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senior citizens

Cancer Survivors Rise: How Mobility Solutions Empower Lives

May 8, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

In the realm of health battles, cancer often stands as an adversary of immense proportions. Yet, amidst the daunting challenges and profound struggles, there lies a narrative of resilience, courage, and triumph. Cancer survivors, individuals who have braved the tumultuous journey of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, stand as beacons of hope and inspiration. While their stories are as diverse as the colors of the spectrum, there is a common thread that binds many: the transformative power of mobility solutions in reclaiming autonomy and enhancing quality of life.

Cancer, with its multifaceted impacts on physical, emotional, and social well-being, can significantly impede mobility. From the debilitative effects of treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation to the physical limitations imposed by surgeries, cancer often leaves survivors grappling with newfound challenges in movement and independence. However, in the face of adversity, innovation and ingenuity have paved the way for a plethora of mobility solutions tailored to the unique needs of cancer survivors.

One of the most emblematic symbols of mobility empowerment for cancer survivors is the advent of prosthetics. For those who have undergone amputations as part of their cancer treatment, prosthetic limbs represent not only a physical aid but also a profound symbol of resilience and adaptation. With advancements in prosthetic technology, modern devices offer unprecedented levels of functionality, comfort, and aesthetics, enabling cancer survivors to navigate the world with newfound confidence and agility.

Furthermore, assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and mobility scooters have emerged as indispensable allies in the journey towards reclaiming mobility. These tools not only facilitate movement but also serve as enablers of independence, allowing cancer survivors to engage in daily activities, participate in social interactions, and pursue their passions with greater ease and freedom. Moreover, customized adaptations and accessories cater to the unique needs and preferences of individuals, ensuring optimal comfort and functionality.

Beyond physical aids, the realm of mobility solutions extends to encompass a diverse array of supportive services and initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for cancer survivors. Accessible transportation services, community-based support groups, and adaptive sports programs provide avenues for connection, empowerment, and enrichment, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among survivors.

In addition to tangible aids and services, the concept of mobility encompasses a broader dimension that transcends physical movement. It encompasses the ability to engage with the world on one’s own terms, to pursue aspirations and dreams, and to embrace life with vitality and vigor. In this sense, the true essence of mobility empowerment lies not merely in the act of traversing physical spaces but in the liberation of the human spirit from the shackles of limitation and constraint.

The transformative impact of mobility solutions extends far beyond the individual level, resonating across familial, societal, and global spheres. By empowering cancer survivors to lead fulfilling and active lives, these solutions contribute to the cultivation of a more inclusive and compassionate society, where diversity is celebrated, and barriers are dismantled. Moreover, they serve as catalysts for innovation and progress, inspiring breakthroughs in healthcare, technology, and social policy.

Yet, amidst the strides made in the realm of mobility empowerment, challenges and barriers persist. Accessibility issues, financial constraints, and disparities in healthcare access continue to pose formidable obstacles for many cancer survivors, limiting their ability to fully benefit from available solutions. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from stakeholders across sectors, including policymakers, healthcare providers, philanthropists, and community leaders, to ensure equitable access to mobility solutions for all.

In the journey of cancer survivorship, every step taken towards mobility empowerment is imbued with significance and meaning. It symbolizes not only a triumph over adversity but also a testament to the indomitable human spirit. As cancer survivors rise above the challenges that once sought to confine them, they inspire others to embark on their own journeys of resilience, hope, and renewal.

In conclusion, the narrative of cancer survivors is one of courage, resilience, and empowerment. Through the transformative power of mobility solutions, they defy the limitations imposed by illness and reclaim their rightful place as active participants in life’s journey. As they navigate the terrain of survivorship with grace and determination, they remind us all of the boundless potential that resides within the human spirit to rise, thrive, and soar beyond the confines of circumstance.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: safety, senior citizens, stairlift, wheelchair

Raising Awareness: Stair Lifts and Alcohol Awareness Month for Seniors

April 10, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

As we delve into April, a month filled with various awareness campaigns, it’s crucial to shine a light on issues affecting seniors, especially those related to health and safety. Among the topics that demand attention are the significance of stair lifts for seniors and the observance of Alcohol Awareness Month within this demographic. Both subjects are integral to ensuring the well-being and quality of life for older adults.

