Pacific Mobility Center

Stairlifts - Lifts - Mobility Products

How To's

How Can Regular Movement Help Protect Senior Heart Health During American Stroke Awareness Month?

By

Movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and age-related mobility challenges affect thousands of older adults. These conditions impact balance, coordination, and confidence, increasing the risk of falls and injuries at home. From a Pacific Mobility awareness perspective, the right home adjustments, adaptive equipment, and caregiver support can transform the living space into a safe, functional environment. Safety is not about limiting movement; it is about enabling independence while minimizing risk.

A story from a Pacific Mobility home safety consultant illustrates this well. Mrs. Gupta, a 78-year-old with Parkinson’s disease, had been experiencing frequent near-falls in her home. She loved walking around her living room, but subtle tremors and slower reflexes made even small movements risky. Her family wanted to support her independence but worried about injury. After a safety assessment, strategic adjustments were made: grab bars were installed, a stair lift added, and a daily routine for guided movement established. Within weeks, her confidence and mobility improved, and her fall risk decreased significantly.

The following content highlights key home adjustments and practical strategies that caregivers and families can use to support seniors with movement disorders safely.

Assess and Adapt the Home Environment

A Pacific Mobility awareness approach starts with a thorough assessment. Every home is unique, and risks vary by room and daily routine. Common hazards include cluttered pathways, loose rugs, narrow hallways, and poorly lit staircases.

Step by step safety adjustments:

  1. Walk through the home and note all potential trip hazards.
  2. Remove loose rugs or secure them with non slip pads.
  3. Widen pathways to accommodate walking aids or support devices.
  4. Ensure that frequently used items are stored at waist or shoulder height.
  5. Check flooring for uneven surfaces or slippery areas.
  6. Regularly maintain lighting in all rooms and corridors.

Environmental adaptation reduces the likelihood of falls and builds confidence for independent movement.

Install Supportive Mobility Equipment

Movement disorders often reduce balance and strength, making support devices essential. Pacific Mobility emphasizes that well chosen mobility aids improve both safety and autonomy.

Step by step equipment integration:

  1. Install grab bars near toilets, sinks, and showers.
  2. Add handrails to stairs or uneven surfaces.
  3. Consider a stair lift for multi-level homes.
  4. Use walkers or canes customized for height and grip comfort.
  5. Provide supportive chairs with armrests for safe sitting and standing.
  6. Add anti slip mats in high risk areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

Supportive devices reduce strain and provide stability, making everyday tasks safer.

Optimize Lighting Throughout the Home

Proper lighting is a frequently overlooked safety adjustment. Seniors with movement disorders may have slowed reflexes, and poor lighting increases the risk of missteps or collisions.

Step by step lighting improvements:

  1. Install bright, glare free overhead lights in hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms.
  2. Use motion sensor night lights in bedrooms and corridors.
  3. Add task lighting in areas where precision is needed, such as kitchens and reading spots.
  4. Ensure stairs are fully illuminated from top to bottom.
  5. Keep light switches within easy reach.
  6. Regularly clean light fixtures to maintain brightness.

Good lighting enhances visibility, reduces anxiety about movement, and prevents accidents.

Encourage Safe Exercise and Movement Routines

Physical activity is critical for seniors with movement disorders. Exercise maintains muscle strength, joint flexibility, and balance. Pacific Mobility emphasizes that safe, guided movement reduces injury risk while enhancing quality of life.

Step by step movement strategies:

  1. Begin with short, low impact sessions.
  2. Focus on balance exercises, such as heel raises or side leg lifts.
  3. Include gentle stretching to improve flexibility.
  4. Use supportive equipment like chairs or rails during exercises.
  5. Encourage walking routines indoors on even surfaces.
  6. Gradually increase duration or intensity based on comfort and stamina.

Structured routines build strength and stability while minimizing fall risk.

Simplify Daily Tasks and Reduce Overexertion

Movement disorders often make multitasking or reaching hazardous. Reducing strain and simplifying tasks is essential for safety.

Step by step adjustments:

  1. Place frequently used items within easy reach to avoid bending or stretching.
  2. Organize kitchen counters for one handed use if needed.
  3. Use lightweight, non slip utensils and cookware.
  4. Encourage seated activities for dressing, grooming, or meal prep.
  5. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
  6. Provide adaptive clothing and footwear for safe dressing.

