Around 16 million people live with COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, in this country. This condition makes it hard to breathe, often due to prolonged exposure to air pollution, smoke, fumes, chemicals, or even dust. This disease is not uncommon among those who work in factories, mines, or on farms though it can occur widely, without these risk factors. COPD makes it difficult to breathe, so physical activity may be limited. Mobility aids can help and in some cases, can transform lives.
It is estimated that approximately 16 million people have COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, in the US alone. This is a significant condition, often called chronic bronchitis or emphysema, which manifests in breathing difficulty. It is often caused by exposure to pollutants like chemicals, fumes, dust, and smoke and is often associated with working on farms, at factories, or in mines.
When it comes to living with COPD, physical activity is key. Maintaining a regimen that alleviates strain on your lungs will help make breathing a bit easier, as well as promote longevity. Protect and preserve your respiratory system and reduce COPD symptoms with regular exercise. Mobility aids can make activity easier and less strenuous for those living with COPD- talk to your physician to find out more.
Here are a few mobility aids that can transform lives for patients with COPD:
Super Poles
Getting in and out of bed can leave those living with respiratory illnesses, like COPD, breathless, even gasping for air. Enjoy a gentler, easier way to rise and retire with a super pole. Super poles are poles that are installed near beds, chairs, or fixtures that offer a bit of support and stability for those with physical limitations or disabilities. They are nonintrusive and space-efficient so others in the home can live around them, too. Super poles are a cost-effective way to improve accessibility, making everyday life more convenient and enjoyable for those with COPD or a wide range of other conditions.
Grab Bars
Similarly, grab bars provide the stability and assistance needed to prevent a nasty fall. It makes good sense to implement inexpensive grab bars near steps, stairs, the toilet, sinks, and anywhere that one may experience a stumble, trip, or fall. Grab bars are discreet, yet the service they provide can be life-changing and may prevent you from a nasty injury related to falls. Since most accidental falls occur in the bathroom, consider where you- or a loved one- would most benefit and install accordingly.
Ramps
A ramp can help make steps or rises much easier and less exertive for those living with COPD. Climbing stairs can cause breathing issues and be exhausting for many- a ramp makes it much easier and safer to get in and out of homes, or other locations. Consider portable ramps that fold up to go wherever you go- or invest in the permanence of a ramp constructed at your home. The best option depends on your distinct preferences and lifestyle- talk to a qualified mobility retail professional to learn more about ramps.
Shower Seats
Showers can be exhausting for individuals with respiratory issues. Furthermore, the heat and steam can cause many to cough- which could precipitate a slip and fall. Take time and care to enjoy a hot shower- or bath- with ease by using a shower seat or bench. These are widely found at varying price points, and they provide a convenient place to sit and relax when bathing. Many secure over the tub wall, while others are made to fit a shower stall. Depending on the unique configuration of your bathroom, there is a shower seat or bench that will fit.
Walkers
Walkers are a common aid to help the user navigate their surroundings and get around. They enable those who cannot walk distances to safely get where they need to go. Walkers give the support necessary so that physical activity is not as strenuous, and they provide a bit of stability when the user begins to feel weak. These are ideal for anyone with COPD as they help with movement- and activity is key for COPD patients to control their symptoms.
You have a lot of options when shopping for a walker, including a rolling walker that features a small seat for sitting or taking a break. The best way to find a walker that works for you is to visit a mobility retailer and try it for yourself. Your primary care provider may also have a recommendation based on your medical condition.
Remember that November is National COPD Awareness Month. This is the perfect time to discover how mobility aids, equipment, and devices may improve your ability to maintain physical activity, thus improving breathing and symptoms associated with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
Do you- or someone you love- live with COPD? Call or visit Pacific Mobility; we have high-quality mobility aids that can not only make everyday tasks easier but also have the potential to transform lives for the better.
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)
