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The Top Ten Items That Can Help You Age with Ease: From Mobility Scooters to Stair lifts

Growing old is inevitable, and with age come limitations, your body may no longer move as you are used to, or expect to. You may suffer from pain and have trouble with your mobility. Fortunately, today, there are many aids and products that can make growing older a little more comfortable.

Outlined below are the top ten products that can assist you to achieve a more comfortable, able and independent senior lifestyle.

1. Mobility Scooter: Also referred to as Electric Scooters, handicap Scooters or Personal Mobility Vehicles, can really help your independence both within and outside the home. If you do have limited mobility, or struggle walking very far, then a mobility scooter will make running errands so much easier.

2. Wheelchair: As with a mobility scooter, a wheelchair can certainly make getting around easier. A wheelchair is also very easily transportable as an aid for relief from walking long distances. Electric wheelchairs, or power wheelchairs, offer exceptional flexibility in mobility and help even those with severe mobility problems.

3. A Rollator: This is a frame that is like a scooter at the front, but your legs act as the motor. It can provide stability if you are somewhat wobbly on your feet, but does enable you to keep using your legs and therefore keep movement going.

4. Walk-in Bathtub: Bathing can become very dangerous when you are older, and getting in and out of a bathtub can be hazardous. Water can make everything very slippery. A walk-in bathtub can take away all this risk, and also make bathing much more pleasurable.

5. Bathing Accessories: If a walk-in tub is not feasible in your home, then there are many other bathroom accessories that can make bathing much easier. Such things as portable bath benches or seats, bathroom rails and grab bars can all make it easier to stabilize yourself as you bath and reduce the risk of a nasty slip or fall.

6. Toilet Seat Riser: If getting up and down is a problem, a toilet seat riser can make life so much effortless. It increases the height of the toilet seat, and means you can make toilet visits so much easier. This can be vital in eliminating assistance to go to the toilet and improve your privacy in the toilet.

7. Lift Chairs: Again if you struggle to get in and out of a sitting position, just getting in and out of an armchair can become laborious. Also if you do sit for long periods, improving your comfort can greatly improve your well-being. A lift chair has a motor and a hand control so that you can alter the position. It can recline back, and it also lift forward to help you get up out of a sitting position.

8. Adjustable Bed: An adjustable bed allows you to move yourself into a more upright position whilst still remaining in bed. They can be extremely helpful if you do have a lot of difficulty getting in and out of bed. They can also make life so much more comfortable if you do spend periods of time in bed. They can help eliminate issues with bad backs and bed sores.

9. Stair Lift: If your mobility is restricted, then climbing or descending stairs can be a high-risk activity. Many an elderly person has suffered a nasty fall trying to go down stairs. A stair lift is an excellent way of eliminating this risk, and making moving about your home so much easier.

10. Kitchen Accessories: Cooking can become quite a chore when your hands become arthritic but a number of simple accessories can solve this. There are such things as tools to open jars and bottles, trolleys and trays to move food around, a kettle tipper helps support the weight of pouring a kettle and non-slip mats and cutting boards.

These ten mobility aids can make growing old not so hard, and extend your ability to function comfortably in your own home. It certainly makes sense to acquire whatever help you can to make your life easier and take away as many worries as possible.

Riding aboard Hawaii’s city bus system with a mobility scooter or power wheelchair

All Honolulu city buses have powered ramps that allow you to take your mobility scooter or power wheelchair on board the bus.

Most power wheelchairs and 3 wheeled scooters will fit on the bus no problem. Be aware that some larger and 4-wheeled scooters that do not have a tight turning radius may have difficulty making the 90 degree turn required to get from the ramp into the bus.

The bus company offers free training on getting on and off the bus. If interested, a person just needs to call to make an appointment. They can help you practice riding TheBus with your mobility device. To schedule your session, simply call their Customer Service Office at 808-848-5555 and press 3, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (except on holidays). Let the customer service representative know that you want to practice riding TheBus.

Choosing a Walking Aid

Whether it's time to get your first walking aid or maybe upgrade or replace an existing rollator walker, Dauterman has you covered. From inexpensive single point canes to rolling walkers with handbrakes and a basket, we have plenty to choose from. Not sure whether to choose among the quad canes or rollators? The following brief overview should help get you on your way, but give us a call at 808-591-8860 and our staff will help you out if needed.

Canes - The entry-level member of the ambulatory aids family, canes come in various styles so there is something for everyone. Single-point canes offer some stability, while quad canes will give more sturdy footing. Quad canes are a better choice if the walking aid is for long-term usage.

