disability

Being given a diagnosis that indicates mobility limitations or issues can be overwhelming- and many may wonder what they can do for their new ‘normal.’ This is the time to act and devise your own plan of action for your new circumstances. Prepare yourself and your home for possible mobility restrictions to come and preserve your independence and autonomy.

If you have been diagnosed with a degenerative or debilitating disease or illness, don’t wait for physical limitations to strike; be proactive about fending for future mobility issues now, particularly if you are less restricted at this moment in time. Jump in and address potential challenges before they blossom into problems when you lose degrees of physical mobility or access. Don’t be complacent; your quality of life could be on the line.

Coming to Terms with your Circumstances

Try not to waste valuable time mourning what could be perceived as a loss, but instead, make efforts to address future needs now, while you are able. Certainly, you will need to adjust to the news that your physical health could be declining or that your mobility is at risk, but the longer you wait to address the future head-on, the harder it could be.

Make an Action Plan

The first thing to do when you realize you could lose some level of mobility is to make a plan of action. That is, make a list of what you need to do and the timeline to do it in. For instance, some of the ‘to do’s’ on your action plan may be to get estimates for ramps on your home, install a lift for your vehicle, or visit a mobility dealer to ascertain what aids are available and how they can help. Discuss possible approaches to your new diagnoses including community supports and programs available to you. Sometimes, a provider’s referral can open the doors to many life-changing resources.

Predict Possible Problems

Become a devil’s advocate around the home; look for and instigate problems that you can then focus on solving. For instance, investigate the height of thresholds in doorways or measure how high the countertop is from a seated position- consider these features as if you are doing it from a seated position, scooter, or wheelchair. Brainstorm ways to get around issues, like a fall, if you live alone and practice how you would reach out for help. The more challenges you can familiarize yourself with now, the more confident you will become when your physical mobility declines later.

Focus on Accessibility

The prime issue for individuals with physical limitations is access, like getting around the home, office, or public spaces when mobility is compromised. This leads to many becoming house-bound and further decline in physical function. The way around this is to enhance and increase accessibility to all areas of your everyday life now- don’t wait. Consider how a stairlift may increase access to spaces upstairs, outside, or around the home- porch and vehicle lifts can also make driving and resuming everyday activities a lot easier. If getting in and out of bed could be an issue or if you have a rehabilitative period ahead, look at how free-standing lifts can make ADLs feasible.

Expect the Worst, Hope for the Best

Yes, positive thinking can improve many health and medical outcomes, but it makes fiscal sense to address worst-case scenarios when implementing augments for accessibility around the home- even if you don’t need them right away. Consider mobility aids that will ‘grow’ with you; that is, devices with adaptability and flexibility to support changing needs, physically. Talk to your mobility aids retailer to learn more.

Utilize Available Resource Networks

During this process, do some homework to find agencies willing to lend a hand to disabled residents and community members. Even if you don’t feel like you need services now, it often takes time to be processed and accepted into local programs and networks. Consider services like meals-on-wheels, ride-shares, or home refurbishments and modifications offered for individuals with physical limitations or disabilities. Ask about or apply for available services through your case manager, primary care practitioner, or disability social worker.

Don’t wait until you lose mobility to seek out solutions and trouble-shoot potential obstacles; address your limited or declining mobility now- especially if you have been diagnosed with a debilitating disease or condition. Consider these tips to put the effort in now when given the news of limitations or loss in physical function.

Live in Southern California? Plan to pay a visit to Pacific Mobility; we offer a wide range of high-quality brands and equipment, like Bruno lifts, for individuals across the state- some across the country! We have built a reputation on customer service and support- come see what we have to offer to you.

Diabetes affects around 30 million people in the US, but nearly 8 million are undiagnosed. The complications and problems that can arise from diabetes are often life-threatening, including heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and even amputations. It has been asserted that activity and weight control can be key in preventing diabetes and the significant repercussions of this disease.

Diabetes is a serious health hazard facing around 30 million people in the US, and nearly 8 million are not yet diagnosed. American Diabetes Alert Day is the perfect time to bring attention to this disease while informing and encouraging the public to get tested. Celebrated annually on the 4th Tuesday in March, American Diabetes Association Diabetes Alert Day seeks to educate and enlighten through programs, events, testing sites, and incentives. Attention to diabetes prevention now can help you bypass the life-changing consequences of diabetes, including mobility issues and loss of independence, later.