Simplifying tasks allows seniors to remain independent without overexertion or risk.

Monitor Medication and Timing Effects

Certain medications for movement disorders can affect balance, alertness, and blood pressure. Pacific Mobility safety awareness emphasizes coordinated medication management.

Step by step approach:

  1. Track medication schedules closely.
  2. Observe changes in strength, coordination, or alertness.
  3. Adjust activity timing to match peak medication effectiveness.
  4. Report side effects that increase fall risk to healthcare providers.
  5. Encourage hydration and proper nutrition to support mobility.
  6. Keep a log of any incidents or near misses related to medication timing.

Monitoring medication ensures that physical activity and daily tasks are safe and effective.

Foster Emotional Support and Confidence

Fear of falling often limits activity and independence. Safe and Sound awareness programs highlight that emotional support is as critical as physical safety measures.

Step by step confidence building:

  1. Encourage seniors to move at their own pace.
  2. Offer reassurance during challenging tasks.
  3. Celebrate small mobility successes.
  4. Maintain social engagement to reduce isolation.
  5. Involve seniors in safety planning decisions.
  6. Provide positive reinforcement for safe independent movement.

Confidence reduces hesitation and improves overall mobility outcomes.

Plan for Emergency Readiness

Even with preventive measures, accidents may happen. Pacific Mobility awareness stresses proactive emergency planning.

Step by step preparation:

  1. Keep a phone or medical alert device within reach at all times.
  2. Maintain a clear path to exits and emergency supplies.
  3. Train caregivers and family members in fall response protocols.
  4. Identify local medical support services in advance.
  5. Review emergency numbers and instructions regularly.
  6. Ensure seniors are aware of how to call for help safely.

Being prepared minimizes injury severity and improves response times.

Conclusion

Seniors with movement disorders can maintain independence and enjoy safe home living with thoughtful adjustments. From a Pacific Mobility perspective, safety is created through environmental modifications, supportive equipment, structured routines, and caregiver involvement. The goal is not to restrict activity but to enable it with confidence.

By assessing risk, installing support systems, optimizing lighting, encouraging safe movement, simplifying tasks, monitoring medication, fostering confidence, and planning for emergencies, caregivers create a safer, more empowering home environment. Safety is strongest when prevention, awareness, and support work together. When implemented consistently, these strategies allow seniors with movement disorders to thrive at home while minimizing injury risk.

From Church Visits to Family Dinners: Supporting Mobility During Christmas

By

Christmas is a season of movement. Not fast movement, but meaningful movement. Walking into church with loved ones. Stepping into a neighbor’s home for a brief visit. Sitting, standing, and gathering around family dinner tables. These moments define the holidays, especially for older adults.

As a home care owner who works closely with mobility services and in-home support, I see how much effort it can take for seniors to participate in these traditions. Mobility challenges do not disappear during the holidays. In many cases, they become more noticeable. But with the right support, they do not have to limit connection or joy.

Why Christmas Mobility Looks Different for Seniors

Winter brings conditions that affect how people move. Cold temperatures stiffen joints. Heavy clothing restricts flexibility. Reduced daylight changes depth perception. Crowded spaces require quicker reactions.

For seniors, these factors add up.

From a mobility support perspective, Christmas activities often involve unfamiliar environments. Churches with steps and narrow aisles. Homes with rearranged furniture. Long periods of standing or sitting. These are manageable with preparation, but challenging without it.

Supporting mobility during Christmas is about anticipating these moments before they become stressful.

The Importance of Feeling Included

Mobility challenges can quietly lead to isolation. When moving feels difficult, people may start declining invitations rather than asking for help.

As a home care provider, I have seen how seniors sometimes sit out of cherished traditions simply because they do not want to inconvenience anyone. This emotional weight is often heavier than the physical challenge itself.

True mobility support is not just about equipment or physical assistance. It is about making participation feel welcome and normal.

Preparing the Home for Holiday Movement

Homes change during the holidays. Extra chairs appear. Walkways narrow. Decorations occupy space. For seniors, these changes can disrupt familiar movement patterns.

Creating clear, wide pathways allows for safer navigation. Stable seating with arm support helps with sitting and standing. Placing frequently used items within easy reach reduces strain.

These adjustments do not take away from the festive atmosphere. They quietly enhance it by allowing everyone to move with confidence.

