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Honoring Dad’s Mobility: The Perfect Gift for Father’s Day

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Father’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the remarkable men in our lives who have shaped us with their wisdom, love, and support. As we seek the perfect gift to express our gratitude and admiration for our dads, it’s essential to consider their comfort, well-being, and mobility. This Father’s Day, let’s explore the significance of honoring dad’s mobility and finding the perfect gift that aligns with his needs and desires.

For many fathers, maintaining mobility is not just about physical movement; it’s about preserving independence, dignity, and quality of life. Whether they’re navigating the bustling streets of the city or enjoying a leisurely stroll in the park, mobility plays a vital role in their daily activities and sense of freedom. As their children, it’s our responsibility to support them in this aspect of their lives and ensure that they have the tools and resources they need to stay mobile and active.

One of the most thoughtful gifts we can give to our dads on Father’s Day is a mobility aid that enhances their comfort and facilitates their movement. From lightweight wheelchairs to sturdy walking canes, there is a wide range of options available to accommodate different needs and preferences. By selecting the right mobility aid, we can empower our dads to navigate the world with confidence and ease, enabling them to participate fully in activities they enjoy.

For fathers who enjoy spending time outdoors, a rugged and versatile mobility scooter can be the perfect companion for exploring nature trails, attending outdoor events, or simply taking a leisurely ride around the neighborhood. With features such as all-terrain tires, adjustable seats, and long-lasting batteries, these scooters provide both comfort and functionality, allowing dads to embrace the great outdoors without limitations.

Alternatively, for dads who prefer a more compact and portable solution, a lightweight rollator or walking frame offers stability and support while maintaining a sleek and discreet design. These mobility aids are ideal for navigating crowded spaces, such as shopping malls or airports, and provide a sense of security without compromising on style or convenience.

In addition to physical mobility aids, technology also plays a crucial role in enhancing dad’s independence and safety. Smart devices, such as GPS trackers and fall detection sensors, can provide peace of mind for both dads and their loved ones, ensuring that help is always within reach in case of an emergency. Moreover, innovative mobility apps can assist with trip planning, navigation, and accessibility information, empowering dads to explore new places with confidence and assurance.

Beyond the practical aspects of mobility, it’s essential to recognize the emotional significance of honoring dad’s mobility on Father’s Day. By prioritizing his comfort and well-being, we convey our love, respect, and appreciation for all that he has done for us throughout the years. Whether it’s accompanying him on a scenic walk or simply listening to his stories of past adventures, spending quality time together strengthens our bond and creates lasting memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

Furthermore, supporting dad’s mobility is not just a gesture of kindness; it’s an acknowledgment of his intrinsic value and worth as a person. Regardless of age or physical condition, every individual deserves to live with dignity and autonomy, and by honoring dad’s mobility, we affirm his right to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life on his own terms.

As we reflect on the significance of Father’s Day, let’s remember to celebrate dad’s mobility as a precious gift that enriches his life in countless ways. Whether through the thoughtful selection of a mobility aid or the heartfelt expression of love and gratitude, let’s make this Father’s Day truly memorable by honoring the remarkable men who have shaped our lives with their strength, resilience, and unwavering love.

In conclusion, Father’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate and honor dad’s mobility by choosing the perfect gift that aligns with his needs and desires. Whether it’s a rugged mobility scooter for outdoor adventures or a lightweight rollator for everyday use, the right mobility aid can enhance dad’s comfort, independence, and quality of life. More than just a practical gesture, honoring dad’s mobility is a testament to our love, respect, and appreciation for the remarkable men who have shaped our lives in countless ways.

Enhancing Global Health: World Health Day’s Embrace of Stair Lift Accessibility for Seniors

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Introduction:

World Health Day, observed on April 7th each year, serves as a reminder of the importance of global health and well-being. In recent years, the focus has expanded beyond traditional health initiatives to include issues like accessibility and inclusivity. One such area gaining attention is the accessibility of spaces for seniors, particularly concerning staircases. With aging populations worldwide, ensuring that seniors can navigate their environments safely is crucial for their health and independence. This World Health Day, let’s celebrate the strides made in improving accessibility, particularly through the widespread adoption of stair lift technology.

The Aging Population Challenge:

One of the most significant demographic shifts occurring globally is the aging population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people aged 60 years and older is expected to double by 2050, reaching nearly 2.1 billion. With this demographic shift comes unique challenges, including an increased risk of mobility limitations and falls, particularly on staircases.

