disability

Do you have a stairlift? Are there things that you wish you had known first? It pays to do some research before making buying decisions, and you should try to avoid such an important purchase in haste. With a few simple tips, you can avoid buyer’s remorse and find mobility aids that truly improve your quality of everyday life.  

Thinking about a stairlift? Avoid issues and regrets by doing a little homework to find the best option for your distinct situation. Mobility retailers widely will demonstrate, service, and install aids, but will they provide customer support after the sale? Additionally, there is a lot of misinformation floating around surrounding mobility equipment, like stairlifts, so research may help you debunk some myths, too. Before investing in mobility aids, there are some things that you should know:  

Stairlifts are Easy to Use and Operate 

Do not be concerned that stairlifts are difficult or complicated to use. They are easy and your installer will demonstrate the operation for you. Customers widely report how easy it is to learn and use their stairlifts.  

Anyone Qualifies for a Stairlift  

Remember that anyone can qualify for a stairlift. These are aids that help preserve and increase accessibility, so anyone may benefit from them. Visit a mobility retailer to learn more about available mobility options.  

There is a Lift to Fit your Stairs 

If you have been delaying a stairlift due to the configuration or condition of your stairs, what are you waiting for? Stairlifts come in a wide range of sizes and styles to fit most staircases and steps, but they can also be customized for unique and unconventional stairs, too. Talk to a mobility professional to find out what options exist for your distinct stairs or living situation.  

Stairlifts are Unobtrusive to Others 

Worried that a lift will block or obstruct the main stairway in the home? Don’t be. Stairlifts are less intrusive and easy for others to navigate and pass on the stairs. Also, stair lift seats fold in to create a wider berth at the top or bottom of your stairs.  

Stairlifts Work Indoors and Out 

There are stairlifts intended for inside and outside use. This can provide accessibility to practically anywhere in any home environment.  

Stairlifts Can be Temporary  

Mobility aids can and may be a temporary mobility solution for patients recovering from an accident, injury, or illness. They are a great advantage during rehab and recuperation. Speak with your physician to find out more! 

Be Wary of Secondhand Purchases 

You may find some seemingly good deals on secondhand stairlifts during your research into mobility aids. Do not be tempted or lured in; while the price may be right, you must be wary of secondhand stairlifts. First, a lift should always and only be installed by a professional mobility technician, and second, you will not have the consumer support later that is integral to long-term satisfaction. More on that soon! 

Stairlifts May Cost Less than You Think  

Do not assume that a stairlift is beyond your budget. Many times, insurance coverage helps defray the costs. Furthermore, if you lack insurance, many retailers offer financing or finance options to help get you the mobility equipment that you need.  

Seek Support After the Sale 

One problem with buying a stairlift from a third party is that you will not have the support later, after the sale, that is so very valuable and important. Who will you call if you experience a technical issue with your lift? What about safety inspections? How about if the lift incurs damage and needs repair? Develop a relationship with a mobility retailer near you for that safety net later, when you want support or services. 

Other Aids May Make More Sense 

Is it possible that you do not need a stairlift, but that another mobility aid makes more sense? The best way to assess and determine the right mobility solutions for you is to visit a qualified and reputable mobility retail store to see what they have to offer. They will ask basic questions to hone in on the devices and aids with the potential to change life for the better.  

Who You Buy From is Key 

Don’t experience buyer’s remorse later from choosing the wrong vendor or retailer to purchase your lift. Look at customer feedback and reviews to evaluate how satisfied customers are before visiting and shopping at a mobility retail venue. Seek out those retailers that provide service after the sale including support in case you have questions or concerns about your equipment.  

Thinking about purchasing a stairlift to increase accessibility? Pacific Mobility has been providing quality mobility aids and equipment for generations throughout California. We offer service, support, and devices that truly change lives for the better. Call or visit us to learn more.  