Supporting Movement Outside the Home

Church visits, community events, and family gatherings often require transportation and navigation in unfamiliar spaces.

From a mobility service perspective, planning ahead makes all the difference. Knowing where entrances are located, whether ramps are available, and where seating is positioned helps reduce anxiety.

Encouraging seniors to use mobility aids without embarrassment is also key. Walkers, canes, and supportive footwear are tools of independence, not signs of limitation.

When families treat mobility support as normal and expected, seniors feel more comfortable using what they need.

Managing Fatigue and Energy

Christmas schedules can be busy. Multiple events in a single day can be exhausting, especially for older adults.

As someone who supports daily living, I always recommend building in rest. Allowing time to sit, elevate legs, or step away from noise helps maintain energy and balance.

Mobility is not just about movement. It is about pacing.

Shorter visits can be more enjoyable than long, tiring ones. Seniors should feel free to participate at a level that feels right for them.

Emotional Confidence Plays a Role in Mobility

Fear of falling or slowing others down can make movement feel heavier than it actually is.

From a care perspective, emotional reassurance matters. Gentle encouragement, patience, and understanding reduce hesitation. When seniors feel supported rather than watched, they move more naturally.

Confidence improves balance. Calm reduces risk.

Small Tools That Make a Big Difference

Mobility support does not always require major equipment.

Non-slip footwear, grab handles near steps, stable chairs, and proper lighting all contribute to safer movement. For outdoor events, clear walkways and dry surfaces reduce fall risk.

These small tools protect dignity by blending seamlessly into the environment.

Involving Seniors in Planning

The most effective mobility support starts with conversation.

Ask seniors what they are looking forward to. Ask what feels challenging. Ask what would help them feel more comfortable.

Involving them in planning respects autonomy and ensures solutions are practical and welcomed.

As someone who understands how trust shapes every successful service relationship, I know that collaboration builds confidence.

Preserving Traditions Through Thoughtful Support

Christmas traditions matter deeply. They connect generations and create continuity.

Supporting mobility allows seniors to remain active participants in these moments rather than observers. It keeps traditions alive in a way that feels inclusive and respectful.

From my blended perspective across home care and mobility services, I believe the goal is not to protect people from movement, but to protect their ability to move.

A Season Meant for Togetherness

Christmas is about showing up, in whatever way we can.

When mobility is supported thoughtfully, seniors can attend church, share meals, and enjoy family time without fear or exhaustion. These moments strengthen emotional well-being and reinforce independence.

Supporting mobility during Christmas is not about managing limitations. It is about opening doors.

When we plan with care, the season becomes what it is meant to be. A time of connection, presence, and shared joy.

Could Home Care Tools Improve Patient Safety This Winter?

By

Winter has a way of reminding us that even the smallest tasks can become unexpectedly risky for patients, especially for older adults or anyone living with chronic health conditions. As a home care owner, I see it every single year. The temperature drops, roads get slick, daylight disappears sooner, and suddenly simple routines like bathing, walking to the mailbox, or prepping a meal start turning into safety concerns.

What many families do not realize is that winter is more than just a seasonal challenge. It highlights the gaps that already exist in a person’s care system. The good news is that the right home care tools and support can turn this risky season into a safer, more confident time for patients.

Let’s explore how smart planning and simple tools can make a major difference.

Winter Makes Everyday Risks Bigger

When the cold arrives, our patients face new challenges such as:

• Slippery floors from rainwater and cold air
• Stiff joints that reduce balance
• Worsening chronic conditions like arthritis, COPD or heart disease
• Increased fatigue or dizziness
• Higher infection risks due to viruses circulating indoors

From my experience, families often underestimate how quickly a winter day can become dangerous. A single fall, a missed medication dose, or a cold-related flare can set someone back for weeks. That is why home care tools, training, and daily support matter so much during this season.

1. Mobility Tools Reduce Fall Risks Immediately

Mobility becomes harder in cold weather. Muscles tighten, circulation slows, and surfaces inside the home get colder and more slippery.

Helpful winter home care tools include:

• Non-slip socks and shoes
• Grab bars in the bathroom
• Bed rails
• Raised toilet seats
• Anti-slip floor pads
• Proper walking aids like canes or rollators

As a home care owner, I have seen patients regain a sense of control simply by using tools that support balance. One client told me she avoided walking in her own kitchen because her tiles stayed “icy cold.” After adding non-slip mats and changing her footwear, her confidence returned almost instantly.