Crutches - Whether it's a broken leg or a lifelong disability, we have a variety of standard crutches to choose from. We have the most basic crutches to forearm crutches. Just be sure to pay attention to the height restrictions when ordering.

Standard Folding Walkers - These are the no-frills models that no wheels, brakes or seats. All models fold, making them easy to get in and out of the car or store away in a closet. Most standard folding walker models also accommodate accessories such as wheels and brakes.

Rollators - These models are top of the line and come in both three and four-wheeled models. In addition to locking hand brakes and baskets, most of these rollator walker models offer a seat that's convenient for resting when it is just too far to walk. Throw in the choice of colors and you have the best walkers/rollators out there.

Specialty Walkers: We offer a wide range of specialty walkers, from side-steppers to knee walkers. These diverse walkers fit almost every user need.

If you have any questions about what type of walker will best fit your needs, give us a call at 808-591-8860.

Selecting a Wheelchair

Looking for a wheelchair for quick trips to the store or to get you out of the house? You have come to the right place. There are a lot of choices out there when choosing a manual wheelchair, including transport wheelchairs, standard wheelchairs, lightweight wheelchairs, ultralightweight wheelchairs and more. The following brief descriptions should help get you on your way:

Transport Wheelchairs: With four small wheels and lightweight frames, transport wheelchairs are the perfect choice for transporting someone to and from the house or around the mall. A transport wheelchair is narrower than a standard wheelchair, making it a good choice for tight hallways and narrow doorways around the house. We carry a full line of Invacare wheelchairs.

Standard Weight Wheelchairs: With weights starting at 35 pounds, a standard weight wheelchair is the perfect choice when you need a wheelchair that will be used less than four hours per day, but needs to be self-propelled. A full selection is available from the most basic models with fixed legrests and armrests to wheelchairs that have elevating legrests and removable armrests. There are also models with a "hemi" height option. This option allows you to lower the seat-to-floor height and remove the legrests so that the user can use their feet to help propel the chair. All standard weight wheelchairs fold for easy transport and storage. Consider a foam cushion for additional comfort.

Lightweight Wheelchairs: With weights ranging from 28-34 pounds, a lightweight wheelchair is a great choice when you need a wheelchair that will be used more frequently, when you need special options, or when you have your heart set on a specific frame and upholstery color combination. This category covers it all, with basic lightweight wheelchairs to wheelchairs that are available with a full range of options including an adjustable angle back, wild frame colors, pneumatic (air-filled) tires, a wide range of seating sizes and heights, and multiple legrests and armrest choices.

Tilt/Recline Wheelchairs: A reclining back is a great option for those who spend the majority of their time in a wheelchair as it offers more positions. A tilt wheelchair offers alternative positioning and pressure relief for those who are unable to re-position themselves. Both of these options add weight to the wheelchair, so keep this in mind if easy transport is a concern.

Heavy Duty Wheelchairs: With weight capacities ranging from 300 to 850 pounds, these heavy duty wheelchairs can accommodate nearly any user. Dauterman represents a full range of heavy duty wheelchairs, from economical bariatric transport chairs, to complex highly-configurable models.

Selecting Mobility Scooters

Dauterman Healthcare & Mobility offers a wide selection of 3-wheeled scooters and 4-wheeled mobility scooters at reasonable prices. With many different mobility scooter models available, we can meet everyone's scooter needs. Just call for help in identifying the perfect mobility scooter for you.

Not sure where to start? The following overview will answer basic questions and get you on your way.

Transportable/Travel Mobility Scooters: These scooters are just what their name implies, ready to get you on the road. Models in this category disassemble into 4 pieces for easy transport in the trunk of most cars. These travel scooters are easy to lift into the trunk, with the heaviest piece on some models weighing as little as 22 pounds. Sealed batteries make them airline safe. As you might imagine, these travel scooters are compact so we don't recommend them for people over 5'10" or 300 pounds.

3-Wheeled Mobility Scooters: A step up in size and features from the travel scooters, these scooters offer full-sized comfort with three-wheeled maneuverability. They are the perfect choice if your mobility needs demand a scooter that you can use both indoors and out. With weight capacities up to 350 pounds and available features like upgraded seats, there is a mobility scooter for most everybody in this category. We carry manufacturer brands including Golden scooters and Pride scooters.

