuous for those living with COPD- talk to your physician to find out more.   

Here are a few mobility aids that can transform lives for patients with COPD: 

Super Poles 

Getting in and out of bed can leave those living with respiratory illnesses, like COPD, breathless, even gasping for air. Enjoy a gentler, easier way to rise and retire with a super pole. Super poles are poles that are installed near beds, chairs, or fixtures that offer a bit of support and stability for those with physical limitations or disabilities. They are nonintrusive and space-efficient so others in the home can live around them, too. Super poles are a cost-effective way to improve accessibility, making everyday life more convenient and enjoyable for those with COPD or a wide range of other conditions.  

Grab Bars 

Similarly, grab bars provide the stability and assistance needed to prevent a nasty fall. It makes good sense to implement inexpensive grab bars near steps, stairs, the toilet, sinks, and anywhere that one may experience a stumble, trip, or fall. Grab bars are discreet, yet the service they provide can be life-changing and may prevent you from a nasty injury related to falls. Since most accidental falls occur in the bathroom, consider where you- or a loved one- would most benefit and install accordingly. 

Ramps 

A ramp can help make steps or rises much easier and less exertive for those living with COPD. Climbing stairs can cause breathing issues and be exhausting for many- a ramp makes it much easier and safer to get in and out of homes, or other locations. Consider portable ramps that fold up to go wherever you go- or invest in the permanence of a ramp constructed at your home. The best option depends on your distinct preferences and lifestyle- talk to a qualified mobility retail professional to learn more about ramps.  

Shower Seats 

Showers can be exhausting for individuals with respiratory issues. Furthermore, the heat and steam can cause many to cough- which could precipitate a slip and fall. Take time and care to enjoy a hot shower- or bath- with ease by using a shower seat or bench. These are widely found at varying price points, and they provide a convenient place to sit and relax when bathing. Many secure over the tub wall, while others are made to fit a shower stall. Depending on the unique configuration of your bathroom, there is a shower seat or bench that will fit.  

Walkers 

Walkers are a common aid to help the user navigate their surroundings and get around. They enable those who cannot walk distances to safely get where they need to go. Walkers give the support necessary so that physical activity is not as strenuous, and they provide a bit of stability when the user begins to feel weak. These are ideal for anyone with COPD as they help with movement- and activity is key for COPD patients to control their symptoms.  

You have a lot of options when shopping for a walker, including a rolling walker that features a small seat for sitting or taking a break. The best way to find a walker that works for you is to visit a mobility retailer and try it for yourself. Your primary care provider may also have a recommendation based on your medical condition. 

Remember that November is National COPD Awareness Month. This is the perfect time to discover how mobility aids, equipment, and devices may improve your ability to maintain physical activity, thus improving breathing and symptoms associated with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.  

Do you- or someone you love- live with COPD? Call or visit Pacific Mobility; we have high-quality mobility aids that can not only make everyday tasks easier but also have the potential to transform lives for the better.  

Individuals living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease are at an increased risk of a fall due to many factors related to this chronic and progressive condition. Falls can be debilitating, sometimes fatal, so it is prudent to take a look at factors that could cause such accidents, while also addressing aids that may make life safer and easier every day for those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. 

Intro mobility aids; National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in November provides the opportunity to spread information and awareness regarding this debilitating condition. Do you know someone who struggles with dementia? Know that those people with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia are three times more at risk of breaking a hip during a fall- and the chance of a hip fracture leading to death is also higher.  

So why are people with dementia facing a greater chance of a fall and subsequent mobility issues? Some distinct risk factors that make this population more at-risk and in need of mobility aids include these:  

Medications 

It is not uncommon for individuals with dementia to be prescribed various antipsychotic and antidepressant medications, including benzodiazepines. Unfortunately, the medication side effects could be contributing to the overall risk of a fall. Some of these side effects include:  

• Dizziness 
• Drowsiness 
• Low blood pressure, particularly when standing up from a seated or lying position 

Speak with your loved one’s primary care provider regarding reducing the risks of a fall if you believe they exhibit any of these medication side effects or symptoms.  

Sight 

Another often overlooked issue with dementia is how visual information is perceived and processed by the individual. That is, many people with dementia experience visual-spatial issues that could contribute to a fall. This may result in the person misjudging the depth of steps or stairs, causing them to trip and fall. Uneven terrain or glares on the surface of the floor could also cause problems that may increase fall risks. Many caregivers do not realize the impact that dementia- including Alzheimer’s- has on vision and sight.  

Cognition 

Another symptom of the progression of dementia or Alzheimer’s is related to cognition, including decision-making. The disease may compel many living with dementia to try and navigate slippery surfaces or steep steps unassisted. Some may not be wearing proper footwear or may overlook unfavorable conditions due to the cognitive changes that occur.  

Fatigue 

Dementia causes a condition called ‘sundowning’ which is the time after dark when those afflicted struggle the most with symptoms. This also coincides with when the most falls occur among those who have this condition. Fatigue from the day and the symptoms of their disease can make them more vulnerable to a fall, as well as a subsequent injury. 

Restlessness 

Dementia can cause restlessness which also makes the individual prone to a fall. Have you ever noticed how someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia seems fidgety? It is this symptom that may incline them to get up and down or wander- again, increasing the propensity for an injurious fall.  

Aphasia 

Aphasia is a symptom of dementia that surrounds the inability to vocalize needs or to communicate effectively. If an individual with dementia is struggling to express themselves, they may try to do things unassisted to meet these needs. For instance, they may try to get up out of bed in the night for a drink or to use the toilet, rather than reach out to a caregiver or loved one for help. Aphasia is also common among those who have had a stroke or brain injury, too.  

Pain 

Discomfort or pain could also increase an individual’s risk of a fall if they also have dementia. Watch for signs that they are experiencing pain, such as facial expressions when moving about or groaning, and have them assessed by their physician. Many will not report pain to loved ones for many reasons, including the inability to express themselves adequately.  

Surroundings 

What is the living environment like? It is important to assess dangers and fall hazards early and often to help prevent a debilitating often catastrophic injury. Consider the following tips to create safer situations and surroundings for individuals with dementia: 

• Proper lighting is integral. Replace bulbs promptly and consider LED for longer-lasting, brighter light in the home environment.  
• Consider signs that indicate where the restroom, stairs, and doors are located. Label cabinets and cupboards with what is inside.  
• Choose contrasting colors for floors, furnishings, and fixtures to make them more prominent and easier to see for those living in the home.  
• Invest in simple mobility aids and devices to create a more accessible home. Install grab bars for support, ramps for easier entry, and a shower seat to reduce the risk of a fall on a slick bathroom surface.  

Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility regarding mobility aids and equipment to assist individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s, as well as anyone with disabilities, physical limitations, or accessibility issues. Call or visit today.