Understanding the Importance of Stair Lifts

For many seniors, maintaining independence within their own homes is a priority. However, as age-related mobility issues arise, simple tasks like climbing stairs can become challenging and even hazardous. Stair lifts offer a practical solution to this problem, enabling seniors to navigate between different levels of their homes safely and comfortably.

Stair lifts are motorized devices attached to staircases, consisting of a chair or platform that moves along a rail affixed to the stairs. They are designed to transport individuals up and down stairs effortlessly, eliminating the need for strenuous physical effort or the risk of falls.

The benefits of stair lifts for seniors are manifold. Firstly, they provide a sense of autonomy by allowing individuals to access all areas of their homes independently. This independence can significantly enhance the psychological well-being of seniors, fostering a greater sense of control and dignity.

Moreover, stair lifts promote safety within the home environment. Falls on stairs are a leading cause of injury among older adults, often resulting in serious consequences such as fractures or head trauma. By reducing the need to navigate stairs manually, stair lifts mitigate the risk of falls, thereby enhancing overall safety and reducing the likelihood of costly medical expenses or long-term care needs.

Furthermore, installing a stair lift can facilitate aging in place, enabling seniors to remain in their familiar surroundings and avoid the upheaval of relocating to assisted living facilities or nursing homes. This not only preserves the emotional attachment to one’s home but also promotes social connections within the community.

Alcohol Awareness Month: A Focus on Seniors

While alcohol misuse is often associated with younger demographics, it’s essential to recognize that seniors are not immune to the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol Awareness Month, observed annually in April, serves as an opportune time to address this issue and educate seniors about the potential dangers of alcohol misuse.

There are several factors that contribute to the heightened vulnerability of seniors to alcohol-related problems. Physiological changes that occur with aging, such as decreased liver function and changes in metabolism, can result in alcohol having a more pronounced effect on older adults. Additionally, seniors are more likely to be taking multiple medications, some of which may interact adversely with alcohol, leading to complications or exacerbated side effects.

Moreover, life transitions commonly experienced in later years, such as retirement, loss of loved ones, or changes in health status, may predispose seniors to turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. Loneliness and social isolation, prevalent issues among older adults, can also contribute to alcohol misuse as individuals seek solace or companionship through drinking.

Educational initiatives during Alcohol Awareness Month can play a pivotal role in raising awareness among seniors about the risks associated with alcohol consumption and promoting responsible drinking habits. Informational campaigns may focus on the potential health consequences of excessive alcohol intake, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, cognitive impairment, and an increased risk of accidents or falls.

Furthermore, outreach efforts can emphasize the importance of moderation and encourage seniors to assess their alcohol consumption habits honestly. Screening tools and resources may be provided to help individuals evaluate their alcohol use and seek assistance if needed. Additionally, community-based programs and support groups can offer social connections and alternative activities to reduce the likelihood of alcohol misuse among seniors.

Conclusion

As we navigate the myriad challenges faced by aging populations, initiatives aimed at enhancing safety and promoting health awareness among seniors are paramount. The integration of stair lifts into home environments can vastly improve the quality of life for older adults, fostering independence and reducing the risk of falls.

Simultaneously, the observance of Alcohol Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing alcohol misuse among seniors. By raising awareness and providing education about the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption, we can empower seniors to make informed choices and safeguard their well-being as they age.
Ultimately, by prioritizing initiatives that address the unique needs and concerns of seniors, we can strive towards creating supportive environments that enable older adults to age gracefully and maintain their health and independence for years to come.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: aging, agingdisability, disability Tagged With: elderly, mobility, senior citizens

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

March 26, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

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.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: aging, agingdisability, disability Tagged With: disability, elderly, safety, senior citizens

Navigating New Heights: The Life-Changing Benefits of Stairlifts for the Elderly

February 13, 2024 By ASHWDM VA

Introduction:

As the golden years unfold, many seniors face unique challenges in maintaining their independence and quality of life. One common obstacle is the difficulty in navigating stairs within their own homes. However, the advent of stairlift technology has proven to be a game-changer for the elderly, offering not just mobility assistance but a host of life-changing benefits. In this article, we will delve into the transformative impact of stairlifts on the lives of seniors, exploring the physical, emotional, and practical advantages that come with these innovative mobility solutions.

