Livewell Mobility is a locally owned and operated company that offers expert advice and mobility solutions for seniors who want to age in place at home. They provide a variety of products such as stairlifts, ramps for wheelchairs and elevators.
Amy Davis of KPRC 2 visited KPRC 2 visited a Katy family from Texas who was frustrated because the motor they had installed in their stairlift was not working.
Stairlifts
Stair lifts, sometimes referred to as chair lifts, are a great option for seniors and people who have disabilities to remain in their split-level or two-story homes. They're a safe and cost-effective alternative to home renovations like installing a residential dumbwaiter. Stair lifts are available for homes with curvy or straight stairs. They are equipped with safety features to prevent injury.
Most stairlifts have tracks that are attached to the steps. The chair is attached to the track with rails that run over each step. When the user is ready to use the stairlift, they sit in the chair and secure their safety belt. Then they press the button on the remote control or the armrest to start the motor. The motor turns a cog, which connects with gears in the stairlift's geared track in order to move the chair.
In addition to the motor, a majority of stair lifts have sensors that can detect obstacles in the path of travel. The chair will stop moving if the sensor detects an obstruction. Additionally, most stairlifts have a seat that is rotated at an angle to the rail, allowing the user to safely exit on an landing.
A stairlift can be powered by a battery which is stored in the base with the motor, or it could be connected directly to an electrical source. Battery-operated units can usually make 40 trips back and up before needing to recharge. Many stairlifts also come with a call/send feature that lets the user transfer the lift to the other end of their stairs without having to travel in it.
Based on the type of stair lift that you decide to install, the procedure may require some modifications to the walls of your house. If you decide to install a straight-rail stair lift, for example, the company must fix the rail by drilling holes in the drywall and then attaching it to the wall. They must also ensure that the stairlift can fit comfortably in your staircase.
Elevators
Elevators aren't just beneficial for those who require them, but they can also save you time and energy. In certain instances people can use the elevators to go to and from their cars without having to climb stairs. This can be a great benefit for those with limited mobility or are unable to walk up and down stairs.
Many elevators come with talking devices that use voice synthesizers to announce floor landings, car directions and other special messages. This feature is commonly found in OTIS lifts, but other manufacturers also provide it.
Livewell Mobility, located in Houston, works with the top manufacturers to provide the highest-quality products for seniors and those with disabilities who want to age in their own homes. They work with their customers to assist them in selecting the right products to meet their needs. They are available to answer any questions or concerns. Contact them today to find out more about how they can assist you with your mobility solutions.
Bathroom Modifications
Bathrooms are among the most dangerous areas in a home for those with impaired mobility or balance, as they have hard and slippery floors. Simple safety changes, such as removing throw rugs, applying non-slip stickers to areas that are wet or installing grab bars, can decrease the chance of injuries and falls in this space. Handrails that are placed near the toilet and sink can also aid in improving stability. Additionally, installing a single faucet levers makes it easier to switch on and off the water and lower the chance of burning.
Many waiver and insurance programs provide funds to fund bathroom modifications for seniors and people with disabilities. A full functional assessment is essential to determine the user's behavior in the bathroom and which modifications would be most beneficial to them.
The traditional shower stalls have an incline that could be problematic for people who are unable to walk, or those who require a wheelchair, walker, or commode. Shower bases that are stepless create an unidirectional transition between the floor and the shower, preventing injury. live well mobility come in a variety of sizes and finishes, so they can be fitted to any bathroom decor.
Individuals in wheelchairs often have difficulty reaching hand basins and sinks. This makes daily tasks like brushing their teeth and washing their hands difficult. Accessible vanity and hand basins reimagine these fixtures by placing them at a level that is comfortable for everyone, removing the need to strain or stretch. These NDIS toilet modifications can be easily installed, allowing you to maintain your dignity and independence in the bathroom while still being able to care for yourself.
In addition to bathroom renovations Livewell mobility can provide a variety of other solutions for seniors and people with disabilities. From personal showers to wheelchair lifts, we'll assist you in finding the best solution for your home. Contact us today to discuss your options and get started on making your home a safe, accessible space for the ones you love.
Lift Chairs
Lift chairs or riser recliners are ideal for people who struggle to get from a seated position to a standing one due to balance or mobility issues. They provide comfort and security to people as well as reducing the need to ask family members, friends, or caregivers for help in getting up from a chair.
The chairs can be elevated to a standing position by pressing the button. This is especially helpful for those with knee or hip issues as it lessens strain on joints when they stand up. In addition, the numerous recline positions available in the lift chair can be very relaxing and provide relief from back stiffness, back pain arthritis and other aches.
Medicare and other insurance plans can partially pay for lift chair models. The primary factor in determining if an item is eligible for Medicare reimbursement is a prescription from a doctor and the completion of a certificate of medical necessity.
The majority of lift chairs are offered with a wide range of customizable options to ensure they meet the requirements of each user. This could include a powered lumbar cushion to ease lower back pain, a remote footrest extension with a control and option of massage or heat. Additionally, many models feature a battery backup in the event of a power failure.
The "pillowback" is one of the most well-known lift chair designs. It is a design that has horizontal rows of pillows that extend over the entire seat. It can be adjusted to fit the frame of each individual by removing or changing the pillows. Some models even have the option to alter the position of each cushion by using zippers in the bottom of the cushion.
A final consideration when selecting a chair lift is the capacity to lift weight. It is important to choose one that is appropriate for the user's size and weight. The seats that are too big are uncomfortable. Some models also have an "heavy duty" option that can support up to 700 pounds.