Stairs present a significant barrier for many seniors, especially those with mobility issues or physical disabilities. Ascending or descending stairs can be daunting tasks, leading to a loss of independence and a higher risk of accidents. Consequently, addressing stair accessibility is paramount to promoting the health and well-being of seniors worldwide.

The Role of Stair Lifts:

Stair lifts, also known as stairlifts or chair lifts, have emerged as a transformative solution to the challenge of stair accessibility for seniors. These motorized devices are installed onto staircases and carry individuals safely up and down the stairs with minimal effort. By providing a secure and convenient means of traversing staircases, stair lifts empower seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life.

The impact of stair lifts extends beyond mere convenience; they play a crucial role in preventing falls and injuries among seniors. Falls are a leading cause of injury-related deaths and hospitalizations among older adults, with stair-related falls posing a significant risk. Stair lifts help mitigate this risk by reducing the need for seniors to navigate stairs manually, thereby preventing potentially life-threatening accidents.

Global Adoption and Accessibility Initiatives:

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of stair lift accessibility in promoting the health and well-being of seniors worldwide. Governments, advocacy groups, and healthcare organizations have increasingly prioritized initiatives aimed at improving accessibility in public spaces, residential buildings, and private homes.

Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have enacted legislation and building codes mandating accessibility features, including provisions for stair lifts in public buildings and housing developments. Additionally, accessibility grants and subsidies are often available to assist seniors in installing stair lifts in their homes, making this life-changing technology more accessible and affordable.

Beyond regulatory measures, awareness campaigns and educational initiatives have played a crucial role in promoting the benefits of stair lifts and other accessibility solutions. World Health Day serves as an opportune moment to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive design and accessible infrastructure in supporting the health and independence of seniors.

Benefits Beyond Seniors:

While stair lifts primarily benefit seniors, their impact extends beyond this demographic. Individuals with disabilities, temporary injuries, or chronic health conditions that affect mobility also benefit from the installation of stair lifts. By creating more inclusive environments, stair lifts contribute to fostering a society that values diversity and prioritizes the well-being of all its members.

Moreover, the widespread adoption of stair lifts can alleviate the burden on healthcare systems by reducing the number of fall-related injuries among seniors. By preventing falls and their associated healthcare costs, stair lifts offer a cost-effective solution that promotes both individual and societal health.

Looking Ahead:

As we commemorate World Health Day and reflect on the global health challenges we face, it’s essential to recognize the progress made in enhancing accessibility for seniors. Stair lifts represent a tangible and effective solution to the issue of stair accessibility, enabling seniors to age in place safely and independently.

Moving forward, continued efforts are needed to promote the widespread adoption of stair lifts and other accessibility solutions. This includes advocating for policy changes, expanding funding opportunities, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and accessibility in our communities.

Conclusion:

On this World Health Day, let us celebrate the transformative impact of stair lift accessibility for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. By embracing inclusive design principles and prioritizing accessibility, we can create environments that support the health, independence, and dignity of all members of society. As we strive towards a healthier and more inclusive future, let us ensure that no one is left behind on the journey to well-being.

Breaking Barriers: Advocating for Inclusive Environments with Stair Lifts during Developmental Disability Awareness Month

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Every March, communities around the world come together to recognize Developmental Disability Awareness Month. It’s a time for reflection, education, and action towards creating more inclusive environments for individuals with developmental disabilities. One crucial aspect of fostering inclusivity is addressing physical barriers that limit accessibility. In this regard, stair lifts emerge as powerful tools for breaking down these barriers and promoting inclusivity.

Understanding Developmental Disabilities

Before delving into the significance of stair lifts, it’s essential to understand developmental disabilities. These conditions encompass a diverse range of impairments that affect cognitive, physical, communication, and social abilities. Examples include autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities. People with developmental disabilities often face challenges in navigating their surroundings, which can be exacerbated by inaccessible environments.

The Importance of Inclusive Environments

Inclusive environments are those that accommodate the needs of all individuals, regardless of ability. They promote equality, dignity, and independence, enabling everyone to participate fully in society. However, physical barriers such as stairs can pose significant challenges for people with mobility impairments. Without proper accommodations, they may face isolation, exclusion, and limited access to essential services and opportunities.

Breaking Down Barriers with Stair Lifts

Stair lifts offer a practical solution to the challenge of inaccessible staircases. These devices are motorized chairs attached to a track that runs along a staircase, allowing individuals to glide smoothly between different levels of a building. Stair lifts come in various configurations to suit different types of staircases and user needs, including straight, curved, and outdoor models.