Physical Activity

When it comes to preventing diabetes, research suggests that weight control is key. Control weight with activity and you not only lessen your chances for contracting this disease, but you also are able to more effectively control and manages symptoms if you have diabetes. Resistance training and cardio or aerobic activity are considered the best combination for your diabetic fitness regimen as it improves your body’s ability to absorb sugar and use insulin. Also, a healthy weight makes you feel better overall and reduces your risk for diabetes in the first place.

Lifestyle Changes

Additionally, there are some lifestyle habits that can make you more prone to contracting diabetes- and that can make your blood sugar go haywire if you already have the disease. Smoking narrows blood vessels making it more difficult for blood to reach your organs. Alcohol metabolizes sugar, which wreaks havoc with insulin and glucose levels in the body. Plus, if you drink regularly, you are adding empty calories to your diet that could result in weight gain over time. The ‘beer belly’ that can be produced from chronic imbibing puts you at higher risk for heart disease and diabetes.  

Warning Signs

Wondering what to watch for when it comes to signs of an issue? The warning signs of diabetes, or pre-diabetes, include these symptoms:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Severe hunger
• Inexplicable weight loss
• Ketones in the urine
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Irritability and mood swings
• Blurry or decreased vision
• Slow-healing wounds or injuries
• Frequent infections, such as bladder or urinary tract

It is key to inform your doctor or seek medical attention if you notice these signs persistently. They can conduct a simple test to determine your blood sugar levels and if you are vulnerable to diabetes.

Complications from Diabetes

So, what complications does diabetes actually cause? There are numerous problems and risks associated with diabetes and uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Many of them are a threat to life and limb.

Some of the potential complications arising from diabetes are:

• Diabetics are at an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including angina, heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
• Diabetes can also cause nerve damage and neuropathy, which is quite painful. The result is a burning sensation in limbs, generally in the legs but it can occur in any extremity.
• Diabetes also wreaks havoc with your kidneys. Serious kidney damage may lead to kidney disease and dialysis treatments, which you will need for the rest of your life.
• Loss of vision and blindness are also potential consequences of diabetes. Diabetes damages blood vessels in the eye, often causing glaucoma or cataracts, too.
• Poor circulation and nerve damage may lead to infections of the feet, which may bring up the need for amputation. Amputations are common among severe diabetics.
• Diabetes causes wounds to heal more slowly and makes you more prone to skin problems, including fungal infection.
• Oddly enough, diabetics are more prone to issues related to their hearing.
• It is not uncommon for those with diabetes to also struggle with depression or other mood disorders. It may become a vicious cycle as many depressed individuals may be challenged with or avoid active diabetes management.

It makes sense to do what you can do now to improve mobility and ward-off diabetes- including maintain a healthy weight and remain active. If you live with mobility issues or physical limitations, this may include implementing mobility aids that make it more convenient and practical to get out and get moving. Talk to a mobility aids vendor in your area to learn more.

If you are living with physical limitations from diabetes- or any other condition- reach out to the industry experts at Pacific Mobility; we have the knowledge, experience, and high-quality devices to improve access and enhance everyday life for you. From lifts and scooters to chairs and canes, we offer service and support unrivaled by any other mobility dealer widely. Call or visit us today.

Social workers wear a lot of hats and play many roles in society today, including being advocates for those with disabilities. Social workers can help connect those with any type of disability with resources and networks to aid and assist; social workers can also help support individuals trying to obtain benefits for their disabilities, such as SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) after an injury or illness.

Did you know that National Social Workers Month is in March? Social Work Month is a time to celebrate the versatile and multifaceted profession of social work- including disability social workers who may assist, advocate, and support those with physical limitations or mobility issues.

Social Work Month 2020

The theme for Social Work Month 2020 is “Social Workers: Generations Strong.” Often-times, the call to be in a helping profession is handed down from one generation to the next. There is an inherent desire to be a part of growth and change in others, groups, communities, and societies, widely. Social workers have been on the forefront of American crises and societal issues for centuries, from advocates for marginalized populations in the early to mid-1900s, to those battling for equality among disenfranchised demographics today.

Disability Social Work

Disability social workers are typically simply referred to as social workers, yet they may play a role in community organizations or agencies that work with individuals living with physical or mental disabilities. Some of the varied roles that this social worker may play include case management tasks, tracking appointments, advocacy regarding benefits or entitlements, and interpersonal therapeutic interventions, such as talk therapy or family meetings. Among these tasks and roles, the most important may be establishing and building a rapport with the client. It is this trust and relationship that lays the foundation for future recovery and growth.

