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The Basics of Wheelchair Maintenance and Cleaning

February 19, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Just like any type of vehicle or object on wheels, wheelchair maintenance and cleaning is important for several reasons. Most importantly, regular wheelchair cleaning keeps the chair in top condition. A regular wheelchair inspection of all the moving parts ensures its functionality and usability. Similarly, as to when you wear a uniform to work or dress a certain way for the office, a wheelchair can certainly be part of your attire, so while the wheelchair’s functionality is a priority, you also want to look your best. This can be a tough chore, especially if you travel with your wheelchair or don’t have the ability to clean it yourself. Here are a few tips to keep in mind regarding wheelchair maintenance and cleaning that can keep your chair in great shape for years to come.

Wheelchair Maintenance and Cleaning: How to Clean a Wheelchair

Depending on the extent of your disability, you may need a family member, friend, or nurse to perform a regular wheelchair cleaning procedure. In fact, it’s a good idea to have a regular wheelchair cleaning schedule to ensure your chair looks its best and is functioning properly at all times.

As wheelchairs see a lot of use, it’s a good idea to wipe down the back and wheelchair cushion covers once a day with a damp, soapy cloth. Deeper cleaning should be performed at least once per month. All components of the chair are easily cleaned with household cleaners, such as Fantastik or 409. You can also use Armor-All on the metal of the chair to keep it shiny.

During this once-per-month wheelchair cleaning, the chair should also be inspected for visible signs of wear that could be dangerous to the patient. This includes cracks, deep scratches, and dents. If there is damage or parts like fasteners are loose, it should be immediately taken to a reputable wheelchair repair shop.

Important Aspects of Wheelchair Tires and Wheelchair Tire Pressure

Cleaning wheelchair tires and checking wheelchair tire pressure should be done often—in fact, tire pressure should be checked once per week. There are several kinds of tires on wheelchairs, including air-filled and foam-filled. While air-filled tires often give a more comfortable ride, the pressure must be exactly right. Tires with too little air pressure can actually cause damage to the wheel.

Your wheelchair may or may not have spokes on the wheels; if it does have spokes, you can use the same can of Armor All to polish them as you did on the casters above.

Quick-release chairs also have a tendency to get “gunk” (oil, grease, and dirt) embedded in the axles. For optimal performance of your chair and its wheels clean this once per month. You can look for a specialized wheelchair tire cleaner to do the job, or opt for a lightly oiled rag if you need to clean on the spot.

Casters can also pick up much debris from the floor and ground, such as hair and carpet fibers. Once these are embedded in the casters, it may be hard to get them out. The best way to remove hair and fibers is to do so with a pair of tweezers. However, this involves taking off the casters, placing them on a wheelchair wheel cleaning mat, cleaning the axles with wheelchair tire cleaner, using the tweezers, and then replacing the casters. If you have a caregiver or friend to help, this procedure should be performed at least biweekly to keep your wheelchair running as it should.

Occasionally, casters need to be replaced, as they can become loose or rusted, especially in areas that have frequent inclement weather. Two ideas to help combat this problem include wheelchair snow tires and wheelchair tire covers. It solely depends on which is more convenient for you.

Wheelchair Safety

Ideally, when it comes to your wheelchair maintenance, its safety is much more important than aesthetics, so it’s important that you or a friend inspect your wheelchair on a routine basis to make sure everything is safe. A good idea is to have a wheelchair maintenance checklist so you don’t miss any of the important inspection points.

You should also visually inspect your wheelchair before using it for the day, and before disembarking, you should always ensure that brakes are locked.

To learn more about wheelchair maintenance and cleaning, or to learn about products that can help increase your mobility, contact Williams Lift Co. today. With everything from stair lifts to wheelchair ramps, we can help make your life easier.

Why Food Safety for Seniors Is Important

February 15, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults (those 65 and over) are 10 times more likely to suffer from a foodborne illness than younger generations. When it comes to preparing food or cooking for the elderly, great care must be undertaken to ensure that food has been handled properly, and that the food itself is safe. Here are several food safety tips for seniors who live independently and their caregivers to help prevent the spread of foodborne illness.