For individuals with developmental disabilities who may have difficulty navigating stairs independently, stair lifts provide a newfound sense of freedom and autonomy. They eliminate the need for strenuous physical exertion or assistance from others when traversing stairs, empowering individuals to move freely within their environments. This increased mobility not only enhances their quality of life but also promotes social inclusion and participation in various activities.

Promoting Awareness and Advocacy

During Developmental Disability Awareness Month, it’s crucial to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive environments and advocate for the adoption of accessibility solutions like stair lifts. Communities can organize educational events, workshops, and outreach campaigns to inform the public about the challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities and the steps needed to address them.

Advocacy efforts should also focus on promoting policy changes and building partnerships with stakeholders to ensure that accessibility features, including stair lifts, are incorporated into building codes, regulations, and infrastructure projects. By advocating for inclusive design principles from the outset, we can create environments that are welcoming and accessible to everyone.

Case Study: The Impact of Stair Lifts in Community Settings

To illustrate the transformative impact of stair lifts, consider the case of a community center that installed stair lifts to improve accessibility for individuals with developmental disabilities. Before the installation, individuals who used wheelchairs or had mobility impairments faced significant barriers in accessing the center’s upper floors where many activities and services were located.

After the stair lifts were installed, there was a noticeable increase in participation among individuals with developmental disabilities. They could now attend classes, workshops, and social gatherings on the upper floors without difficulty, enhancing their sense of belonging and inclusion within the community. The installation of stair lifts not only benefited individuals with disabilities but also improved overall accessibility for all members of the community.

Conclusion

As we observe Developmental Disability Awareness Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. Stair lifts represent a tangible means of breaking down physical barriers and promoting accessibility for individuals with developmental disabilities. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and investing in accessible design, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and belong.

Ascending with Confidence: How Stair Lifts Support Well-Elderly Living on Wellderly Day

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Introduction:

As we age, our homes may become both a haven and a potential hazard. For many seniors, stairs pose a significant risk of falls, leading to injuries and a loss of independence. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of addressing fall risks among seniors and how stairlifts emerge as a game-changer in enhancing safety and mobility.

Understanding the Fall Risk:

Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence among seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four Americans aged 65 and older experiences a fall each year. Stairs, once an inconspicuous part of our homes, can become a formidable obstacle as mobility and balance decline with age.

Challenges Faced by Seniors:

Navigating stairs can be particularly challenging for seniors dealing with conditions such as arthritis, muscle weakness, or reduced joint flexibility. Additionally, factors like medication side effects and vision impairments can further increase the risk of stumbling and falling. As a result, many seniors may find themselves avoiding certain parts of their homes or, in extreme cases, contemplating moving to a single-level residence.

The Role of Stairlifts in Fall Prevention:

Stairlifts, also known as chairlifts or stair gliders, offer a practical and efficient solution to mitigate fall risks associated with stairs. These devices are designed to transport individuals safely up and down staircases, promoting independence and enabling seniors to continue enjoying all areas of their homes. Let’s delve into how stairlifts contribute to the safety and well-being of seniors.

1. Enhanced Mobility:

   Stairlifts provide seniors with a newfound sense of mobility within their homes. By eliminating the need to climb stairs manually, these devices ensure that every floor is easily accessible. This not only prevents falls but also encourages seniors to maintain an active lifestyle by freely moving between different levels of their homes.

2. User-Friendly Design:

   Stairlifts are designed with user comfort in mind. The controls are simple and easy to use, allowing seniors to operate the device independently. The chair or platform is equipped with safety features such as seat belts and armrests, providing a secure and comfortable ride. The user-friendly design ensures that seniors can navigate stairs with confidence and peace of mind.

3. Adaptability to Various Stair Configurations:

   Stairlifts are versatile and can be installed on straight or curved staircases, as well as on outdoor steps. The adaptability of these devices makes them suitable for a wide range of home configurations, ensuring that seniors can customize the solution to fit their specific needs. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those living in multi-story homes.

4. Promoting Aging in Place:

   Aging in place, the ability to live in one’s own home independently and safely is a priority for many seniors. Stairlifts play a crucial role in making this goal achievable. By removing the barrier posed by stairs, these devices allow seniors to stay in the comfort of their familiar surroundings, maintaining a sense of autonomy and connection to their homes.