Mobility Aids

A social worker that serves disabled clients may be the perfect advocate when it comes to engaging insurance carriers and providers over costs related to mobility aids and equipment. Many times, insurance is slow to cover their portion of the cost, which can rack up bills and stress among those needing these devices. Furthermore, these social workers may work directly with the mobility aids vendor to obtain and secure the devices and equipment needed to preserve autonomy, increase accessibility, and improve quality of life.

An Invaluable Liaison

Social workers of all kinds are basically known for their ability to connect and network, invaluable skills when seeking to obtain resources for a client or individual. Social workers have their finger on the pulse of what is- and is not- available in the community that they serve, from soup kitchens and homeless shelters to practitioners and vendors. Whether you have been injured or ill and are seeking benefits due to an inability to work or if you are experiencing shortfalls in meeting your day to day needs, a social worker can help. Social workers are often available on a walk-in basis at community resource centers and clinics, but your primary care physician can also help with a referral.

It is also possible that you are already assigned a social worker and are underutilizing their skill sets. Ask about resources that may make life easier for you as you live with a physical limitation or disability. For example, are there local organizations that help build ramps for individuals that require them for access to their home? How about food pantries that serve the local demographic? These are questions that your social worker- or your case manager- should be able to aptly address.

Early Advocacy

If you are struggling with a disability, but have not yet been deemed disabled, a social worker may be able to help you document your journey and issues adequately for your entitlements. While they can’t approve or disapprove your application, they can attest to how they help you and the nature of your disability, if needed. They can also help you navigate the often tricky world of disability-related paperwork that can become overwhelming for many.

Social workers play a key role in helping others adapt, adjust, and excel in circumstances, including disability or mobility limitation. From lining up necessary services and networks to simply providing a supportive ear to listen, social workers are the unsung heroes of the medical field. Talk to your primary providers about social workers and how you may benefit from their diverse experience and expertise.

When you are ready to peruse your options regarding mobility aids and devices, come see the industry experts at Pacific Mobility; their team of mobility aid professionals can help identify the best equipment for your distinct needs and living situation. We provide top of the line brand-names, like Bruno stairlifts, and full installation with each purchase. Call to talk to our representatives and learn more today!

Falls are a prime reason for loss of mobility, accessibility, and independence- and visual impairment contributes to the risk of such an accident. It is vital for seniors to take care of their eyes throughout the lifespan, but particularly if they suffer from physical limitations. Pairing a mobility issue and inability to see clearly could be a recipe for disaster. Consider this during National AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month this February.

There is no better time than February to make a new commitment to preserving and enhancing your eyesight with AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month. Visual impairment can contribute to falls- which can have deadly consequences for older Americans. The CDC estimates that senior falls cost over $30 billion a year in health care costs; one in three adults, 65 and older falls annually which impacts the autonomy and life quality for at least 20-30% permanently. In many instances, simple mobility aids would have dramatically helped and, perhaps, prevented the fall.

Fall Risks

It may seem like a stretch to find a distinct correlation between vision and the heightened risk of falls, but the truth is that falls among seniors are debilitating and should be prevented at all costs- including by taking care of your sight. Intrinsic factors are causes of falls associated with the individual, like health risks or failing vision. Extrinsic factors are elements of your environment that contribute to the fall, like poor lighting or wet floors.

Intrinsic Issues

So, when it comes to intrinsic factors for a nasty fall, vision-related issues top the list, though the exact impairment may vary. For instance, some older individuals may experience a reduction in depth perception or a poor visual field. These may be brought on by glaucoma or diabetes-related vision problems. Some seniors may have a reduced sense of contrast sensitivity which may make it challenging to know when the sidewalk ends or a curb is present. All these intrinsic, vision-related issues can be the cause of a nasty, even life-altering fall.

Loss of Balance

With age often comes a decrease or loss of balance and subsequently, may result in a fall. Vision helps manage the vestibular system which encompasses the tissue and bone matter of the inner ear. When this area of the ear is disrupted or injured, a loss of balance and equilibrium may result. Since the vestibular system works in tandem with other sensi-motory systems of the body, a fall is practically inevitable. In the case of a loss of balance, see your medical provider pronto.

