disability

A stairlift can enhance accessibility and improve quality of life, which is why it is so important to take proper care of it. First, make sure to only allow a qualified technician to install, repair, or service your stairlift, and follow some simple tips to keep your stairlift working flawlessly for years to come.  

Experts report that around one in every four adults sustains a fall each year. Most of these accidents occur in the individual’s own home.  Mobility aids, such as a stairlift, can help reduce the risk of a nasty and injurious fall, enhancing accessibility and increasing safety daily. For this reason, it is integral to keep your lift working smoothly, but how do you do this? 

Keep your stairlift working flawlessly with these tips: 

Refer to the Manual 

Don’t forget to refer to the owner’s manual for your lift if ever you have a question or concern. It is important to familiarize yourself with your new mobility equipment- everything you need to know is included in this useful guide. As always, you should only operate and use the lift as recommended by the manufacturer; this information will be clearly outlined in the owner’s manual included with your new stairlift. When in doubt, refer to the manual! 

Heed the Weight Limit 

Typically, a stairlift has a weight limit of 300 pounds; make sure to heed this to ensure your lift works smoothly. Some lifts do have a higher weight limit- like bariatric lifts- so refer to your owner’s manual to find out the weight restriction for your distinct model. Do not carry kids, animals, heavy objects, or additional people on the lift as you could unknowingly exceed the weight limit and cause damage to your equipment.  

Use the Safety Belt  

When you look over your new stairlift, you will notice the safety belt that looks like a seat belt that you would find in a vehicle. Did you know that most stairlift accidents occur due to the user not wearing this safety belt? Even though you are familiar with and adept at using the lift, always make a practice of securing the belt to prevent incidents and possible injuries. Buckle up for safety.  

Keep Kids and Pets Away 

Kids will want to play near, on, and around the lift. These devices can be very tempting to young children. Furthermore, pets may come in contact with the lift, sniffing around to check it out. Reinforce and repeat that stairlifts are not for kids or pets and deter them from playing on them. Still struggling with keeping kids away from your stairlift? Ask your retailer about a key lock that will prevent them from being able to turn it on and use the lift.  

Watch for Obstacles 

Keep the stairs and steps clear and obstacle-free as much as possible. Most lifts operate with sensors that will detect and stop when an object is in its path. Keeping a clutter-free path helps ensure the smooth operation of your device. Also, avoid using the lift at the same time as someone is using the stairway, as you need a clear berth to ascend and descend safely. Fold in the stairlift seat when not in use to create a wider path for those who use the stairs, too.  

Be Wary with Liquids 

If there is one thing that can do irreversible damage to your new lift, it is liquids. Liquids, even plain water, can wreak havoc with the mechanics of your stairlift, potentially rendering it inoperable. For this reason, avoid carrying uncovered food or drinks on the lift whenever possible. The liquid can damage your equipment, and if it is a hot drink, it can also burn and injure you at the same time. If you must transport open beverages or containers from one level of the home to the next, ask someone for assistance and preserve your stairlift.  

Enlist Professionals for Service and Support 

Another tip to preserve the condition and operation of your stairlift is to only allow a qualified technician to install, service, or repair your lift. Also, never allow anyone to make changes to the lift that are not endorsed by the manufacturer, as this could make your equipment warranty null and void. It makes the most sense to purchase lifts from legitimate and reliable retailers that will provide support to you after the sale, rather than trying to save a few bucks by buying used from a third-party seller. Again, only reach out to mobility professionals for service and support to protect your warranty and your new lift! 

For quality mobility aids in Southern California, including stairlifts, call on the team at Pacific Mobility. We offer brand-name mobility aids, including Bruno stairlifts, to our clients looking for autonomy and accessibility. We look forward to assisting you; call or visit today! 

If you have diabetes, you know the many areas of health and wellbeing that can be impacted. Reduced mobility is, unfortunately, another complication arising from diabetes. So, how is mobility decreased? Many side-effects of this chronic condition can contribute to physical difficulties, disabilities, and challenges, which in turn affect mobility. Here is what you need to know!  