5. Peace of Mind for Caregivers:

   Stairlifts not only benefit seniors but also provide peace of mind for their caregivers. Knowing that their loved ones can navigate stairs safely reduces the stress and worry associated with potential falls. Caregivers can rest assured that stairlifts contribute to a safer living environment, allowing seniors to age gracefully at home.

Installation and Maintenance:

The installation of a stairlift is a relatively straightforward process that can be customized to fit the layout of the home. Professional technicians assess the specific needs of the individual and tailor the installation accordingly. Regular maintenance ensures the continued reliability and safety of the device, providing seniors and their families with ongoing peace of mind.

Cost Considerations and Funding Options:

While the initial cost of a stairlift may be a concern for some, it’s essential to weigh this against the potential medical costs and loss of independence associated with a fall. Additionally, there are funding options and financial assistance programs available to help make stairlifts more affordable. Exploring these options ensures that safety solutions are accessible to a broader range of seniors.

Conclusion:

In the journey of aging, maintaining safety and independence within one’s home is paramount. Stairlifts emerge as a transformative solution, addressing the challenges posed by stairs and reducing the risk of falls for seniors. By embracing such innovations, older adults can confidently navigate their homes, reclaiming spaces that were once restricted. The investment in stairlifts not only enhances safety but also contributes to the overall well-being and quality of life for seniors, allowing them to step up to a future filled with continued independence and security.

Technological Innovations in Accessibility

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A disability is any physical, sensory, or cognitive impairment that makes daily activities more difficult. Many people are born with a disability. Others acquire a disability later in life, from an accident, an illness, or the aging process. Many older individuals are diagnosed with chronic conditions that lead to functional or cognitive disabilities. Pacific Mobility Center specializes in products that give those with disabilities freedom and independence.

Over a billion people globally have some form of disability: 360 million people worldwide have moderate to profound hearing loss; 285 million people are visually impaired (39 million of whom are blind) and 75 million people need a wheelchair (of which, only 5-15 percent actually have access to one).

In recent decades, new and innovative technologies have helped lower the barriers that people with disabilities encounter in their daily lives, helping them with tasks that able-bodied people take more or less for granted, such as speaking, travelling, reading, and writing. These new technologies can be classified as assistive, adaptive, or accessible.

Assistive technology

Assistive technology is technology designed specifically to improve a disabled person’s functional capabilities, and includes a wide range of devices and services, including IT-enabled prosthetics and implants, custom computer interfaces, and accessible communication tools. Adaptive technology provides a mechanism that allows people with disabilities to use technology that would otherwise be inaccessible to them. Text-to-speech technology, for example, helps users with vision impairments to be able to “read” materials that are written. Computer screen readers and screen magnifiers help make computer output accessible for visually impaired users. Accessible technology helps remove barriers and make the world more accessible for people with disabilities. Speech recognition software, for example, has many uses such as dictation or automated telephone systems; however, the technology can also provide independence for quadriplegics by allowing them to control a computer with their voice. Consumer Electronics Shows annually feature these types of products.

While there remains a long way to go before all new technologies are made accessible to people with disabilities, in recent years there has been a great deal of progress. Mainstream technologies are becoming increasingly adaptable, and specialist technologies have, in many cases. become increasingly affordable.

Some examples of innovative new products that further help disabled people function more easily, while acquiring more independence, include:

• Dot: the world’s first Braille smartwatch
• Talkitt: an innovative application that translates unintelligible pronunciation into understandable speech
• The Sesame Phone: designed to be used with small head movements, tracked by its front-facing camera
• Uni: a tool that detects hand and finger gestures that it converts into text
• The Finger Reader: a wearable tool that can scan a text and give real-time audio feedback of the words it detects
• Be My Eyes: an application that connects blind people with volunteers from around the world who can help with simple tasks
• AXS map: an app that carries information about wheelchair-accessible ramps and restrooms in public places
• Transcence: an app that converts spoken words into text in real time for group messaging
• Liftware: a self-stabilizing handle on which one can attach an eating utensil like a fork or spoon for patients who suffer from Parkinson’s disease or other forms of motion disorders that causes hand tremors.