Age-Related Vision Loss

With age comes a loss of vision for many Americans, due to normal circumstances. However, some deterioration of sight may be related to issues that are not normal parts of the aging process. For example, cataracts are quite common but easily resolved with surgery. Without treatment, cataracts will be life-changing, possibly even blinding.  Since this condition is marked by a cloudiness of the eye lens, falls are not uncommon among those with cataracts.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration, or AMD, anyway? It is a serious eye condition that stems from degeneration of the retina, the part that distinguishes fine details in what you see. Individuals living with AMD have progressively declining or distorting vision that makes it hard to do everyday things, like drive, watch TV, or write. It can impact mobility as sight lessens, individuals with AMD rely on peripheral vision to navigate their way around- which could easily manifest in an injurious fall. AMD develops over time, so regular eye care visits and examinations are critical- particularly if you are over the age of 50. There is no cure for this disease and it will erode your vision making it far more challenging to live your normal life.

National AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month

February is National AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month. Though you may not have heard of this annual event, it is vital to share the value of eye care and maintenance. AMD and low vision lead the way as causes for vision loss in adults, 50 and over. It is estimated that nearly 15 million Americans live with this debilitating condition. Think you are at risk for AMD and Low Vision? Be cognizant of the symptoms and notify your eye care professional if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Wavy or wiggly lines
• Black spots that impede your range of vision
• Difficulty seeing fine details
• Colors are muted and less vibrant

Don’t run the risk of a nasty fall and subsequent loss of your independence; age in place by preserving and maintaining your vision with preventative visits to eye care providers. Could you use some help getting around? Come see the industry experts at Pacific Mobility. Mobility aids like grab-bars and canes can help prevent a fall that can have serious health- and life- repercussions. Don’t compromise your wellbeing; talk to the professionals to learn more today.

Don’t let a disability or limitation impact your efforts to reach goals and live your dreams. Take some inspiration from role models that have overcome obstacle-s including physical disabilities- to gain recognition, success, and fame in the world of sports. Garner motivation from five amazing athletes with disabilities to inspire your own dreams!

Feeling uninspired? Life can be tough, and obstacles may seem insurmountable, but take strength in knowing that you will get through it and can overcome. It can help to hear accounts of others facing difficult odds, including physical limitations and the need for mobility aids, to gather the motivation to get through another day.

Get inspired by the stories of these five amazing athletes that have overcome disabilities:

1. Bethany Hamilton, Surfer

At the young age of 13, nationally ranked surfer Bethany Hamilton lost her arm in a shark attack. Within weeks, she returned to her surfboard. She triumphed to win the Explorer Women’s Division of the NSSA National Championships. Since that time, a feature film was made of her life to great Hollywood acclaim.

2. Jim Abbott, MLB Pitcher

Anyone who follows baseball has likely heard the inspiring story of MLB pitcher Jim Abbott. Abbot was born in Flint, Michigan, in the 60s- without a right hand. He has played for the NY Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, Calgary Cannons, and Chicago White Sox, and he won gold at the ‘88 Summer Olympics. During his major league baseball career, he has had a total of 888 strikeouts. Jim Abbott shows that it may be these disabilities that make you the distinctive- and successful-individual that you are. The records set and accolades earned are a testament to the perseverance of this notable sports figure.

3. Kyle Maynard, MMA Fighter

Kyle Maynard is a mixed martial arts fighter that was born with a rare condition known as congenital amputation, resulting in his birth with no arms below his elbows or legs below his knees. He has strived to live an autonomous life despite his disability, becoming a champion wrestler, gym owner, skilled mountain climber, and record-breaking weightlifter. He travels widely, speaking to groups and organizations, sharing motivation and his ‘no excuses’ ideology. He is a best-selling author after publishing his autobiography also called “No Excuses,” all while supporting a number of humanitarian causes and efforts. Kyle Maynard embraces the message of not letting limitations or disabilities hinder you toward setting and reaching goals- dream big.

4. Melissa Stockwell, Swimmer

Army war veteran Melissa Stockwell returned from Afghanistan with a Purple Heart for bravery and an amputated knee. She lost her leg when serving abroad in 2004 when hit by a roadside bomb during a convoy. She began to swim as part of her rehabilitation at the Walter Reed Hospital, channeling some of her experience as a high school competitive diver. She competed in the 2008 Paralympic Games for the US and set the record in both butterfly and freestyle. She emphasizes that she can do anything despite missing her leg. She continues to speak and appear at veteran-related events and causes, inspiring with her determination and grit.

