Medical equipment comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and types. Anyone who lives at home in Missoula, Montana – whether it is in an apartment, condominium or house, at some point may have to ask for help. They may have just returned from a hospital, suffered a minor health set back or have developed mobility issues. While some individuals may require more intensive and regular care, others are only in need of mild assistance. They can live at home but need to improve the accessibility of their home to do so.
Improving Accessibility
Some residences, particularly older ones, are not designed for those who are disabled or are experiencing mobility issues. The doors may be too narrow to allow wheelchair access. The bathroom presents too many risks for slips and falls. There are too many stairs to negotiate to enter the house or go to another level.
These accessibility problems can all be addressed in one of several ways. For some homes, minor renovations may well address the problems faced by the elderly or impaired individuals. Often, however, other types of and/or additional measures are required. This can mean the installation of assistive medical equipment.
Accessibility is easily improved by the installation of medical devices designed to address accessibility. Among the most common types are:
- Ramps: Ramps are available in different formats and materials. They are available in modular form as well as in solid sections. They are produced from wood and metal.
Ramps can be installed permanently in front of a home, replacing the steps or they can snake along the side to provide an alternative entry point. These entry and egress devices can be temporary or moveable – the latter making them a flexible option when more than one family lives in the building. In all instances, they are designed to improve accessibility for wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility devices
- Bathroom Aids: Where the risk of falls is high and/or getting into the bathtub is risky, common options are:
- Bath benches
- Access chairs
Both these types of assistive medical equipment lower the risks that occur when taking showers or bathing.
Making Homes Accessible
If you return from the hospital or are finding it harder to enter, exit or use certain facilities in your home in Missoula Montana, help is available. Consider the advantage of using appropriate medical equipment to reduce the risk of falls and injury. By installing the right type of apparatus, it is possible to make you feel comfortable and safe in your home.