Risks Associated with Food Safety for Seniors

It’s important to understand why food safety for seniors is so important. As we age, our body changes, including our gastrointestinal tract. In those over age 65, food remains in the gastrointestinal tract for a longer period of time, allowing bacteria to grow. This type of bacteria isn’t always harmful—but the length of time it stays in the GI tract causes an increased risk of food poisoning in the elderly. Also, the stomach of an older person may not produce enough bile (acid), which allows bacteria to grow and multiply. Those who suffer from conditions such as diabetes and cancer are at increased risk.

Safe food handling for seniors is a must because each additional risk will multiply the already existing risks of simply getting older. Whether you’re an older person preparing your own food, or you’re a caregiver in a home or a certified nursing home, food safety for the elderly is a priority.

Cooking Safety Tips for Seniors and Their Caregivers

It’s something we’ve been told from toddlerhood—wash your hands. Even in modern times, the best advice when it comes to food safety for seniors is to wash hands consistently, especially after handling raw meat.

Another great tip is to separate raw meats and poultry from ready-to-eat foods. People may wonder how so many units of romaine lettuce were recalled due to disease—this is because this “tip” was not followed correctly. Use separate cutting boards for meat, poultry, and vegetables/fruits, and prepare them on different surfaces.

When cooking for the elderly, be absolutely sure that meats are cooked to their proper temperature. Chicken should always have an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or above, while red meat should be cooked to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The advisories for pork state an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit is best.

Food safety for the elderly also includes proper refrigeration. Leftovers should be refrigerated promptly within two hours of cooking time. Also, it’s advised that older adults keep their refrigerator temperatures at 40 degrees to keep food cold and fresh. This also applies to refrigerators in nursing homes or care facilities.

Perhaps the best tip of all for food safety for seniors: “when in doubt, throw it out!”

Food Safety for Seniors – Known Pathogens

While the best method of preventing food poisoning in seniors is prevention, it’s still a good idea to be aware of the risks that are out there. Some of these pathogens include:

Listeria: This pathogen often grows on deli-style meats and hot dogs, improperly cooked or stored in the refrigerator. It can also affect raw vegetables. While in many it causes fever, malaise, and GI upset, if untreated in seniors, it could be deadly.
Escherichia coli: Commonly known as E. coli, this is highly correlated with uncooked ground beef. It can also be transmitted through person-to-person contact (e.g., unwashed hands).
Salmonella: This affects food safety for seniors, as it is very much associated with chicken. Salmonella can also be present in milk, seafood, and other poultry. It can cause stomach pain and diarrhea, and is a very serious condition for the elderly.
Clostridium: This pathogen is most associated with food left out on the counter, which is part of why safe food handling for seniors is so vital. While it rarely causes death, it can cause serious GI upset and cramps.

Remembering every last piece of advice can be tough for anyone. However, when it comes to food safety for seniors, the most important things to do are to wash your hands, separate meats and poultry, throw suspicious food away, and refrigerate leftovers as soon as possible.

Helping make life easier for seniors, the disabled, and their caregivers is what the Williams Lift Co. has been doing for over 70 years. For a free estimate for wheelchair or stair ramp costs, or to hear about our other mobility products, contact us today to speak with a member of our professional staff.

Caregivers Need Care Too: Caregiver Burnout Prevention

February 12, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

It is estimated that over 40 million adults care for parents, grandparents, or another adult whom they live with. Being a caregiver is one of the most important and selfless things a person can do, and it can be truly hard on the caregiver. The stress and toll that being a caregiver has on the body, mind, and overall well being often leads to caregiver burnout. Caregiver burnout syndrome is a real thing. Once that point is reached, it may be difficult to be in your role as caregiver, and even more difficult to take care of yourself, your job, and other family needs. Caregiver burnout prevention is a must to ensure your loved one gets the care they need but also requires that you take care of yourself as well.