5. Team Hoyt, Runners

Finally, for a true story of inspiration and heart, consider Team Hoyt, Rick, and dad Dick Hoyt. In 1962, Dick and Judy Hoyt had their son, Rick, who was deprived of oxygen to his brain during birth. He was diagnosed as a spastic quadriplegic with Cerebral Palsy and Rick’s parents were advised to institutionalize him, which they refused to do. They focused on providing him a life of inclusion, despite how long it was or the difficulties that they would encounter. In 1977, Rick approached his father wanting to participate in a five-mile benefit run for a classmate that had been paralyzed in an accident. His dad Dick agreed to push Rick in his wheelchair, completing the five miles, next to the last participants across the finish line. Their story of perseverance in the face of adversity inspired then and continues to inspire today. As of the 2009 Boston Marathon, Team Hoyt had officially participated in 1,000 races. They now host and sponsor the Hoyt Foundation Boston Marathon team of runners.

Get inspired to do what you need to for progress toward your own goals and ambitions. Remember to do something today- and every day- that makes you better tomorrow. This may be setting goals for your business, working toward autonomy, or committing to something that enhances health and wellbeing.

When you want to improve access and optimize mobility, consult with the industry experts at Pacific Mobility; the right mobility aids may help foster independence which may be an effective first-stride toward your own goals and dreams. Don’t let a physical disability define you or curb progress toward your own ambitions; get inspired and take control.

Do you live with neuropathy pain? Neuropathy pain can impact all areas of your life- including mobility and independence. Neuropathy is primarily caused by complications from diabetes or alcoholism, but there are many other reasons why you may experience nerve pain. There are mobility aids that make neuropathy more bearable, while increasing accessibility and autonomy for sufferers widely.

Do you- or someone that you care about- suffer from Neuropathy pain? Around 20 million people are diagnosed with Neuropathy, a disorder characterized by a loss of sensation in limbs or regions of the body. Many people are diagnosed with neuropathy, but only some of those with this condition experience neuropathic pain as a symptom. Nerve pain such as from neuropathy can be debilitating and the loss of sensation can significantly impact mobility. The pain and loss of sensation may present a fall risk, which is very dangerous for seniors or those living with other medical issues. Can mobility aids help make neuropathy pain and numbness more bearable? The answer is ‘yes’.

Causes of Neuropathy Pain

If you live with neuropathy, you know it can cause severe and frequent pain. But what causes neuropathy, to begin with? Some of the underlying reasons for nerve pain include:

• Alcoholism
• Diabetes
• Autoimmune disorders and disease
• Infections
• Diet
• Cancer
• Medications

Some of the discomfort that neuropathy sufferers live with are burning sensations, tingling, stabbing, and sharp, shooting pain in different regions of the body, most often, the extremities (arms, hands, legs, and feet).

Pain Relief

What can those suffering from neuropathy pain do about their discomfort? Medical providers often treat pain to prevent imbalance or dizziness with over the counter meds or pharmaceuticals. There are also holistic health approaches, like acupuncture, that aim to target the nerve itself. Some providers endorse using compression to help reduce and alleviate nerve pain; there are braces and supports widely found on the retail market that may help provide the right amount of compression.

Most providers concur that while exercise and physical activity are not likely to eliminate the pain altogether, it does provide some benefit in mobility and severity of symptoms associated with neuropathy. Low impact exercises are suggested, like yoga or swimming, to move and help flex muscles without causing more discomfort or injury.

Helpful Habits

Habits that contribute to chronic pain extend to neuropathic pain too; practitioners suggest any healthy life changes or habits reduce or curb the symptoms of neuropathy, including chronic pain. For example, make positive lifestyle changes including fine-tuning your diet or starting a regular exercise regimen. Join a gym! Do you smoke? Quit smoking to improve overall health, including respiration and circulation, which may impact the frequency and severity of your neuropathy symptoms. For many sufferers that have underlying diabetes or alcoholism, changing habits, improving diet, and abstaining from toxins (like alcohol) can dramatically improve neuropathy and reduce pain.

Neuropathy and Mobility

Mobility aids assist individuals with weakness or instability, or that need some help getting around – due to medical issues like neuropathic pain. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best mobility aids, equipment, or devices to alleviate stress on your body, relieve pain, and preserve autonomy. Chronic pain can compromise independence, which may have a negative impact on the lives of those that wish to age in place, i.e. staying in their own home as long as physically possible. Assistive aids like canes, crutches, and walkers can be just enough support to preserve an independent lifestyle.