Do you or someone you love have diabetes? It is far more common than one may think, and the side effects and complications of diabetes are extensive. One area impacted is mobility. For example, reduced mobility can be a complication of diabetic neuropathy or vision changes due to diabetes. In some instances, mobility aids may help enhance accessibility and preserve quality of life. Consult with your healthcare provider to learn more about your diabetic risks or diagnosis.  

Various complications from diabetes can greatly impact your mobility, including these: 

Vision Impairment 

One way that diabetes can impact mobility is with visual impairment. It is not uncommon for diabetics to suffer from eye pathologies that lead to temporary and permanent eye issues- even blindness. The level of impairment varies, but it may be acute enough to cause issues with walking. One way that this occurs is with a loss of depth perception, which may cause many people to stumble or fall. Sugar levels can also cause temporary blurriness of vision, with severity changing from one day to the next. 

Limb Sensation 

Another complication that may arise is diabetic neuropathy, which can impact the sensation you have in your extremities. This condition can impair the feelings in your legs and feet, making it difficult or even dangerous to walk. Diabetic motor neuropathy can also cause a condition called ‘foot drop.’ Foot drop is when you have trouble lifting the toes and top of your foot, which could cause you to trip, fall, or get hurt.  

Chronic Pain 

The sheer pain of diabetes is a complication severe enough that it can impede mobility. Neuropathy impacts nerves, so chronic pain is not uncommon among diabetics. Some individuals may find relief with medications prescribed by their physicians, but side effects from those could also affect mobility or cause a loss of coordination among many.  

Muscle Weakness 

Did you know that diabetics are more prone to muscle weakness and wasting than others? Some sufferers may be recommended surgery to resolve the use of limbs, but it is not without its own risks and complications. This weakness can lead to atrophy of muscles which eventually erodes the ability to walk and mobility, in general.  

Amputation 

Diabetics often endure amputation of limbs due to complications from the disease. Infections, inflammation, or loss of circulation can contribute to the need to amputate feet, legs, hands, or more. Any kind of amputation could detrimentally impact mobility, causing loss of coordination or balance. If you undergo an amputation related to your diabetes, follow through with physical therapy to retain as much physical mobility as possible. The risks of an amputation further reinforce why it is so critical to manage and treat diabetes vigilantly.  

Obesity 

Diabetes and obesity are akin to a ‘chicken-and-egg’ scenario; which comes first? The truth is the two are related and if you are obese, you are more prone to becoming diabetic, while if you are diabetic, odds are you could be overweight. It boils down to how your body metabolizes glucose and insulin resistance. It can become a cycle that merits discussion with your doctor to find out more. Managing your weight with a healthy diet and physical activity should not be underestimated when it comes to treating and living with diabetes.  

Autonomy  

If you live with diabetes and related health complications, you may lose a lot of your independence due to the disease. From side effects impacting your ability to stand or walk, to a fear of falling and subsequent loss of confidence, diabetes influences your autonomy. Previous experiences, such as accidents or injuries, may make many afraid to live on their own or skeptical about their ability to do so. A diagnosis of diabetes can be scary; awareness, insight, and support can help make navigating this complex disease much less daunting.  

National Sugar Awareness Week in January is a time to help raise awareness of diabetes, as well as the complications that can arise from this disease. Another 98 million people are pre-diabetic, meaning that lifestyle changes and treatment could help reverse their condition. It is estimated that nearly 38 million Americans have diabetes- but only around 20% are aware of their diagnosis. If you have diabetes, know that you are not alone.  

Restore accessibility and autonomy resulting from diabetic complications with quality mobility aids from Pacific Mobility. We offer unsurpassed products and unrivaled customer service; call or visit today! 

Never underestimate the impact of your lifestyle and habits on holistic health and wellbeing. In fact, you can stay healthier across the lifespan when you adopt a few worthwhile habits and implement them every day. Experts report that it takes 30 days for an action to become a habit; here are a few that will help you stay healthy! 