Small adjustments can literally transform someone’s daily living.

2. Smart Medication Tools Prevent Winter Complications

Cold weather often leads to flare-ups and increases the need for consistent medication routines. Unfortunately, winter distractions also increase medication errors. People sleep longer, stay indoors more, skip meals, and lose track of time.

Helpful medication management tools include:

• Automatic pill dispensers
• App-based reminders
• Weekly pill organizers
• Thermometer and blood pressure tracking devices
• Smart logs monitored by caregivers

I always remind families that missing one heart medication or skipping a diabetes dose can quickly turn into an emergency in colder months. With simple tools, we help patients stay consistent and safe.

3. Home Monitoring Tools Offer Peace of Mind

Families worry more during winter. They check in more often, ask for extra updates, and hope their loved one is safe and warm. Home monitoring tools help bridge this gap without overwhelming the family or the patient.

Tools that make a difference include:

• Fall detection sensors
• Smart cameras for common areas
• Bed and chair alarms
• Door sensors for nighttime wandering
• Emergency call buttons

What I love about modern home care tools is that they protect without feeling invasive. They support independence instead of taking it away. Patients feel safer moving around, and families feel reassured knowing help is accessible.

4. Heating and Air Quality Tools Keep Homes Comfortable

Cold weather makes breathing harder, especially for seniors and those with asthma or COPD. Dry air can irritate the throat and cause coughing, while poor circulation can make every room feel colder than it actually is.

Tools that improve comfort and safety:

• Humidifiers
• Space heaters with safety shut-off features
• Air purifiers
• Warm blankets and heated pads
• Room thermometers

We often help families position heaters safely or monitor room temperatures for patients who can no longer sense cold accurately. A warm environment is more than comfort. It is a preventive health measure.

5. Simple Kitchen Tools Prevent Injuries and Illness

Winter puts more pressure on meal preparation. Many patients cook less because it feels tiring or cold, which can lead to poor nutrition. Others take risks by leaning over the stove or handling hot items with stiff hands.

Helpful tools include:

• Easy-grip utensils
• Lightweight pots
• Safety kettle tipper devices
• Pre-cut meal kits
• Slow cookers set to low heat
• Timer reminders for the oven

A safer kitchen leads to healthier meals, and healthier meals lead to stronger immunity during winter months.

6. Caregiver Support Is the Most Important Tool of All

Tools are powerful, but they work best with trained caregivers who know when, how, and why to use them.

During winter, caregivers help with:

• Mobility supervision
• Medication reminders
• Warm meal preparation
• Safety checks around the home
• Companionship to reduce isolation
• Monitoring early signs of illness

From my viewpoint as a home care provider, the combination of human support and practical tools creates the safest possible environment for patients.

Winter Safety Is Not About Fear. It Is About Preparation.

The winter season does not need to be scary for patients. It simply requires planning and smart support. When families and home care teams work together, we can prevent falls, reduce hospital visits, and help patients stay warm, active and confident all season long.

The right home care tools are not just convenient. They are life-changing.

If you want help choosing the best winter safety tools for someone you love, or you’re ready to create a full winter care plan, our team is always here to support you.

Safety is not seasonal. But winter reminds us how important it truly is.

Is your clinic prepared to support patients through flu season?

By

Every year when flu season approaches, clinics everywhere start preparing for the predictable rise in coughs, fevers and urgent visits. But as a homecare owner, I see flu season from a very different angle. I see the patients who struggle quietly at home. I see the families who worry about loved ones with chronic conditions. I see the vulnerable adults whose lives can change dramatically from one simple case of influenza.

This is why clinic readiness matters more than most people realize. A prepared clinic does more than diagnose and treat. It guides, protects and strengthens the entire community. Flu season is not only about managing illness. It is about preventing complications, keeping vulnerable adults safe and making sure patients feel supported long before they walk through your doors.

So the real question is simple. Is your clinic truly ready?

Flu Season Is More Than a Medical Spike. It Is a Community Challenge.

When flu season hits, the impact spreads far beyond waiting rooms. Homecare teams feel it. Pharmacies feel it. Families feel it. Older adults feel it most of all.