There are a few basic mobility aids that every senior should utilize to enhance accessibility while also reducing the risk of a fall or accidental injury. These are easy enough to find at a mobility retail venue in your region, and buying from a reputable vendor ensures satisfaction after the sale, too. Here is what you need to know! 

It is estimated that there will be around 78 million seniors living in this country by the year 2035. Perhaps the biggest hurdle that this demographic faces is related to maintaining physical well-being, which in turn, contributes to quality of life. Since falls are the leading cause of injurious and fatal accidents for older Americans, it makes sense to do what we can to prevent these incidents. Mobility aids can help circumvent hazards, falls, and subsequent injuries.  

Here are some basic mobility aids that every senior should use: 

Grab Bars 

Quite frankly, every home should implement grab bars as a safety precaution. These are most seen near sinks, toilets, steps- anywhere that a bit of stability could be helpful. A sturdy grab bar can help reduce the risk of a fall, especially in the bathroom where the floor may be slick or wet. Make sure that grab bars are installed properly to ensure they are secure and supportive later.  

Shower Seats and Benches 

Speaking of the bathroom, another mobility aid that every senior should use is either a shower seat or bench. These are found in a wide variety, depending on your bathroom, budget, and preferences. Some slide over the tub wall, providing an easier way for the user to get into the tub for bathing or showering, while other styles fit inside the tub or shower stall for a spot to sit while washing. Either way, these are found widely at reasonable price points.  

Walkers 

Many seniors benefit from a bit of support when moving about, which is where walkers come in. These are found with seats, and without, as well as with wheels, brakes, or in manual styles. The best walker to buy depends on your level of mobility; talk to a healthcare professional to find out more. Also, consider visiting a mobility aids retail venue to see for yourself how much support and stability a walker can provide.  

Reaching Tools 

Another aid that no household should be without is a reaching tool. These are amazing! They extend your reach so items can be grasped, grabbed, or accessed with ease. For some seniors, bending or leaning can precipitate a nasty fall; reduce this hazardous risk by using a reaching tool in these situations. These are easy to use, inexpensive to buy, and invaluable around the home! 

Ramps 

Another mobility aid that every senior should utilize is a ramp. Most public offices or healthcare settings use ramps, as they provide an easy way to ascend or descend in or out of the building. These are found indoors and out. Typically, there are two different types of ramps available widely; they are: 

• Permanent ramps are the ones that you typically find outside a commercial building or a home that can be lengthy. These are meant to be permanent fixtures, built to accommodate the structure and the height of the entry.  
• Portable ramps are intended for temporary use, such as in a rental or if you are in rehab following an injury or surgery. These can be folded up and taken with you when you go for accessibility elsewhere, too.  

The best type of ramp again depends on your distinct needs. Visit a mobility retailer to see different portable ramps when making your buying decisions. A permanent ramp usually involves a consultation with a building contractor.  

Stairlifts 

Have you tried a stairlift for yourself? Many public places have stairlifts for consumers with mobility or accessibility issues- try one. They are easy to operate and truly make everyday life safer. Steps can be tough on individuals with physical disabilities, or those that are recovering from an injury, illness, or operation. A fall on stairs could be devastating; use a stairlift instead.  

Stairlifts are more common and affordable than you may think, too. Talk to a mobility retail professional about installing a lift in your home today.  

Senior Citizen Day 

Senior Citizen Day on August 21st provides an opportunity to increase awareness and insight into aging, highlighting resources and opportunities to improve the everyday quality of life for this population. Since 1988, this day has been set aside to honor and acknowledge the many contributions of older Americans. What a perfect time to contemplate mobility aids that may make everyday life better for yourself or a senior that you care about.  

Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility for quality mobility aids and equipment that every senior should use. From grab bars to stairlifts, enhance access and improve everyday life with simple tools available widely.  

Before you take the leap to invest in a stairlift to improve accessibility around your home environment, evaluate your needs objectively. First, ask yourself a few questions and be honest; would you benefit from a stairlift? Next, visit qualified and reputable retailers to see options and operations first-hand. Visit Pacific Mobility to learn more. 

