Honor and pay homage to our Veterans this November. The sacrifices made by them for the freedoms that we all enjoy often come at a price, as many may live with life-altering disabilities, chronic pain, and mobility issues. Consider many ways to honor and help disabled veterans this Veterans Day with these tips and accessibility solutions.
Do you know a disabled veteran? Take time to honor them with simple strategies that may enhance their accessibility, convenience, and overall quality of life, including reliable and reputable mobility aids that make everyday living a lot easier.
Honor a disabled veteran’s sacrifice with these accessibility and mobility strategies today:
Install a Ramp
Ramps are a great solution for those who struggle with steps, or who want to enhance entry into their home. Ramps may be constructed and built for permanence; however, it is also feasible to invest in a portable ramp that can provide a reliable but somewhat temporary mobility solution, allowing for the option to move the ramp at any time. Whether permanent or portable, honor a disabled vet by inspiring them to look closely at installing a ramp.
Take a Seat
Since most falls and subsequent injuries at home occur in the bathroom, it makes a lot of sense to invest in a shower seat or bath bench that makes everyday bathing much safer and easier. Many veterans may be reticent to request such aid, but they are effective ways to reduce the risk of a nasty fall. Be discreet but mention to your loved one that a shower seat is unobtrusive and noninvasive, as well as easily fits out of sight behind a shower curtain. There are many shower seats and supports available widely, so some buyers may prefer the convenience of online shopping. Let us know if we can help!
Get Rid of Clutter
Clutter inhibits everyday activities and may compromise quality of life. If a veteran that you know lives in clutter, offer assistance. Naturally, not all individuals will relish the idea of someone getting involved, but decluttering does make for a safer, more accessible home. Some folks may welcome the thought of becoming more organized. If you happen to live with a disabled veteran, create a wide pathway through the main areas of the home that can be easily navigated by those with mobility issues or equipment. Less clutter makes it easier to clean and care for, too.
Consider One-Level Living
Anyone who struggles with adapting to their home with mobility challenges may benefit from one-level living. That is, downsize the living space to a single level that is accessible to those living there. You may have to compromise some common areas and amenities for others; for instance, there may not be a bathroom on the first floor of the home, yet you need proximity to the kitchen. There are creative solutions that make one-level living work, so encourage individuals with disabilities to consider the possibilities. One-level living may ultimately facilitate aging in place for those who choose to remain in their current homes indefinitely.
Install Grab Bars
Ask a veteran if they would like to have a few grab bars installed for added safety and accessibility. These are a simple, yet effective way to reduce the risk of a fall in the home. They are easy to manage, inexpensive to buy, and provide great support and stability as needed. Some good places to install a grab bar? Try the bottom and tops of steps or stairs, near sinks and utilities, as well as close to the tub and commode.
Evaluate the Floor
Take a peek at the floor under your feet: does it present any risk of a trip and fall? Peeling linoleum, frayed rugs, or broken tiles can all be a recipe for disaster. Try to mitigate the risks with an evaluation and some repair or replacement, as warranted.
Restore Freedom Behind the Wheel
A vehicle lift can provide the autonomy and freedom that many disabled veterans may have lost due to mobility issues. Mobility equipment can be difficult to stow and take along when you want to get behind the wheel of your vehicle. A vehicle lift can help, and these aids make it possible to regain some independence and gain accessibility- wherever you choose to go!
Never forget that some Veterans may simply appreciate the gift of your time this Veterans Day. Whether it is to stop by and say ‘hello’ or to take the extra effort of accompanying them to an appointment or activity, spend a little time making their life easier while also getting to know them a bit better. Always ask if they mind the company- never assume- and thank them for their service.
If you are looking for quality mobility solutions, talk to the team of professionals at Pacific Mobility. We have been providing aids and equipment to increase accessibility for generations. Call or visit today.
President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.
24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)