Clinics that prepare early can protect their wider community by:

  • Reducing the number of avoidable hospital visits
  • Identifying high risk patients sooner
  • Improving vaccination outreach
  • Educating families before symptoms worsen
  • Preventing outbreaks in homes and care facilities

From my perspective in homecare, the clinics that make the strongest difference are not the ones with the biggest equipment or the most advanced labs. They are the ones that prepare thoughtfully, communicate clearly and partner with the care teams outside their walls.

Are You Reaching the Patients Who Need the Most Support?

Clinics often prepare with equipment and staffing, but flu season requires something more. It requires identifying who is most vulnerable.

High risk groups include:

  • Adults over 65
  • People with chronic illnesses like diabetes or asthma
  • Those recovering from surgery or hospitalization
  • Patients with weakened immune systems
  • Individuals with limited mobility
  • People living alone without support

These are the people who rarely say they are struggling, even when they are.

A prepared clinic reaches out before symptoms appear. That means:

  • Proactive check ins
  • Appointment reminders
  • Medication reviews
  • Vaccination encouragement
  • Assistance with transportation
  • Education on early warning signs

This kind of outreach can reduce complications and save lives.

Vaccination Programs Need More Than Posters and Reminders

Most clinics put up flu season posters every year. But in today’s world, that is not enough.

Patients respond best when clinics:

  1. Make vaccination convenient
    Easy walk ins, extended hours or dedicated flu days increase uptake.
  2. Explain in plain language
    Many patients have confusion about side effects, timing and safety.
  3. Partner with caregivers
    Homecare agencies and families can help reinforce the message.
  4. Tailor reminders for high risk individuals
    Automating this process makes it simple and effective.
  5. Celebrate strong participation
    People love feeling part of a community effort.

Vaccination is the strongest flu defence we have. Clinics that prioritize communication and convenience protect entire neighbourhoods.

Are Your Clinical Teams Ready for the Increase in Respiratory Illness?

Flu symptoms overlap with other respiratory illnesses. This means clinics must be prepared not only for more patients, but for more complexity.

Your clinic should be ready with:

  • Clear triage procedures
  • Quick isolation protocols when needed
  • Fast symptom assessment tools
  • Updated training for staff
  • Plenty of PPE and sanitizers
  • A streamlined process for high risk patients

Patients notice when a clinic feels calm, organized and ready. It builds trust. And trust is one of the strongest tools during flu season.

Do You Have a Plan for Home Based Patients?

This is where homecare and clinics often intersect. Many patients are unable to safely sit in a waiting room during flu season. Some cannot walk without support. Others are medically fragile and should not be exposed to crowds.

A clinic that is prepared offers:

  • Telehealth consultations
  • Virtual check ins
  • Symptom monitoring options
  • Guidance for caregivers
  • Opportunities for home based vaccination outreach when possible

These adjustments not only protect vulnerable patients but also reduce unnecessary foot traffic inside the clinic.

Education Is One of the Strongest Clinical Tools

Flu prevention is not just about medicine. It is about behaviour. Patients need simple, practical information they can use daily.

Clinics should remind patients how to:

  • Wash hands effectively
  • Recognize early symptoms
  • Use medications correctly
  • Stay hydrated
  • Avoid spreading germs at home
  • Clean frequently touched surfaces
  • Keep chronic conditions stable
  • Know when to seek immediate help

When clinics educate consistently, patients stay healthier and confident.

Are You Supporting Caregivers Too?

Caregivers are essential during flu season, especially for older adults and people with chronic conditions. They notice symptoms before anyone else. They manage medications, hydration, meals and hygiene.

Clinics that support caregivers indirectly protect patients.

Helpful actions include:

  • Providing education material
  • Offering guidance on warning signs
  • Teaching how to reduce in home transmission
  • Recommending equipment like thermometers or pulse oximeters
  • Making communication easy and accessible

Caregivers should never feel alone during flu season. Clinics have the power to guide them.

A Prepared Clinic Protects More Than Health. It Protects Stability.

Flu season is a test of readiness. And readiness is not just about treatment. It is about prevention, communication and collaboration. When clinics prepare early and thoroughly, they protect families, reduce emergencies and strengthen community resilience.

From my perspective in homecare, the clinics that make the biggest impact are the ones who think beyond the visit. They think about the home environment, the caregivers, the vulnerable patient and the ripple effect of every decision.

This season, the question is not whether flu will come. It is whether your clinic will be ready to support patients through it.

And the stronger your preparation, the healthier your community becomes.