Caregiver Burnout Prevention: Knowing the Signs

Perhaps you are so busy taking care of your loved one that you don’t even fully feel the stress you’re under. Or, you are feeling levels of stress and frustration, but aren’t even sure how to go about alleviating the pressure you’re under. One of the most important aspects of caregiver burnout prevention is knowing the signs of caregiver burnout. Some of these signs can mimic symptoms of depression, so it may be tough to tell. Family caregiver burnout signs include:

Loss of interest in things once enjoyed
Lack of energy/fatigue
Sleep issues (oversleeping or insomnia)
Being unusually agitated, impatient, or lashing out
Anxiety (more than usual)
Hopelessness and dread
Weight gain or weight loss (sudden)
Headaches or GI upset
A proclivity to catching colds or illness (weak immune system)

If you read through the signs of caregiver burnout and silently are saying in your head, “check, check, check,” then it’s time to learn about caregiver burnout prevention and treatment. If you’re deep in experiencing the signs of burnout, part of the goal is to get yourself out of it, and treat the problem so it does not recur.

Caregiver Burnout Prevention and Treatment

One of the first things to do for caregiver stress and burnout is to ask for help. If you ask family and friends and there is simply no one to help you on a weekly basis for a few hours, respite care is something you should look into immediately. Depending on the circumstances, it is often covered by insurance or Medicare.

You may also often hear, “take care of yourself first.” While this is a top tip for caregiver burnout prevention, you may not even know what this entails. It means that you need to give yourself permission to take breaks, to schedule something nice for yourself once in a while (spa visit, catch a movie with some friends), and to put your needs first whenever possible. If you don’t put yourself first, at some point it will become impossible to take care of someone else. Help for caregiver burnout begins mainly with you putting yourself first

Other Tips for Caregiver Burnout Prevention

No matter where you fall on the caregiver burnout scale, diving feet-first into caregiver burnout prevention is the best idea for you and your family. Another great tip when it comes to caregiver burnout prevention is to join a support group. There are many out there, both online and in-person, that gives you the opportunity to talk about some of the things that bother you most with other people that understand. Recovering from caregiver burnout is much easier with the help of others who understand.

Another good idea when it comes to caregiver burnout prevention is to learn to communicate effectively. If you are taking care of someone who also has staff attending to them (such as visiting nurses, therapists, and other family members), you may want to consider a site such as CaringBridge or PostHope to post updates about the patient’s progress. This way, you are not relying on long texts and phone calls that tie you up and prevent you from doing other things. For instance, if your dad’s surgery went well, you can post a quick update to CaringBridge and everyone following the page immediately has the information they need. While this sounds like a minor detail, a big part of caregiver burnout prevention is eliminating the unnecessary things from your day. Some days, you just won’t have the time to talk to everyone.

As a caregiver, if you’re looking for even more ideas to make your life simpler, there are many mobility products that can help. Contact Williams Lift Co. today for more information about stair lifts, ramps, and other needs that can make your role as caregiver less of a burden.

Dealing with Senior Loneliness and Depression

February 8, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Persons of all ages can struggle with depression, as it can prey on all age groups, genders, and walks of life. However, older people have an increased risk when it comes to suffering from depression because of the realities of aging, body changes, and other factors in an older adult’s life (such as potential loss of mobility). Similar to other diseases or ailments, it’s okay to ask for help with senior depression so you or your loved one can feel better and regain control of everyday life. When it comes to senior loneliness and depression, there are some signs to watch out for. Whether these apply to you, or you are a caregiver of an older adult who may be depressed, it’s good to be aware of the symptoms.

Key Signs of Depression in the Elderly

One of the toughest things about depression is the fact that a person may not know that they are depressed, especially when it comes to depression in seniors. Lack of mobility and simply the aging process can easily lead someone to believe that this “down” feeling is part of aging. But it’s not—it’s still important for mental and physical health to try to “feel good” at any age.

Some key signs to look out for when it comes to depression in the elderly include:

Sleep problems (trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much)
Lack of energy or motivation
Weight loss or decreased appetite
Memory problems
Fixations on death and dying
Loss of self-worth
Loss of interests in things, people, or activities previously enjoyed
Evading personal care (skipping showers, forgetting medications, etc.)

While there are more signs of senior loneliness and depression, these are a few key attributes to keep in mind. Sometimes there may also be an increase in alcohol intake, and even isolation when it comes to socializing and group activities.