Some other new and/or emerging technologies include:

• Driverless cars
• Smart glasses that include facial recognition software which interprets facial expressions and tells the wearer how the person in front of them is feeling. This could be particularly useful for people Asperger’s Syndrome, for instance, who struggle to interpret facial expressions unassisted
• Prosthetic limbs that allow wearers to “feel” touched objects, while offering better control and efficiency
• All terrain wheelchairs, capable of scaling uneven surfaces
• Smart belts that can detect when a person is falling in order to deploy air cushions prior to impact
• Medical exoskeletons which can be used to assist people who have trouble walking
• Smart canes that can alert a user’s relative is there is any unusual use or movements of the cane

Contact Pacific Mobility Center with any questions about how you and/or your loved ones can benefit from the best accessibility products available today: Stairlifts, Residential Porch Lifts, Vehicle Lifts, Ceiling Lifts, Shower Buddy, Electric Door Opener, Ramps, Scooters, Lift Chairs, Wheel Chairs, Power Electric Wheel Chairs, Walkers, Turning Automotive Seats, Automotive Hand Controls, Pool Lifts and Other Aids to Daily Living.

Slings

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A sling is an item that, when used in conjunction with a mechanical lift, helps to facilitate the transfer of an individual who is mobility-challenged. A sling is comprised of a specially designed and constructed piece of fabric that is placed under and around its user, and then attached by hooks, clips, straps, chains, or loops to the appropriate part of the lift mechanism in order to raise, move, and/or lower the person in it. A sling lift allows patients to be transferred safely while decreasing the risk of injury to the caregiver.

There are many different types of slings that can be attached to different types of lifts, such as floor lifts and overhead lifts, in order to accomplish different tasks. So when choosing a sling, it is necessary to establish its compatibility with the lifting system to which it will be attached, how it will be used, and the frequency of the transfer task desired. For example, a sling that is to be used for toileting will require a commode opening, while bariatric slings are designed for very heavy people.

Some basic types of slings are the Universal Sling and the Hammock Sling. The Universal Sling is also known as the “Quick Fit Sling” due to the ease of application, or the “Horseshoe Style Sling” due to the large horseshoe shaped opening created by the leg straps. The Hammock Sling design is also known as the “Split Leg Style” sling due to its small “L-Shaped” leg straps. The Hammock Sling is acknowledged by professionals as one of the most comfortable and supportive sling for both home and institutional use.

Some specialized kinds of slings are walking slings, standing slings, amputee slings, quadriplegic slings (contain additional head support), showering slings, re-positioning slings (for turning or sliding patients in bed), disposable slings (for enhanced infection control), and stretcher slings (for supine transfer).

Just as it is important for the sling to fit the task it is intended to accomplish, it must also precisely fit its user. Having the correct-sized sling ensures that the person being lifted feels safe and comfortable. Thus, a professional assessment of the user’s size, weight, and medical condition is absolutely necessary. In addition, the user’s caregiver must feel confident that he or she can safely employ the sling and the lift to which it is attached. Some slings are more complicated than others and a caregiver may be reluctant to use a sling if the process of fitting it is too complex. Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants often receive specialized training in order to use slings and lifts safely and effectively.

A sling is made of fabric, and as such, it can wear out or get torn. Because a sling failure can have catastrophic consequences, the condition and integrity of a sling should be visually inspected prior to each and every use. Possible factors affecting the condition and lifespan of a sling include: client weight, frequency of use, frequency of laundering, washing and drying methods, washing and drying temperature, detergent used, disinfectant used, and any misuse it has experienced.

Choosing the right type and size of sling is crucial for the health and safety of its user and his or her caregiver. The professionals at Pacific Mobility can help you understand how different slings work and which one may be your most appropriate choice. Call or visit us for a free consultation.

Making Your Multi-Story Home More Accessible

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Seniors or individuals with mobility challenges may find living in a multi-story home difficult. Getting up and down stairs can be impossible for some, while potentially dangerous for others. And moving to a one story house or a senior living facility may not be an option for a variety of reasons. If it becomes necessary or preferable for an individual disabled by age, infirmity, or accident to stay in a multi-story abode, there are practical and affordable solutions.

The easiest and least expensive option, if practicable, would be to simply relocate all multi-floor activities to the ground floor. Of course, that would require that the ground floor be made convenient for eating, sleeping, bathing, and all the other normal activities of daily life. Minor modifications may need to be made, such as widening doorways, making a downstairs bathroom more usable, etc. But in terms of difficulty and expense, it is certainly the most cost-effective and convenient way for a disabled person to remain in his or her multi-story home.

However if living exclusively on the ground floor is not possible, then it may become necessary to investigate how the home can be adapted in order to provide safe access between floor levels. The three most common alternatives are residential elevators, stairlifts, and inclined platform lifts. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, but if employed correctly either one can help keep a mobility-challenged person in his or her own home.

