Today we are continuing our aging-in-place and home accessibility series with a discussion on bed height. This is one of the #1 modifications that I look at when working with clients in their homes. A recent study found that 56% of falls in seniors in an inpatient setting occurred while falling or sliding off the edge of the bed. Getting in and out of bed can become increasingly challenging for seniors, especially if the bed is too high or too low. If a bed is too high, there is an increased risk of falls off the side of the bed while getting in and out. If the bed height is too low, it can be hard to stand up from. There are some simple ways that you can adjust the height of your bed without needing to purchase a replacement. If you have questions about changing or modifying your bed, this is a great time to request a referral to an occupational therapist to complete a home assessment to give recommendations that are specific to your needs. The tips below are general guidelines:

Creating a safe and accessible home environment is essential for seniors to maintain their independence, safety, and overall well-being as they age. This is especially important in areas where we spend a significant amount of time, such as the bedroom. Today, we are continuing our home safety series by talking about simple modifications and safety considerations in the bedroom. By prioritizing home safety and implementing appropriate modifications, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life and continue to live comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. Below are key considerations and tips to effectively and practically optimize a safe bedroom environment.

Research shows that 60% of falls occur inside the home. One effective way to prevent falls is to make modifications to the environment to improve accessibility and safety. Here are some guidelines to ensure that your home, or the home of your loved one is set up in a way to prevent falls, maximize safety, and promote independence for meaningful aging in place.

We are continuing our home safety and accessibility series by talking specifically about the living room. The living area, often a space we spend the majority of our time, plays a crucial role in our daily lives. This space serves as a place for both leisure and social participation. As we age, our living spaces should adapt to meet our changing needs as well as promote safety, comfort, and independence. Below are considerations and tips for modifying and adapting the living area to promote graceful aging in place.

According to the National Institute on Aging, 80% of falls among the senior population happen in the bathroom due to slippery floors and surfaces. However, there are a few simple and easy ways to modify and adjust the bathroom to prevent falls and injuries. Below are key considerations and tips to effectively and practically optimize a safe bathroom environment to promote successful aging in place.  

If you are shopping for a transport wheelchair, this blog will help talk you through your options to help you make an informed decision. We will cover the topics of: What is a Transport Wheelchair? and How to Choose a Transport Wheelchair? I will also share insights into my favorite and most commonly used models.

This blog explores the question, “Does Medicare Pay for Wheelchairs?” We will talk about the different types of manual wheelchairs, and the qualifications required for Medicare reimbursement.

This blog explores the question, “Does Medicare Pay for Transport Chairs?” We will explain the uses for transport wheelchairs and the qualifications for Medicare reimbursement. We will also discuss whether or not using Medicare your benefits to pay for a transport wheelchair is the best option.

This blog explores the question, “Does Medicare Pay for Wheelchairs?” We will talk about the different types of manual wheelchairs, and the qualifications required for Medicare reimbursement.

Spinal precautions are designed to help reduce and precent back pain associated with a back injury or following a spinal surgery. Here, we will talk about what spinal precautions are and how they can impact your daily routine.

Hip precautions are specific movements for patients to avoid that are given post hip surgery to prevent dislocation and the likelihood of having to return to the operating room for repair. Today, we will talk about the two most common approaches for hip replacement and the precautions that accompany them.

A hip kit is a set of items that are designed for people who have limitations with bending at the waist for reaching their lower body during self-care tasks. Today, we will talk about the most common items and their uses.

The thought of getting yourself dressed after surgery while maintaining hip precautions can be stressful. Today we will talk about how to use adaptive equipment to help with lower body dressing without having to bend or twist.

Wheelchairs are not designed to be “one size fits all.” There are many features to consider when looking at a wheelchair and there are many components that can be adjusted to meet your needs. This blog will walk through the main features of a standard manual wheelchair and how to use them.

There are many things to consider when choosing a lift system to help with your loved one. Patient lift systems come with the option for both manual and power lift options. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the best option for your needs.

Sit-to-stand lifts are designed to help someone get up into a standing or semi-standing position, and help move them to a new surface, for example, moving from the bed to a wheelchair or from a wheelchair to a toilet. There are several designs available when selecting a sit-to-stand lift. This article outlines the key features of what is available to help you make an informed decision.

Hoyer lifts are designed to help people who are unable to safely stand or walk, move from one place to another in their homes. Hoyer lifts are generally used for patients who are considered bed-bound or wheelchair-bound, to help caregivers safely move them for self-care. There are several designs available when selecting a Hoyer lift. This article outlines the key features of what is available to help you make an informed decision.

Hoyer lifts come with a few options for sling selection, each with their own unique traits. This blog will walk you through each type of sling to help you make the best selection.

Patient lifts can be very helpful in assisting caregivers to move a client or loved on from one place to another. They help reduce caregiver strain, reduce the risk of falls, and improve someone’s ability to age in place safely. There are several options to look at when researching home care lifts. This article goes through the options that are available, when someone requires additional assistance for lifting and transfers.

When purchasing a patient lift system, knowing what your insurance policy will cover and what they will not, can be helpful in guiding your decision-making process. This blog will give you the details on what covered by Medicare.