Mistaking Senior Loneliness and Depression

One of the toughest things about loneliness in the elderly, and depression specifically, is that it can often mimic physical complaints. For instance, lack of energy and aches and pains may seem like a real, physical complaint, when in reality, it has its roots in senior loneliness and depression. It can be extremely tough to discern the two and it might be a good idea to consult a physician to first rule out that anything physical is wrong, and secondly, to pursue a course of action to overcome depression. Seniors may also feel that this is part of the aging process and may not want to talk about their feelings with others.

The effects of loneliness in the elderly are many. Senior loneliness and depression can contribute to poor physical health, as well as offering a poor quality of life on a day-to-day basis. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and the two are interconnected.

Combating Senior Loneliness and Depression

While a doctor can easily map a course of treatment that may include medication, outpatient therapy, or both, there are other ways to try to relieve depression in the elderly. In fact, there has been a loneliness epidemic in seniors of sorts, and this can be treated with senior companionship.

Many seniors are at a point where they are isolated. Perhaps friends and family members have passed away. Younger family members may be busy and may not have the time to spend. If you are a caregiver, you are a companion of sorts, but seniors need more social interaction and physical activity. Finding local support groups for lonely seniors is a good idea, allowing people to get together for various activities they may enjoy. With everything from Wii parties to ice cream socials, events like these give seniors a chance to get together and make new friends. Also, in some cases, service animals have been a great defense against combatting senior loneliness and depression. Adult day care is another idea for caregivers to consider for someone with senior loneliness and depression. This type of atmosphere is social and fun for seniors, as well as therapeutic for both caregiver and patient.

To learn about mobility equipment and products that can help make life easier for seniors, contact Williams Lift Co. today. With everything from wheelchair ramps to stair lifts, we can help make mobility a reality.

Advances in New Wheelchair Technology and Healthcare Solutions

February 5, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Whether you prefer a manual or a motorized wheelchair, there are advances in new wheelchair technology that can help with your overall mobility like never before. Decades ago, being in a wheelchair could be confining, and it was very difficult for many patients who experienced a sudden loss of mobility. As of 2019, new wheelchair technology and streamlined designs can help change your life for the better. Read on to learn a little bit more about wheelchairs and new wheelchair technology that can improve your quality of life.

A Brief History of Old and New Wheelchair Technology

The earliest wheelchair technology dates back to ancient China, where a rock slate was used to help transport those with a disability. Advances in wheelchair technology in future centuries reserved wheelchairs only for royalty, and many of them did not even need one. In 1655, the first wheelchair that is similar to what we know today was invented by a paraplegic watchmaker. From this point, advances in wheelchair technology would take off, and the first truly motorized wheelchair was introduced in the United States in 1933. Since 1970, most wheelchairs (self-propelled and motorized) have an aluminum construction and similar design.

Manual New Wheelchair Technology

Even with all the advancements in new wheelchair technology, manual self-propelled wheelchairs are still the most popular model used today. In part, this is because it gives a person much more control and freedom of movement. While it may be tiring to drive the wheelchair with your hands and arms, people overall like the feeling of control and mobility, and it’s easier to guide the device. Some new wheelchair technology when it comes to manual wheelchairs includes models that fold (which is great for traveling), and two-way wheelchairs, which are specifically designed for those with lower or upper body impairment. Part of a group of innovative wheelchair solutions, this type of chair is adjustable depending on your disability. For example, you can lower, raise, or swivel the seat to get your arms in just the correct position to guide the device. BMX sports wheelchairs also have new wheelchair technology for those who want to ride the chair like a bicycle.

Advancements in Motorized Wheelchairs

There are many advances in wheelchair technology in motorized models. There now is a wheelchair that you can control with your eyes, which is perfect for those who have full-body paralysis. Other wheelchair future technology includes options powered like a Segway, illuminated wheelchairs that can be seen well even at night, and two-seat wheelchairs that actually let you carry a guest with you, which is a great idea for events or other occasions. “Smart” wheelchairs offer wireless capabilities from apps to Bluetooth.

Other Advancements in Technology

Beyond new wheelchair technology, there are other advancements currently available to help make your life easier. Home modifications such as electronic medication dispensers and sensors to alert family members of your activity are proven devices to help you live longer. Accessibility ramps are a must for comfortably going in and out of your home. There are also advancements in accessible clothing, driverless cars, and virtual reality, all put in place to help you live your best life.

