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Archive for the ‘Patient Lifts’ Category
How to Choose Safe Toilet Risers for Elderly and Disabled Persons
Siderails | on December 29, 2011
What are toilet risers?
Toilet risers or toilet seat risers are devices engineered to help and assist elderly individuals and disabled persons to use the toilet with ease and comfort. It is a material that will aid transfer from wheelchair to the toilet seat and will protect you from falling or slipping.
Study shows that most fall that elderly people experience usually happens in the bathroom. Inappropriate height of risers may also expose them to high risk of falling, hence, it is vital that you know what kind of risers to buy.
Tips in choosing safe toilet risers:
- Determine your options. There are different designs manufactured to cater each individual’s needs. Some are elevated with elongated arms, some have hinged elevated seat, and reversable toilet transfer among the many other designs available for you to choose from.
- Figure out what you need in advance before shopping for your toilet riser. Make sure that all your toilet needs are catered to in order to achieve utmost comfort in your daily bathroom breaks.
- Make sure to consider your safety first. Make sure that it is stable and will not slip when used. It is best to choose a riser or a toilet seat that is permanently installed, on the floor or on the toilet.
- Find out the ease of cleanability of your riser. It must be easy to clean and not complicated. The more complex the design will make it hard to maintain cleanliness as opposed to simpler designs.
- Consider the price. If you will only use this device for a short period then a less expensive and simpler toilet riser is your best option. However, if this is used for a longer period then it is wise to invest on a good quality product.
Take heed on the following tips before buying your toilet risers to ensure of getting the best option for your disability needs.

Ten Pointers- Shopping for a Power Operated Vehicle (POV)/ or Electric Mobility Scooter:
Siderails | on March 06, 2011
1. Know your choices. While some mobility companies are experts on the products they offer, they should offer their recommendations on what is best for you. Ultimately it is your decision. Don’t be pressured into selecting one type of product or another.
2. Will you require a 360-degree swivel seat for easier transfer and sitting at tables? Consider your daily activities.
3. Is there a power seat lift available? Many POV/scooter owners say this is their favorite and most useful feature. This is also a great upgrade option.
4. How will you transport the POV/scooter? Does it fit it in the trunk of a vehicle, or is a specially- equipped van with a lift or ramp necessary?
5. Investigate the company’s reputation. Find out if they are industry-recognized for their long-standing history and high quality products?
6. Are the dimensions of the scooter compatible with the design of your living space?. Does it fit through your doorways? Is it easy to maneuver? What is the turn-radius? Will you feel comfortable driving it?
7. Is inventory readily available? Does it have to be ordered through the dealer? If so, what kind of turn-around time does it take to get parts to service your POV/scooter?
8. Can the scooter be modified if your condition warrants additional options after your purchase? Are you able to move the handle closer or farther away, can arm rests be added or removed? Can leg rests, head rests or other customized accessories be added in the future?
9. What type of service support is available? Be sure there are warranties available for the POV/scooter in question. Try calling the manufacturer or your local dealer to see if they have LIVE service help, or if you are put through a series of automated questions.
10. Know the safety features. Can the speed be programmed to go slower? Are the forward and reverse levers enclosed to prevent accidental bumping? Does the seat lock in any position you require? How is it charged up for ready-use?
Using these 10 pointer will help guide you in the right direction to choose the best mobility product for your needs..


When my elderly mother began to lose the ability to take care of herself, I immediately stepped forward to offer the spare room of my home. I knew going in that taking care of her would be a trying ordeal, but I recognized it as a family obligation. At first her presence in the house felt more like an extended vacation. My kids enjoyed playing cards with grandma after dinner, and my husband liked to have a short chat with her before he left for work each morning.
Then her condition took a turn for the worse and I had to look for some new supplies and equipment. I found some adjustable hospital beds online that would make life much easier for her. Toward the end, just getting in and out of bed became a tough task, and I also invested in a patient lift. By allowing her the freedom to control the bed, my mother felt a modicum of independence right up until the end. That meant so much to her and to me.

Safety for caregivers is crucial. A patient lift is used in the home or at medical facilities to help a patient rise or any function they may need:
Model 9700 Bariatric Lift • Electric Full Body Lift includes • 2 batteries • 3X sling • 1 battery charger • Safety padded hanger and beam • Non-arcing beam • Storage Saddle bags • Remote control • Battery Indicator • Swivel Hanger with safety latches • Weight Limit: 700 pounds
Many individuals that have limited mobility will need a patient lifter to help them move their legs or for them to lift their torso off of the bed. There are many companies that provide mobility equipment and with the new advances in technology the performance and type of equipment available will make movement easier then ever. Wheelchairs Abound is an up and coming leader in the area of providing Mobility Equipment.