Mobility Aids

When you think of mobility aids, think beyond wheelchairs and walkers; while these are valid invaluable examples of aids, there are some even-simpler ways to enhance autonomy and reduce neuropathic discomfort:

• A cane is an excellent source of support when standing or sitting, for those with neuropathy that may sometimes lose sensation in limbs, particularly their feet or legs.
• A grab bar near the sink, toilet, and stove can prevent accidents and falls that may occur when individuals with neuropathy stand for extended periods of time, or when they so to sit down.
• A reacher tool can make items that are just out of reach much easier to access, without the stabbing pains that can accompany straining with neuropathic nerve pain.

Talk to your practitioners about getting medical prescriptions for any of these aids, and then visit mobility retailers in your region to learn more and obtain pricing information. In Southern California, call on the industry experts at Pacific Mobility for more information.

Do you live with debilitating nerve pain? Pacific Mobility wants to help with high-quality mobility aids to make neuropathy- or other medical conditions- more bearable. Increase autonomy and accessibility with aids like lifts, walkers, grab bars, and more. Call for your free, no-risk needs assessment today.

Wondering what medical conditions merit mobility equipment, such as a stairlift? The fact is, there is a wide gamut of diagnoses that warrant the support and assistance provided by stairlifts. Learn a bit more about five common conditions made much more bearable with the accessibility of a lift in the home.

Do you struggle getting around your home environment? Is it possible that your life would be made easier with stairlifts and mobility aids to increase access? If you have concerns that you could be losing independence or if you struggle with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living), you might be a perfect candidate for a stairlift in the home. Before giving up your autonomy, learn more about how a stairlift can change life as you know it.

Five Conditions that may benefit from a stairlift in the home are:

1.       Neuropathy

If you live with neuropathy, you know how it can affect your mobility and independence. Not to mention, neuropathy is a very painful condition that ebbs into every aspect of everyday living. The two primary causes of neuropathy are alcohol abuse and diabetes, but kidney disease can also cause painful leg neuropathy in many sufferers. Over time, it may become extremely painful if possible at all to ascend stairs or navigate the home environment; a stairlift may make it possible to access upstairs spaces of the home and live with more freedom.

2.       Diabetes

In addition to neuropathy, diabetes can cause other consequences that make a stairlift pragmatic. For instance, chronic diabetes may lead to amputations of feet or legs, which make a stairlift a necessity. Additionally, anyone who struggles with the health repercussions of obesity may find going up and down stairs strenuous, if not impossible. A fall could cause serious compromise to the individual and any preventative measure- including mobility aids like stairlifts- are viable and worthwhile expenditures. Injurious falls lead in causes of hospitalizations and subsequent loss of independence.

3.       Arthritis

Do you live with arthritis? You may not realize how severe and debilitating arthritis can be; for many, it is a life-long affliction that they first experienced as a young child. If you have arthritis, a stairlift may be life-changing in terms of accessing areas of the home and doing for yourself. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis cause joint pain and stiffness, which can make ascending stairs very difficult. A stairlift can reduce stress and strain on these sore joints, improving pain levels and overall quality of life. Furthermore, the swelling and edema often associated with arthritis may make stairs simply too difficult on some days; a stairlift in the home offers an alternative that may be needed on some occasions, but not on others.

4.       Muscular Diseases

Conditions impacting the muscles make stairs difficult if not impossible; some conditions, like MD (Muscular Dystrophy), CP (Cerebral Palsy), MS (Muscular Sclerosis), and Parkinson’s, are examples of diseases that can impact muscle control and movement. Additionally, these strike mobility, often waxing and waning, which makes the option of a stairlift practical and reassuring. Some of these conditions are gradual and progressive, so a stairlift provides support as it is needed. Talk to your occupational therapist or practitioner to determine if a stairlift makes sense for the condition that you are living with.

5.       Respiratory Issues

Another reason to install a lift in the home could be due to respiratory disorders, like COPD or emphysema. Also, stairlifts may be advised for people living with lung or heart conditions that should limit physical activity that puts additional strain on their vital organs. Lifts allow folks that live alone the opportunity to age in place and stay in their own home, despite existing medical issues or conditions. For many, a stairlift provides enough support to allow them to live autonomously longer, enjoying access to the upper levels of their home, which may be where their bedroom or bathroom is located.

