Be Proactive: Don’t Wait to Install Accessibility Aids

The most significant way to honor National Preparedness Month in September is to be proactive: Don’t wait to install accessibility aids. Prevent injuries with mobility devices now.

September is National Preparedness Month, reinforcing the need to be proactive and ready for anything. This focus easily extends to individuals that could be facing impaired mobility or physical limitations now, or down the road. Take action and ensure that you are prepared for whatever comes by adapting to mobility devices now, and by talking with mobility aid vendors about the most practical options for your distinct situation, limitation, and medical condition.

Be Proactive: Don’t Wait to Install Accessibility Aids

There is no better time to install your accessibility aids and mobility devices in your home- or the home of someone you love. These require professional installation to ensure safety, comfort, and convenience, so work with a reputable retailer that offers high-quality products. It is important to only buy from companies that offer customer support and service after-the-sale for optimal satisfaction and utility of whatever device you choose.

The time is now to install these aids and enhance access and improve mobility:

stairlifts

A stairlift can open-up a whole new world to someone who has limited access to the various parts of their home environment. Going upstairs, accessing toilets, and even checking out your yard or garden may seem challenging, if not impossible for someone with a mobility issue. stairlifts can get you to areas of the home that were once inaccessible, safely, securely, and comfortably.

Some of your options when it comes to stairlifts include:

• Straight lifts
• Curved lifts
• Exterior lifts
• stairlift rentals

Make a commitment to renting or trying a stairlift to enhance quality of life for someone you care about that lives with a physical disability or mobility issue.

Porch lifts

Porch lifts are so convenient and provide a simple platform that is easy-to-use and navigate. The user simply rolls their chair, scooter, or walker onto the flush-platform, and once securely positioned, is raised to conquer rises, steps, and inclines that were once difficult to manage. Porch lifts can prevent falls, reduce injuries, and maintain autonomy for those living in the home.

Ceiling lifts

Ceiling lifts are instrumental in assisting individuals with mobility issues, as well as providing support to caregivers who could very easily get hurt during a transport, lift, or ADL. Caregivers, nurses, and aides risk musculoskeletal disorders and injuries when attempting to transfer or move their patients that suffer from limited mobility; in fact, it is a major source of injury to workers in this field of healthcare. Ceiling lifts do the actual lifting for the caregiver or aide, allowing them to focus on assisting the patient in other ways, without fear of injury or incident.

Vehicle lifts

Get your vehicle adapted to any driver with vehicle lifts that not only support the patient getting in the driver’s seat, but that also stow the owner’s chair, scooter, or mobility device for them. This requires professional installation and service to ensure compatibility, and to provide instructions regarding use and recommendations. These devices can be life-changing for people who want to maintain autonomy and preserve their independence.

Do something: September is National Preparedness Month

Do something to be proactive in September, National Preparedness Month. The overriding theme of this year’s National Preparedness Month is “Disasters don’t plan ahead. You can.” This extends to preventing accidents and injuries through early implementation of mobility devices or aids to assist those living with some sort of physical limitation. After all, it would be a disaster to experience or witness a nasty fall by a loved one that results in pain and permanent disability; be vigilant in preparing ahead for accommodations that may be needed now, or at some point later on.

Some other ways to prepare during National Preparedness Month include:

• Talk with family and caregivers to develop a concrete plan in the event of a set-back, crisis, or emergency.
• Do something for someone else- a neighbor, coworker, or friend- that helps them with access or mobility. For example, build a ramp, fix a step, or bring lunch.
• Talk with mobility device vendors about installing a lift in your loved one’s home, and discuss costs, configurations, and considerations. Make a commitment to act early and get devices installed promptly.
• Advocate for or contribute to a cause that benefits those living with physical mobility. This could include attending a conference related to aging or donating your time and energy to a hospital fundraiser.

The time to act is now, rather than later, when it comes to installing devices and mobility aids to increase access and mobility for someone you care about. Don’t wait until it is warranted; plan-ahead and acclimate the individuals and caregivers with operation and maintenance of these tools. Talk with the experts about Pacific Mobility for further information and consult regarding the best ‘next-step’ for you, your loved one, and caregivers.