101 Mobility Opens Franchise in Austin Market

New Company Fills Niche for Empowering the Disabled and Mobility Challenged in Austin

(Austin, TX)—Husband and wife team Bruce and Debra Dowden of Cedar Park are the owners/operators of 101 Mobility’s latest Texas Franchise serving Austin and surrounding areas, from South Austin to Waco. 101 Mobility Austin will join the Houston and San Antonio franchises in a recent string of 101 Mobility openings across the Lone Star State. As lifelong Texans, the Dowdens bring over three decades of management, purchasing, and finance experience to the organization. The Dowdens are active members in their community, and look forward to serving their neighbors with quality of life products that positively address personal mobility issues; allowing people to stay in their homes or “age-in-place”, despite facing everyday challenges such as stairways, raised porches, and other obstacles.

The Dowdens share a particular interest in helping the senior community, and felt that 101 Mobility offered a well-rounded model for assessing and supplying the mobility and accessibility needs of the seniors and mobility-challenged in their market. “Our goal is to be able to look back at the end of the day and see that we have helped people”, says Debra Dowden. “Through that, we hope to add value, not only to our lives, but to the community as a whole.”

101 Mobility Austin will focus on helping clients age-in-place by selling, installing, and servicing ramps, stair lifts, automobile lifts, patient lifts, vertical lifts, barrier-free baths and offering complete home modifications to incorporate total accessibility solutions. 101 Mobility is one of the nation’s largest sellers and installers of personal mobility products from well-known brands such as Bruno, Harmar, Liko, and many more.

101 Mobility is also a leader in providing services to our United States Veterans through the U.S. Veteran’s Administration. The Dowdens are especially excited to have the opportunity to give back to our Military Veterans. “Having  Veterans in our family, including a daughter and son-in-law that are currently serving on active duty, has made this opportunity to work with Veterans very special to us”, says Bruce Dowden.  “We consider it an honor to help those that have served and are proud to do so.”

101 Mobility is the franchising world’s first full-service sales, service, and installation provider of a complete line of mobility and accessibility products and equipment, including stair lifts, auto lifts, ramps, porch lifts, patient lifts, power wheelchairs, scooters and more. Short and long-term rentals are also available for home, office, and institution. By working with patients to identify which home health care devices best suit each individual’s needs, 101 Mobility provides an alternative to group homes and rehabilitation centers by allowing patients to live self-sufficiently in their homes.

For more information, visit www.101mobility.com or call 512.650.0354.

Where the heart is: how to pay for home modifications

By Michelle Seitzer

Aging in place (AIP) costs considerably less than assisted living care, but it’s not free.

Though funds are dwindling for many senior-related programs (Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security have all spent ample time on the chopping block lately), there are still a number of federal, state, local and private organizations that offer financial support to seniors who want to stay where the heart is.

To begin – because first you might need to sell the idea to skeptical family members, or just figure out what modifications are needed before getting the capital to do it – get to know what services and resources are offered in your home state via these helpful sites:

• Search for home repair and modification resources in your region at Eldercare.gov.
• HomeMods.org is a national information clearinghouse on all things related to home modifications. Professionals and consumers alike can peruse an extensive resource directory on the site.
• Not sure if your own home or a senior loved one’s residence is adaptable for AIP? Most are, but the WellCome Home site helps you clearly see the potential and know where to direct your energies and efforts when it’s time to transform the home.
• Download this Home Safety Checklist from Rebuilding Together, Inc. to remove fall hazards and resolve accessibility issues, many of which may be implemented without spending a dime.

Should the need arise for assistive equipment (such as power chairs or stair lifts) or home modifications (like wheelchair ramps or door-opening systems), here are a few ways to ease the burden of purchasing or installing these costly components.

Claim a deduction. Russell Glickman, a DC-based home design and remodeling expert, recommends conferring with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to find out whether you or a loved one is eligible to deduct the cost of home modifications on your federal income tax. You need a written recommendation from your doctor as proof that the modifications are medically necessary. Glickman also states that you can claim a deduction for the costs of operating and maintaining the modifications, whether or not the stair lift, ramp, or other equipment qualified as a medical expense. Home improvements (or capital expenses) that may be deducted per the IRS.gov are as follows:

• Constructing entrance or exit ramps for your home.
• Widening doorways at entrances or exits to your home.
• Widening or otherwise modifying hallways and interior doorways.
• Installing railings, support bars, or other modifications to bathrooms.
• Lowering or modifying kitchen cabinets and equipment.
• Moving or modifying electrical outlets and fixtures.
• Installing porch lifts and other forms of lifts (but elevators generally add value to the house).
• Modifying fire alarms, smoke detectors, and other warning systems.
• Modifying stairways.
• Adding handrails or grab bars anywhere (whether or not in bathrooms).
• Modifying hardware on doors.
• Modifying areas in front of entrance and exit doorways.
• Grading the ground to provide access to the residence.

Note: You can only itemize these deductions if the main purpose of installation is medical care for you, a spouse or dependent (modifications made for aesthetic, architectural or other personal reasons do not qualify). Permanent improvements that boost your property’s value may be partially included as a deduction; in this case, the cost of the home modification is reduced by the amount of the property value increase (whatever the difference is what your qualified medical expense to deduct will be). If the home modification does not increase your property value, you can deduct the whole cost as a medical expense.

