Seniors With Arthritis

Posted on April 30, 2012 by admin

In addition to other chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, arthritis in the elderly is a very common chronic degenerative joint disease that is thought to be caused by years of joint use, stress on the tissues, as well as by hereditary factors. It results in an inflammation or deterioration of the bones and their joints. Elderly arthritis sufferers may have more than one of one hundred forms of arthritis, all resulting in varying degrees of pain and discomfort that can lead to depression and sleep disturbances, as well as increased health care costs. Factors that can lead to challenges in achieving good therapeutic outcomes include multiple drug use, multiple diseases, potential drug interactions, a decrease in cognitive function, and altered pharmacokinetics.

What happens to the joints?

The synovial sac which is filled with synovial fluid (a thick substance that protects and allows the bones to move easily and smoothly) changes its structure due to an inflammation leading to deterioration in the surface creating friction, pain, and loss of flexibility.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of joint problem. Pain is frequently caused by the loss of cartilage that lines and smoothes the joints. With less cartilage, the bone junctions become inflamed and swollen. The hands, knees, hips, and spine are the most affected skeletal areas affected by osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most disabling forms of arthritis. It strikes all ages and the cause remains largely unknown. Inflammation involves the synovium, the lining of the joints. There is swelling of the hands, wrists, at least three joints, bumps under the skin, and morning stiffness.

Treatment

Pain relief is the primary goal in treating arthritis (in order to increase comfort and performance of daily activities.) It is followed by restoration of the joints and maintenance of function.

Treatments include:

.Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

.Regular exercise including physical therapy

.Removal of synovial fluid and replacement with an anti-inflammatory (steroid) medication

.Surgery including joint replacement

.Use of heat and/or ice to specific areas

.Weight loss

What you can do

One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to recognize the possibility of arthritis at an early stage in order to minimize further joint damage and deterioration. Today there are many alternative therapeutic approaches to the treatment of arthritis. Work with a reliable, objective professional to develop a treatment plan that includes pain relief, diet changes, exercise, and anti-stress techniques. Today there are many assistive devices available to help with your activities. Catalog companies as well as home or durable medical equipment companies sell assistive devices and products to make life easier. What is important is that you learn what works for you, and that what works is a regimen that you will be able to follow on a daily basis!

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The Importance of Hygiene for the Elderly

Posted on March 26, 2012 by admin

If you have noticed your relative or loved one take a lack of interest in his or her personal hygiene, you should take the time to talk with him or her about the importance of bathing and grooming when it comes to staying healthy.

Personal hygiene allows senior citizens to feel clean and fresh, even if they are in poor health. If an elderly person living in a community can still take care of his or her personal appearance, they are demonstrating independence and contribution to his or her wellbeing. For senior citizens who are no longer capable of bathing themselves or completing common grooming tasks, hygiene becomes even more crucial to their well-being.

It’s important for everyone at any age to practice good hygiene habits. Especially during cold and flu season it is essential for the elderly and their caretakers to wash their hands several times a day. For senior citizens with a low immune system, practicing good personal hygiene and washing their hands protects them from common illnesses that could affect them more severely than other people.

In addition, personal hygiene and grooming habits are important warning signs for other health problems. If you have noticed your relative or loved lacking interest in their personal hygiene, they may be showing signs of depression. Contact a healthcare provider if the situation worsens. A nurse or doctor can provide you with assistance and training on how to manage personal hygiene routines. It is best to help the person with personal hygiene rather than doing everything for him or her. If the individuals can still move their arms, they can brush their own teeth and wash their own face. Allowing them some independence keeps them from becoming completely dependent on you, relieves your work load, and helps maintain mobility.