Can You Really Trust Online Reviews?

By

Most people read and refer to online reviews, but can you really trust online reviews? The key is to tease-out which ones to trust from those that are bogus using a few simple tips.

Buying mobility devices is a big decision, so it makes sense to go online and do a little homework regarding customer experiences and satisfaction. When you are looking at local business reviews, how do you know which ones to trust? How can you tell which ones are bogus? The first fundamental for consumers to realize is that you can’t always believe what you read online; teasing out honest feedback requires a little insight.

Can you really trust online reviews? 

It is estimated that 39% of buyers research and check online reviews before making a purchase decision, and 88% of consumers put as much stock in an online review as they do a personal recommendation from someone that they know. Since nearly 9 in 10 consumers consider an online review as important and reliable as a personal recommendation, online reviews are a powerful marketing tool that can make or break a burgeoning business.

Here’s what you need to know about online reviews:

Read what you can online regarding local businesses, services, and products, but take what you learn with a grain of salt. Look for clear and relevant details that could help you come to your own decision about where to spend your money and who deserves your patronage. After all, every consumer’s needs and expectations are different, so what doesn’t please you may work well for somebody else.

When it comes to online reviews…

Not all reviews are real

Did you know that the internet is saturated with fake reviews? Read reviews carefully and be wary of posts that lack substantive details and reasons why the product, service, or company failed to live up to their expectations. Approximately 30% of all product reviews that you find online are fake, and 20% of other reviews, such as for companies or service provision, are also fake. It begs the question: what could be the motivation to leave a fake review?

People are often paid to leave a review

Many people are paid to leave positive reviews, while others are compensated for leaving negative feedback. Typically, you will see a disclaimer at the bottom of an online review indicating that the individual was compensated or received the item at a discount for leaving feedback, but this is not always the case. The best thing to elicit from an online review- good or bad- are specific details about the product or service that could provide information that helps you make your choice easier. Skip the overly-emotional or seemingly-dramatic reviews unless they provide tangible details about their experience that provides another perspective and additional information.

Look at the source

It may be possible to check out the reviewer to determine the legitimacy of a review; this might include how many other reviews they have left on an online platform or whether they are a validated purchaser or patron of what they are reviewing. Some platforms offer a history of other reviews, feedback, and comments that the reviewer has posted, which can reveal whether they are a chronic-complainer or someone who pens a lot of negative comments.

Pay heed to review responses

A courteous merchant or attentive vendor will respond to negative or critical online reviews; give these businesses the opportunity to defend themselves. Often times, misunderstandings or miscommunications cause knee-jerk reactions, which can lead to negative, even hostile, reviews. Responses also can provide you with a means of measuring the vendor’s professionalism and helpfulness, which could say a lot about how the company engages with their consumers and clients.

Keep an eye on the timeline

Make sure that the reviews you are eliciting information from are current and that the time-post doesn’t indicate activity that could be spammy. For instance, if you read several reviews about a mobility device that was a disappointment, and they are posted within a very short time period, be skeptical. It is unlikely that several patrons experienced this same issue at the same time, which could mean that the authenticity of the reviews is dubious, at best.

Use these tips to help narrow the field of online reviews and find the information that you need to make buying mobility devices a bit easier and less uncertain. Continue to rely on the word-of-mouth reviews of friends, neighbors, or coworkers and tease-out pertinent details from the information that you find online.

Go ahead and check out online reviews before making a decision related to mobility aids and devices. Just make sure that you keep an open mind regarding the authenticity of the review, and try to garner a sense of the motivation behind the reviewer. Skip over extremely high or overwhelmingly low reviews that don’t back up their claims with a detailed narrative. Teasing out authentic reviews can lead to insightful information and practical advice when you know what to look for.

Making Bathrooms Safe for Seniors

By

shower chair

We like to think that our bathrooms are safe and private places – places where accidents don’t generally happen. But it doesn’t take a lot for a bathroom to become a dangerous place for a frail or elderly senior. According to a recent study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 200,000 Americans are treated in hospital emergency rooms, every year, for bathroom-related injuries. And since more than one in three persons over 65 fall each year, it’s safe to say that many of those who receive emergency treatment are elderly.