Is it time to start considering mobility solutions to improve your accessibility? A stairlift is a life-changing mobility aid that can be installed practically anywhere- indoors and out and helps many individuals age in place while remaining in their homes during later years. Depending on your physical limitations, a stairlift can improve safety, convenience, and even self-confidence among users. Talk to your healthcare professional to learn more about the great potential of mobility aids for you.

Ask yourself a few questions to determine if a stairlift could be a viable option for you: 

• Have you experienced a fall? How about stumbling or loss of balance when walking or standing? 
• Do you take any prescription medications? 
• Do you live with medical issues or conditions that could impact your gait? 
• Do you live with limited body strength overall, but particularly in your legs or feet? 
• Do you tire easily? How is your stamina? 
• Does it hurt to stand or walk? Sometimes? Always? 

Stairlifts are intended to improve access, while also increasing safety. Does this sound like something that could be right for you?  

Consider the following criteria to evaluate your need- or not- for a stairlift: 

Accessibility Challenges 

Consider exactly what your accessibility challenges are around your home. Is it going upstairs to use a bathroom or bedroom? Or, is it outside when you want to enjoy your greenspace? Hone in on those areas of the home that cause you difficulty or that are simply inaccessible when evaluating your need- or not- for a lift.  

Coordination and Conditioning 

The next criterion to assess is your own level of physical conditioning and coordination. Are you typically clumsy? Have you experienced a fall? If you are older, a fall can be debilitating with serious repercussions. Think about your own risk factors for an injury when contemplating the purchase of a stairlift.  

Stress and Anxiety 

Do you worry about going up or down stairs in your home? Do you avoid them at all costs? While this may indicate that a lift is indeed a prudent purchase, some buyers may experience angst at the thought of adapting to and using a stairlift regularly. Only you know what your individual feelings are, but keep this in mind when deciding on whether or not to invest in a stairlift.  

Home Environment 

Another criterion that may point to the right mobility solution for your home is the actual environment. This includes the configuration, types of stairs, layout, and more. Rest assured that there are lifts for the most complicated situations, including straight or curved stairlifts, for indoors and out. Take a good look around your home environment to determine if it is time for a lift, or if there are other safety measures to address first that may improve accessibility also. 

Recovery Goals 

What are your goals for implementing mobility aids? Is it during rehabilitation or recovery from an injury or surgery? Or is it more long-term to make everyday living more adaptive and convenient? Consider your own distinct goals when looking over available mobility solutions. If you are recuperating and the lift is a temporary fix, consider leasing one from an area mobility vendor. If you are a senior or if you have physical limitations, you may benefit from a more permanent option, like a stairlift. Talk to a mobility retail professional to find out more.  

Safety Issues 

The underlying aim of a stairlift is to ensure safety. These make it possible to visit areas of the home that may previously have been inaccessible. This can increase the individual’s independence and ability to complete activities of daily living- like bathing and dressing- without assistance in some cases. Depending on the nature of your own limitations or challenges, a stairlift can make everyday living safer and by preserving autonomy, it can improve quality of life for those that are aging in place at home.  

Additionally, a stairlift may help preserve the health and well-being of caregivers and those that assist the user routinely.  

Your Lifestyle 

Speaking of aging in place, what is your lifestyle like? Do you want to remain in your current home environment indefinitely? If so, a stairlift can help make this feasible. The benefits of a stairlift are long-term; remember this when evaluating your own need for one.  

Do you need a stairlift? We can help; Pacific Mobility brings generations of expertise regarding mobility equipment to help you make an informed decision. Call or visit us today. 

Have you taken a good look around your home lately? It is important to periodically evaluate your living space with a critical eye to determine any safety risks that could cause an injury. This is particularly prudent for anyone with physical disabilities or mobility challenges in an effort to reduce the risk of a fall and subsequent injury. 