Some Benefits of Good Personal Hygiene Include;

  • It helps keep the skin intact and prevents infections.
  • It removes substances from the skin where bacteria can grow, reducing the risk of infection.
  • It helps keep the teeth and gums healthy, which in turn promotes good nutrition.
  • It makes the person feel good about themselves.
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Home Care Safety For The Elderly

Posted on February 26, 2012 by admin

There are many times that the elderly fall and injure themselves in and around the home. They trip down the stairs, fall down while sweeping the patio, slip in the bathroom, or stumble over electrical cords in the living room. For elders, the simplest tasks can become overwhelming obstacles.

Making the house safer for seniors is extremely important to make sure that they are safe in the comfort of their home. Go through the home one room at a time and take a good look at it. Look at the room through the eyes of a person who might have poor vision or one who finds it difficult to walk without shuffling his or her feet. You will be amazed at how many safety hazards get over looked.

Studies have shown that nearly one in every three seniors over the age of 65 years old experiences a fall every year. Some of those falls are minor resulting in scrapped knees, but many others are serious involving broken bones, especially legs, hips, and their spine. Falls are the leading cause of death in seniors over the age of 65.

One of the most dangerous rooms in the house for an elderly person is the bathroom. To maximize bathroom safety, here are some simple and very effective tips to include on your checklist as you begin to safety proof the bathroom.

* Does your elderly parent use the towel rack near the bathtub for support when climbing in or out of the tub?

* Does water get on the floor after the bathtub or shower is used?

* Is the shower stall floor or the bathtub slippery?

* Are towels, soaps, and shampoos within easy reach?

* Does your parent have difficulty sitting on or rising from the toilet?

* Is there a nightlight that illuminates the path from bedroom to bathroom?

What You Can Do

* Purchase and securely anchor grab bars for use in and around the shower, bathtub, or toilet. Test them for strength and stability by hanging from the grab bars as if you were really falling. They should not budge.

* Purchase a raised toilet seat to make it easier to access toileting needs.

* Upgrade your traditional bath to a walk in bath which is safer and easier to access.

* Place non-skid mats and decals on the floor of a shower stall or bathtub, as well as on the floor in front of the tub or shower stall.

* Place a stool or shower chair in the shower stall to avoid slipping and falling.

* Ensure that the lighting is adequate for those suffering from poor vision or depth perception.

Creating a safe home for elders is going to require some minor adjustments, while other projects may be a bit more time consuming and expensive. However, minimizing risks and maximizing safety is the best way to take care of a loved one in any room of the house.

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Why Choose A Bruno Electra Ride Stair Lift?

Posted on January 23, 2012 by admin

If your ability to climb stairs has diminished over time due to the pain of getting up and down stairs then you will definitely benefit from having a Bruno stair lift.

A stair lift is a machine that transports people up and down stairways. There are two types of stair lifts, those that have a seat for the passenger to sit in, and those that have a platform to transport the passenger while in his or her wheelchair. Stair lifts have become popular over the years as more and more people are choosing to remain independent and live in their own homes with the added peace of mind of having safe travel up and down the stairs, rather than going to a retirement community or living with a family member.

A stair lift operates by installing a rail that is fitted to the supporting wall of the stairway, allowing the mechanical chair to move up and down the stairs when the passenger presses the buttons. There are a variety of stair lifts available to accommodate almost every home. You can purchase a stair lift for straight stairs, curved stairs, outdoor stairs, and a few steps to a long staircase. Ultimately, the best type of stair lift for you depends on your requirements and facilities.

When shopping around for your stair lift, find suppliers that offer a test center in your area. This will allow you to visually select the type of stair lift suitable for your home.

The Advantages of Having a Bruno Stair Lift Includes:

.Simplicity of operation:  soft start and stop feature provides the smoothest ride without hesitation.

.Weight capacity of up to 400 lbs.

.Battery-powered operation makes it safe and works even if the electricity is out.

.Arms, seat, and footrest flip up creating plenty of space for guests to walk up and down the stairs.

.Stair lift can be installed on either side of the stairway.

.The elegant covered track gives you a clean and attractive rail.