By and large, bathrooms have many hard and slippery surfaces, making them especially hazardous for individuals with mobility challenges, such as poor muscle strength or bad balance. But before one can make bathroom trouble spots safer for seniors, it’s important to know where and how bathroom accidents occur. Most bathroom falls occur while getting in and out of the tub or shower; sitting down and getting up from the toilet; and walking while attempting to use towel bars, sink tops, or other objects for support.

The first modification that can be made in a shower is getting rid of any lip that has to be stepped over getting in or out. If possible, a traditional shower stall can be replaced with a walk-in model. If that is not possible, or even if it is, grab bars should also be installed close to the shower opening to supply balance support. Another bar, or set of bars, should be installed in the shower, as well. A shower chair is an easy fix to supply stability as well as a place to rest for a senior who can’t stand for long periods. Another way to modify a shower for safety is to install a hand-held shower head with a long enough hose so that its user doesn’t have to stretch or bend.

Getting in and out of a bathtub can be very difficult for a frail senior. Here, again, well-placed grab bars can be helpful. For floor to tub transfers, a bath bench is another modification that can promote safety. Two of the bench’s legs are placed outside of the tub and the other two, within it. The user sits on the bench and swings his or her legs over the side, and then slides into the tub, without having to stand up. Of course, for both tubs and showers, non-slip mats are necessary inside, and non-slip rugs should be placed on the outside.

Toilets are another potential trouble spot, but there are several modifications that can be made. Raising the toilet seat several inches reduces the need to squat and the distance that has to be covered. Additional safety features include brackets or locking clamps that stabilize the seat on the toilet rim. Also, grab bars can be attached either to the wall near the toilet, or to the toilet, itself.

Of course, bathrooms should be well-lit, with towels, soap, and toiletries within easy reach. All surfaces, walls and floors, included, should be clean and free of any soap scum that makes them more slippery. Finally, the bathroom should be as free as possible of any fragile items or those that can fall and break.

At Pacific Mobility we provide all of the necessary safety items and equipment that can help make your bathroom safe for seniors. We can also help you make the best choices for any extensive bathroom modifications that you might wish to make. Call or visit us today.

Medicare Coverage for Mobility Equipment, Explained

By

One of the first questions many folks ask when they are facing mobility issues is how they will pay for the mobility equipment they need. For most, Medicare is the first place they look for coverage. However, when it comes to Medicare benefits, questions abound. In this article, we will cover the ins and outs of Medicare coverage for wheelchairs and scooters, explain the process, and answer some of the more common question questions regarding this benefit.

Medicare classifies wheelchairs and scooters, as well as many other mobility products, as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). There is a Medicare benefit covering DME, but there are some conditions and limitations. Generally speaking, as long as these conditions are met, Medicare will pay for 80 percent of the cost of the equipment. Private insurance may help cover some or all of the remaining balance.

The first step in getting your DME covered is visiting your doctor. Your doctor must be enrolled in the Medicare program. He or she will examine you and determine what kind of medical equipment your condition requires. At this point, they will then prescribe the equipment for your use. Getting this prescription is important for receiving your DME Medicare benefit. While some medical equipment is available for private purchase without a prescription, most requires one, and regardless, to receive Medicare coverage, a doctor must prescribe the equipment for your in-home use.

Once you have the prescription, it’s time to find a dealer. This dealer must be enrolled in Medicare in order for you to receive coverage for the DME. Your dealer isn’t required to accept assignment, but if they do not, you may be required to pay the entire bill (both your share and Medicare’s) at the time of purchase, and then file for reimbursement.

It’s important to note that Medicare does not limit what suppliers are allowed to charge you, but they do limit their benefit. They will only cover 80 percent of the Medicare-approved amount, leaving you to cover any remainder. The San Diego area, including Carlsbad and San Marcos, is in a Medicare competitive bidding area, which further limits the amount Medicare will pay towards your DME.

For these reasons, it’s important to buy from a reputable dealer who understands the DME benefit and the intricacies of Medicare’s requirements, and who will take the time to sit down with you and clearly explain their price and your share. Your dealer should also be able to work with your private insurance, if you have any, and make sure you are also receiving the maximum benefit from that insurance. When Medicare and private insurance benefits are combined properly, you may end up having to pay little or nothing out of pocket.