If you take a look around your home living environment, you may be able to detect safety issues or hazards that may go largely ignored. Did you know that falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among seniors over age 65? To truly have a safe home, the goal should always be to reduce the risk of a fall. Fortunately, there are simple steps and measures that consumers can take to reduce the risk of accidents and improve safety in the home- including checking the living space with a critical eye often. Also, for those seniors with physical limitations, mobility aids can be life-changing.  

Potential Problems and Hazards 

So, what are the hazards and issues that you need to watch for? Anything that could interfere with accessibility or that has the potential to cause a fall should be addressed. Take a look around your home- consider the everyday hurdles and challenges that you face.  

Also, ask yourself a few questions to identify potential problems and hazards in the home: 

• Do you avoid using certain areas of the home because they are up or down stairs? 
• Do you struggle to see well in the home? Is it dimly lit? 
• Do you have a lot of clutter? Would less make everyday activities easier? 
• Is the flooring intact and level, or are there edges that could cause you to trip? 
• Do you struggle to get in or out of the home? 
• Have you fallen in the home before? Outside of the home? 
• Do you have physical challenges that require mobility aids or equipment? 
• Is there a wide path through the entire home? Are there areas or spaces that you simply can not visit? 

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it is time to address your living space and make it safer. There are resources available to help, but many may simply require making a change and possibly a bit of assistance from a friend or family member.  

Additionally, mobility aids may help to reduce hazards in your home. Here’s how: 

• Install grab bars for stability and support, particularly near sinks, steps, and the toilet. 
• Talk to a mobility retail professional about stairlifts to enhance access to upper levels of the dwelling. These can be installed indoors and out, and fit a wide range of stairs from steep to curved. 
• If you own the dwelling or have permission to do so, consider installing ramps for easier access to the home. Do you rent or lease your home? Another option is to invest in portable ramps that offer a temporary solution for access; plus, these can be taken with you to ensure access away from home, too.  
• Buy a reaching tool to reduce the risk of a fall when trying to get a hold of something that is out of reach. This may be especially helpful in the kitchen, where cabinets can be quite deep and difficult to access for many.  
• A shower seat can reduce falls in the shower or when bathing. These offer stability and come in all kinds of styles and sizes.  

If you feel that you would benefit from mobility aids, like stairlifts or shower seats, contact us to find out more. 

National Safe at Home Week 

Observe National Safe at Home Week in August, the 22^nd through the 25^th, and pay attention to safety measures around your living situation. This is particularly important for seniors with the goal of aging in place; simple steps may help accommodate those that wish to live in their own homes as long as possible. 

Some suggestions that may help include these tips: 

• Go online to find public assistance and grants that may offer incentives and resources to update your home. 
• Are you familiar with what the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) references? Use this as your guide when making accessibility modifications and accommodations.  
• Refurbish the kitchen to include lower countertops and appliances, as well as easier reach to lights and fixtures.  
• Make sure that doors and halls allow for easy passage. Create a wide berth through the home that will accommodate mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs. 
• Invest in bright, LED lighting. 
• Use technology to respond to your voice. That allows you to perform basic functions- like turning lights on or off- with ease.  
• Get rid of any clutter or items that could create a fall risk. It is much easier to navigate with mobility aids, too.  

Take a good look around your living space: do you detect any accessibility challenges or safety issues? Reach out to the professionals at Pacific Mobility; we offer quality mobility aids and equipment that will help circumvent these issues to help keep you comfortable, safe, and independent. Call or visit us today. 

Have you been putting off a decision regarding mobility aids and increased accessibility? Now is the time to implement these devices and improve quality of life- just because. Why, you may ask? Because these aids can make life a lot easier, and you deserve the convenience that they bring. Talk to a qualified and reputable mobility retailer to find out more.  

Mobility aids not only make life easier, but they also make everyday living a lot safer. Furthermore, equipment like stairlifts and walkers can improve the quality of your life, while contributing to greater independence and autonomy. Give yourself the gift of mobility aids just because. Observe Just Because Day on the 27^th and stop putting off these life-changing aids.  

