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Mobility aids to help you get safely around your home

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From walkers to grab bars and canes to stairlifts, mobility aids that help you get safely around the home are prudent and practical investments. Visit mobility vendors in the Bay Area to find the right devices and equipment that make the home environment a safer one- from the porch to the kitchen! The right mobility aids also support aging in place, which is a primary goal for many seniors widely.

When it comes to accessing and getting around the home safely, mobility aids may be life-changing. The sheer peace of mind that comes from knowing you will be able to get where you need to go in your home living situation is reassuring and may parlay the anxiety of many seniors.

When the home is safer, the risk of a fall and subsequent injury is lessened, which is good news for anyone over the age of 65, as this population is particularly prone to debilitating falls and lengthy rehab. In fact, it is estimated that every 11 seconds, a senior is treated at a hospital for injuries sustained in a fall; it is further reported that every 19 minutes, someone over age 65 dies as a result of a fall.

Now is the time to invest in mobility aids that help you get safely around your home environment: 

Scooters

Scooters are a way for those that might otherwise be housebound, or at the very least, that have struggled with ambulating for any distance, get out and remain active. Scooters work for those that lack the upper-body strength of a conventional manual wheelchair. More and more businesses are adopting scooters for their patrons, and charging stations abound in retail venues.

Scooters can be expensive, but insurance typically assists with costs for those that meet medical criteria per their doctor or providers. Work with a mobility retailer that will help you navigate this process and make it easier to get the aids that you need.

Lifts

Do you struggle with stairs? Lifts make it feasible to visit upper levels of the home, which may in some instances, be where bathrooms and bedrooms are located. Furthermore, outdoor lifts like porch or pool lifts, allow users to once again have free reign over their property and surroundings. How nice to be able to visit a garden, enjoy a patio, or take a dip in the water; lifts require an investment and professional installation so skip the DIY path for optimal safety.

Ramps

Whether you use a scooter, wheelchair, or none of the above, a ramp creates a much gentler, low-impact alternative to steps or stairs. There are portable ramps found at mobility retail venues, which are both cost-efficient and convenient to use wherever you go. For more permanent solutions, you may choose to have contractors construct a ramp over an existing staircase or build your own. Make sure to use pressure-treated wood to prevent moisture damage over time, but stain or treat the ramp to prevent it from being slippery under-foot. There are some specialized paints and stains that are anti-slip or that have a textural component added for tread.

Shower Seats

Want to make your bathroom immediately safer? Get yourself a shower seat. These water-resilient seats are made to fit in the tub or shower stall to provide users a sturdy spot to sit and bathe without requiring assistance from others or being at risk of slipping. These seats fit all different types of baths, so talk to a mobility vendor to find exactly what you need for your distinct bathroom.

Grab Bars

Grab bars around the home make problematic spots and areas safer. For instance, near a toilet where you sit and stand frequently can be the cause of a fall; a grab bar offers support and stability. Near stairs is another spot that a grab bar makes sense, as you reach for a railing. Add a grab bar to the sink in the kitchen to offer stability when doing culinary chores, like washing dishes or cooking a meal.

Canes and Reachers

Reaching tools prevent the user from over-extending and potentially losing their balance. Canes provide that same kind of support when users sit, stand, or walk over uneven terrain. This could be in your backyard or when you cook dinner in your home’s kitchen.

Aging in place refers to staying in the home living situation as long as possible, and as autonomous as possible. Mobility aids support this goal and provide many seniors with peace of mind when it comes to their future and independence. Talk to practitioners and vendors about distinctive aids to make the home more accessible and the user more independent.

Ready to check out some mobility aids or devices? Talk to the industry professionals at Pacific Mobility in the Bay Area today. This family-operated business has been accommodating the needs of those with limited mobility or physical disabilities for over 60 years and look forward to helping you. Don’t go to a business without the reputation and reviews for your mobility aids and equipment; call us today.

Making Sure Your Stairlift Is Properly Fitted May Avoid Expensive Problems in The Future

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Making sure your stairlift is properly fitted and avoid expensive problems later by only allowing a professional to install your mobility products. This ensures the lift not only fits properly, but that it works optimally and that you- the user- understands how to operate it safely in the home. Working with reputable mobility retailers is the easiest and most effective way to avoid future issues, problems, and conundrums, related to your new equipment or devices.  