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Using A Walker Properly

Posted on December 22, 2011 by admin

Did you know that there is a right and wrong way to use a walker?

People that suffer from osteoarthritis often require mobility aids such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters to minimize the feeling of painful joints or joints with limited range of motion. Mobility aids add stability and improve balance if they are used properly.

Many individuals who use walkers are not using them correctly. You might remember seeing someone slouched or bent as they walk with their walker and others who seem very uncomfortable using their walker—these are the people who are using them incorrectly.

There are steps you can take to insure that you or someone you know is using the
walker properly.

Choose the Right Height

First, consider the various models of walkers available to you. Do you prefer rubber grips, rubber tips, wheels, hand-brakes, accessories, lightweight or heavyweight, etc.? The only way you will know exactly what you are looking for is by going to a medical supply store and seeing for yourself (what you need.)

Once you have selected the model walker of your choice, the next step is to make sure the “fit” is the right one. You will know the walker’s height is right for you if:

-As you hold on to your walker, your elbows should bend to a comfortable and natural position.

-After relaxing your arms at your side, the top of your walker should be even with the crease on the underside of your wrist.

A walker that is too low for you will cause you to stoop over while you walk as well as not allow you to use proper body mechanics. This will cause you more aches and pains rather than relief.

Getting Up From a Chair

Assure all of your movements are safe as you prepare to use your walker. If you are sitting, put the walker in front of the chair. Move yourself forward in your chair, and place your hands on the arms of the chair and push up. Switch your hands to the grips on your walker. Allow yourself to stand for a minute or so to be sure you feel stable and balanced to
begin walking.

Walking With Your Walker

When you know you are ready to start walking, push the walker slightly ahead of you, than step into the walker. Keep the pattern going by having the walker slightly ahead, then stepping into the walker. The most important thing to remember is to never have the walker too far ahead of you in addition to making sure your posture is always at a comfortable level. Also, don’t look at your feet—always look in front of you!

If you have trouble gripping the walker, there are platform walkers available to allow you to rest your elbow and forearm while taking the stress off your hands.

Sitting With Your Walker

When you are ready to sit down after walking with your walker, make sure you first stand with your back to the chair. Continue by touching the back of your legs to the chair. This will ensure you are close enough to sit down. Slide your weaker leg forward as you shift weight to your stronger leg. Switch your hands from the walker to the arms on the chair. Then sit down slowly.

Review of Overall Safety

To minimize the risk of injury always:

-Choose the right walker

-Have the walker adjusted properly for you height.

-Follow all safety precautions as you move.

-Keep your path clear of throw rugs, cords, and clutter.

If you need additional help adjusting to your walker, an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or physical medicine and rehabilitation provider can offer the best training in walker use.

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Choosing The Right Wheelchair

Posted on November 14, 2011 by admin

Choosing the right wheelchair can be overwhelming due to the choices available, but you don’t have to make the decision on your own.  Your doctor or physical therapist can help you select the right one.  Although, keep the following tips in mind when selecting the right chair to meet your daily demands.

#1 Wheelchair Mobility

Wheelchair mobility is one of the most important factors to consider when making a decision.  Choosing the right wheelchair will determine how easily you get around, and how active of a lifestyle you will be able to maintain.

Wheelchairs are made from a variety of materials, some of which are heavier than others.  Motorized wheelchairs can be heavy and most of the time the user requires a van with a wheelchair ramp or lift in order to travel because it cannot be easily stored.  On the other hand, some manual wheelchairs can be folded for storage or transported in a car.  Wheelchairs that fold are a good option for people who do not use a wheelchair often.  A rigid wheelchair works for those who need to use a wheelchair all the time.  It is lighter in weight and can be taken apart for transport in a car.  In addition, it may include additional features not available with a folding wheelchair.

#2 Manual vs. Motorized Wheelchairs

A manual wheelchair is best for people who are able to push themselves or are going to be pushed by an attendant.  For individuals that are unable to push for themselves, a motorized chair provides the best mobility.  Whether a manual chair or a motorized one, a chair the can be operated directly by the user provides the best level of independence.