Some ways to treat yourself with mobility aids include these suggestions: 

Stairlifts 

Consider how a stairlift could make everyday life easier and safer, too. For many, access to other levels or certain areas of the home is challenging due to physical limitations or mobility issues. For this reason, it may not be possible to stay in one’s home independently. However, stairlifts make accessing upstairs bathrooms, bedrooms, or even outdoor spaces feasible, comfortable, and safe. If you feel that a stairlift would improve your quality of life, speak with your healthcare provider to learn more.  

Rolling Walkers 

The difference between a rolling walker and a traditional walker is the seat. The seat provides the user an opportunity to sit and regain strength or balance. Depending on the nature of your mobility issue, a rolling walker may provide the perfect amount of stability and support when moving about. Walkers can be purchased at mobility retailers widely; in California, come see us at Pacific Mobility.  

Portable Ramps 

Ramps can make access to or from a home much easier, but these are often permanent fixtures that cannot be moved once installed. Plus, they do require a bit of space to maintain an angle that makes the entry practical for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. There is another option to consider: portable ramps. Portable ramps provide you with the freedom to access any stair, step, or threshold with ease. These ramps can be folded up to go in your vehicle, providing a temporary mobility solution that you can take wherever you wish.  

Grab Bars 

Install grab bars throughout the home- just because. Grab bars make a lot of sense; they are a safety and preventative measure that help reduce the risk of a nasty fall. Grab bars offer a means of support and stability, particularly near areas that could precipitate losing balance or taking a fall. This might include near sinks and toilets and the tops and bottoms of steps. Think about where you might benefit from an added bit of reassurance and stability- this is where you want to install quality-grade grab bars.  

Shower Seats 

Sometimes the simplest things make the greatest difference. That is the case with shower seats. Whether you choose a bench or a chair, these fit in the tub or shower, providing a sturdy place to sit and wash. These can reduce your risk of a fall on dangerous and slick surfaces. Did you know that 80% of all falls happen in the bathroom? When you consider the inherently slick nature of the bathroom floor, this is not a surprising statistic. A seat is unobtrusive and fits easily over the tub wall, or a corner of a shower stall. There are various styles offered to suit your distinct set-up and they require no special installation. Most of these seats are portable so they can be removed, relocated, or taken on the go, your choice! 

Vehicle Lifts 

Do you drive? Does someone else do the driving? Mobility aids can often be tricky to handle when it comes to getting behind the wheel of your vehicle. A vehicle lift makes easy work of stowing your equipment so that you can sit unencumbered in the car or truck. The best approach for outfitting an existing vehicle with a lift is to speak with a mobility retail professional who can identify the best option for your distinct situation. 

National ‘Just Because’ Day 

Since 1989, people have been celebrating and observing Just Because Day on August 27^th. The underlying mission behind this day is to do something new and unexpected. Why not make it the time that you treat yourself to the aids and devices that can truly improve everyday living? Plan a trip to a mobility retail venue to see what we have to offer- just because.  

Stop putting off something so simple that can have life-changing implications. Visit Pacific Mobility to learn more about quality mobility aids and equipment or to schedule an installation today. We have devices from recognized brands that have an impact on your quality of life. Call or visit us today.  

Are you bored? If you live with physical limitations or disabilities that impede your ability to go where you wish, when you wish, you may experience some pangs of boredom. There are some mobility aids that may help to keep boredom at bay while allowing you the independence and freedom to participate in activities that you love or enjoy.  

If you live with mobility challenges that impact your accessibility, you may feel bored from time to time. Chronic boredom can affect overall well-being and deteriorate your quality of life over time. Boredom may lead to depression. Instead of allowing boredom to grab hold, consider ways to overcome your mobility challenges and participate in activities that you enjoy.  