There really is only one way to ensure that your stairlift is properly fitted and suited to your home’s staircase or steps- have a professional mobility retailer evaluate and install your system. An ill-fitting stairlift is a hazard, not just for those using it, but others in the home, visitors, and even your pets. When it comes to investing in mobility equipment like stairlifts, working with a reputable and established mobility vendor is key.

Here is basically everything you need to know about installing your mobility aids properly:

Comprehensive Consultation

When you work with industry experts, a professional consultation is always the first stage of the buying process when it comes to mobility aids, like stairlifts. You don’t want to be coerced or mistaken into buying equipment that you don’t need or that won’t work in your living environment. The only way to determine and establish if a lift is right for you is through a consult and conversation with a qualified and knowledgeable mobility vendor. Be wary of anyone who wants to sell you something without taking the time to know you and your needs.

Professional Installation

It can’t be said enough; when buying stairlifts, go with professional installation only. Never attempt to install your own- this may devoid any manufacturer warranty on the equipment, too. Furthermore, it is easy to ill-fit or install unsafely without experience and specialized skills. Play it safe and go with a pro.

Curvatures and Bends

Concerned that your stairs won’t accommodate a life? If curvatures and bends, or height and depth of your stairs worry you, know that there are lifts for any and all living situations. The best way to find out how this works is to talk to a mobility retailer or representative. It is even more imperative that you don’t rely on laymen or invest in private-party sales for lifts when you have a complex living situation, such as an angled or curved stairway.

Inside and Out

Yes, it is now possible to install lifts both indoors and outdoors for increased access and convenience. Make sure that it is the right model to withstand the elements, even in the milder climate of Southern California. Porch, pool, and stairlifts can make the exteriors of your living situation as accessible and enjoyable as the inside; call a mobility professional to learn more today.

Weight Restrictions and Limits

When speaking about ill-fitting stairlifts, it should also be mentioned that the wrong type of lift can be an issue. Know the weight limits and restrictions before trusting it to carry individuals safely. You should also never ride passengers on the lift; it is intended for one user and there is only one safety belt on the seat.

Manufacturer Recommendations

Speaking of safety practices, sick to the recommendations and guidelines provided by the manufacturer to prevent problems of any kind when using your lift. These suggestions typically relate to safe use and operation of the lift, as well as provide outlines for maintaining and servicing your device. Make sure to review the owner’s manual and materials after buying your lift and defer questions to your mobility retailer directly.

Sales, Service, and Support

Finally, there really is no comparison to the service and support after the sale when it comes to buying a stairlift; who will you call if your device stops working? Where will you direct your questions or queries? When you buy from a company that prides itself on a reputation for providing quality sales and service in Southern California, you have someone to call. When buying your lift, consider what customers have to say about the service and support after the sale; this can be very telling.

Use these tips when contemplating a stairlift in your home and rest assured that it will be fitted properly when hiring a reputable professional. A professional mobility technician is the only person that you should ever permit to service, repair, or install your stairlift; it is truly the only safe route for buyers to go.

For professional mobility sales and service in California, reach out to Pacific Mobility; with over 60 years in the industry, they have the expertise and skills to find the best mobility aids for your situation. Don’t risk safety by buying aids from second-hand venues, private parties, or shady sellers; trust the mobility experts at Pacific Mobility.

Increasing Activity May Increase Overall Health

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It makes sense that a lack of activity can have health repercussions, but do you realize the severity of these consequences? Increased activity and movement has distinct benefits and using mobility aids makes this possible for many with limitations or disabilities.

You may be aware that activity, movement, and exercise lead to good health, but are you aware of the negative consequences of inactivity? Individuals with limited mobility face distinct health challenges as a lack of activity may lead to exacerbated health conditions, which further impedes wellbeing and quality of life. One way to combat this is through an expanded range of motion and movement with mobility aids, tools, and devices intended to increase activity, and subsequently, overall quality of life.

The repercussions of immobility are severe; increasing activity with mobility aids may increase holistic health:

Chronic Pain

Immobility actually worsens chronic pain but movement may aggravate pain. In most instances, pain may subside with gradual, low-impact activity but know that the temporary pain is worth enduring for the numerous benefits mentioned below.

Stomach Issues

Immobility is going to cause gastro issues, including heartburn, aspiration, and gas. Sitting upright during and after meals is key for digestion; this may not be feasible for those with mobility issues. Depending on the extent of the physical disability, it may be more difficult to have regular bowel movements which can contribute to nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Urination and Elimination

When it comes to relieving one’s self, how you are positioned is key. It may be difficult to fully empty the bladder in some situations. When urine pools in the bladder, it can cause issues including infection.