If you are in search of new wheelchair technology, products, and services to help increase your mobility, contact Williams Lift Co. today to hear about our accessibility ramps, stair lifts, and other devices. With over 70 years in the mobility products industry, we’re committed to increasing your mobility.

The Many Challenges of Being a Caregiver

February 1, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Whether you’re dedicating your time to someone in your family or are a professional caregiver, caregiving can be stressful. “Caregiver burnout” is a real issue, and many caregivers hit the wall after months or years of dedicating themselves to another person’s care. It’s extremely important for caregivers to be able to recognize and identify the challenges that lead to burnout. And it’s equally important to learn strategies to cope with and combat the challenges of being a caregiver, so that you can continue to give care at all.

Specific Caregiver Stress Levels and Stressors

If you’re just embarking on caregiving, you may feel a sense of “I’ve got this,” or “How bad can it be?” Depending on the amount of care a disabled or elderly person may need, caregiving takes not just a physical toll, but also an emotional and mental toll, particularly if someone close to you is in poor health. There are many challenges of being a caregiver.

Some specific caregiver stress points include:

Time management: There are many challenges in caring for the elderly, and this is at the top of the list. It can be incredibly difficult to take care of yourself and your own family (such as your children) when much of your attention is directed elsewhere. If possible, try to write out a weekly time plan and adhere to it.
Taking care of your own self: Self care is one of the main challenges of being a caregiver. Beyond scheduling “me” time (spa, gym, date night, weekend getaway), you have to remember to put your own health first. You can’t take care of someone else if you’re emotionally or physically sick.

The reality of depression: The fact is, many caregivers hit caregiver burnout because they’re depressed, and there isn’t always a lot of caregiver support out there. Just as if you broke a leg or had a cold that wouldn’t go away, make an appointment to see your doctor if you feel symptoms of depression, or have symptoms that are worsening. Don’t be afraid to ask for help yourself.

How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

You may have all of the best intentions of making weekly schedules and allowing time for yourself, but sometimes it just doesn’t happen, and that’s okay. There are still steps you can take to avoid burnout,

Try to get as much sleep as possible. Getting enough sleep is one of the many challenges of being a caregiver, and it should be one of your top priorities. Even if you find yourself giving up some “fun” things to catch up on sleep, your body will thank you. And with a good night’s sleep, you’ll have plenty of time and energy for fun things later on.

Try meditation or find ways to relax. You may have caregiver stress ranging from financial problems to sadness over seeing a loved one very ill. Realities like these can disquiet the mind and compound any existing anxiety or depression. The problem itself may not go away, but how you look at the problem can be altered. In addition to finding caregiver support groups in your area, it’s also a great idea to find a group that practices mindfulness and meditation (or both).

Look for support. One of the many challenges of being a caregiver is going it alone. Right now, you may be the sole person providing the majority of support for your family, and that means you will need support, as well. Look for caregiver support groups in your area. If you come up empty-handed, look for social media or other online groups, so you have a private place to vent and speak your mind.

Caregiver burnout can happen to anyone, whether you’re a professional or you’re caring for a member of your family. But, it’s also good to remember that a separate challenge of caregiving is going through all the stages of grief. As you find yourself experiencing denial or anger, just remember that it’s okay to feel these feelings, and it is completely normal to go through the process. There are many challenges of being a caregiver, but many rewards as well.

For mobility products for the elderly and disabled that can help make life easier as a caregiver, contact the company who cares, Williams Lift Co. With over 71 years in the mobility products industry, we understand your needs.

Important Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

January 25, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Because of extremely cold temperatures, winter can be tough on everyone, especially the elderly. Wintertime is often a time of decreased activity and increased depression for seniors, and it can be hard looking after the elderly in cold weather if you are a caregiver. Whether you are a caretaker of someone who is older and needs assistance, or if you are a senior yourself, there are just a few important winter safety tips for seniors to keep in mind. Some tips—such as the ideal room temperature for the elderly—may be a bit surprising.

How Does Cold Weather Affect the Elderly?

