Choosing the Right Mobility Solution for the Situation

Everyone’s accessibility situation is different; what’s yours? Choosing the right mobility solution for your distinct situation is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. In fact, working with an industry professional that stands behind the mobility products that they sell is the best way to assess your needs and find the best mobility aids and equipment for you.

It can be overwhelming and a bit daunting to shop for mobility aids and devices – have you ever visited a mobility retailer before? How do you know which brand is best- or which type of equipment is warranted for your distinct mobility challenges? What about installation- who is going to repair it if something goes wrong? Do you really need a mobility aid, like a scooter or lift?

These are valid questions. Choose to buy your mobility aids from a retailer that responds to and answers questions like these- and more! Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility and get solid answers from industry professionals that have your best interest in mind.

Use these tips to choose the right mobility solution for your situation:

Simple Strategies

If challenges are few, consider implementing simple aids that can make life better by creating a safer environment. One of the main objectives is to reduce the risk of falls during routine ADLs (Activities of Daily Living), like bathing and getting dressed. Consider adaptive devices that make zippers and buttons easy work for older fingers or grab bars in spots that provide the perfect bit of support during washing and bathing. These items are easy to install and inexpensive to buy.

Short Term Solutions

Perhaps you are an individual that is recovering from a recent surgery or rehabilitating from a sports injury. In these instances, you may do best to rent mobility equipment that accommodates your needs as you recover over the short-term from your injury. Rent scooters, chairs, lifts, whatever you need from reliable and reputable mobility vendors in your area for temporary rehabilitative solutions that won’t lock you in or break the bank.

Future Orientation

In other instances, there may be a need to look toward future-oriented needs. For example, is your condition a progressive one? Are you getting older? It might make the most sense to think about future needs and invest in equipment that will evolve with you, providing more support as needed. This may be key for aging in place and staying in your own home living situation longer.  Some examples of such future thinking might be to install stairlifts now- even though you may be able to ascend some steps right now.

On-the-Go

Are you someone that likes to be on the go? If so, perhaps the attention to mobility solutions should focus on elements outside the home. For example, vehicle, porch, and pool lifts allow you the freedom to do what you love. A wide range of both portable and permanent ramps make it easier to access with mobility aids such as wheelchairs independently, inside and outside the dwelling.  Vehicle lifts keep you behind the wheel but also offer the technology to stow your walker or equipment while you drive, too.

Active ADLs

Part of the criteria to determine if an individual can safely age in place or stay in their own home is whether they can complete ADLs adequately and independently. Part of making this feasible might include updating the bathroom with some aids that safely enable ADLs while facilitating aging in place.  Some simple aids that make the bathroom accessible and safe include grab bars near the toilet and sink, a shower seat for bathing, a reaching-tool for accessing cabinets, and treads on slick surfaces to prevent falls. Keep a wide berth throughout the home to make access easier with and without mobility aids or devices. Augment lighting throughout the home to more-fully illuminate spaces that you use regularly, paying close attention to light fixtures near stairs or steps.

Care for Caregivers

Take time to consider how solutions can benefit those that provide care for you, too. For instance, lifts help protect caregivers when they are assisting with ADLs or other tasks. By providing your caregivers with devices like free-standing lifts, shower benches, and gait belts, you are reducing their risk of becoming injured on the job. Caregivers could easily become hurt when providing support- it is an industry hazard. There are numerous mobility solutions available that also offer protection for the caregiver.

Find the right mobility solution for your needs with some help from the team at Pacific Mobility. First, they provide consultation to pinpoint the best equipment to improve your access- next, they help you obtain needed devices with financing options to suit your budget. The good news is that sometimes insurance pays for your mobility aids- we can help you find out more.