Skin Sores

When it comes to inactivity or immobility, skin sores pose a very dangerous health risk. Pressure of any kind increases the chance of getting ulcers which, when infected, can contribute to illness, infection, and even death. It is important to change positions every ten minutes or so when healthy; those with mobility issues may rely on others for this shift in position. Sometimes even slight pressure from bedding or clothing can lead to abrasions and injuries that can become painful and infected.  

Circulation

Naturally, inactivity leads to poor circulation and issues with the circulatory system, including edema, blood clots, and vertigo. This increases pressure on the heart, which may lead to fatal conditions like heart disease and stroke.

Nutrition

When you are immobile, the way that your body utilizes food and nutrition changes. The body stores fats and sugar, which can lead to diabetic complications and endocrine system problems. Hormones and sodium levels may be off, too, when you don’t get enough physical activity regularly.

Muscles

With inactivity comes the breakdown of muscle and atrophy. Over time the pain and stiffness associated with using muscle groups for basic movements may further impede progress and facilitate issues with muscles.  It is estimated that you lose around 10% of muscle strength for every week of inactivity and immobility, depending on various factors. Furthermore, immobility can cause painful cramps and contractures of underutilized muscles; many report these episodes to be painful enough to keep them awake at night.

Bones

Inactivity weakens the bones over time and causes the loss of Calcium from immobility. This lack of activity puts you at a much greater risk for developing Osteoporosis, which may contribute to breaks and fractures later- on.

Breathing

Immobility can make it harder to fully expand the lungs and take a breath. It is more difficult to have a productive cough that clears secretions from the lungs when you have mobility issues. Prolonged positioning may put pressure on the chest which impacts breathing.

Mood and Mental Health

Would you believe that increased activity is connected to your mood and mental wellbeing? It is and immobility can erode and deteriorate mental health conditions significantly. Some ways that inactivity impact mental health and wellbeing include:

  • Hopelessness
  • Anxiety
  •  Irritability
  • Loss of autonomy and independence
  • Restlessness or insomnia
  • Apathy
  • Lethargy
  • Boredom
  • Dementia
  • Depression
  • Mood lability
  • Social isolation
  • Disorientation
  • Listlessness
  • Withdrawal.

Inactivity and associated mood may contribute to addiction, also. Whether an individual begins to self-medicate or if relapse from old dependencies occurs, immobility makes the individual vulnerable to addictive behaviors.

Mobility aids facilitate movement and activity, which can lead to improved and increased holistic wellbeing. Visit vendors and talk to providers about the best aids and devices for your distinct situation, living environment, and lifestyle.

In Southern California,  Pacific Mobility is the go-to expert for mobility aids. Reap the rewards of working with a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the mobility needs of clients in the Bay Area for over 60 years. Call for a free, no-obligation assessment today.

Honoring Those That Have Served

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Pacific Mobility recognizes and honors veterans this November for Veterans Day- and year-round. Veterans with physical disabilities or mobility issues are encouraged to come see what we can offer to them to preserve autonomy, independence, and quality of life, which they so richly and rightly deserve. Pay homage to a veteran today.

When it comes to quality of life, nobody deserves it more than a veteran of the Armed Forces. After fighting for the rights of millions of people that they have never met, they deserve to have the necessary implements and mobility aids needed to preserve quality of life. Please honor someone on Veterans Day in November and show some compassion for those that fought for our freedom.

Some ways to aid or assist a veteran in November include these tips:

Support Independence

Perhaps the greatest way to honor a veteran is to do what you can to support the independence of one or someone that you love. Assist with a ride, groceries, or a kind word and ask what- if anything- you could do to help them out. When it comes to those living with physical disabilities, this is the kind of offer that helps them to age in place while maintaining autonomy, dignity, and quality of life. Thank you in advance for whatever kind act you choose to do this Veterans Day.

Reduce Fall Risks

Falls are the biggest health challenge facing seniors and this extends to older Veterans, too. A fall can exacerbate current medical issues and compromise independent living. Falls cause seniors to break bones and require rehabilitative care, and many never fully recover. These factors all contribute to life-changing consequences for the senior, such as moving to assisted type living. Reduce the risk of a fall by maintaining a safer environment for the senior with these tips:

  • Buy a reaching tool for them to use in the kitchen.
  • Reconfigure cabinets to hold the most used items nearby.
  • Remove clutter and debris from around the home that could be a tripping hazard.
  • Install railings on steps, stairs, or landings.

