Category: Medical Equipment

These posts provide information about all sorts of medical equipment that Burt’s Pharmacy sells, including hospital beds, wheelchairs, and walking aids.

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Medical Equipment

4 Types of Mobility Equipment That Can Change Your Life

Mobility is extremely important to your quality of life; without it, it can become difficult just to go about your day.  When illness or injury threatens to compromise mobility, it’s very common for patients to wonder about alternatives. Fortunately, mobility equipment has come quite far. Today, your choices of mobility aids are vast enough to accommodate nearly any type of challenge you might face. This article will discuss four of the most commonly suggested mobile aids that can extend your freedom and encourage greater wellness all throughout your life.

1. Walking Aids

When you need a little help to stay steady on your feet, a walking aid is often best mobility equipment option.

Crutches that are well-matched to your body’s frame can help you weather the inconvenience of an injured leg, foot or ankle. If you find yourself with painful joints or an unsteady gait, a cane will provide you with the additional stability you need without requiring a hefty investment or permanent device. Both crutches and canes afford you the flexibility to maneuver indoors and out.

There is one exception; people who are more prone to falling or becoming unsteady might be better suited to a walker. Designed with a boxy frame that provides more stability, these devices provide a better base and support for walking. If you choose this option, you should exercise caution when navigating uneven surfaces to ensure that you don’t become unbalanced.

2. Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs can be divided into two broad categories:

  1. Manual – Manual wheelchairs offer people with stability and balance issues the ability to remain mobile and are more affordable.
  2. Power – Electric wheelchairs require less manual power to maneuver but come at a higher price point.

The difference mostly lies in your upper body strength. If you wish to use a manual chair, you’ll need a fair amount of strength to get around.

One of the biggest reasons for opting for mobility equipment is to retain or regain your independence. Whether or not you’re able to push the wheelchair around when you need to can hinge on other factors beyond your upper body strength. A lightweight wheelchair is typically made of a material like titanium; the lighter weight makes the wheelchair more manageable when you’re pushing it or transporting it. This has direct benefits for both caregivers and patients, too.

Regardless of the wheelchair you choose, accessorizing it with those features that are most important to you can make your time using it more comfortable and enjoyable. Add a cup holder and a carry pouch to make it easy for you to shop and enjoy your social activities. A memory foam or gel seat cushion helps prevent muscle fatigue when you need to sit in your wheelchair for long periods of time.

Power wheelchairs contain a battery as well as an apparatus that allows you to control the speed and direction you are traveling. This is typically a joystick which provides additional maneuverability that cannot be matched by a manual wheelchair.

In many instances, power wheelchairs can be folded up somewhat compactly so they can be transported elsewhere. Ample cushioning allows you to stay comfortable while the anti-tip wheels and placement of the battery help retain the wheelchair’s low center of gravity.

You can use a power wheelchair both indoors and out, improving your freedom. It’s a good choice for you if you lack the strength to consistently operate a manual wheelchair and you need to rely upon it throughout all or most of your day.

3. Scooters

There is a good deal of overlap when it comes to scooters and power wheelchairs. In fact, these are terms that are often used interchangeably. Both are propelled using a motor of which makes them a good choice if the strength in your upper body is compromised. The difference lies in the fact that most scooters feature handlebars for a steering apparatus rather than a joystick.

Due to their size, most scooters aren’t intended to be used inside without serious adjustments to the home first. Instead, they have outdoor-suitable tires and enough power for you to use them on many different outdoor surfaces, including sidewalks and paved walkways.

A mobility scooter is easy to operate, making it an attractive solution for those who tire easily or who lack balance. However, it’s important to note that they aren’t always suitable for all patients.  In order to use one for an extended amount of time, you’ll need to have at least enough upper body strength to comfortably sit and remain upright.

Mobility scooters are also large, and that can make using them indoors tricky. You might find it difficult, for example, to retrieve items from the countertop or wash your hands. At home, simple home improvements can make tasks like these easier.

4. Knee Walkers

Some patients looking for mobility equipment prefer to use knee walkers rather than full-scale wheelchairs or scooters. These rolling devices are propelled by using the leg and foot that isn’t injured or otherwise compromised. To use a knee walker, you rest your injured knee down on a padded hammock or shelf and then use your other healthy leg  to push the walker along. In an instant, your injured leg has greatly improved support and you maintain muscle in your non-injured leg. Your hands sit on walker-style handlebars on either side for extra support.

There are also hands-free knee walkers that give you the freedom to use your hands as you go about your daily life. Many of these devices look similar to a unicycle, with a wider wheel or dual wheel system. For patients with temporary injuries, this may afford additional freedom during the healing period.

In order to successfully and safely use a knee walker, you need to have significant strength throughout your body (including your lower and upper extremities). Balance is also a must. Any weakness in the other leg or your arms may preclude you from safely using this device.

A few safety tips:

  • While you can use the seat of the knee walker to rest if needed, you should always engage the handlebar brakes before attempting to do so
  • Adding useful accessories, such as a basket, to your knee walker makes it easy to shop or transport items around your home, and may reduce the risk of falls from reaching for items, too.

 

In Conclusion

Today’s mobility equipment spans a broad range of options to fit nearly any ability level. Finding the perfect match can greatly improve your freedom and quality of life whether your condition is long or short-term. But that doesn’t mean you should use any mobility equipment without guidance; finding the right match and fit is critical to safe and effective use. To find your best fit, drop by your local pharmacy and speak with your pharmacist.

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Medical Equipment

6 Medical Devices for Managing Back Pain at Home

There are many reasons why you may start experiencing pain – from aging to improper sleep to stress. These 6 medical devices can assist you in managing back pain and help improve quality of life. 

Life can be a real pain, and unfortunately, those aches and pains seem to increase in number over time as we age. Once most patients reach about 30, the spine, shoulders, and hips become more prone to injury and degeneration, both of which can increase daily pain levels. Temporary rest, heat, and ice can ease some of this pain, but too much rest can exacerbate it.

That has many patients wondering what to do about their back pain, especially if they don’t want pain medication. Surgery isn’t always the answer to managing back pain, and physio or massage alone doesn’t always give complete relief.

If you’re not ready to turn to medication, or if you’re looking for a good, safe adjunct to medication, medical technology may be the answer to managing back pain. You can use these six medical devices out of the comfort of your own home to help with managing back pain without surgical intervention or pharmacology.

1. TENS Machine

The Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machine is every physiotherapist’s best friend for everything from myofascial pain to pain caused by joint degeneration.

The TENS machine works by sending out a very mild electrical current into your muscles and tissue. Electrical currents interrupt nerve signals while also signalling tense muscles to relax. This signal isn’t harmful, but for some patients, it keeps localized nerves busy so they can’t send pain signals to the brain.

TENS machines don’t work for every patient, but when they do, they can provide a sincere reduction in pain levels if worn for part or all of the day. The only downside is that many patients find relief temporary, but you can use your TENS safely and comfortably multiple times per day.

2. Rising Seats

Rising seats work with the body to reduce strain upon sitting and standing. They meet your body and ease you down into your seat with less strain. They then provide slight upward pressure to make rising from a sitting to standing position less painful.

Simple seat lifts come with two separate parts; a base and a seat. A spring in the middle provides gentle support as you stand, allowing the seat to meet you as you sit higher than the chair itself. Most attach to pre-existing chairs with ties or velcro, but some may install with hardware (e.g. screws and nails).

Pre-installed seat lift furniture offers more control and customization. This includes armchairs and couches with built-in seat risers that rely upon batteries or an electrical power source for hydraulic power.