1. Preserving Independence:

For seniors, maintaining independence is often a top priority. Stairlifts provide a means for elderly individuals to move freely between different levels of their homes without relying on assistance from others. This independence not only fosters a sense of self-reliance but also contributes to overall mental well-being.

2. Enhancing Safety:

Safety concerns are paramount for seniors, particularly when it comes to navigating stairs. Stairlifts offer a secure and reliable solution to mitigate the risk of falls and injuries. Equipped with safety features such as seatbelts, smooth starts and stops, and obstruction sensors, these devices provide a safe and comfortable ride, instilling confidence in seniors as they move about their homes.

3. Promoting Physical Well-Being:

Maintaining physical health is crucial for seniors to enjoy a high quality of life. Stairlifts eliminate the physical strain and fatigue associated with climbing stairs, making it easier for older individuals to stay active and engaged in daily activities. By reducing the physical toll of stair climbing, these devices contribute to better joint health and overall mobility.

4. Adapting to Changing Needs:

The beauty of stairlifts lies in their adaptability to the unique needs of each individual. Whether dealing with arthritis, limited mobility, or recovering from surgery, stairlifts can be customized to accommodate various health conditions. This adaptability ensures that seniors can age in place comfortably, avoiding the need for extensive home modifications.

5. Fostering Emotional Well-Being:

The emotional impact of limited mobility should not be underestimated. Feeling confined to a specific floor or area of the house can lead to a sense of isolation and frustration. Stairlifts break down these emotional barriers, allowing seniors to fully enjoy and participate in all aspects of their homes. The restored freedom to explore different levels promotes a positive mindset and a greater sense of well-being.

6. Ease of Installation and Use:

Stairlifts are designed with user-friendly features, ensuring ease of installation and operation. The installation process is typically non-intrusive, requiring minimal modifications to the home. The controls are intuitive, and the compact design of modern stairlifts ensures they seamlessly blend into the home environment. This simplicity makes stairlifts an accessible solution for a wide range of seniors.

7. Cost-Effective Alternative:

Compared to alternative solutions such as home elevators or extensive home renovations, stairlifts are a cost-effective option. The initial investment is often considerably lower, and the maintenance costs are minimal. This affordability makes stairlifts a practical choice for seniors seeking an efficient and budget-friendly mobility solution.

8. Supporting Caregivers:

Stairlifts not only benefit seniors but also provide relief to caregivers. Assisting a loved one up and down the stairs can be physically demanding and emotionally taxing. Stairlifts reduce the burden on caregivers, allowing them to focus on providing companionship and support in other aspects of daily life.

Conclusion:

In the journey of aging, maintaining independence and mobility is paramount for the well-being of seniors. Stairlifts have emerged as a revolutionary solution, offering life-changing benefits that go beyond mere convenience. By fostering independence, enhancing safety, and supporting both physical and emotional well-being, stairlifts empower seniors to navigate their homes with confidence and grace. As the aging population continues to grow, the significance of such innovations cannot be overstated, marking a transformative shift in how we approach the challenges of aging gracefully. Stairlifts are not just about ascending and descending physical heights; they represent a powerful elevation in the overall quality of life for our beloved elderly population.

ASHWDM VA
ASHWDM VA

Filed Under: agingdisability, disability Tagged With: elderly, mobility, mobility assistive equipment, senior citizens, stairlift

Technological Innovations in Accessibility

May 1, 2017 By Jeff Conner

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.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

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)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: Blog Posts Tagged With: disability, disabled, driving aids, elderly, grab bars, grab rails, innovation, manual wheelchair, medicare, mobility, mobility assistive equipment, mobility challenged, mobility impaired, power wheel, safety, scooter, senior citizens, stairlift, stairlifts, technology, wheelchair

Help I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up.