There are also a lot of times that a stairlift is used for short term use, such as a rental following surgery or as part of rehab. It can make it far more pragmatic for those in rehabilitative programs to garner independence while recovering and performing therapeutic exercises. It provides support that may make it possible for some to return home from skilled nursing settings as they recuperate and heal from operations, injuries, or medical issues. For many, this is a more therapeutic environment that provides motivation and incentive to heal.

Think your life would be easier with a stairlift? Talk to your provider, and come see the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility. The right equipment, including stairlifts, can restore a sense of security and control that may be missing in the lives of those living with chronic and acute medical issues. Check out what a stairlift can do for you; visit or call today!

If you think about it, vision impacts all aspects of everyday living- including mobility. Poor sight could contribute to a nasty fall which precipitates a slew of health-related problems. Falls are a prime concern of the aging population as these may cause a loss of independence and life-long mobility issues that require intervention or assistance. There is a link between glaucoma and mobility; here’s what you need to know.

January is National Staying Healthy Month, the perfect time to give some thought to your holistic health, including your vision. Are you at risk for glaucoma? If you are over 40, you could be; Glaucoma is a primary cause of blindness of people in this country and is a condition that manifests in damage to your optic nerve. There may be a genetic link to glaucoma, so if your parents had it, you might be at higher risk of having glaucoma, too. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness in a relatively short time so it is important to visit an eye doctor regularly to have your eye pressure monitored. If getting to your eye appointments is challenging due to physical limitations, call for consultation and mobility solutions to make life easier.

Lighting

Lighting is a common issue among those with glaucoma, and it is a number one reason why many seniors fall in the home. Bilateral glaucoma manifests in trips, bumps, and falls- which can quickly perpetuate into a long-term mobility issue. While good lighting doesn’t prevent glaucoma, it contributes to falling risk among anyone in the senior demographic, so there is a correlation between mobility and Glaucoma.

Gender

More than half, around 60%, of glaucoma cases in the U.S. are women. The number of people with glaucoma is expected to hit over six million by the year 2050, due to population, genetics, and lifestyle markers. This could present a significant healthcare crisis among the older population.

Risks

Are you at risk for glaucoma? You are more at risk if you are of African-American, Irish, Russian, Japanese, Hispanic, Inuit, or Scandinavian ancestry. Some other things that make you more likely to contract glaucoma during your life include:

If you have risk factors for glaucoma, it is even more important to have regularly scheduled eye exams, at least once every six months to a year, and have your eyes dilated and eye pressure tested.

Fall Reduction

A fall can create a lot of hurdles for a senior; first, a fall can cause eye trauma that contributes to glaucoma. It can also be a side-effect of the debilitating vision loss caused by glaucoma and increased eye pressure. The key to preventing mishaps and medical conditions of all kinds is fall reduction; i.e. improve lighting, remove obstacles, and wear footwear that provides stability and balance. This is where mobility aids can come in helpful. A grab bar can reduce the risk of slipping and falling in bathrooms or during ADLs; a reaching tool can prevent potential injuries caused by bending over and trying to access things that are just out of your reach. Furthermore, falls can create a loss of independence that can deteriorate mood, mental health, and overall quality of life. The long and short of it is to reduce falls through vigilance and awareness, whether for you or for someone you love.

Mobility Risks

So, let’s consider what happens when your sight is impaired due to undiagnosed glaucoma. First, a fall is more likely to occur- particularly in those that have physical limitations or that are older. Falls can lead to injury, further eye trauma, or infection- including the often- fatal C-Difficile infection, which can be contracted through germs and bacteria all around us. It is safe to say that there are a host of complicated risks associated with a fall due to impaired vision due to glaucoma, both undetected as well as in diagnosed cases.

National Staying Healthy Month in January is a day set aside to encourage and facilitate people to get healthier, through prevention, education, and area resources. It is a time that motivates and inspires us- every one- to do what they can to preserve their health and wellbeing.

Want to stay healthier, longer? Make sure that you visit your eye care professional regularly to be tested and monitored for glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness in this country. What better way to honor National Staying Healthy Month this January than with an examination by your eye doctor or practitioner. Another way to pay tribute to National Staying Healthy Month is with mobility aids and solutions from Pacific Mobility. The link between glaucoma and mobility exists; resolve to do something about it by increasing access and autonomy with mobility aids and equipment today. Call for a no-commitment needs assessment.