Though furnishings with pre-installed risers come at a higher price point, the increase in support is well-worth the cost. If you have issues with grip or stability, it’s safer to use a full furniture piece than a portable seat lift. Full-scale furniture is also much better for patients with leg weakness or post-stroke paralysis.

3. Adjustable Beds

You spend eight hours sleeping in your bed every night. It’s no surprise that having the wrong mattress can impact back pain levels. A bad, ill-fitted, or poorly supported bed can induce back pain by causing lower back muscles, neck muscles, and the shoulders to fight to stabilize the spine as you sleep. The result is:

  • Aching
  • Muscle spasms
  • Tight shoulders
  • Tension headaches

Having a high-quality mattress that’s free from holes, dips, and bends is ideal, but it’s just the beginning. Adjustable beds are best for managing back pain because they offer on-the-fly position customization. Raising the head, lowering the feet, or creating a slight bend under the knees will encourage better spinal support, especially for patients with pre-existing curvatures or degeneration.

Many adjustable beds come with vibration/massage settings that provide similar benefits to light-tissue massage. Gentle vibration may encourage muscles to relax and relieve fascial pain for some patients, too.

4. Back Braces

Have a slight curvature? Suffering from one or more herniated discs? Spinal instability can cause the muscles surrounding the spine to fight one another, leading to spasms and deep, throbbing aches. Sometimes, the best response to instability isn’t surgery or even physio; it’s a simple back brace that provides your core with additional support.

Though most medical supply stores sell back braces to the public, it’s important to start with a diagnosis and recommendation from your doctor. Not every patient should use a brace, and overuse/incorrect use can exacerbate a back problem. Correct and accurate sizing lets you gain the most benefit from your brace.

If your doctor suggests a back brace, you have a wide berth of options to choose from. Some braces surround the lower back in canvas and stretchy elastic bands. Other more high-tech versions feature custom-fitted boning to help you retain your posture. Be sure to discuss which is best for you with your care team.

5. Inversion Tables

For people with compressed discs, those who stand on their feet for a significant amount of time, and anyone without a specific back problem who experiences occasional aching, inversion tables may provide temporary relief.

An inversion table is a small platform attached to a pivot point in the middle. Patients can strap themselves into the platform and gently tilt themselves into an angled, upside-down position. Gravity pressure on the spine and back muscles changes, relieving aching and pain.

There is at least some evidence to show that inversion tables may assist with the following:

  • Slight subluxations
  • Facet joint pain
  • Herniated discs

Despite their usefulness, you shouldn’t use inversion tables or other forms of traction therapy as a means of managing back pain without a physician’s supervision. Patients with radiculopathies or extensive stenosis may worsen their pain and numbness, and could even further damage the joints to the point that weakness occurs.

6. Moist Heat Pads

Heat can provide significant relief for mild to moderate back aches and pains. Though you shouldn’t use heat in the first 48 hours after an injury, it’s a perfectly acceptable treatment for chronic or post-injury healing. Best of all, it’s accessible to almost everyone right at home.

When it comes to heat formats, magic bags and heat pads work well. But research shows that moist heat provides additional benefits, especially when it comes to managing back pain. That’s why many physiotherapists utilize moist heat pads in spinal pain treatment protocols.

That doesn’t mean you need to be in therapy in order to use moist heat; in fact, many of the same heating pads used by physiotherapists are available from your local pharmacy around the counter.

Researchers believe that moist heat is better than dry because it encourages muscle and tissue elasticity, both of which can relieve spasms and knots. Steam and hot, moist air both signal skin pores to relax and open, allowing heat to better penetrate the first few layers of skin. And heat itself triggers muscle relaxation, granting you three total benefits from one product.

Each moist heat pad brand functions a little bit differently. Generally, commercially-available versions come with three individual layers:

  • Layer 1 – provides moisture
  • Layer 2 – provides heat
  • Layer 3 – provides a protective outer layer for your skin

Follow your chosen model’s individual instructions carefully at all times.

We Are Here to Help

The equipment for managing back pain listed above may be simple, but that doesn’t mean you should assume it’s a replacement for a physician or pharmacist’s advice. The most important step to take in treating your pain is to secure the correct diagnosis and recommendations in the first place. If you already have a diagnosis, speak with your local pharmacy or care team about whether these options may be right for you.

 

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Medical Equipment

7 Simple Benefits of Home Medical Supply Delivery

Finding necessary medical equipment for your home can be a difficult process. Our home medical supply delivery makes it easier for you.

Have you or a loved one been ill? Have you had a surgery or spent time in the hospital? Odds are you will need a little bit of extra help around the house.

Finding and obtaining new medical equipment for your home can be quite the experience if you’ve never had to do it before. Partnering with a reliable medical supply company who can deliver what you need is often cheaper and more convenient than heading out to a local medical supply shop or general department store.

What is Home Medical Supply Delivery?

When you or loved ones are suffering from illness or recovery, the last thing you need is to struggle finding the right equipment to improve your quality of life. You need to be able to quickly buy or rent medical equipment that is necessary. Luckily, there is home medical supply delivery.

This medical equipment delivery method allows you to look for equipment from your own home. After finding which supplies you need, the team from Burt’s Pharmacy will then deliver the supplies right to your door.

Home medical supply delivery removes the stress and frustration of finding and transporting the right medical equipment. So, what are the benefits of having your equipment and supplies delivered to your house?

1. Delivery is Convenient

Let’s face it: when you or a loved one are ill, the last thing you want to do is head out to the store to go shopping for medical supplies or equipment. It’s exhausting and you will very likely either have to pay a lot for it or have trouble finding it.

Even if you can find what you need, some pieces of equipment are far too large or bulky to move around on your own. There’s no way you’re loading a working hospital bed into your car or van. Home medical supply delivery will save you time and money. You’ll be able to stay home and care for yourself or your loved one without worrying about transportation.

In the case of smaller supplies, such as those for incontinence, feeding, or wound care, your medical delivery company will be able to check in with you regularly before filling recurring orders. They may call to check on you and see what you need so your order can be adjusted.

It’s one less thing you’ll have to remember.

2. Better Customer Service

Medical equipment delivery companies tend to operate via phone and the web instead of in retail stores.

Even pharmacies with medical supply departments work this way in addition to in-store assistance. This means they can dedicate more of their resources to trained customer service staff who really understand the needs of the medical community instead of spending money on retail floor space.

It makes it easier for you, as a customer, to find a customer service representative who can educate you as to your options and offer additional product and service support later on down the line.

3. Medical Equipment Suppliers Have More Options

Dealing with a medical equipment supplier often means you’ll have more options than when you deal with a medical supply store. Larger supply companies often have larger warehouses with more options to choose from.

For example, even something as simple as choosing the right wheelchair for a person in need can be a daunting task:

    • Do you simply need a wheelchair for transfers to and from the car and doctor appointments? Small chairs with small wheels might work.
    • Lightweight wheelchairs are closer to standard wheelchairs, and are certainly easier to lift in and out of cars. Unfortunately, they lack weight capacity and may be more difficult to move around.
    • Standard wheelchairs are heavier, but they’re also more adaptable. These fit “most patients,” but aren’t right for everyone.
    • Reclining wheelchairs are important for people who will be confined for long periods of time. They’re also useful for patients with conditions like Dysautonomia, where blood pressure is affected, causing fainting.

Then, of course, you have to think about accessory options. Will the user need regular legs or legs that elevate to support broken limbs? When choosing home medical supply delivery, many companies are willing to carry different options to you so that you can make a final selection.