4-Wheeled Mobility Scooters: When you need maximum stability or are going to be using your mobility scooter predominantly outdoors, a 4-wheeled scooter can't be beat. On the larger models, the higher ground clearance and bigger tires make these a great choice for more rugged terrain, and some go as fast as 9 mph. The turning radius is wider, so the full-size models are not the best choice for indoor usage. We sell the largest of these scooters to many folks who work and play outdoors.

Heavy Duty/High Weight Capacity Mobility Scooters: If you weigh over 350 pounds, these are the mobility scooters for you. With both 3 and 4-wheeled models to choose from, and with weight capacities up to 500 pounds, there is sure to be a heavy duty/high weight capacity scooter that meets your mobility needs.

Selecting a Power Wheelchair

Whether you are replacing an existing chair or shopping for your first power wheelchair, Dauterman has the selection and expertise to make sure you get the power wheelchair that is right for you. We understand that the choices available in a power wheelchair can be overwhelming. By understanding the features and applications that the different models offer, you can know which power wheelchair will best meet your needs.

Here is a brief overview of the different types of power wheelchairs that are available.

Travel/Portable Power Wheelchairs: Travel power wheelchairs are designed not only for portability but also work well in compact or crowded spaces such as apartments, stores, cruise ships or malls. Most of our travel/portable models are disassembled by removing the seat, battery pack and base. Most components are relatively light but there may be some lifting involved in moving the heaviest components. Newer models are now very compact foldable and lightweight with long lasting lightweight lithium ion batteries.

Center-Drive Power Wheelchairs: Center-wheel drive power wheelchairs are commonly referred to as mid-wheel drive power chairs. Although not easily transportable without the use of an accessible van or vehicle lift, center-wheel power wheelchairs are among the most maneuverable models available. In tight, confined spaces, center-wheel drive power wheelchairs not only require far less maneuvering than other power wheelchairs, they are also quite easy to operate.

Front Wheel Drive Power Wheelchairs: Like the name implies front wheel drive chairs have the large drive wheel located towards the front of the wheelchair base. When turning and maneuvering, the wheels in front of the user are powering movement. When making turns there is a "tail" that must be compensated for. There is no right or wrong wheel base it is really up to the user and what they prefer.

Rear Wheel Drive Power Wheelchairs: The large drive wheel on is located towards the back or rear on the base of these wheelchairs. Some people find rear wheel drive chairs very easy to maneuver. Typically there is very little power wheelchair behind the driver, making it visually easy to maneuver turns since you can see if you are about to hit anything with the majority of your chair.

Heavy Duty Power Wheelchairs: Designed for higher weight capacity users (ranging from 300 lbs. to 650 lbs.), heavy-duty power wheelchairs are available in a variety of styles, including folding and center-wheel drive.

Selecting a Power Lift Chair Recliner

Dauterman offers you a comprehensive selection of lift chairs to meet your every need, ranging from a basic two-position lift chair recliner all the way to an infinite-position lift chair recliner. Dauterman has chosen Golden Technologies and Pride Lift Chairs as our vendors of choice for their quality manufacturing processes and their creative product development.

Don't know which lift chair recliner to choose? Not sure where to start? The following brief overview of what's available among the lift chair recliner selection should help get you on your way.

2-Position Lift Chairs: A two-position lift chair has a sitting position, a reading position (which is a slight recline) and a lifted or standing position. These models are the most economical and come in a variety of fabrics and styles. These lift chairs are perfect if you're searching for the most affordable Golden Technologies or Pride lift chair.

3-Position Lift Chairs: A three-position lift chair has a sitting position, a lifted position, a reading position and a recline position, which is sometimes called a "napping position". It is NOT a full recline. This is the most popular category for a lift chair recliner with a broad range of styles, features and prices to meet everyone's needs and budget.

Infinite-Position Lift Chairs: For a full-recline position (also called the Trendelenburg Position) which elevates the feet above the heart, select an 'infinite-position' lift chair. The infinite-position lift chair recliner chairs have dual motors which allow you to control the footrest and the back independently, and they recline fully, allowing you to use the chair for sleeping. If you're looking for the most versatile lift chair, these are for you.

Heavy Duty Lift Chairs - Most lift chairs can accommodate up to 375 pounds. If you need a higher weight capacity we have a wide selection to choose from with weight capacities up to 700 pounds. Most have dual motors to ensure powerful operation and reduce wear on the motors of the lift chair recliner with long-term use. Lift chairs in this category are also available to accommodate those who are taller than average.

You’ve decided it’s time to look into a mobility scooter or power wheelchair. Aside from what model you’re going to get, you’re probably wondering about cost. There are many options when it comes to financing a mobility device.