Ask providers and mobility vendors about other steps that you can take to ensure the safety and reduce falls for your loved one.

Engage and Interact

Got a friend, neighbor, or family member that has served in the military? Make time to listen and really hear what the individual is saying to you, without watching the clock or playing on your phone. Ask them about an experience, place, or person, and allow them to reminisce for a few minutes. Show them photos of loved ones or a recent trip and share a few special moments together. Bring a little gift, like a small plant or favorite snack, just to show them that you care.

Respect Choices

Listen to how you communicate with a senior in your life; do you show them respect? Make this Veterans Day in November the time to change the way that you talk to others, including veterans, seniors, or those that you provide care for. Instead of lecturing or admonishing for circumstances or situations, encourage and motivate with kind, gentle words. Maybe the choices that they make seem impractical to you but respect them and let them live autonomously as long as possible.

Improve Access

Do something that improves the access and subsequent independence around the home, like install grab bars. These work great near the sinks, toilet, tub, as well as the top and bottom of stairways or steps. These are inexpensive to buy from mobility dealers and can go a long way in improving access and reducing hazards.

Enhance Safety

Take a few minutes to do a safety check at the home of a beloved veteran or senior. This includes moving or removing area rugs that could be dangerous and changing light bulbs to enhance lighting. You may also move furniture to ensure a smooth, wide berth through the home and keep any front steps or porch free from obstacles, ice, or hazards.

Donate to Causes

Donate generously to causes that are related to Veterans’ issues, like VA programs. Some programs, like animal-assisted therapies, only work when citizens donate their time, resources, and in this example, pets to help others. Share unwanted clothing or belongings to VA centers and hospitals widely and many have thrift stores or other ways of supporting their offerings with these used items. Drop off a can of food to local food banks that veterans and seniors frequent or spend a few bucks to purchase gift cards for these local venues.

Work with a vendor that will collaborate to find the mobility aids covered by your insurance or VA benefits. Pacific Mobility wants to make the process as easy as possible so that those deserving of equipment get it fast. Pacific Mobility recognizes and appreciates the sacrifices made by veterans of the Armed Forces. Come see us for a comprehensive evaluation and no-obligation estimate for mobility aids In Southern California. We look forward to serving you.

Type and Location make all the difference when installing grab bars

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Grab bars are a simple solution to preventing falls and increase mobility but know that the type and location make all the difference when installing these aids. Talk to mobility vendors and retailers to learn more about the top spots to install grab bars, as well as the types and styles of grab bars that make the most sense for you and your home environment.

A grab bar is an inexpensive way to make the home a safer, more accessible place. The most common areas for these aids tend to be bathrooms, as well as other often wet or slippery spaces, such as kitchens and exteriors. When visiting your Southern California mobility dealer, discuss where you want to install the grab bars to determine the best type of grab bar for the situation and environment. This is a case where one size does not fit all.

 

Wall and Floor Bars

Wall and floor grab bars are the kinds that can go where you go; they are portable and can be secured to the floor or along a wall in a snap. Usually, you will find wall grab bars installed in the bathroom, near the toilet. This offers needed support getting up and down from the toilet, which is a common scenario that can cause nasty falls. Furthermore, the location of these bars reduces wrist strain that can occur when a senior uses a typical low-standing toilet without such support.

The Superpole

For support wherever it is needed, a Superpole may be the answer. A Superpole can be installed just about anywhere in a home where support may be needed. It extends from the floor to the ceiling, offering vertical support for individuals that need assistance getting up and down from beds, toilets, or tubs. These grab bars are inventive and contemporary with comfortable grips that help assure your hands won’t slide. These are easy to install but know that reputable mobility vendors offer installation for these devices- and all the products that they sell. There is a weight limit for safe use of the Superpole, and typically it is 300 pounds, though there may be heavy-weight options available that can support up to 400 pounds. Talk to your mobility dealer to find out more.

Straight Wall Mount Grab Bars

A common grab bar solution is usually found with straight wall mount bars. These are the grab bars that you often see utilized in public places, like restrooms. One of the advantages to this type of grab bar is that they are easy to install and mount, while also found in a wide range of sizes including 18”- 36” most frequently. You could choose complementary colored grab bars to be cohesive with your décor, though the most common styles have stainless steel surfaces.