You may even be able to try the product out or add accessories without ever leaving your house. This makes it a lot easier to make a functional final decision.

4. Discretion in Delivery

While a lot of people think of larger pieces of equipment when they think of medical supplies (like adjustable medical beds and wheelchairs) it’s important to remember that the term includes other types of medical supplies, too.

You may need bath safety items, like commodes or raised toilet seats, wound care supplies ranging from cleansers to dressings, or even catheter and ostomy supplies. Even smaller items like continence supplies, ice packs, and support braces can be delivered to your home.

Depending on your situation, you may find it less embarrassing to talk to a medical supply rep on the phone than in person. You also won’t have to deal with the peering eyes of the public as you load certain supplies into your cart at the store.

Medical supply representatives understand your situation, know what supplies are appropriate, and can ensure everything you need is delivered in a timely manner.

5. Experienced Set-Up

For home medical supply delivery, many companies are often skilled at setting equipment up. Often, this service comes with rental to ensure you use the product correctly.

Whether you’re buying or renting, this is especially important for larger pieces of equipment like hospital beds. Some beds are completely electric and some are part electric, part manual operation.

No matter what you opt for, it’s helpful to have a supplier come into your home, set up the frame, and show you how to actually use the equipment. Most will spend time with you until you are confident so that you have no issues after they are gone.

6. Evolving with Your Needs

Medical equipment suppliers who rent equipment are with you for the long-haul.

If your needs change, or your illness becomes worse, your existing relationship ensures they are available to help you adjust your products. This may include swapping out your existing equipment for something more advanced, or just customizing your product to be better suited to your new needs.

All you need to do is make a phone call to explain your new needs. From there, someone will come out to remove or exchange the equipment you already have. Easy transition as a patient’s condition changes is critical to their comfort.

7. Utilizing Your Insurance Benefits

A lot of smaller medical supply stores are set up as retail establishments. This means that anything you purchase must be paid for in cash as they aren’t set up to process insurance claims.

Larger home medical supply delivery services have already partnered with insurance companies, can run insurance verification to outline your benefits.

Conclusion

You have a lot on your plate.

Having home medical supply delivery to your home can save you time and money. It also preserves your ability to care for yourself, whether you are ill or the caregiver, and place more focus on the daily living tasks that matter.

Burt’s Pharmacy and Compounding Lab delivers medical equipment to the following areas: Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, and Westlake Village. If you are looking to rent or buy medical equipment, contact us today.

 

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Medical Equipment

National Bath Safety Month: How to Reduce the Risk of Bathroom Injuries

January is National Bath Safety Month, and to help celebrate and bring awareness, we’ll discuss 6 items that can help reduce falls, improve security, and keep you and your loved ones safe. 

For many people, the bathroom is a place of refuge, rejuvenation, and relaxation. It’s where each morning starts and where each evening ends, be it to brush your teeth or maybe just to have a long, hot soak. It’s no wonder that studies suggest we spend up to 400 or more days in the bathroom throughout our lives.

But for a place of refuge, the bathroom can also be full of risks. In fact, most studies show that it can be the most dangerous place in your home. Accidents in this room send up to 235,000 people over age 15 to the ER visit every year; nearly 14 percent wind up hospitalized. The risk of having an accident nearly triples after age 65.

Keeping Your Family Safe This National Bath Safety Month

There is good news: simple measures and special products can help you reduce your risk for an accident in the bathroom, regardless of whether you are 22 or 82. In honor of National Bath Safety Month, we thought we’d share a few of our favorites.

Stay safe!

1. Bath Mats

Quite possibly the most effective tool to know this National Bath Safety Month is the simple yet protective bath mat. An absorbent mat with rubber or adhesive backing lowers the risk of slips and falls associated with smooth or wet floors. This is especially important if your bathroom floors are made of linoleum or ceramic with a glossy finish.

For best results, bath mats should be placed at the most common slip points: in front of the sink, in front of the toilet, and wherever you typically step into the tub. Choose a mold-resistant, machine-washable material to avoid issues with mold and mildew.

2. Handrails

Anyone who struggles with lower body mobility knows how terrifying it can be to navigate a slippery surface – especially if you don’t have anything to cling to with your hands and arms. While mats can help, strategically placed hand and guardrails are even more effective. They may even prevent a slight misstep from turning into a full fall, especially if someone already has a grip on them when the slip occurs.

For best results, you should follow the ADA’s recommended placement guidelines for bathroom rails. The rail itself should be ADA-compliant and installed correctly to ensure strength and longevity. Incorrect installation can raise the risk of failure; this can also put someone at risk for an accident.

3. Toilet Risers

For people with lower back problems, hip issues, balance problems, or any kind of lower body weakness, just sitting down can be a challenge. Often, they will begin to fall backwards onto the seat before they are flush with it. This is not only a major fall risk, but also potentially injurious to the pelvis, hips, legs, and back.

Toilet risers address this problem by increasing the height of the toilet seat so the individual using it closes the gap faster. The amount of effort required to stay upright before sitting is greatly reduced, which makes it easier and less painful to sit. The riser itself may be installed at the base or over the seat –– whichever is preferred.

4. Step-In Showers

There’s little better than a long hot shower to soothe aching muscles. Unfortunately,  stepping into a bathtub can be especially risky. The slippery surface combined with running water and soap is a recipe for disaster for people with mobility challenges.

Sometimes, the better option is to install a walk-in tub or step-in shower. Instead of needing to step up and over the wall of the tub, a small door swings open. The user simply steps in over just an inch or two instead. Most versions also have built-in molded and texturized seating to allow the individual to sit and enjoy a bath or shower without any additional risks once they are inside.

This is admittedly a larger renovation product, but it is important enough to mention on this list.

5. Transfer Benches

Transfer benches bridge the gap and improve safety for people who have traditional sit-down bathtubs. They assist people in entering and exiting the tub without needing to step up and over the wall, which reduces the risk of falls.

Most transfer benches work quite simply – they contain a long seat section with four legs (two on each end). The bench is placed over the tub wall with one set of legs securely positioned on the bathroom floor and the other set inside the tub. The user can then sit on the bench, swing their legs up and over the tub wall, and simply shimmy along the bench until they’re in.

Fancier transfer benches are available. In fact, some even containing a pushable sliding seat so a caregiver can gently push the user across the tub wall. However, these do come at a higher cost. Still, they’re ideal in cases of highly limited mobility.

6. Anti-Mold Cleansers

While this isn’t necessarily a bath aid, having the right cleansers to keep your bathroom clean is still incredibly important. Bathrooms are prime areas for the development of mold and/or mildew, and often, homeowners don’t notice it until it’s well-colonized and capable of causing illnesses.

Need an example? Black mold infestation, which is heavily associated with high levels of moisture can cause fungal sinusitis. Symptoms include:

  • Headaches
  • Facial pain
  • Nasal congestion
  • Sinus inflammation

Healthy individuals may heal on their own once the mold is eliminated, but anyone who is immunocompromised, elderly, or infirm may go on to experience life-threatening side effects if untreated.

Final Thoughts

But it isn’t all doom and gloom – we also know that proper cleaning measures and mold deterrents can greatly reduce the risk of secondary infections like these. So, keep your bathroom clean and encourage proper ventilation for best results.

Need more information this National Bath Safety Month, or want to install a few safety aids in your own home? Contact your local pharmacy and ask about your options. This simple investment in your safety could very well save your life.

 

Read More: 

5 Practical Reasons to Rent Medical Equipment
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Medical Equipment

The Best Types of Wheelchairs to Choose From

As technology and laws continue to advance, we are seeing different types of wheelchairs emerge on the market. Choosing the right one can be difficult, but this guide can help.

On July 26, 1990, the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) was officially approved and sworn into federal law. While humble at first, it was an attempt to challenge societal barriers that often left disabled people (particularly children) ostracized and segregated from their own communities – including lack of accessibility in schools, hospitals, and workplaces.

It worked.

Federal regulation ensured strict guidelines for public spaces, making it easier for people with disabilities to live very normal, independent lives.

Discriminating on the basis of disability became illegal, ensuring that people who used mobility aids like wheelchairs could be active, contributing members of society, too.

 

New Technologies for Different Types of Wheelchairs

But it isn’t just federal regulation or even respect that’s changing. Wheelchair technology is improving rapidly, too, and many of these advances provide direct benefits to disabled Americans.

While a wheelchair was essentially just a chair with wheels at the turn of the 20th Century, you can now choose from a long list of different types of wheelchairs, all designed to fit very specific needs.

We’ll help you discover these options in the article below.

 

1. Transport Wheelchairs

Lightweight and designed to accommodate transport, rather than full-time use, this wheelchair style is specifically designed to be pushed by a carer or companion. You’ll generally find chairs like these in

  • Hospitals
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Shopping malls
  • Or, in homes when the patient only needs very occasional support

It is important to note that most transport chairs lack a large main wheel; this does mean the patient cannot self-propel themselves, should the need arise.

Instead, they have a smaller set of wheels at the back. Although this may seem limiting at first, the smaller wheel size makes it easier for the person caring for the patient to push the chair stably and smoothly.

If part-time self-propulsion is required, there are augmented versions available. Hybrid transport chairs feature removable back wheels that can be easily exchanged for larger standard wheels on the fly.

These types of wheelchairs are also extremely easy to fold up and store when they aren’t needed. Multiple hinge points ensure that the chair lays flat during storage, so it takes up less room in a trunk, storage closet, or home.

Despite how flexible and light they are, the average chair is strong enough to accommodate people weighing up to 300 pounds. Heavy-duty versions ensure that larger users have safe options available, too.

 

2. Standard Manual Wheelchairs

The standard manual wheelchair is one of the most reliable and trusted versions available. This version has large back wheels allowing for self-propulsion as well as handles on the back allowing an assistant to push the chair with ease.

Some users prefer to use manual wheelchairs in place of transport chairs because of their broadly-suitable “default design.” In a pinch, this style of wheelchair will suit most people who retain at least some upper body strength.

However, they should not be used by people who lack the ability to sit upright on their own and/or those who suffer from weakness in the arms.

Although accommodating, most standard types of wheelchairs are neither designed nor fitted properly for patients who spend a significant amount of time in their chairs.

Pressure sores and/or pain may occur if the chair isn’t properly customized to the patient. Speak with your pharmacist or care team for more information.

 

3. Heavy-Duty and Bariatric Manual Wheelchairs

Patients weighing over 300 pounds often struggle to find mobility aids that can accommodate them comfortably. That’s where heavy-duty and bariatric manual chairs come in.

For patients who struggle with extreme obesity, a heavy-duty wheelchair can be life-changing. The right chair can be the difference between independence and remaining house or bedbound.

In effect, there is little difference between a heavy-duty chair and a regular chair – in fact, the former comes in nearly all of the same styles.

The main difference is that a heavy-duty chair can accommodate patients weighing up to 700 pounds (or sometimes more). Reclining features give the patient access to comfortable positions that distribute weight more evenly to prevent pain.

 

4. Light and Ultra Lightweight Wheelchairs

Speaking of important technological advances – today’s wheelchairs are also lighter and stronger, too, all at once.

  • The average standard wheelchair weighs around 50 pounds, but newer lightweight metal styles may weigh as little as 40 pounds.
  • Ultra-lightweight models may weigh even less – sometimes as little as 25 pounds.

As with most other chairs, light and ultralight styles fold for easy storage. But they are also often light enough for even the patient to pick up, too, potentially opening up new options for independent travel.

It is far easier for someone who relies on a wheelchair to justify solo travel in a car, for example, if they know they can just reach down and pick the chair up after they transfer themselves in.

With a larger chair, assistance is generally needed to fold down and pick up the chair after transfer. This simply isn’t ideal for someone with long-term disabilities who needs to maintain a work schedule – or even just have a bit of fun.

 

5. Sport Wheelchairs

Just because someone has a disability doesn’t mean they can’t live a full, enriched life…especially with the right chair!

Sport wheelchairs are designed to accommodate people who want to get a little off the beaten track – perhaps on the basketball court, onto the beach, or down a local trail, instead.

These types of wheelchairs have the same design as a standard wheelchair (large, self-propelling wheels on the back). However, there are a few differences.

  • Nearly all sport chairs are customized to the patient and activity. The style suggested for basketball, for example, will be much different than the style suggested for traveling down a backwood trail.
  • One key element of this is the wheel size and shape. Thinner wheels that pivot to allow for tighter turns augment speed, while thicker wheels with heavier treads are designed to provide a smoother, safer ride off-road.

And that’s really just the beginning. There are even sport chairs  for traveling through shallow water, mud, deep grass, or fine sand!

 

6. Pediatric Wheelchairs

The term “pediatric wheelchair” doesn’t really refer to a specific kind of wheelchair. Instead, it refers to any wheelchair made specifically for children.

Depending on the age of the child using the chair, features may include:

  • A small frame
  • A smaller seat
  • Manually-adjustable handles
  • A third set of wheels to improve stability

Pediatric chairs may also  be adjustable, a feature that allows kids to recline back and relax or even sleep. This is a must for younger children with cerebral palsy and other peripheral or torso weakness, as it helps them remain comfortable and safe.

 

7. Tilt and Recliner Wheelchairs

As with pediatric wheelchairs, the terms “tilt” and “recliner” here really refer to a feature instead of a specific style of chair. However, this feature can be extremely important to some patients.

For example, patients with severe dysautonomia may benefit from sitting in a reclining position because the body can more easily:

Reclining may also be more comfortable for patients with certain spinal conditions or back pain, too.

Most tilt and recliner wheelchairs have a slightly longer seat and a longer backrest, too. Depending on the different types of wheelchairs, it may:

  1. Recline only slightly (reclining, but seated)
  2. Recline fully (fully supine and/or laying down)

A reclining chair isn’t suitable for every patient, and may worsen certain symptoms, so be sure to clear use with your care team.

 

8. Hemi Height Wheelchair

Hemi-height wheelchairs are specially-created for patients who can better propel themselves using the feet, including people who have injured upper limbs or slight weakness in the arms.

This unique and relatively new style comes with a seat that sits slightly lower to the ground, letting the patient propel the chair with their feet.

Hemi-height chairs are almost always adjustable. The patient can lower the chair (for propelling by foot) or raise it (to allow an assistant to push) in just a few short seconds.

This is ideal when patients receive or need care only part of the time, especially in rehabilitation centers or during recovery periods at home.

 

Conclusion

Depending on your needs and your lifestyle, you can choose from many different styles and types of wheelchairs.

If you are unsure which wheelchair is best for you, call Burt’s Pharmacy today. Our experienced staff can help you rent or buy the perfect chair, and our free delivery is always available!

 

Categories
Medical Equipment

How to Reduce Falls With Bathroom Safety Equipment for Seniors

These 9 types of bathroom safety equipment for seniors reduce potential falls to keep your loved ones safe and healthy as they age.

Your body changes as you age. This includes changes to your heart and circulatory systems which can leave you feeling short of breath, weak, and even, sometimes, dizzy or unsteady.

Add to this the fact that mobility issues dull the reflexes and the risk for an accident rises sharply.

This is especially true in the bathroom, where seniors are moving in smaller spaces and the odds of slipping and falling are a lot higher.

 

9 Types of Bathroom Safety Equipment for Seniors

One in four Americans over the age of 65 falls each year, with 80% of those falls occurring in the bathroom.

With such staggering numbers, it’s essential to provide bathroom safety equipment for seniors who are at a high fall risk in the bathroom.

So what can you do to make the bathroom a safer place?

There are quite a few choices and options when it comes to bathroom safety equipment for seniors.

We strongly recommend bathroom safety equipment in all homes (not just homes with seniors).

 

1. Grab Bars

Grab bars are especially helpful in homes with a traditional bathtub/shower combination.

Stepping over the side of the tub can become increasingly difficult, especially for people with balance or joint issues.

Many find themselves stretching to awkward angles to hold onto

  • Walls
  • Counters
  • Faucets

None of which are safe or conducive to bathroom safety.

Having grab bars installed at different heights and angles ensures a safe grip and strong support. While some grab bars can be mounted to the side of the tub, others can be permanently attached to the wall.

The key is to make sure you have them installed properly so that they are properly mounted through the drywall behind your tiles.

Talk to a professional handyman or contractor if you aren’t sure how to do this.

 

2. Grip Tape

While not “equipment,” per say, grip tape is a must-have in any senior household.

You can wrap this tape on the grab bars you already have to create a rougher surface that is easier to hold onto.

This is especially important if your loved one doesn’t have a lot of hand strength and may lose their grip on the bar while stepping in or out of the shower.

 

3. Shower Chairs

Some seniors have trouble standing for long periods of time, whether from musculoskeletal disorders, illness, or from medications.

The heat of the shower or bath can also make a person feel lightheaded or dizzy from time to time. That said, there’s still nothing quite as comforting or soothing as a shower.

Shower chairs, sometimes referred to as transfer benches, can make that coveted time safer and more comfortable.

  • Some sit right in the tub or shower area, so you can step in and sit down.
  • Others extend further out of the tub, making it easy for you to sit down and then safely swing your legs into the tub area.

 

4. Handheld Shower Heads

Installing an adjustable, handheld shower head can be especially helpful to seniors who need to sit in the shower.

They can pull the head off of the base and pull it closer to them rather than sitting under a steady stream they can’t reach to adjust.

This tool will prevent your loved one from attempting to stand up multiple times during the washing process, reducing the risk of a fall.

Handheld shower heads are great for people who can stand in the shower, too.

They make it possible for seniors to rinse and wash without having to spin and maneuver, which can be a serious catalyst for falls in the bathroom.

 

5. Raised Toilet Seats

Patients with mobility issues, especially impacting the knees and hips, may have trouble lowering themselves onto a standard-sized toilet seat.

Getting up again can also be an issue, forcing a person to throw their upper body weight forward and use momentum instead of their legs — a dangerous move that could increase the odds of a fall.

Raised toilet seats add anywhere from 2 inches to 4 inches to a toilet’s seat level height, which can significantly reduce pressure on joints.

Choose from options with or without side handles for additional assistance.

 

 

6. Bath Mats

Bath mats are especially important for preventing slips and falls in the shower or tub (no matter what your age).

The mat you choose should have strong suction on the bottom (or even a glue-in surface) so it doesn’t

  • Move
  • Slide
  • Adjust

The biggest complaint about mats and stick-on grip products is that they usually get a little moldy or lose traction and become slippery.

One alternative is an anti-slip bathtub coating. You roll it on like paint and it gives the bottom of the tub a rough, non-slip surface, creating more traction and stability while taking a bath.

 

7. Night Lights

Seniors are more likely to become disoriented in the dark, making a late-night trip to the bathroom especially dangerous.

You can combat this issue by adding LED night lights to the hall and bathroom areas, providing additional assistance until they get to the light switch.

Recessed lighting along the edge of the wall where it meets the floor works particularly well for lighting a path, but even lamps or night lights serve a purpose.

 

8. Commodes

If your loved one has trouble getting in and out of the bathroom, consider bringing it to them.

You can place a commode just about anywhere in the privacy of your home.

Keep it in the bedroom so your loved one doesn’t have to get up or transfer to the bathroom, or in any space that gives you more room to maneuver as you work to assist them with their personal hygiene needs.

Commodes can also be utilized as a nighttime failsafe alone, giving patients who struggle with incontinence a closer option.

 

 

9. Commode Transfer Bench

Is it difficult to maneuver in your bathroom?

A transfer bench with a commode opening can work in two ways.

It can extend the bench area over your regular toilet to make it easier to slide off and on, or it can be used with a commode bucket for placement wherever is most convenient.

 

Conclusion

Safety should be your number one priority in the bathroom, no matter what your age.

The older we are, the more difficult it can be to recover, making it especially important for seniors to avoid slip and fall accidents.

Bathroom safety equipment for seniors greatly reduces these risks and can help keep your loved ones safe.

Even those who have just been ill or have an injury can benefit from enhanced safety mechanisms.

The correct bathroom safety equipment for seniors will depend on your loved one’s unique and individual medical conditions and needs, but there are dozens of options.

Talk to your doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist if you aren’t sure what your loved one may need to have in the house. They’ll make sure you’re on the right track.

Categories
Medical Equipment

How to Improve Home Safety for Elderly with Medical Rentals

Finding ways to improve home safety for elderly during the aging process can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be with these 7 types of medical rentals.

It’s not easy to watch our elderly family members age, especially if they struggle with physical or mental health concerns. For many, age comes with a litany of health and mobility issues.

We eventually have to start assessing whether or not it is safe for our loved ones to stay in their homes — and that’s a difficult conversation to have.

 

How Can We Improve Home Safety for Elderly?

The good news is there are quite a number of strategies to help make a home safer for an elderly family member to live in.

Using these methods, senior loved ones maintain their independence; you get peace of mind.

The better news? You don’t have to buy everything you need outright, either.

Many of these products are rentable from your local pharmacy or medical supply, making them a great option for patients with short-term needs (e.g., post-illness or fall recovery).

 

Option #1: Hospital Beds

An elderly family member who has been sick, is terminally ill, or who has a mobility issue due to a fracture or break can often benefit from a hospital bed.

The adjustable height makes it easier to get in and out of bed each day, while the ability to raise the head or legs makes the elevation needed for healing a breeze.

Being able to adjust the bed also makes it easier for caregivers to assist an elderly loved one with changing, dressing, or performing other activities of daily living.

You’ll find a wide array of styles out there, from the simple and effective manual crank bed to complex equipment that rely on an electrical connection to work.

Ultimately, your goal is to ensure you buy a bed that’s easy for both you and your senior loved one to adjust as is needed.

 

Option #2: Patient Lifts

Elderly family members who can’t push themselves upright to get in and out of bed can still live safely at home with the right supports.

Lift packages come with the tools necessary to get up and out of bed, and are typically used to shift patients from bed to a chair or wheelchair.

Each lift comes with its own unique adaptations to improve home safety for elderly.

  • Some patients need grab bars they can use to pull their upper bodies into position
  • Others need full body slings so they can be moved gently or lifted, and then settled back down into the new location.

Lifts also make caregiver’s lives easier, too, by reducing the amount of strength needed to help a senior patient adjust position.

This greatly reduces the risk for injury when moving another person around. Caregivers who have to bend over and lift another person’s body weight are at a very high risk of developing injuries otherwise.

 

 

Option #3: Wheelchairs

Is your loved one experiencing mobility issues that prevent the use of a walker or some other assistive device? Perhaps they lack the upper arm strength or suffer from Osteoporosis.

A wheelchair rental may be just what you need to give them support and encourage moderate independence.

A wheelchair can make it easier for your elderly loved one to get around both inside the house and outside.

One small note: if you intend to a buy a wheelchair, it’s best to see a physical therapist first.

  • To fully improve home safety of elderly loved ones, it’s important that you choose the right chair with the right fit.
  • Your senior loved one also must learn how to navigate and transfer with or without help.

Learning these strategies reduces the risk of falls during transport.

 

Option #4: Transport Chairs

Is your elderly loved one capable of getting around inside, yet struggles with walking or moving around for long distances?

A transport chair may be a better option than a full wheelchair for a variety of reasons:

  • They’re slightly smaller and are a little easier to fold up and lift into a car or van.
  • They are designed with smaller wheels and features, making them better for short transport needs.

It’s better to opt for a full-sized wheelchair if you plan on using the chair for the long-haul, especially if you’re still active and like to take your loved ones shopping or for walks outside.

 

Option #5: Wheelchair Ramps

Depending on their living situation, your elderly family member may need a wheelchair ramp to make it possible to get in and out of the house.

Wheelchair ramps are an essential part in improving home safety for elderly family members in wheelchairs.

It is very important to rent a wheelchair ramp from a reputable ramp company or have one professionally installed. The ADA has certain guidelines that must be followed to prevent injury.

Ultimately, the number of stairs you have to overcome will determine the length of the ramp, which is important when it comes to creating a safe and functionable incline.

Steep inclines are not safe for your loved one or the person attempting to push the wheelchair.

 

 

Option #6: Knee Walkers

Did your loved one hurt a foot or ankle? Do they still have good balance and flexibility?

A knee walker may be the perfect solution for solving mobility issues and improving home safety for elderly patients.

This device is similar to a scooter, but has a knee rest for the injured leg.

While knee walkers are a terrific option for post-injury healing, they aren’t necessarily a great idea for anyone who can’t put pressure from the upper body through the knee of the injured leg.

A person with severe knee arthritis, for example, may find a knee walker uncomfortable to use and may be better off with a traditional walker.

 

Option #7: Electric Scooters

Electric scooters are an awesome option for those who have mobility issues but are still spry of mind and free from cognitive impairments that hinder balance.

The downside to an electric scooter is that you will need to be able to transport it when you go out, which means either having a transport van or some sort of adaptation on the back of your vehicle for safe transport of the scooter.

One alternative is to use the scooter at home and have a backup transport chair or wheelchair for shorter outings.

 

Conclusion

There are so many benefits of utilizing medical rentals to improve safety and enhance the ability for your loved ones to age happily. Depending on your circumstances, consider utilizing the following rentals:

  • Hospital beds
  • Patient lifts
  • Wheelchairs
  • Transport chairs
  • Wheelchair ramps
  • Knee walkers
  • Electric Scooters

There are, of course, other things you can do to improve home safety for elderly family members.

  • Keep stairs free of clutter
  • Make sure cords and other trip hazards are tucked out of the way
  • Consider installing grab bars in the shower area to prevent falls

You don’t need to run out and buy expensive pieces of medical equipment, especially if your family member is simply recovering from a short-term illness or injury.

The safer the home, the easier it will be for your loved one to recovery.

Burt’s Pharmacy offers an array of home medical equipment to improve home safety for you or loved ones. Contact us today for more information.

Categories
Medical Equipment

How to Make Air Travel With Mobility Aids Easier

Modern shops, restaurants, and commercial buildings make their buildings accessible for everyone with ramps, railings, elevators, and low curbs. These adjustments limit the number of restrictions present for people using mobility aids on the premises. Airports, however, don’t always carry such clear accommodations; their rules can be confusing and completely different because they have a duty to ensure traveler security. Whether you utilize rollators, walkers, wheelchairs, or canes, air travel with mobility aids can be easier with these tips.

If you are traveling in the next few months, you should know that understanding United States airport policies on mobility aids can be extremely helpful.

Learn more about these guidelines and get involved in this short guide to make air travel with mobility aids easier.

 

Call Ahead of Time

Most airlines are well-equipped to help you with mobility needs from the moment you arrive at the airport and don’t need you to inform them of your mobility situation.

Airlines have resources on-hand to accommodate patients who rely on walking aids.

That said, it may not always be possible to get the support you need, especially during busy days or on the off chance something goes awry. Even the best airports aren’t perfect; some still seem to occasionally struggle to get accomodations right.

To ameliorate the risk of an issue occurring, you should lay out a plan before you travel with mobility aids.

Call ahead of time, be sure you know the regulations, and don’t be afraid to call and ask for specific supports if you need them.

Sometimes, you’ll need to fill out a particular form when booking flights online. Or, you may need to follow special instructions once at the airport.

Each airline’s website will mark their accessibility options. Most list this information on the passenger info page.

 

Wheelchairs and Walkers may be Gate Checked

When you travel with mobility aids, it’s best to learn what can be checked.

Some mobility aids are too cumbersome to be used in airplanes. Others cause issues for aircraft instruments.

Most of the time it’s not an issue to use them right up to the aircraft doors, but checking with your airline first is an absolute must.

Each airport has its own procedures when it comes to registering and checking in mobility devices.

Generally speaking, you can carry canes and walkers along with you, but may be asked to allow TSA agents to check them over at security checkpoints.

Walking canes, and potentially walkers, need to go through the scanning belt before you can bring them onto the airplane.

You may be required to temporarily support yourself (or have someone assist you) as you walk through the checkpoint. As soon as you pass through, security agents return your cane or walker.

Wheelchairs, however, are larger, and that’s why checking them in often falls under different regulations.

If you need a wheelchair and aren’t bringing your own, call the airport or airline ahead of time to ensure one is available upon arrival.

Keep an eye out for designated check-in areas for those who need assistance. Smaller airports may lack these specialized zones.

Be aware that staff may place your motorized wheelchair in the plane’s cargo hold up to one hour before boarding begins.

Larger wheelchairs exceeding these dimensions are also typically stored. Rest assured; you won’t be left without supports.

Staff will transfer you to a wheelchair provided by the airport when this happens.

 

 

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help At Checkpoints

When you travel with mobility aids, do you find yourself worried about getting through the checkpoint?

TSA agents and airline staff have plenty of experience helping people just like you manage their assistance needs.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you’re struggling – or even if you anticipate you may struggle with processing, embarking, or disembarking with mobility aids.

Many patients with mobility issues fear the checkpoint process because they feel forced to give up their supports.

If you can relate, consider asking for manual pat downs instead.

These are especially useful if you’re unable or unwilling to move without your walking cane, walker, or wheelchair.

 

Ensure You Have Documents

When embarking on air travel with mobility aids, make sure your airport documents of all your mobility needs.

Get them to print a copy of the records on paper, or print them out at home if you can.

Keep these documents on hand in case you run into issues or someone questions your equipment.

Note that airlines must accommodate disabled persons, including people who struggle with mobility or use mobility aids. This falls under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The law specifically states that you do not have to prove your disease or illness in order to have your right to use mobility aids and equipment while traveling.

Unfortunately, there are still some employees out there who don’t fully understand the rules. It’s often better to have proof on hand just in case you run into complications.

Showing evidence of your mobility needs, whether in digital or paper form, is almost always enough to clear up any confusion, and can help you get through your trip faster with less head-butting along the way.

 

Does Your Airport Allow Flying Companions?

Bringing a flying companion along with you? Regulations for assistance supports vary greatly.

Some airports won’t allow you to cross security checkpoints with a loved one that isn’t flying with you, while others just ask that you register their information first.

Call and ask before you arrive if you’re concerned about how to proceed.

Don’t have anyone to act as your companion?

Airport staff will escort you onto and off of the airplane – all you have to do is ask for help when you arrive.

This is also useful when airlines don’t allow non-fliers to go beyond the security scanners.

 

Prepare You Wheelchair Before Arriving at the Gate

If you use a wheelchair, one of the most important steps you can take before you fly is to ensure your chair is prepared for storage yourself.

Check you make sure the footrests are folded in and all items are removed to prevent cargo damage.

Remove any cushions you need from your wheelchair before transferring onto the plane.

If you are bringing a wheelchair, it pays to arrive a little bit early.

Fliers who need mobility assistance have priority for boarding at American Airlines, Westjet, and most other major airlines.

Being 30 to 60 minutes ahead of time will afford you the smoothest boarding experience possible, including any necessary wheelchair transfers during air travel with mobility aids.

 

 

In-Air Travel With Mobility Aids

Airlines provide a list of mobility assistive devices permitted for use on-board the plane during air travel.

This list is usually only available by request, but it may be included in your flyer’s package when you print or pick up your tickets.

If you use any of the listed devices, follow all included instructions carefully. Devices powered by batteries usually need to be turned off during the take-off and landing phases as they carry a slight interference risk, but can be safely turned back on once the all-clear light comes on.

Many flights now offer power outlets to charge any assistive equipment you bring with you.

If you find yourself in need of a charge, just plug your equipment in. Airlines provide these outlets free of charge, so you should feel free to use them as needed, when needed, without fearing extra fees.

When you travel with mobility aids, most flights also now have accessible toilets installed.

These bathrooms are more accessible for mobility-challenged patients, but still demand at least minimal self-support, such as upper arm or hand strength.

Larger bathrooms may allow wheelchair access, while smaller bathrooms may require initial transfer and assistance instead.

If you don’t have an escort, it’s best to ask the flight attendants for help if and when it becomes necessary.

Whenever possible, try to be patient when requesting additional support.

Flight assistants can only help with lavatory doors and push in-flight wheelchairs where they’re available, but they will attend to you as soon as they can.

Remember that their number one priority is always safety and well-being; if someone else gets help first, they may have more urgent needs.

 

Know Where Your Equipment Will be Upon Landing

When you travel with mobility aids, ask your airline staff where they plan to store your aids when the plane lands.

Some airports will bring your equipment to the gate where you exit the plane, while others have designated areas away from baggage carousels to make it easier for passengers to pick up equipment.

What if you’re using an airline-provided wheelchair? As mentioned before, airlines can provide you with equipment to use during airplane entry and exit.

When you disembark the plane, ask staff to direct you to your mobility aids. You will be permitted to keep using your airline-provided wheelchair until you can safely transfer into your equipment.

 

Final Tips for Air Travel With Mobility Aids

Air travel with mobility aids doesn’t need to be an intimidating and stressful experience.

Remember these 8 tips:

  1. Call ahead of time to determine what your airline needs for you to travel with mobility aids
  2. Determine if you can check your devices at the gate, or if you may carry them on
  3. Never be afraid to ask for help during (or after) checkpoints
  4. Consider bringing any documents verifying your need for mobility aids
  5. Learn where your flying companions can accompany you (if you have them)
  6. Prepare your wheelchair before the gate
  7. Determine what devices can be used during the flight and what support options are available
  8. Ask where your devices will be upon landing

By preparing ahead and understanding the guidelines for a good flight, you can enjoy your trip with fewer hassles along the way.

As a final note, don’t forget that policies may be different in other countries – keep that in mind when you’re traveling abroad.

Categories
Medical Equipment

5 Practical Reasons to Rent Medical Equipment

Life doesn’t always pan out the way we plan. Sometimes, chronic illnesses and age take away a person’s ability to remain independent and live a free, fulfilling life. The ability to rent medical equipment like wheelchairs, bath seats, walkers, and lift seats make it easier for patients to maintain as much independence as possible in the face of these conditions.

The problem is that these medical devices can be very expensive to buy out right. This is especially true for patients with chronic health issues, who may already be faced with the prospect of a restricted income like SSI or SSA. These same patients may attempt to muster through without the help of devices simply to save money.

Sometimes, patients consider not buying medical equipment outright unnecessary for other reasons. A patient with a transient condition like a broken leg may not want to pay for a wheelchair when they’ll no longer need it in a few short months. Similarly, someone recovering from surgery may only need the assistance of a walker for a few days or weeks.

Fortunately, there are options. Instead of buying your own medical equipment, you can rent equipment from your local pharmacy. These benefits are just the beginning; here’s a few more fantastic reasons to rent medical equipment.

 

1. Test It Out Before You Rent Medical Equipment

One of the best reasons to rent medical equipment is the fact that if a piece of equipment doesn’t work for you, or isn’t well-suited to your needs, you can always return it. Pharmacies that rent medical equipment are more than happy to take back a rental if you rent and realize you didn’t quite make the right choice.

That’s common for patients who are making major life adjustments for the first time, especially around mobility.

Having the ability to test out equipment and return it also generally means you stand a better chance of truly getting the most out of your equipment.

Whether you try it first, decide you like it, and then purchase it outright, the mere fact that you get to know it means you make a more confident decision about whether it’s right. And that makes it easier to justify and feel good about your decision to use medical equipment.

 

2. Get Helpful Guidance on Equipment

Medical devices can be extremely complex; that’s why most rehabilitation specialists recommend you seek assistance from a professional before you buy. With all of the many available features, bells, whistles, and styles available on the market, it can feel a bit overwhelming to figure out your best match on your own.

Concerningly, choosing the wrong equipment doesn’t always result in discomfort alone; depending on the device, it may even be downright dangerous.

Here’s the thing: there are five questions asked when attempting to find patients the right equipment:

  • What condition are you dealing with?
  • What’s available on the market?
  • Which size or style do you need?
  • Which features do you desire?
  • How easy is it for the patient to use?

In the pharmacy, we provide helpful guidance at the same time we ask these questions to make sure we not only get answers, but the right answers. We know that not every patient has an expert understanding of the medical device industry, nor should they need to.

So, we stand by ready to take measurements, present options, host fittings, and then teach you how to use your equipment once you decide. And if you run into problems, we’ll be there to help.

We’re happy to provide advice for patients who buy outright, too, but one-on-one assistance is a specific part of most rental programs. Essentially, we want the service we provide to be the best for you.

 

 

3. Upgrade Without Additional Cost

Medical devices and equipment are a bit like computers and other electronics; every few years, they become obsolete because they’re replaced with newer, better versions.

In home health care, upgrading regularly is even more important because often, those upgrades provide additional safety measures or critical feature updates to better suit the patient in safe, reliable use.

When you buy your equipment outright, you typically don’t have the ability to return it or refund it once the company releases a new version. Instead, your options are limited to selling the item you have or giving it away. Then, you’re stuck investing in a totally new device and starting over. At the current rate of evolution in medicine, that can become a very expensive endeavor over just five to six years.