Some mobility aids that help keep boredom at bay include these: 

Stairlifts 

A quality brand-name stairlift does far more than prevent boredom- it can increase the potential for many to age in place. Aging in place basically means that you can remain in your own home living situation, as you get older, and that medical or mobility issues do not impede autonomy. Stairlifts allow many to retain access to the upper levels of their homes including bedrooms, bathrooms, and more so that they may complete basic ADLs (activities of daily living) with little to no assistance. 

As they pertain to boredom, stairlifts offer the opportunity for you to enjoy and optimize the use of the entire home or environment, giving you the ability to go up and down stairs with safety and ease. A stair lift is easy to use, comfortable to ride, and a must-have for anyone who wants to enjoy their home to the fullest.  

Walkers 

When it comes to walkers, you have a lot of options available. A rolling walker is outfitted with a seat, that may be invaluable to those that suffer from lower leg issues, chronic pain, fatigue, or other related conditions that impact stamina and mobility. A basic walker can provide the stability and support needed to stand for extended periods of time or to help regain balance. Talk to your medical provider to find out more about walkers.   

Vehicle Lifts 

Vehicle lifts are another way to overcome boredom and get out of the house. These allow for easy storage of mobility aids, like wheelchairs, when you are behind the wheel. This ensures you are able to get out and do the things you want to do- without transfer or transportation barriers. Wheelchairs and scooters are heavy: vehicle lifts make it easy to take them with you. Discuss specific lift recommendations for your distinct vehicle with a mobility retail professional for more information.  

Ramps 

Ramps are the unsung heroes of mobility aids. There are the kind that are built and installed to last, permanent ramps, that allow unfettered access to the home, but there are also some cost-effective portable ramps that can be taken along, wherever you go, with ease.  

As for keeping boredom at bay, a portable ramp can ensure you are easily able to enter buildings, cross thresholds, and ascend steps when they are put in your path. This opens opportunities to enjoy classes, social events, and outings, without access being an issue.  

National Anti-Boredom Month in July 

National Anti-Boredom Month is observed throughout July and it provides a platform for encouraging activities and ideas to battle boredom. Why are you bored? Boredom can impact overall holistic health and quality of life. If you are bored, here are some suggestions:  

• Play. If you or a loved one are bored, consider board games, cards, and puzzles to keep it at bay. 

• Exercise. Exercise is another way to battle boredom- plus, it is great for overall health and wellness. If you have mobility limitations or challenges, consider quality mobility aids for greater accessibility.  
• Learn. Go ahead and expand your horizons with a class, a visit to an area landmark, or a new book. Keeping your brain active and mind engaged is an excellent way to prevent boredom. 
• Clean. Try a cleaning chore or a task that can provide a sense of accomplishment when finished. 
• Cook. Take time to make yourself- and those you love- a nourishing meal.  
• Create. Create something- art, a garden, drawings, or poetry.  

• Volunteer. Giving of yourself to others is an excellent way to fight boredom, while also contributing to an attitude of gratitude.  
• Socialize. Spend time with someone else. Socialization is key to healthy aging across the lifespan- and it contributes to overall well-being. 

Keep boredom at bay with these tips- and quality mobility equipment from Pacific Mobility. Boredom can take a toll on overall health and well-being. For generations, we have been selling, servicing, and supporting mobility aids in Southern California. To learn more about what we have to offer, call or visit us today.  

Therapeutic recreation is a method of treatment surrounding activity-based interventions. This provides a way for providers to assess the distinct needs of the client to help them improve their everyday quality of life and well-being. The goal of the recreational therapist is to preserve the individual’s functioning and support their participation in everyday activities that involve things like art, music, animals, outings, and more.  

Therapeutic recreation can provide a means for interventionists and providers to recognize the distinct strengths and needs of a client or consumer. The activities typically involved in this treatment model may tease out information, including how and if an individual would benefit from mobility aids adaptive devices. National Therapeutic Recreation Week offers the opportunity to learn more about recreational therapy and interventions, as well as how to access available resources.  

So, what exactly constitutes recreational therapy? It may encompass a wide range of techniques and activities, including but not exclusive to, art, crafting, games, sports, music, dance, theater, animals, and field trips or outings. The underlying theory is that these activities help to restore basic function and facilitate socialization, which helps improve confidence and lower depression. 