In residential settings, a straight wall mount grab bar is ideal to be positioned near the toilet, as well as inside the shower stall or tub area. Some homes find these bars useful near steps or risers, where a railing may not be present. You have a lot of installation options with these grab bars, as they can be installed horizontally, vertically, and diagonally. Depending on where you put them and what you need, the position of the grab bar will vary. Rely on your mobility vendor to guide you in terms of which ones make the most sense and which direction they should be installed for optimal safety.

Soap Dish Grab Bar Combo

Why not let your grab bar multi-task as a soap dish? The Soap Dish Grab Bar brings two distinct purposes to the home: a useful bar to lend support during bathing or showering and to hold your soap and shampoo! Any device or grab bar that makes this typically slick and dangerous area a bit safer is well worth pursuing. These are usually crafted from stainless steel to be mounted along the wall of your shower.

Grab Bar with Shelves

Again, if you want your grab bar to do a little bit more, consider investing in the Grab Bar with Shelf type. This bar allows you a place to store the items that you use in the shower nearby, which makes bathing inherently safer. These are installed differently, however, usually in the left or right corners near the showerhead or faucet.

Sometimes the simplest solutions are right under your nose: make common-sense strategies to decrease fall risk around the home. For instance, make sure that you use a non-slip mat near the tub and shower, as well as some sort of tread or mat inside the bath as well. These are found widely to accommodate various size fixtures.

Ready to make your home a safer, more secure place to be? Talk to the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility today; they can point you in the right direction for the best grab bars to suit your needs. Since the location you plan to install the grab bar is critical, they will also tease-out the best type of bar for these installations. This can save you a lot of inconvenience as you adjust to utilizing your grab bars- while also preventing potential falls and injuries. Call our mobility experts today!

Still on the Fence about Getting a Stairlift? 5 Good Reasons to Move Forward

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Consumers that are still on the fence about getting a stairlift may need reminding of at least five good and sensible reasons to move forward and invest. Lifts have longevity- and as long as you purchase from a reputable mobility dealer in the area, you can expect it to be a prudent and practical investment that holds its value, provides accessibility, and improves lives.

If you struggle with physical limitations or accessibility issues, a stairlift can be a lifechanging mobility device. Sadly, many consumers assume that these aids are either cost-prohibitive or too complicated- both of which couldn’t be further from the truth. Sure, a stairlift is a big investment, and a decision to not take lightly, but before you rule out the benefits of moving forward with a stairlift, talk to an area mobility dealer; it may be more affordable and viable than you think.

Still on the Fence about Getting a Stairlift? Five good reasons to move forward are:

1.      Stairlifts increase access and convenience in the home. Perhaps the number-one reason to move forward are issues related to access and convenience in the home environment. After all, isn’t that why people invest in stairlifts, to increase accessibility? Many buyers report the thrill of being able to revisit second stories and other levels of their home, including their bedrooms and bathrooms. This convenience alone makes getting a stairlift a prudent and practical decision.

2.      A stairlift is an investment that holds value over time. Know that your stairlift will hold value and is an investment that can be used for years to come- either by you or by someone else. Some vendors offer a buy-back program or will allow for trades. This is pertinent information to garner when making buying decisions or when talking with mobility aid professionals. Furthermore, you may be able to rent or buy second-hand devices from reputable dealers in the region; do not invest in equipment from private parties, however, if possible. These devices are typically not covered by any type of warranty or support after the sale, which can be problematic for consumers who need installation or service advice once the stairlift comes home.

3.      Stairlifts increase safety in the home. There is no doubt that stairlifts increase and enhance safety around the home. First, they provide a gentle and effective way to navigate steps, stairs, or risers to access specific areas of the home. This may help to curb fall hazards in and around the home for seniors or those with physical limitations- which may contribute to a more secure and therapeutic home environment. All of these factors also are relevant when it comes to aging in place, but more on that next.

4.      Stairlifts support seniors ‘age-in-place’. Seniors that choose and desire to live in their own home environment as they grow older is considered aging in place. This lifestyle relies on in-home supports and health prevention to stay in the setting as long as possible with the aim being quality of life. Stairlifts support aging in place as they prevent nasty falls which are reported to be a major obstacle to seniors staying healthy and in their desired living situation. Falls are to blame for health deterioration and hospitalization, which can compromise staying in the home.