As we age, our bodies react differently to extremes, and this includes dramatic changes in temperature. Blood circulation in the elderly is poorer than a younger adult any time of year, but the addition of colder weather worsens this condition. As humans, we always need adequate blood flow at all times to all of our extremities. Hypothermia is an additional concern. An elderly person who has their home temperature set to 65 degrees Fahrenheit may be at risk for hypothermia in extremely cold weather, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). This is particularly alarming if the person lives alone and rarely has visitors.

Because this type of situation is very dangerous, NIA suggests that a safe home temperature for the elderly is between of 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s understandable that this winter safety tip for seniors may cause some anxiety over the heating bill, but seniors can help keep their heating bill down by closing off rooms they are not using, closing curtains and windows and having them weather-treated, and placing a rolled towel in front of doors to keep out drafts.

Staying Healthy in the Winter for Seniors

Another health concern for seniors during the winter months is simply staying healthy. During this time when cases of the common cold, flu, and bronchitis are prevalent, winter safety precautions for seniors should include the prevention of any ailments. Because the elderly are an at-risk group, it is highly recommended that all older patients receive their flu shot every year. The flu can be deadly to all groups, but particularly so in seniors and those that are immunocompromised.

It’s also very important to wash your hands as often as possible. Simply put, having unclean hands is the easiest way to transmit germs. Those with deeper health concerns should also invest in a surgical mask to help protect against the transmission of airborne droplets and diseases. Vitamin deficiencies also are a problem during the winter. Another winter safety tip for seniors is to eat a varied diet full of leafy greens and vegetables, and foods rich in Vitamin D and calcium.

Other Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

Consider these additional winter safety tips for seniors:

Avoid prolonged exposure outside. Frostbite and hypothermia are real concerns for seniors who have been outside too long, especially if not dressed properly. Bundle up and prepare well for going outside in extremely cold temperatures.
Beat the winter blues. Winter depression is very real, and part of winter safety for seniors is keeping busy and staying active. Look for local winter events around your area that may be of interest, or think about joining a local senior support group.
Be wary of ice. Whether you use a wheelchair ramp to get inside your home or you walk, falling on ice is a safety concern. Be sure to stock up ice melt for your walkways and sidewalks. Also, wear shoes that have non-slip grips on them, which are better for walking on icy surfaces.
Drink only moderately. Alcohol consumption can make you lose body heat, while also making you feel as if you’re not cold. If you drink at all, make sure it is in moderation.
Be well stocked. One of the most important winter safety tips for seniors is to have a well-stocked house for many reasons, including the risk of a power outage. Make sure you have candles and batteries, an easy way to contact a loved one if you need help, and a pantry full of canned goods and other non-perishable items.

For more ideas on winter safety tips for seniors, or to hear about products such as wheelchair ramps and stair lifts, contact Williams Lift Co. today to speak with a member of our team. With different types of mobility equipment, we can help make mobility a reality again.

The Importance of Bathroom Aids for the Elderly

November 23, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

As we age, a number of everyday bathroom activities that require significant mobility become increasingly difficult for individuals who use wheelchairs and walking aids. Bathrooms present one of the biggest safety hazards for people with mobility issues. The combination of slippery floors and tubs, loose rugs, and tight-fitting spaces makes the bathroom one of the most common areas for slip and fall accidents to occur. Since bathrooms are often small, poorly ventilated, and lack telephones, seniors who experience injuries in the bathroom may not be able to call for the help they need.

Installing bathroom aids for the elderly can dramatically reduce the risk of a fall in a bathroom.

Bathroom Aids for the Elderly

Raised Toilet Seat

Sitting down and standing up are two actions that require considerable muscle strength and flexibility. Elderly people with back trouble can find ease, safety, and comfort in a raised toilet seat, which can empower an impaired individual who might otherwise be dependent on a loved one or caregiver to use the toilet without someone else’s assistance.

Toilet Safety Frame Bars

For additional support and to further reduce stress on the back, toilet safety frame bars can be affixed to an elderly person’s toilet. Some toilet safety frame bars double as a bedside commode and usable as a raised toilet seat.

Wall (Grab) Bars

Since some bathroom doors are too narrow for walkers, it’s always a good idea to install grab bars throughout your bathroom. Though grab bars can be helpful for walking in general, they’re especially useful for getting in and out of the shower and getting up from the toilet. Though it may be tempting to grab onto a towel rack, these racks are not built to support a person’s weight and could easily be torn from the wall.