Recover and restore well-being through therapeutic recreation. Here is what you need to know: 

Therapeutic Recreation Activities 

Let’s expand on some of the specific activities that constitute a recreational therapy program. Activities, programs, and therapy vary; here are just a few examples:  

• Painting or drawing 
• Modeling with clay 
• Crafting projects 
• Listening to or making music 
• Participating or observing sporting events and games 
• Playing or watching video games 
• Playing board games 
• Completing puzzles 
• Interaction with animals, including animal-assisted therapy 
• Creative writing 
• Working in the garden 
• Dance 
• Exercise 
• Cooking  
• Theater and drama  

Community outings and cultural events could be integrated into a recreational therapy program, too.  

Therapeutic Recreation Applications 

The applications and potential of recreational therapy are vast. These activities offer benefits to clients and consumers of all ages and health. Some individuals that may be recommended recreational therapy referrals include:  

• Anyone recuperating from major surgery, an illness, or an injury.  
• Individuals recovering and healing after a stroke. 
• Those trying to improve motor function and skills. 
• Individuals trying to learn or complete ADLs (activities of daily living) without assistance.  
• Those in treatment for cancer or other serious illness or condition. 
• Individuals with anxiety, social anxiety, or panic disorder. 
• Consumers with mood disorders, like depression or a substance abuse disorder.  
• Individuals that are lonely or isolated. 

Speak with your provider if you feel that recreational therapy would benefit you.  

Therapeutic Recreation Benefits 

So, what kind of perks and advantages can one expect from recreational therapy activities? The impacts on physical and mental well-being are impressive. Consider the following benefits: 

Alleviates Depression 

By participating in enjoyable recreational activities and stimulating your mind, you can lower depression and lift your mood. During an activity that you enjoy, neurotransmitters including dopamine and serotonin are released in the brain, making you feel good. Serotonin helps make you feel calm and focused, while dopamine produces feelings of motivation and productivity.  

Builds Confidence  

By engaging in recreational therapy, you may also build confidence. There is a feeling of accomplishment involved in many therapeutic activities, and the interactions can lead to improved self-esteem and a newfound sense of purpose.  

Facilitates Socialization  

Recreational therapy can combat loneliness and provide a necessary social connection for many consumers and clients. Sometimes surgery, disability, or medical issue can impact getting out and socializing. Recreational therapy provides a platform for individuals to interact and engage.  

Increases Independence  

A loss of independence is a fear of many growing older- and some injuries and mobility issues can affect your freedom and autonomy. Furthermore, physical limitations can impede the joy of activities that you love. Maintain independence and holistic health with recreational therapy. Talk to your doctor to learn more.  

Expedites Healing 

Experts report that recreational therapy helps improve and facilitate independence, particularly when recovering from an injury or surgical procedure.  

Increases Stamina 

The more you move and engage, the more stamina you will have later. Recreational therapy may be effective for improving overall strength but also can enhance balance, flexibility, and coordination. Over time, this can affect your level of mobility, too.  

Improves Cognition  

Studies show that physical activity- including recreational therapeutic interventions- can stimulate you mentally. This helps to maintain healthy brain function, particularly as you become older.  

National Therapeutic Recreation Week 

National Therapeutic Recreation Week is recognized each July- the second week- and has been since 1984. The National Therapeutic Recreation Society utilizes this observance to bring awareness to the numerous advantages of these types of activities. The potential is great for improving the lives of consumers with disabilities or limitations, whether these are physical, mental, or emotional. By raising awareness, the goal is that more consumers will access and benefit from these therapeutic interventions widely.  

Would you benefit from recreational therapy? Talk to your providers about the benefits- as well as any area or local resources that may help with access to such offerings. To learn more about mobility aids, visit the professionals at Pacific Mobility to learn more about improving your accessibility.  