October 30, 2015 By Jeff Conner

I've fallen

The catchphrase “Help, “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up!” was made famous many years ago in a television commercial for a medical alarm company called LifeCall. LifeCall sold pendants that seniors and disabled individuals could wear around their necks and use to make emergency medical calls after a fall or other accident left them immobile and unable to reach a telephone.

Although the commercial portrayed a potentially dangerous situation for a senior, and one that could have dire consequences, the phrase found its way into the popular culture as a comedic punch line, undercutting the serious nature of the circumstances that lead to 35 million falls each year by Americans over the age of 65.

In fact, seniors in this country are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more than they are for injuries from all other causes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) lists falls as the leading cause of accidental death for seniors. And considering that one half of all people who fall require assistance from someone else to get up, it’s no wonder that a senior living alone has the odds stacked against him or her.

The New England Journal of Medicine reports that after a fall or other emergency, 90 percent of people who get help within one hour can continue to live independently, but after 12 hours without any help, 90 percent are no longer capable of living alone at home. According to the Yale University School of Medicine, nearly one half of the older adults who incur a serious injury never fully recover and many lose their ability to function independently for the rest of their lives.

While fragile seniors run a very high risk of falling due to the degeneration of muscle strength and loss of balance over the years, anyone of any age can become the victim of a heart attack. And if someone who suffers from cardiac arrest falls and cannot get help, or get to a hospital within an hour or so, their chances for survival are greatly diminished. Each year, 1.5 million Americans have heart attacks; one third of them are fatal.

At Pacific Mobility, we sell products that help seniors and others get the help they need if they’ve fallen and can’t get up, or are faced with any other urgent situation, such as a fire, a home intrusion, or a CO gas emergency. Getting assistance in a timely manner can make a major difference in preserving one’s quality of life; indeed, personal 911 call systems can help save a life, or the life of a loved one.

Call or visit us today and let us show you our full line of personal call systems. The truth is, there’s nothing funny about somebody who falls and can’t get up.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

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)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: Blog Posts Tagged With: elderly, safety, senior citizens

Hand Rail Systems Can Make the Home More Safe

October 19, 2015 By Jeff Conner

grab rail

While many seniors prefer to live in their homes for as long as possible, most homes are not designed for maximum safety. As people age, their balance, stability and muscle strength tend to wane. This diminishing vitality, coupled with a concomitant decrease in visual acuity, is the cause of many home accidents. Indeed, falls are the number one cause of injury among seniors, responsible for almost three million emergency room visits and more than 25,000 deaths in Canada and the U.S., annually.

One type of home modification that can help make the home safer is a handrail system. There are three major reasons to install handrails:
• To support walking
• To support overall mobility
• To prevent falls

It is important to understand that railings and banisters are not handrails and should not be confused with them. Railings and banisters may provide some support, but they are generally not strong enough to prevent a fall should a person grab onto it in extremis. A true handrail must withstand at least 500 pounds of force.

In addition, according to the Americans with Disabilities Act, a handrail needs to be:
• 1¼” – 2″ in diameter
• Round (or equivalent)
• 1½” minimum from the wall
• At least 1½” above any horizontal protrusion
• Continuous on and between stairs, ramps, landings and horizontal extensions at the tops and bottoms of slopes

Handrails can be installed in many different areas of a house. For example, a handrail can be installed on the wall above the bath tub; in a shower or just outside it; next to a sink or toilet; alongside a bed; on a staircase; in a kitchen or work space, or anywhere else where a senior or anyone else who is mobility challenged, requires or desires one. Usually, they are made of metal, such as aluminum, but they can also be made of wood or heavy plastic.

More important than the actual handrail material is the strength of the bracket that attaches it to the wall.Therefore, it is highly advisable that handrail systems be installed by professionals using the appropriate fasteners and fixtures. Do-it-yourself installations may also be available, but instructions must be followed carefully when putting them up. Also, there may be cases where handrails would impede movement or create risks for the elderly if they are installed in an inappropriate location.