5.      Stairlifts improve lives. Finally, stairlifts improve quality of life. By maintaining autonomy and independence, seniors or those with physical limitations have more options and choices, which play a role in overall quality of life. Access and good health are factors that contribute to independence and living life on one’s own terms. Is this something that you are interested in preserving, protecting, or attaining? Talk to a mobility aid professional to learn more today.

When choosing a mobility retailer, make sure that you work with one that has established expertise in selling mobility equipment and that stands behind what they offer. You can glean a good sense of most companies by checking out online reviews and rankings from prior customers and patrons. Be wary of vendors that push products and that could sell you something you don’t really need. Look for courteous sales representatives and skilled installers that offer service and support after the sale.

In Southern California, visit the professionals at Pacific Mobility; we are a family-owned and operated business for over 60 years and we look forward to helping you with your mobility needs! We will support your decision to invest in a stairlift and bring you the highest quality products to consider but we do not want to sell you something you don’t need. We want your loyal patronage more than a quick sale and stand behind the equipment that we sell. Consumers and clients highly-rate our customer service; call and speak with us today to learn more about innovative mobility solutions.

Inspired Ways to Celebrate International Day of Older Persons 

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October 1st marks the observance of International Day of Older Persons, which is the perfect time to reach out and give to a senior that you know or care for. Since freedom and autonomy impact quality of life, consider mobility aids and solutions for those struggling with physical limitations or disabilities. Make it a mission to learn more and disseminate information to seniors that could improve their situation and simplify everyday living.

Does someone you know live with a physical limitation? Sadly, mobility issues can affect their independence and impact their desire to age in place, at home. There are some solutions: mobility aids may be just the right amount of support and security to endorse seniors that want to preserve their autonomy. Observe ‘International Day of Older Persons’ this October and become more empathetic to the seniors in your life. While visiting nursing homes or spending time with relatives may seem like a proper way to spend the commemorative event, try something a bit more inventive that could have lasting benefits for a senior.

Make it a year to remember; some inspired ways to celebrate International Day of Older Persons this October 1st include:

  • Take someone to lunch. Plan to take someone dear for a leisurely lunch. Make time to chat and listen, relishing the time spent with this person.
  • Send a senior a special delivery. Send or take a senior a care package with both practical and luxurious goodies for them to use and enjoy. Some awesome items to include in packages are snacks, grooming items, socks, magazines, stationery items, and postage stamps.
  • Bring love to the bathroom. Help a senior with mobility issues stay safe in the bathroom by installing grab bars near the sink or toilet. These are not expensive but can prevent a nasty fall and serious injury for someone you love.
  • Handwrite a note. Mail or hand-deliver a senior a beautiful greeting card with a handwritten note inside. Feeling crafty? Make your own card!
  • Sing a song or two. Consider going to sing some songs at a nursing home or senior center but check with the activities staff first to make sure it is permitted. Don’t sing? Read poetry or from a favorite book to seniors that want to lend an ear.
  • Build a ramp. Build someone a ramp for a wheelchair or walker. Make sure that it adheres to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines regarding handicap accessible ramps.
  • Think ahead for spring. Even though it is fall, think ahead to spring and plant bulbs in a community garden for seniors to enjoy later-on. Buy a couple of beautiful potted Mums to share with a special older person right now.
  • Bake a batch of cookies. Bake a batch of cookies or treats to share with a neighbor, relative, or other senior that has a sweet tooth. Pick up cute an inexpensive cookie platters and containers at a dollar store to give without worrying about getting it back later.
  • Have some tea or coffee. Host a small tea party or invite an older person out for coffee at a favorite local spot.
  • Plan to feed your friend. If you are already cooking a meal, go ahead and prepare a little extra. Bake and freeze a few meals and drop them off to a friend.
  • Offer them a lift. Why not offer a ride for appointments, errands, or shopping? This means a lot to a housebound senior or someone who doesn’t drive. They will try, but don’t let them give you gas money! Tell them that this one is on you.
  • Spend time with animals. Engage seniors with therapeutic pets; visit a shelter, bring a dog to visit, or do something special for the senior’s pet, if applicable. Offer to take the pet to an appt, buy kibble, or help groom…this will mean a lot to an animal lover.
  • Learn more. Take time to talk to a mobility expert about investing in mobility aids, like lifts or wheelchairs, for your loved one. There are inventive mobility solutions waiting that have the ability to change lives- check them out!