#3 Weight

Weight is also important to keep in mind when selecting your wheelchair.  It gets a little frustrating having to lift a chair in and out of a car trunk.  As mentioned previously, motorized wheelchairs are heavier.  Manual chairs can weigh anywhere between thirty-three to thirty-four pounds.  Lightweight chairs can weigh as little as fifteen pounds, and are made of titanium instead of aluminum.

# 4 Cost

If you are in need of a wheelchair, Medicare, Medicaid, and health insurance policies often cover the cost.  There are also medical supply stores as well as wheelchair manufactures that help arrange for coverage for your chair.  They also (may) offer financing if there is no insurance coverage.

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Why Wheelchair lifts?

Posted on September 13, 2011 by admin

Wheelchair stair lifts guarantee amplified mobility and liberty for the physically disabled and aged individuals.  Wheelchair lifts, referred to as vertical platform lifts or vertical lifts, are more cost-efficient than elevators offering quicker movement from one floor to another.

Wheelchair stair lifts are also conceptualized to suit your budget and needs.  Many years ago wheelchairs had to be lifted with the help of an individual or individuals.  However, with the influx of wheelchair platform lifts, the painful procedure of lifting a wheel chair can now be evaded.  These days, wheelchair lifts are obtainable in different sizes and designs for both commercial and residential functions.

Wheelchair stair lifts are commonly available in two designs, AC and DC types.

A brief look at the DC type displays a wheelchair lifts usefullness:

A DC operated electric wheelchair stair lift will work during power outages.  Electric wheelchair lifts can also be connected to telephone jacks or automatic (mechanical) door openers.  The smooth operation of the motor makes it possible for the user to have a comfortable ride.  Thus, wheelchair stair lifts are ideal for individuals with limited mobility caused by old age, illness or catastrophes.

Wheelchair stair lifts can also be used at a variety of locations such as:

Schools
Hospitals
Shops
Offices

Get your wheelchair lift today to improve mobility whether it be for a residential or commercial need!

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Technology That Help To Improve The Ease Of Living

Posted on July 19, 2011 by admin

This century can be marked as an era of technological advancements. No one can hope to live without technology in the present generation. From children to old men, everyone uses technology for comfort and to make their work easy. We use technology in everything we do, no matter how small or big it is. Besides comfort one uses technology to improve the efficiency and performance in daily activities. With the advent of technology it is now possible to treat diseases that were not curable only a few decades back, thus safeguarding millions of lives.

With constant improvements in medical mobility equipment, individuals with mobility issues due to disability, age, sickness, or injury are able to achieve independent movement better than ever before. There was a time when a disabled individual’s options were far more curtailed. Today that same set of people can enjoy an active social life, whether it be through the help of a wheelchair, stair lift, or a wheelchair lift.

Williams Surgical provides a wide variety of modern medical and surgical equipment for sale, as well as rent. The equipment of top-notch quality enables doctors and other medical staff to carry out various procedures with the utmost care and precision.

The company also provides quality lifts and mobility aid to cater to the needs of the disabled, injured, and older individuals. The services rendered include rental, installation, and servicing of stair way lifts, wheel chair lifts, and ramps so that you and your loved ones can enjoy a comfortable and independent lifestyle with easy mobility at their convenience. There are a wide variety of models currently being offered to suit your comfort and budget.

To ease the challenges of climbing stairs a range of stair chairs of top quality from Bruno and Sterling are offered by us. The models on offer include Bruno LT, Bruno Electra Ride-2, Bruno Elite, Bruno Outdoor Elite, Bruno Electra Ride-3, Sterling 950 simplicity and Sterling 1000.

To ease your accessibility, a wide variety of wheel chair ramps are offered by the company which include: Threshold ramps, Suitcase ramps, Tri fold ramps, Pathway ramps, Modular ramps, and Incline charts.