Providing disabled and elderly residents with a surface to grab on to for support, grab bars make it easier for people to rise and lower. They can also help individuals regain stability if they fall off balance.

To keep your elderly loved ones safe, be sure to purchase sturdy, well-made bars that are between 12 and 32 inches long. Temporary suction cup bars are simply too flimsy to withstand a person’s weight, while permanent grab bars next to the toilet and on each shower or tub wall can permit easier access and provide assistance in case of a slip.

Bathtub Safety Rail

Slipping in or near the bathtub is dangerous in general, but it is especially risky for the elderly, who are less likely to stand up unscathed immediately following the fall. The placement of a bathtub safety rail can decrease one’s chances of falling and make stepping in and out of the bathtub much easier.

Shower Chairs, Mats, and Shower Heads

For elderly men and women who rely on wheelchairs, the simple act of showering can seem overwhelming. Available with and without arms, shower chairs allow individuals who may not otherwise be able to wash themselves to get clean without the assistance of a family member or caregiver.

Shower chairs hold up to 250 pounds and come equipped with non-skid rubber tips and adjustable legs for extra stability and security. To ensure easy access, most shower chairs have removable arms and backs.

Beyond the use of shower chairs, installing rubber-backed mats on the inside and outside of the shower are great for reducing the risk of slipping. For added independence, installing a detachable handheld showerhead can make showering much easier without assistance from others.

Benefits of Bathroom Aids for the Elderly

Safety

By investing in bathroom aids for the elderly, you’re ensuring the safety of those with limited mobility. These prevention measures can reduce the risk of falls and serious injuries. Among those who are 65 and older, falls are the leading cause of injuries and death, and the most common reason for hospital admissions. Hip fractures, head trauma, and lacerations are common injuries sustained in a fall, and these injuries can reduce a person’s mobility even further.

Enhanced Independence

Using devices like shower chairs and hand-held shower heads can eliminate the need for a caregiver in some cases. This improves a person’s independence and helps protect his or her modesty.

Improved Hygiene

Some seniors and those with disabilities might delay bathing and other personal hygiene activities because they’re worried about falling in the bathroom. The use of bathroom aids like wall grab bars reduces the risk of injuries so that those with limited mobility can maintain their personal hygiene routines.

Home Safety for the Elderly: Beyond Bathroom Aids

Bathroom aids are only one aspect of a safe home environment for the elderly. To speak with a professional about our stairway lifts, handicap ramps, and bathroom aid installation services, call 908-322-7070 today.

What is Adult Day Care?

October 25, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

It’s a question that you ponder about when you are taking care of your loved ones. Adult day care seems scary and also seems like it is a step above putting someone into a nursing home. This is not the case, however; it can be relieving to both the caretaker and the loved one to have a program to assist families with this transition.

Similar to child day care, adult day care is a type of program that looks after an adult while caretakers are out at work, completing errands, or other tasks. There are many programs that fulfill this basic function but there are different types of programs that provide specific types of care to the adult who needs them.

What are the Benefits of Adult Day Care?

Research is increasing that adult day care is an option that provides the perfect blend of mental and physical activity to clients who need supervision during the daytime hours. For some clients, it can bring the best of both care situations: living at home while also receiving the medical attention they need throughout the day without interrupting family life. Adult day care is an option that gives some relief to both clients and their families since they know that the client is safe with professional staff and allows the family members to stave off caretaker stress.

Programs hosted at adult day centers also give the benefit of a guaranteed routine for the client, allowing your loved one to feel more at ease while completing this major life transition. Senior depression is more common than most people anticipate, which can go hand in hand with caregiver fatigue. Adult day care is a resource that is a win-win for everyone; it gives seniors some much needed social time, and caregivers some worry-free time off.

What Does an Adult Day Care Program Look Like?