Sometimes the smallest gestures mean the most. Know that the underlying mission of this observance is to spend time and empathize with older persons. Don’t let money be the reason you skip International Day of Older Persons; simply extend a hand of friendship to a senior that you care about.

Do something to change the life of a senior that you love for the better; call the mobility experts to learn more about innovative ways to increase accessibility and improve mobility. Mobility directly influences the quality of life- look closer at tools and aids that may help seniors maintain their independence and dignity, throughout the lifespan.

How Impaired Mobility Impacts Mental Health 

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Impairments in mobility have a direct and significant impact on mental health and wellbeing. In fact, issues surrounding mobility and autonomy for seniors can play a role in life quality and longevity. Consider this during Mental Health Awareness Month in May; reflect, learn, and share insights and information that may help those struggling with mental health decline.

Become a more informed patient, caregiver, or consumer regarding how impaired mobility impacts mental health and wellbeing. In fact, mental health is a hot social topic currently, responsible for holistic health issues widely. Mental Health Awareness Month in May sheds some light on the plight of those living with mental health issues and illnesses, but how does mobility come into the picture? Preserve your own autonomy and quality of life by enhancing access with mobility aids or devices, as needed.

Limited or impaired mobility impacts mental health, period:

Become More Aware

Perhaps the most important thing for consumers to do is to become more aware, more specifically, be open to mental health awareness. Mental Health Awareness Month is in May of each year and is a great time to become more educated that on the factors that influence your overall mental health and wellbeing. After all, nobody knows you as well as yourself- protect yourself and preserve quality of life by identifying issues with mental health sooner, instead of later.

If left untreated, mental health issues like depression and anxiety can impact overall independence, autonomy, and quality of life. This is especially threatening for seniors that may strive to stay in their own homes and age-in-place.

Do You Know the Signs?

Do you know the signs of a problem or what to look for? Some of the symptoms of mental health issues may include:

• Feelings of sadness or nervousness.
• Muscle weakness, tension, or lethargy.
• Headaches or chronic, physical ailments.
• Mood changes, impatience, anger, or irritability.
• Less motivation, ambition, or energy. Lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
• Issues with routine function, either at home or work.
• Difficulty paying attention or concentrating. Issues with memory; forgetfulness.
• Changes in sleep or eating habits.
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or shame.
• Unhealthy behaviors, such as drinking, smoking, or using drugs.

If you or someone you care about is exhibiting any of these signs or experiencing these symptoms, call for help today.

Your Body and Mind are Connected

Did you know that your physical condition directly influences mental health and wellbeing? If you live and suffer from physical health issues, you are likely to be at-risk for mental health problems, too. Chronic pain, an infection, or limited mobility all can take a toll on your mental wellbeing, causing you stress, duress, and anxiety. Similarly, if you experience depression or mental health issues, these may manifest in physical ailments or episodes. Body and mind go hand-in-hand; remember this connection to stay holistically healthy.

Socialize to Stay Healthy

When mobility impacts socialization, you may notice mental health struggles. Research is increasingly recognizing the value of engaging with others and human interaction as a key element of longevity and quality of life. If you cancel outings or isolate due to limited mobility, your mental health is at risk. Socialize to stay healthy and implement mobility equipment and aids (like lifts or walkers) as needed to preserve these interactions. It is really that important.

Exercise Stimulates Endorphins

Many have indicated that exercise helps mental health; if your mobility prohibits regular exercise, you may find yourself experiencing the symptoms of mental health decline. Exercise is often prescribed to combat mental health issues like anxiety and depression; furthermore, it is effective at reducing aches and chronic pains. Preserving mobility through aids or other is well worth the effort as it may keep you moving; exercise stimulates endorphins which makes it a great, all-natural mood stabilizer.

Science Says It’s True

Can something as simple as mobility aids help mental health? We say yes… science seems to agree. Without this assistance when needed, a lack of access may lead to isolation, social anxiety, depression, and a decreased quality of life.

Mobility contributes to autonomy which often directly relates to mood and mental wellbeing.

You Can Help

But, what can you do? Talk to providers, caregivers, and anyone who will listen about issues that are impacting your holistic health. The stigma of mental health issues is over and people are much more open about problems and struggles- helping providers effectively treat their patients. Know that reporting these symptoms to your providers is the first step in moving past them and getting on with your life.

Call the mobility experts today and learn more about your options. Are mobility issues impacting your quality of life and mental health? Don’t live another day without the tools that you need for access, convenience, and joy in everyday life; contact us today.