For those paying out of pocket, dealers accept cash and credit cards, and there is another financing option: CareCredit.

What is CareCredit?

CareCredit is a credit card that allows you to pay for medical equipment and services over time. This is a health care specific line of credit that can be used to cover medical devices, your deductible or treatments not covered by insurance.

CareCredit can be used for a wide range of health and wellness purchases from dental care and gym memberships to weight loss surgery and sleep studies. Medical devices include mobility products as well as CPAP machines, mobility beds and stairlifts, among others.

CareCredit is owned by Synchrony, one of the largest providers of private label credit cards in the U.S. CareCredit is similar to private label retail store credit cards in that it can only be used for specific purchases. It is not part of the Mastercard and Visa networks that traditional credit and debit cards use.

The CareCredit card is currently accepted by more than 200,000 healthcare providers. To use CareCredit, first you’ll need a credit approval. There are also minimum monthly payments required. You may be eligible for special promotional financing options.

What Mobility Products are Eligible for CareCredit?

In short, you can use your CareCredit card for any mobility devices or accessories you need. Peruse our power wheelchair, power lift recliner and mobility scooter pages. We offer FDA Class II Medical Devices designed to aid individuals with mobility impairments as well as mobility devices that are not classified by the FDA. This distinction doesn’t matter for CareCredit, but it will affect Medicare or insurance approvals.

If approved for a CareCredit card, you can also use it for accessories. Customize your device with small upgrades that will make life a little easier. You can add a cup holder to your wheelchair or a cane holder to your scooter.

Replacement batteries and upgraded lithium-ion batteries can also be purchased with CareCredit. Lithium-ion batteries are available for some scooters and electric wheelchairs as well as backup power for the lift chair recliners when the power goes out..

What kind of interest will I pay?

Time for a quick disclaimer on credit.

Like any credit card, expect to pay double-digit interest unless you pay your balances down fast. We offer CareCredit with no-interest periods of 6 months, but after that, the interest rate jumps to almost 27% APR.

All that said — CareCredit gives you the ability to pay an affordable amount monthly that is within your budget - instead of thousands of dollars all upfront, in order to get your mobility device.

Safety is an important factor to consider when setting up your bathroom. Evaluate what you need for your bathroom fixtures and read our information below on the options available. From grab bars for added stability to transfer benches for getting in the shower, there are options to help make the bathroom a safe place for everyone.

Who can benefit from bathroom safety features?

The elderly and disabled
Those with limited mobility
Anyone recovering from surgery
Young children or pediatric patients
Pet owners

What are the advantages?

Increased independence
Added support and stability
Reduced risk of falling

Bathtub & Shower Safety

Grab Bars
Install grab bars in key locations inside and around the shower to ensure stability. For bathtubs, consider installing two grab bars on the edge for support when stepping in and out. For showers, install grab bars along the wall.

Non-Slip Shower Mats
Place non-skid shower mats with grip surfaces both inside and directly outside the shower. Look for options that are mildew-resistant and have grip suction cups for stability.

Hand-Held Showers
Consider a shower head with an attached hand-held design for more options when showering. This is especially convenient for anyone who is disabled or when bathing children and pets.

Shower Chairs
Shower chairs are usually made with durable, lightweight materials with a non-slip surface like plastic and aluminum. Shower chairs are an ideal safety solution for the disabled and elderly.

Transfer Benches
For help transitioning from outside the tub or shower to inside, consider a transfer bench. Many come with swivel seats, locking mechanisms, suction grips, and adjustable heights.

Toilet Safety

Toilet Frames
For added safety when sitting on the toilet, consider installing a toilet frame. It attaches to the toilet seat and has two rails on either side for maximum stability. Some toilet frames also come withseat risers, which are especially helpful for the disabled or those in a wheelchair.

Commodes
If you're looking for a more flexible toilet option, consider a portable commode. With gripped legs or lockable casters, commodes provide a stable toilet that can be easily transported. For more specialized options, look for combination shower chairs and commodes and bedside commodes.

Safety Features

Adjustable: Look for items with adjustable heights and widths for maximum safety, customization, and comfort.

ADA Compliant: These are items that meet the safety and design requirements specified in the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Corrosion-Resistant: This is an especially important feature for shower safety products. Look for plastic and aluminum materials that will resist corrosion and mildew.

Casters: Lockable casters are a key feature to consider when looking at moveable safety items, such as shower transfer benches and commodes.

Weight Capacity: Make sure to check the weight capacity of any product to ensure safety when in use.