Here at Pacific Mobility Center, we have a wide range of scooters and powerchairs to fit your needs, but more importantly than that, because we have been in business for over 20 years, we have the knowledge and skills to help navigate the Medicare and insurance process. We will help you determine what your coverage is, and clearly explain your benefits, as well as your out-of-pocket costs. We help with the paperwork, and do what it takes to make purchasing your new powerchair or scooter a breeze. We also guarantee the lowest prices in the San Diego area, so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. Because we also live locally, we care about our clients and do everything in our power to make sure the buying process is easy, fair, transparent, and satisfying. Come see what a difference family ownership, experience, and a local connection to the community makes. Contact us or come on in to our beautiful showroom today!

 

Deciding if Your Mobility Issues Warrant Leaving Your Home

By

When a person first develops mobility issues, they and their family are often faced with a tough decision. Should they remain in their own home or move into an assisted-care facility? Unless the person with mobility issues already lives in a house equipped with mobility aides, to stay in their own home, it must be properly equipped for their safety. While this process costs money, assisted-living facilities are often also expensive. Making a proper price comparison takes a thorough analysis of the costs involved with both. While this analysis can be tricky, using this easy, step-by-step guide will simplify the process and allow a decision to be made with confidence.

      1. Determine the Assistance Needs of the Person

        Mobility challenges, like the people who experience them, are unique and vary widely. Some people may be able to navigate most of the house safely, but need safety devices in the bathrooms. Other people may need the full-time use of a powerchair. Many will fall somewhere in between these extremes. Knowing what the person requires to overcome their mobility challenges allows a proper assessment to be made of the house and the equipment it needs.

      2. Determine What Equipment the House Needs

        Like people, houses are unique. Each house needs an assessment to be made of its unique requirements. Does it have a staircase? Are the doors wide enough to permit wheelchairs? Is there a large drop from the front door to the stoop? Additionally, not all areas of the house may need to be made accessible. For instance, if the house has a pool, but that pool is rarely used or unlikely to be used for a long period, a pool lift may not be necessary. Consequently, this may mean the back patio also wouldn’t need to be made accessible. Examine the house with an eye towards determining what to areas the person needs access and what challenges the person faces when accessing these areas.

      3. Get Quotes

        Once a comprehensive list of what changes to the house are needed, a proper quote can be obtained. A reputable mobility company will offer free quotes, and a knowledgeable company will be able to suggest an array solutions to many issues. For instance, a short flight of front steps may be made accessible with either a ramp or a porch lift. A good company will walk you through the pros and cons of each solution, along with the price of each, and ensure you feel comfortable with the equipment selected. Remember that prices for these products are usually negotiable. Shop around to make sure you are getting the lowest price in the area.

        This is also the time to determine the cost of an assisted living facility. Visit a range of facilities, and if possible, visit each multiple times at different times of the day and week. Visit unannounced if possible. This will provide a more comprehensive and accurate view of what the facility is like. Once a few viable candidates are determined, get quotes on prices. Remember, these prices are often negotiable. Determine what the realistic costs of the facility will be.

      4. Compare Prices

        With good quotes for both an assisted-living facility and for equipping the home, a fair comparison can be made. One important factor in this comparison is examining the out-of-pocket costs associated with both options. The amount Medicare and private insurance will pay towards both these options will vary, so be sure out-of-pocket costs are being used for comparison. A reputable mobility products company will help you determine these costs for outfitting your home, and a reputable assisted living facility will likewise determine what your share of the cost will be.

One final thing to keep in mind when making a decision, however, are the intangibles of each option. Family members may feel safer knowing a person is at a facility where additional, around-the-clock care is available. On the other hand, staying in the home is an option many prefer because of both sentiment and ease. After all, moving into an assisted living facility requires going through the expensive, burdensome, and time-consuming process of sorting and packing belongings, and often requires downsizing those possessions. Assisted living also lacks the happy memories and comfort of living in one’s own home.

At Pacific Mobility Center, we are happy to help throughout this process. We give free quotes and our trained staff offer expert advice when determining what equipment is needed for a home. We also offer the lowest prices anywhere in the San Diego area.

If you or a loved one is faced with the difficult decision of whether to refit your home for enhanced mobility and safety or move into an assisted-living facility, think of us first. We will walk you through the process of determining what equipment is needed, and give you the confidence that comes from knowing your quote is the lowest in town. If you decide staying in the home is the best option, our certified and licensed techs will install the needed equipment quickly and properly, making the entire process from beginning to end a breeze. Don’t face this difficult decision alone. Come in or contact us today.

The founder of angieslist.com discusses making a home accessible in this short video: