» Archive for December 2011

Lift Chairs for seniors: Provide Greater Mobility and Independence

Senior citizens are part of a growing population that is responsible for increasing the demand and the market for home medical equipment. Faced with a variety of medical needs and mobility challenges, the simple act of standing up from a seated position can be extremely difficult. When dealing with mobility hindering diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, some movements increase the risk of falls and other injuries. A lift chair can provide senior citizens with more freedom and flexibility without relying on a caretaker’s aid.

What is a Lift Chair and How Does It Operate?

A lift chair allows persons who have mobility challenges to easily shift from a seated position to an upright position. A lift chair, which resembles a typical reclining chair, has an electronic mechanism device that is located in the base portion of the chair that raises or lowers the chair. The chair’s up and down movement is easily navigated with a simple button-controlled hand device.

Types of Lift Chairs

There are many options for those people who are interested in purchasing a lift chair. First, lift chairs come in a variety of models. The three basic models are:

· The Two- Position Lift Chair – Two-position lift chairs are the cheapest of the three models. This model can only recline at a 45 degree angle and therefore it is not conducive for sleeping.

· The 3-Position Lift Chair – 3- Position liftchairs are the most common models. When the chair is fully reclined, the chair is in a horizontal position that is comfortable for sleeping.

· The Infinite-Position Lift Chair – This model is different because it allows for more individualized customer customization. The backrest and the footrest can be adjusted separately in addition to the chair’s standard three movements.

Consumer Options

There are many options available for those people who are interested in purchasing a lift chair. First, lift chairs come in a variety of sizes, colors, and models and are equipped with different features depending on your personal needs. It is important to shop for a chair that fits your body measurements to maximize effectiveness. Because there is a wide selection available, prices can vary. For seniors who are interested in reducing out-of-pocket-costs, there are online medical supply companies that sell quality used medical equipment at discounted prices. It is always recommended that you check your health insurance plan to see if you are eligible for any type of coverage or reimbursement.

Used Mobility Scooters: A Worthwhile Investment

As we age, injury, old age, and illness can cause us to lose the mobility that we once enjoyed in our daily lives. Simple tasks present challenges that we are not accustomed to and in an effort to rise to the occasion it is often necessary to modify how we approach these tasks. Purchasing medical equipment for our personal use is a way that we can once again gain the freedom that we enjoyed in previous years.

Walking is one of the many challenges we face as we get older. Mobility scooters are increasingly replacing traditional wheelchairs. With their smaller and sleeker compact design, these motorized scooters are more aesthetically pleasing, and carry fewer stigmas than wheelchairs. They are an excellent choice for those who want to maintain their independence. The key is to choose the right scooter that fits your specific needs.

Depending on the particular model and features, new mobility scooters can range anywhere from $1.000 to $3000.00. This can be a costly investment for many families. Insurance companies may or may not cover the cost of the equipment depending on your plan coverage and your determined need. Fortunately, gently used mobility scooters are available at reasonable cost. Used medical equipment sales are a new trend that is growing in popularity in response to rising costs of consumer goods and services. Consumers can save as much as 60% purchasing a second-hand motor scooter online from a reputable medical supply company.

While shoppers may be tempted to explore the popular online auction websites, this is not a recommended alternative. These websites are not obligated to comply with certain laws and regulations pertaining to the safety and sales of used medical equipment. In truth, with these sites, one cannot be certain what they are purchasing. The best option is to establish a relationship with an online medical supply company who can accommodate all of your medical supply needs while offering superior quality assistance and service.