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The Future is Universal Accessibility

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by Kristina Rhoades

Many people with disabilities have fought long and hard for the accessibility that we enjoy today. The passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990 and amendments to it thereafter have required public establishments to make accommodations for all guests and customers, to include ramps, elevators, accessible bathrooms, wider doors and even pool lifts in the last few years.

While these mandates are great and have gone a long way to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, we all know that there is much more to be done to achieve true equal access. The good news is that many major companies and establishments are beginning to understand the value of universal accessibility and are going above and beyond what the law requires of them.

Thoughtful, inclusive design is becoming the way of the future and here are some of the reasons why.

The Need for Universal Access is Greater Than Ever

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are nearly 40 million adults with “physical functioning difficulty” in the U.S. alone. Approximately 10,000 “boomers” turn 65 every single day. There is no denying the fact that a large percentage of our population needs accessibility and that number is increasing at an unprecedented rate. Usually, the most change happens when issues effect people personally and soon, everyone will know someone who needs accessible accommodations. Plus, these kinds of numbers will continue to appeal to and motivate business owners.

It Makes Life Easier – For Everyone

Have you ever tried moving furniture through a narrow doorway or hall? It’s no fun at all. How about lugging heavy equipment up and down stairs? It can be a real pain, right? People, and businesses, often forget that universal accessibility is good for everyone. It makes life easier all around and accommodates everyone. In stores, for example, wider aisles that are meant to fit wheelchairs also make it easier to move inventory in and out and help to reduce crowding when things get busy.

Advanced in Assistive Technology Have Come a Long Way

Fifty years ago, we didn’t have technology like stair lifts and ceiling track systems – at least not readily available to the public. Today, it’s a whole different story. Innovative technology and assistive devices are available to help people achieve the upmost independence and comfort – regardless of physical ability. This equipment can be seamlessly integrated into rooms to give guests with disabilities the same standard of experience as other guests.

Stairlift

Lift and Transfer Specialists has worked with a number of resorts,rehab  centers, assisted care facilities and more in California, Nevada and Hawaii to help them create accessible spaces for their guests. We sell, install and service a number of products from SureHands, Bruno and Pressalit, including stair lifts, pool lifts, ceiling track systems and mobile lifts, vertical platform lifts and ramps. Check out our products page to see what could benefit your home or business. If you’re a business owner, this is your chance to get ahead of the curve and lead the way for the future.

Tips for Staying Cool in the Summer Heat

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As we prepare to move into August, which for many is the hottest part of the year, it’s a good idea to keep in mind some tips for staying cool. Temperatures have soared well over 100 degrees for much of the U.S. already this season, which is hot for anyone! But, for those who have low circulation or paralysis resulting in limited perspiration, regulating body temperature can be even more of a challenge – and sometimes even a health concern.

The following tips will help you stay cool in the hottest part of the summer, no matter who you are.

Ice Packs & Wraps

One of the quickest ways to cool the body down is by targeting major pulse points and arteries. Grab an ice wrap (the kind that you put in the freezer between use), a cold pack or even a bag of ice and place it directly on your neck to begin circulating cooler blood throughout your body in no time. Other areas to focus on are wrists, inner thighs and the sides of your head, near the temple. A cool rag or bandana can all work if you don’t have anything frozen.

Stay Hydrated

Consuming liquids is crucial to avoid overheating. Getting enough water and caffeine-free liquids that contain electrolytes will help keep your body cool, while replacing much of what your body loses while sweating. If you’re really hot, try some ice water or chilled beverages and you’ll start feeling better fast. Also, if you have a cold bottle handy, you can double its use as a cold pack on your neck!

Douse with Water

Another great way to bring down your body temperature is to simply dump some water on yourself! Pour water (cool or room temperature) over your head, around your neck and on clothing. It will give you an immediate cool down and help you stay cooler while it dries. If you’re not into getting that wet, try carrying a spray bottle with some ice water in it.

Caregiver transfers male swimmer to wheelchair using Surehands Wheelchair-to-Water Pool Lift.Last but not least, Take a Dip!

Ok, we saved the best for last. It’s probably no surprise that submerging our bodies in water is the very best way to lower body temperature and get instant relief from the heat. Plus, swimming has all sorts of other great health benefits and it’s fun! If you don’t have a pool or know someone who has one, look up your local public pool or ask a local rehab center or college about using theirs. Read our blog here about the positive impacts of swimming for wheelchair users!

If you’re worried about accessibility, there’s good news. Thanks to revisions to the Americans with Disabilities Act in 2010, most public pools are equipped with lifts so all guests can access the water with ease. If your public or private pool of choice doesn’t have a lift and you’d like to find out about getting one installed, you can contact us here and we’d be happy to help. SaveSave

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A Dental Clinic Accessible To All

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LTS Installs SureHands Lift at Leading-Edge Dental Clinic for Adults with Special Needs

The Special Needs Adult Dental Clinic at King-Chavez Health Center is unique to the San Diego region and exists to provide high-quality dental care services to adult patients with disabilities. San Diego County, alone, has approximately 15,000 people with special needs, many of whom are underserved or not served at all. 

We love the work that we do. Day after day, we get to witness people experience better mobility and ease of living in their homes, hospitals and rehab centers. We install equipment that improves access to the most essential living spaces. And recently, we had the chance to work with an organization that is leading the way for truly accessible dental care.

SureHands Lift System installed at the Special Needs Adult Dental Clinic in San Diego

Now, patients at the Special Needs Adult Dental Clinic will find even greater accessibility when they head for their dentist appointment. In May, we installed a SureHands Lift System over the dental chair – and it looks fantastic! But, more importantly, it will allow all patients to transfer easily to the chair to get the work they need done.

Two experienced dental professionals are on-hand to see patients at the Special Needs Adult Dental Clinic – Dr. Diana Zchaschel and Dr. Malieka Johnson. They both have a history and passion for working with the disability community.

Did you know that oral hygiene can impact your overall health? Research suggests that your twice-yearly trip to the dentist not only helps keep your teeth and gums healthy, but may also decrease the risk of pneumonia by reducing bacteria in the mouth. Read more here and make the appointment for your check-up today! 

It’s inspiring to see companies evolving to offer more universal care and service. Working together, we’re making a much more accessible world.

Are you a business owner in California, Nevada or Arizona that wants to improve access to all of the features of your business? Contact us here to learn more about the products we offer and schedule an evaluation.

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