Mobility solutions can change lives, but there may be some disadvantages to specific devices in certain settings. Depending on the nature of the user’s limitations and the configuration of the home, there may be some drawbacks to certain devices and equipment. Thinking about a stairlift? Consider the ups and downs of these aids first! 

Depending on the home environment and nature of any physical disabilities or limitations, mobility aids can change lives for the better. A stairlift, for instance, offers a way to facilitate access, improve convenience, and increase safety in the home. But are there any disadvantages of installing a stairlift? Consider the following ups and downs first regarding having a stairlift in your home: 

The Upside of Having a Stairlift in Your Home 

It is estimated that around 7 million people live with physical limitations or disabilities in this country, mobility aids and equipment can help! If you live with mobility challenges, a stairlift can make it a lot safer while accommodating your independence. There are many perks and advantages to installing a stairlift in the home, which may also contribute to aging in place for seniors, but more on that soon! 

Here are some of the ups of a stairlift at home: 

• A stairlift may be cheaper than you think! In fact, many are covered by insurance but talk to your healthcare provider and mobility retailer to learn more. The truth is, stairlifts are becoming more affordable and are a cost-effective alternative to in-home support. 
• Stairlifts are installed quickly and professionally by the retailer you buy from. Never purchase used equipment from individuals; go with a lift from a qualified vendor.  
• Stairlifts do not obstruct or impede access for others in the home. They do not take over a stairway, and the seats are easily folded in to maintain a wide berth for others using the steps.  
• Stairlifts allow access to upper levels of the home safely, providing a comfortable and convenient transfer up and down stairs, steps, and risers in the home. 
• Stairlifts can be installed inside or outside.  
• A stairlift can contribute to greater independence and autonomy by allowing the user the ability to complete tasks, ADLs, and other activities with ease.  
• Stairlifts lower the risk of a nasty fall and subsequent injury. 
• Stairlifts- and other mobility aids- can provide an enhanced enjoyment of your surroundings. You can access and utilize upstairs and downstairs with ease, comfort, and safety. 
• You are at a decreased risk of strain, stress, and injury when you use a stairlift to ascend and descend stairs in the home.  
• Stairlifts are comfortable. The padded seats provide a smooth ride with a secure safety belt.  
• Mobility aids can improve self-confidence and a feeling of autonomy for the user. Aids like lifts reduce your need for assistance, which can be liberating.  
• Want to remain in your own home across your lifespan? Stairlifts allow many consumers to age in place, remaining in their own dwelling as they get older.  

Always purchase mobility aids and equipment from qualified retail professionals for best results and optimal satisfaction. You should never allow anyone other than a qualified technician install, service, or modify your stairlift; it can cause damage and may nullify any existing warranty that you have.  

The Downside of Having a Stairlift in Your Home 

As with anything, there may be drawbacks. Even the most useful of mobility aids may have some downsides in certain situations or living environments. Here are a few disadvantages of some residential stairlifts. Talk to a mobility retailer to learn more or to find an alternative mobility solution for your living situation.  

Some downs of having a stairlift in your home might include: 

• Residential stairlifts may have lower weight capacities than commercial or bariatric lifts which may be a disadvantage to many consumers. Typically, a residential stairlift has a weight limit of 300-400 pounds; bariatric lifts may have a weight capacity of up to 600 pounds.  
• Residential stairlifts are not recommended for individuals that rely on a wheelchair or scooter. In these instances, other aids may be warranted to access steps, stairs, or upper levels of the home environment, like a porch lift or ramps.  
• A stairlift only provides access to a single level or floor. That is, unless you install multiple lifts, you may still lack access to upper or lower levels of the home. Multiple lifts could become complicated and possibly expensive.  
• Stairlifts are not a toy, though they may be tempting to children or pets. Stairlifts should be treated with care to prevent damage or mishap. 
• It is recommended that stairlift users never carry open liquids during transfers to prevent potential damage to their equipment.  

Thinking about a stairlift in your home? Talk to the team of mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility today!