A residential elevator is a lift that is enclosed in a shaft and travels vertically between floors. Elevators can range from an unfinished platform to a fully- enclosed cabin with safety gates and a finished interior. Residential elevators are either cable operated or hydraulically powered. They are typically used when the vertical change between two or more floor levels is significant and there is not enough room in the house to install a usable stairlift or ramp. There must, however, be enough room in the house to accommodate the needed shaft space.

A stairlift consists of a seat that travels up and down a stairway on a track or rails mounted either on the surface of the stairs or on an adjacent wall. stairlifts can be installed on most stairways and come in a wide array of sizes and styles. They are fairly easy to retrofit into existing homes and are considerably less expensive than elevators – especially if the staircase is a single straight run. They require a clear floor space at the top and bottom of the staircase so that the user can get on or off, and they will reduce the usable width of the stairs – a particular concern if the staircase is narrow to begin with.

Inclined platform lifts consist of a platform that moves up and down over an existing stairway. They are usually employed by people who use wheelchairs, but some models incorporate a fold-down seat for people who do not use a wheelchair but have difficulty using stairs. The platform is typically supported by rails that are mounted to a wall on one side of the staircase. Platforms on stairlifts come in various sizes, but they are always much wider and larger than seated stairlifts and thus need more room at the top and bottom of the staircase, as well as enough headroom throughout the entire traveled distance. They are easier to install and less expensive if the staircase is a single, straight run. There are platform stairlifts available that will turn corners on curved staircases, but they require wider staircases to accommodate the platform as it turns and are far more expensive.

We understand that staying in the home you love is important to your overall well-being. If you need expert advice on the most appropriate and affordable option for your multi-story home, the professionals at Pacific Mobility are always available for a free consultation. Call or visit us, today.

Swimming Pool Lifts

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pool lift

Swimming is great exercise as well a great way to relax. And spending time in a swimming pool can be very therapeutic for most people. However, for individuals with certain disabilities or mobility challenges, getting in and out of a pool can be very difficult, or even impossible without some type of aid. Fortunately, over the years, there have been many in almost any situation.

Basically, a pool lift is any mechanized seat with the ability to lower and raise a disabled or injured person into and out of a swimming pool. Pool lifts can either be permanent or portable. Permanent pool lifts can be installed on the edge of a pool, or onto an anchor embedded in the pool deck, while portable lifts, which usually have wheel attachments, can be placed anywhere around the pool, and then put in storage when not in use.

As with any type of product, different types of pool lifts have their own advantages and disadvantages. For example, permanent pool lifts are preferable in instances where the individuals needing them are heavier than normal, but, unlike portable lifts, they are always open to the elements.

The first commercially successful water-powered, swimming pool lift hit the market around 1980. By 1997, manufacturers had perfected a battery-powered, free-standing pool lift that was designed to work with more contemporary swimming pool designs. All types of patient lift systems, including pool lifts, are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and must meet certain standards in their design and manufacture.

Swimming pool lifts can be categorized as follows: • Non –cantilevered lifts have seats that are attached to and rotate around an anchor point. Most early lifts were of this type as they are limited to simple pool designs that feature either no gutter of recessed gutters. They are fairly inexpensive and easy to operate, but they must be fixed in place to a deck or anchor and connected to a water supply to power them.
• Cantilevered lifts are designed to allow the seat to extend out from the anchor point. They can be fixed, anchored or free standing. Cantilevered lifts provide access to a greater number of pool designs, including rim-flow gutters, roll out gutters, or any type of design where there is a substantial horizontal distance from the loading point to the water. They are further categorized as non-rotational and rotational: o Non-rotational cantilevered lifts extend the seat directly out from the loading point.
o Rotational cantilevered lifts have the added ability to raise and rotate the seat position over the pool deck and extend it over any obstacle in the path to the water. This type of lift provides the greatest versatility of any of the different designs. They can be anchored or free standing, with free standing models generally the most expensive.

Pool lifts in public pools are regulated by the American with Disabilities Act, and as such, cannot be manually operated, as the law requires that they be capable of unassisted operation. However, manually operated pool lifts can be used in a residential setting.

Pacific Mobility has many pool lift options to choose from. We invite you to talk to one of our professional staff members who will help you determine what kind of pool lift best suits your needs and budget. Call us today for a free consultation.