At Pacific Mobility, we can assist you in planning the best and most appropriate type of handrail system for your home. Our experienced staff can also install your handrails, providing you the best in safety and reliability.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

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)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: Blog Posts, Product Information Tagged With: bathroom, crutches, disability, grab rails, mobility, mobility challenged, safety, senior citizens

Staying in the Home You Love vs. Moving to Assisted Living

September 18, 2015 By Jeff Conner

sb2-1-150x150

Most seniors, if given the choice, would choose to remain in their own home for as long as possible rather than move to an assisted living facility. In fact, one study puts the number as high as 90 percent. This is not a mystery. For most of us – seniors included – home is where we’re comfortable; where it’s safe and familiar. We get to sleep in our own bed, eat what and when we like, and have a certain amount of privacy.

By and large, an elderly person who remains at home has a greater measure of independence than a contemporary who lives in an assisted living situation and giving up one’s independence can be difficult. In fact, for some seniors, transitioning to an assisted living community can be psychologically devastating, as it portends the end of one of life’s chapters, and the beginning of an unknown experience out of one’s comfort zone.

However, some seniors who do choose to remain at home may experience social isolation and poor nutrition which can contribute to cognitive decline, health problems, depression, and a diminished quality of life – especially if some of the activities of daily living (ADLs), like dressing, bathing, cooking, cleaning, going up and down stairs, etc. become too difficult. These seniors must come to terms with the situation that is facing them. Either they can stay in the home they love, or they can make the move to assisted living.

Luckily, today, more and more seniors have the option of “aging in place,” as long as they are willing to make certain modifications in the way they live and to the houses in which they live.

For example, even if one is not completely healthy, with home-healthcare, seniors can have their medical needs attended to most satisfactorily without having to leave home. In fact, one study found that those seniors who received in-home care visited the doctor 25 percent fewer times than those that didn’t receive in-home care. Clients with Alzheimer’s or other dementia diseases made almost 50 percent less trips to the doctor. In addition, other in-home services such as housecleaning, non-medical care, shopping, transportation, and food services can help offset the need for an elderly individual to have to struggle with common, everyday chores.

Making the home more “senior-safe” is another tactic that will allow an elderly individual to remain longer in the home he or she loves. Some general home alterations include the widening of doorways, and the installation of grab bars in the bathroom and/or shower, bed rails, and some type of stairlift in homes that contain more than one story. For seniors restricted to a wheel chair, an outdoor ramp or porch lift can enable them go in and out safely and at will. In addition, home monitoring equipment can let family members keep an eye on an aged loved one from a distance.

None of this should suggest that a transfer to assisted living can’t be a viable option for some seniors. There are certainly some advantages for the elderly individual whose needs – both medical and mundane – can be attended to in a professionally operated assisted living facility staffed by competent and caring people. However, for those seniors who wish to stay at home, and know the necessary modifications that are available, aging in place is certainly easier to accomplish now than ever before.

At Pacific Mobility, we are the aging in place experts. Our staff has the knowledge and experience to help you design and implement your home modifications so that you can continue to remain in the home you love for as long as possible. Call us today for a free consultation.

Jeff Conner
Jeff Conner

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)

www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-conner-14085616/

Filed Under: Blog Posts, Product Information Tagged With: bathroom, disability, grab bars, grab rails, mobility, mobility challenged, safety, senior citizens

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San Diego County Showroom

1355 Grand Ave Suite 102
San Marcos, CA 92078
Toll Free: 866-786-2966
Local: 760-471-8884

Riverside County Lift Sales

Pacific Mobility Center of Temecula
Toll Free: 866-786-2966
Local: 951-383-6845

Orange County Lift Sales

Pacific Mobility Center of Huntington Beach
Toll Free: 866-786-2966
Local: 714-907-4005

Office Hours

Monday-Thursday: 9:00am-5:00pm (closed 12:00-1:15 for lunch)

Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm (closed 12:00-1:15 for lunch)

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