When you rent medical equipment, you have the option to return it at any time, for whatever reason. If an upgrade becomes available, all you need to do is contact the pharmacy to make arrangements for return and replacement. In some cases, you may not even need to leave your home; the pharmacy will pick the equipment up and bring the new device at the same time.

Wondering how you can keep track of available upgrades? Ask your pharmacy to contact you when new versions become available.

 

4. Change Out Equipment As Needed

Sometimes, it isn’t the medical equipment that changes; the patient’s condition or level of need changes instead.

A change in condition (for better or worse) can make your current medical equipment no longer viable or helpful. When you own that equipment, you’re faced with a whole new investment everytime your condition changes.

This isn’t the case when you rent medical equipment. If your condition changes and you no longer need the device, or you need a totally different piece of equipment, all you need to do is reach out. Your pharmacy care team with spend some time with you identifying your new needs and help you find a better solution.

 

5. Get Free Maintenance and Repairs

One of the absolute best reasons to rent medical equipment is that most rental plans also come with coverage for incidental damage, repairs, and manufacturer’s defects, even beyond the original product warranty.

If something goes wrong with your equipment, and it’s no longer under warranty, the pharmacy will replace the device for you. As long as the damage wasn’t willful or negligent, the replacement occurs at no cost to you.

For maintenance, most pharmacies will either come to you or have you bring the medical equipment back in to the pharmacy. They’ll run all regular maintenance tasks for you and send you back with a device that’s in tip-top shape.

Next time you are in need of medical equipment, whether that be walking aids, bathroom safety products, or bed rentals, considering renting.

Categories
Medical Equipment

4 Promising Benefits of Shower Chairs for Elderly

Most of us think of our home as our sanctuary – a place to relax and simply be yourself. It’s where we feel safe, recognized, relaxed, and supported. Unfortunately, the home can also be a significant source of danger, especially for seniors who may struggle with the same daily tasks they once took for granted, such as visiting the restroom. Because of this increased danger, there are ways to reduce fall risks. This includes walking aids, lift chairs, bath safety supplies, and shower chairs for elderly.

For seniors who do remain at home, they face the most potential danger when they’re doing something many of us take for granted: visiting the bathroom. Wet floors, slippery surfaces, difficult-to-climb tubs, and low toilets all present a fall risk for the elderly.

Worse yet, when the bathroom does cause a fall, confined space increases the chance that the senior falling will strike their body off of the surfaces around them. This increases the risk of concussions, broken bones, and even fatalities.

The CDC estimates that around 232,000 Americans suffer from injuries in the bathroom every single year. We also know that number rises sharply after the age of 85, when nearly all seniors begin to experience at least some mobility struggles.

We know that keeping seniors safe at home often requires a change in how we approach everyday tasks. Often, the right support and safety devices can eliminate most (if not all) of the added risks seniors face. This is especially true for the bathtub, which presents the biggest bathroom risk of all. Due to this high risk, many opt for shower chairs for elderly as part of their bathroom safety plan.

 

The Bathtub: a Central Risk Factor

The bathtub represents one of the biggest risks for seniors simply because of the way it is designed. High sides, slippery ceramic surfaces, streaming water, faucets that jut out from the wall – all of these present a unique challenge to the elderly.

Picture a senior who struggles with arthritis of the hip or bursitis of the knee. First, they must climb over the side, potentially balancing on one leg. Then, they need to remain upright without slipping. When you add water into the mix, it becomes extremely difficult to remain upright and steady without significant strength and balance.

Falls in the shower or tub don’t always have to be an eventuality. For seniors with mild to moderate struggles, shower chairs are often enough to make entering the bathtub and staying under the water safe, comfortable, and even relaxing! Best of all, they benefit seniors in many other ways.

 

 

Other Benefits of Shower Chairs for Elderly

The main benefit of shower chairs is the fact that they improve safety. You can rest more assured, and worry less, that an accident will occur in the bathtub. Shower chairs for elderly make the bathing process much easier, and safer. However, there are other benefits to the elderly of incorporating shower chairs:

  • Their hygiene improves
  • They have more independence
  • The shower can be incorporated into treatment plans easier
  • Chairs are portable and easily usable in everyday life

Each of these benefits helps the senior, as well as family members who are concerned about bathroom safety.

 

Improved Hygiene

Some seniors may begin to refuse showers or baths altogether out of fear that they may fall, particularly if they’ve fallen once already in the past. If it goes on long enough, the elderly loved one’s hygiene may suffer, leading to infections and skin issues that ironically demand more time in the bathtub or shower. If left untreated, poor hygiene can even lead to serious illnesses like staphylococcus aureus infections and urinary tract infections.

Seniors who avoid the bath or shower out of fear may attempt to hide their hygiene issues from loved ones with perfume or by withdrawing from the family. Sometimes, loved ones mistake this for depression, but it can be simply a result of the senior recognizing their hygiene struggles but feeling that they can’t ask for help.

Installing a shower chair may encourage seniors to take a more active role in their own personal hygiene. They feel safer and more capable, and thus, will shower more often and reliably. Being clean and fresh improves mood, boosts confidence, and just plain feels good, too!

 

More Independence

If your senior loved one is fiercely independent, they may refuse help in the bath or shower out of embarrassment. No one likes to feel like they can’t handle even the most basic daily hygiene tasks alone, and having to feel exposed even to a family member certainly isn’t preferred.

One of the biggest benefits of shower chairs for elderly family members is the fact that they help seniors take care of their own needs without necessitating as much outside intervention from the family. Confidence increases and they are encouraged to remain independent while maintaining that precious “alone time” many of us enjoy during a good, hot bath.

Aging with confidence and maintaining as much independence as possible is really important. Studies show that the longer seniors stay independent, the happier they feel and the less likely they are to experience depression. Using a shower chair can certainly be an important part of that independence maintenance.

 

Better Access to Therapeutic Showers

One of the first recommendations many gerontologists suggest when seniors are experiencing chronic pain, swelling, or arthritis is a warm bath or shower. Warm to hot water is very soothing, and it encourages lymph drainage, swelling reduction, and better circulation, too. Unfortunately, fear of getting into the bathtub can leave seniors virtually unable to enjoy that at-home therapy benefit without significant stress.

Shower chairs encourage seniors to use the shower as an important part of an overall treatment program. On particularly bad days, when pain levels are high or circulation isn’t good, they can step into the tub and remain seated under the water without necessarily needing help. This allows the senior to make on-the-spot decisions about their health and condition that may even reduce the need for medications.

Want to make your shower especially therapeutic for your senior? Pair the shower chair with a massaging showerhead. Many of these can be adjusted to provide just the right flow and pattern to loosen tight muscles and soothe away knots.

 

Portable Bathroom Safety

Shower chairs for elderly come in many forms; some are small, some are large, some have a swivel board for getting into the tub more easily. Still others are portable enough to fold down and take with you on all of your most important adventures. These portable shower chairs are of immense benefit to the senior who travels often, be it to the Caribbean or just to visit the grandkids at Christmas time.

Most portable shower chairs fold down flat. Their small size makes them idea for stashing in a trunk, on an airplane, or even within a suitcase. Taking the chair along ensures that the senior isn’t exposed to risks just because they aren’t at home. This may also remove some of the fear associated with traveling or experiencing an injury while away.

Keeping beloved elderly family members safe, happy, healthy, and independent at home for as long as possible is vital. Shower chairs are one of the best ways to eliminate one of the biggest risks seniors face in the home every single day, but they’re just the beginning. Ask your pharmacist about other safety products to create a warm, welcoming home that supports self-sufficiency every single day.

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