Adult day care centers can have programs that vary but they all share the same goal: consistency. A typical schedule can look like this:

8 AM to 9 AM – Breakfast
9 AM to 10 AM – Discussions (can be political or religious in nature, confirm with the program ahead of time to find the right fit for your loved ones)
10 AM-12 PM – Planned activities
12 PM-1 PM – Lunch
1 PM- 2 PM – Resting Period
2 PM-3:30 PM – Planned activities
3:30 PM-5 PM- Games and Puzzles
5 PM – Pickup

The kinds of programming can, again, differ from center to center. Some centers might have a partnership with a local child care center, creating activities that enrich both the seniors and the children. Some centers allow seniors to complete some household chores like cooking and gardening, which can bring back not only their sense of purpose, but might help them regain some strength to complete some activities with greater independence.

What are the Types of Adult Day Care?

There are different types of adult day care: senior care and adult social care. While they are similar, senior care can bring more to the table depending on the need of the client and caregiver. If you ever feel lost with deciding what is right for you and your family, the local aging office has the information you need to make the right decision.

Senior Care

Senior care is adult day care focused on helping elderly people day to day at a center. This type of program gives supervision to seniors and assists families with addressing medical concerns. It also provides a layer of socialization for the seniors.

Adult Social Care

Similar to senior care, this type of adult day care is focused more on social programs that can bring adults of all ages, disabilities, and levels of need together to encourage friendship. While a family caregiver can be loving and attentive to the needs of the person, there is a need to increase the social connection outside of the home. The family provides a special kind of bond but friends can also help the family and person handle the changes in their life.

There is an increasing number of studies that indicate loneliness as a major contributor to the decline in senior health. Both of these types of adult day care programs help connect seniors to their own age group and may result in a friendship that can have health benefits for everyone.

In Conclusion: What is Adult Day Care?

Adult day care is the loving option that gives everyone the best of what they need. Seniors can find friendships and a return to activities under supervision while caregivers can conduct day-to-day tasks. It also provides a safe and supporting environment for loved ones.

Here at Williams Lifts, we provide you with the tools to make your home more comfortable for you or your loved one. Contact us today to learn more!

Wheelchair Exercise Equipment

October 11, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

One of the biggest misconceptions out there is that once you are in a wheelchair, you have to give up everything you like, including going to the gym. Wheelchair exercise equipment seems too expensive, too difficult to obtain. There is also a larger question: will the local gym be wheelchair friendly? While it seems like an overwhelming obstacle to get into the gym, with the right wheelchair exercise equipment, you can return to working out.

Wheelchair Exercise Equipment: The Basics

The FES bike is the first thing people think about when they hear the words wheelchair workout equipment.” While many don’t know it under that name, it is recognizable for its place in rehabilitation facilities to maintain leg muscle. It works by placing pads on the legs to stimulate the movement needed to use the bike. It is popular for its therapeutic usages and is becoming more mainstream with gyms across the country.

Wheelchair rollers are another popular wheelchair exercise equipment. A wheelchair roller acts like a treadmill, letting the user roll the chair in place. It boasts the same benefits as the traditional treadmill of cardiovascular and stamina improvement, but wheelchair rollers also allow you to build arm muscle to go longer distances. Users have cited its use as one of the better confidence builders when transitioning to wheelchair life.

Another important basic wheelchair exercise equipment is the therapy resistance band. While it seems like a simple tool, it provides wheelchair users easy access to muscle-building exercises. With different kinds of resistance levels, it can fit every person’s fitness level. The band’s popularity among therapists and bodybuilders makes it one of the best basics for any person looking to strengthen themselves.

Adapting the Gym

So now the question is whether or not you can make wheelchair exercise equipment with what is already available to you at the local gym. Is the space provided ADA-friendly? Will there be a place for you to use the weights without running into anyone?

The answer to some of the questions can be answered with a trip to your local gyms. Looking at how the weight area is configured can give you an idea of what weights you can use. This is also applied to how the resistance machines are set up. The empty classrooms can also be an excellent area to practice wheelchair yoga. When in doubt, you can also call the gym and see if you can speak to the manager for more information on their facilities. Many gyms have successfully adapted regular equipment into wheelchair exercise equipment.

Wheelchair Exercise Equipment: In Conclusion

While daunting at first, there are options out there for people who want to return to their gym-going lifestyles. There are ways to adapt current machines for usage, but there is also wheelchair exercise equipment available to make it possible to regain your independence as well as up your activity levels. Here at Williams Lift, we want to make your life easier when adapting your home for wheelchair usage. Contact us today so we can get you on your way to that next gym session.