Lifestyle plays a big role in overall health and wellness. What habits do you struggle with? In some situations, poor health and medical issues can be circumvented by implementing some healthy habits. For instance, using mobility aids regularly can reduce your risk of a fall, which may prevent debilitating injuries.  

Do you want to adopt healthier habits this new year? Here are a few that are closely connected to wellbeing: 

Eat a Healthy Diet 

It is hard to deny the fact that a healthy diet is connected to overall wellness. Make this the year that you clean up your regular eating habits. Aim to eat as many wholesome, nutritious foods as possible and stay hydrated with plenty of water. It is okay to incorporate your favorite treats but do so in moderation. If you carry extra weight, losing a few pounds can take a lot of stress and strain off your joints and improve mobility, in many cases. Also, try to avoid eating right before bedtime, as the digestive process can interfere with a good night’s sleep- but more on sleep habits later! 

Get Moving 

Another healthy habit to adopt involves physical activity, do you get enough exercise? If mobility affects your ability to get up and move around, try chair exercises or low-impact activities like swimming. Did you know that 20 minutes of brisk exercise can have anti-depressant type effects? It is true; when you move more, you are likely to feel better. Plus, regular exercise may help alleviate some chronic pain conditions, but always consult with your doctor before beginning a new fitness regimen.  

Meet and Make Friends 

Humans are social creatures so it comes as no surprise that socialization is key to healthy aging. Make a new habit of engaging with others, whether that means inviting friends over or attending group meetings, clubs, or events. Interacting and talking with others can have positive repercussions on overall wellbeing- and it could lead to lifelong friendships. Take the time and make the effort to reach out to others; it is worthwhile and could truly be life-changing, too.  

Get a Good Night’s Rest 

The importance of sleep and rest cannot be overstated. In fact, when you sleep poorly, holistic health can and will decline. Make sure that your bed and mattress are up to par. It is recommended that you replace your mattress every 8-10 years; how old is your mattress? 

Invest in Mobility Aids 

Do you live with mobility issues? Mobility aids can create a safer and more accessible home for anyone. Devices like ramps or stairlifts can go a long way toward reducing the risk of a debilitating fall, and there is a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you would benefit from a lift to ascend and descend the stairs in your home, or if you just need a bit of support and stability in the bathroom with grab bars, visit a mobility retailer to learn more! Make improved accessibility a habit this year with quality mobility aids and equipment.  

Create a Clutter-Free Environment 

Another healthy habit involves the home: is it tidy and organized or is it cluttered and chaotic? Do yourself a favor and clear the clutter. Clutter can limit access and may even be the cause of a nasty fall or injury. Additionally, a cluttered environment can make those living there feel anxious and out of sorts, also contributing to a lack of focus and inability to concentrate. Adopt the habit of keeping a clean and clear home and reap the rewards! 

Stick to a Schedule 

If you ask a productive person how they manage to accomplish so much, they likely will say that they stick to a schedule and set some goals every day. Invest in a planner-style calendar and set some objectives each day that you want to achieve. Start formulating a schedule- from waking up to when you go to bed. A routine can be a healthy habit that gives you a sense of order and organization, too, which can lend itself to productivity. If you do not have a daily schedule, try it! 

Practice Kindness, Especially to Yourself 

Do you treat those around you with kindness and care? It costs nothing to practice kindness with everyone including yourself! Make the habit of treating yourself kinder and more gently, as you would a beloved friend or family member. Stop negative self-talk when these thoughts cross your mind. Being kind to yourself is one of the most valuable and worthwhile habits that you can strive for.  

National Staying Healthy Month in January is a great time to explore more worthwhile habits and incorporate these activities into everyday living. Experts report that consistent practice each day can turn these rituals into habits in a month.  

Pacific Mobility has been providing quality mobility aids for generations. Call or visit to learn more today! 

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!