The wheel chair lift (or vehicle lift) from Bruno offered by us enables you to effortlessly and conveniently lift and transport your wheel chair or scooter to the vehicle. The various kinds of vehicle lift on offer are as follows: Joey Lift, Curb-Sider, and Out-Sider.

We at Williams Surgical ensure that all products delivered to our customers are durable, reliable, and safe to make sure we give the best possible comfort and safety to our customers!

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Stair Lifts – The Ease of Going Up and Down Stairs

Posted on June 13, 2011 by admin

A stair lift is a device used to lift people, generally the old or the physically challenged helping them get up and down the stairs. Stair lifts are a great solution for anyone who finds difficulty using the stairs. It generally comes with a platform or a chair attached to a powered machine transporting the chair up and down as required along with a rail mounted on the treads of the stairs. It comes in different designs often meeting all its possible purposes. A normal person may also install one version of a stair lift if there is not enough space for elevators.

Sometimes stair lifts are designed to lift the individual with his or her wheelchair, other times they are designed so that the person can be seated on a chair meanwhile someone else brings the wheelchair up or down the stairs. In recent times, more contraptions are being designed transporting the person with the wheelchair as it provides more convenience and independency to the user.

The various popular types of stair lifts available in the market are straight rail (used on normal home stairs), curved rail (used in custom curved stairs which are often very expensive), platform lifts (these are provided with a platform and very similar to escalators), chair lifts (these are attached with chairs instead of the platform), and outdoor stair lifts (these come equipped with lifts.)

Stair lifts are generally powered by rechargeable batteries connected to an external power supply for charging, thus rendering the lift charged while it’s not in use. The advantage from having rechargeable batteries is that it keeps the lift charged and useful if there is no power supply.  Rechargeable batteries are very beneficial for the user.

Stair lifts provide a vital element of independency for anyone who finds difficulty in using the stairs, be it the elderly, or a physically challenged person. They prove even more helpful when the person is living alone, making it not as necessary for someone to attend to the person at all times.

All in all, stair lifts are safe to use, and can either be bought or rented according the person’s needs. If someone requires it for a short time period of time, it is advised to rent one; but if a person will be using it for a considerable period of time it is better to buy one as the price of renting one may eventually come to a cost similar to that of owning one.

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Be Free to call Williams Surgical for Doorstep Medicare

Posted on May 5, 2011 by admin

If you or a loved one has ever had the unfortunate experience of having a chronic or serious illness, you’ve experienced the frustration of our fragmented health care system. Just when you are feeling your worst, there you are in the doctor’s office or hospital room, repeating the same information time and time again, sitting through the same medical test more than once, and trying to track down lost or unavailable medical charts. These are all aspects of our current health care system we could each do without.

This can be a particular problem for the more than half of Medicare beneficiaries with five or more chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and kidney disease. These patients often receive care from multiple physicians and in multiple sites. A failure to coordinate care can lead to patients not getting the care they need or receiving duplicative care. This lack of coordination also increases their risk of suffering medical errors, such as receiving prescriptions for medications that ought not to be taken together. It can also cause complications that lead to needless hospital stays. Nearly one in five Medicare patients discharged from the hospital is readmitted within 30 days – a readmission many patients could have avoided if their care outside of the hospital had been better coordinated.

Williams Surgical a pioneer in Medicare helps you at your doorstep, improving coordination and communication among physicians and other providers and suppliers will help improve the care Medicare beneficiaries receive, while also helping lower costs. Numerous studies have shown that better care often costs less, because coordinated care helps to ensure that the patient receives the right care at the right time.

It has been our pleasure to serve the residents of New Jersey and North Jersey for over 60 years. We have established ourselves as the premier one-stop shop for all of your lifts, surgical supplies and mobility aid needs. Our company provides quality chair lift options, along with the rental, installation and servicing of stairway lifts and wheelchair ramps.

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