Visit the Area Agency on Aging. Every state offers different incentives, programs, and benefits to their senior residents. The best way to learn about them all, in addition to any tax credits or federal monies available through Medicare, Medicaid (in some states, you may be able to qualify for funding via the Medicaid HCBS – home and community-based services – waiver), HUD, the VA, or the USDA that would be disbursed through the state, is at your local Area Agency on Aging. The AAA is a one-stop-shop neighborhood branch of your state’s department that handles senior care (i.e. Department of Aging, Department of Public Welfare, etc.). Go to Eldercare.gov or N4A.org to find your AAA by zip code, city or county.

Apply for grants or take advantage of state assistive technology projects to make your home wheelchair accessible. According to HomeMods.org, funding is available for this specific modification through the Department of Veteran Affairs (call 800-827-1000 or your local VA for more details) and via the United Cerebral Palsy Association (call 800-872-5827). The IRS also permits those with disabilities to claim some of these expenses as a tax deduction. Check in with the National Council on Independent Living Center (call 703-525-3406) to get local funding information and referral services.

Get a loan to add a room. If Mom is moving in and she has health needs or disabilities, you may be eligible for government funding. FannieMae offers the HomeChoice program, Home Keeper program, and the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (get more details at eFanniemae, or visit the local office). In Texas, New Mexico, California and Illinois, residents can apply for a Home Modifications Loan for Homeowners (with fixed interest rates and low minimum loan amounts) via Bank of America, under the “Access Loans” category. For more information, call 800-843-2632 (in CA, IL) or 800-900-9000 (in TX, NM).

Contact local foundations and non-profit organizations. Some may offer financial assistance or services referrals for those providing care for someone with disabilities or diseases like Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis. Easter Seals and Rebuilding Together both offer low- or no-cost community-based home modification and repair programs.

Take out a second/reverse mortgage. If you have the equity, this is a good way to secure a loan for a home modification, which, if done well, should add value to the home as more people will be seeking homes where aging in place is possible. You must be over 62 to secure funding via a reverse mortgage. (Learn more about reverse mortgages here.)

Check your insurance policies. The National Association of Home Builders says that some programs (auto insurance, worker’s compensation, long term care policies, state catastrophic accident insurance plans, and medical trust funds) might cover the costs of a home modification.

Move your parents in. If you have decided it’s best for Mom and Dad to just move in with you so you can provide care more readily, Glickman says you may be able to use proceeds from the sale of their home to make an accessible suite at your residence. He adds that adult children can avail themselves of the space in the future too, as their own care needs change.

Ready to consider a home modification for a family member’s residence, or your own? 101 Mobility has a full line of products (stairlifts, auto lifts, ramps, and more) and a team of highly-trained professional installers standing by to get AIP construction underway. Learn more about our services and find the local office serving you at http://101mobility.com/locator/.

Additional Sources:

• HomeMods.org
• National Association of Home Builders 

Improve Accessibility with an Automatic Door Opener

If you or a loved one has struggled even once to open a door while in a wheelchair or power scooter, then you know just how much of a difference an automatic door opener can make in easing your daily mobility concerns. At 101 Mobility, our goal is to eliminate obstacles to your mobility and independence. We want you to be free to live the life you want to live.

Our Open Sesame automatic door opener is just one of the ways we help you to get out and enjoy life. This easy to install and operate door opener is designed for both residential and light commercial use and is ideal for those who are done with the struggle of getting through the door each day. With the Open Sesame door opener, just click a button and the device unlocks the door, opens it, holds it open for you to clear the doorway, and then gently closes the door for you. It could not be easier than that.

Installation is easy and does not require an electrician. Normal installation can be completed in approximately two hours. The Open Sesame door opener runs on a 24 volt AC adapter which plugs into the nearest outlet. It comes with a battery backup system which will run the door for a full 24 hours in case of power outages.

These automatic door openers come with a remote control that is easy to use and can be mounted near the door or on your wheelchair or scooter. Designed for easy use, the door opener can be activated from across the home and can be used with the side of the hand, the palm or fingers making it easy for anyone to use.

For more information about the Open Sesame automatic door opener, visit our website or contact the 101 Mobility location nearest you.

Home Design Features that Help You to Age in Place

Whether you are moving into a new home or are making modifications to your current home, choosing the best features can seem overwhelming. When the goal is to choose design features that will help you to “age in place” with comfort, ease, and mobility, the task can seem even more challenging. For many Baby Boomers, the desire to create a home that will meet their needs far into the future is an essential one.

When designing a new home that will age with you, it is best to consider open living floor plans with main living areas all situated on one floor. With your kitchen, family room, bedrooms, bathrooms, laundry, and garage access all within easy access on the same floor, it eliminates the need for you to worry about climbing stairs. However, many people do not wish to build a new home and are looking for ways to modify their existing space. The simple addition of a stairlift can easily overcome the need to climb stairs in any home.

Increasing the natural light in your home can be a significant help to making your home more comfortable as you age. Adding skylights and larger windows helps increase natural light and does not require the homeowner to always turn on lights. If you are replacing windows, consider casement windows over double hung windows as they provide superior ventilation and are easier to open and close.

Other features within your home that make it easier to age in place include:

• The addition of wider doors, 36” wide doors are preferred.
• Opt for lever style handles on all doors.
• Roll out shelves in cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms allow for easier access to items stored there.
• The addition of D-shaped or loop cabinet pulls.
• Tubs with doors for easy access.
• Grab bars at the toilet and in the shower or tub for stability.
• Lever style faucets in the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Toilet paper dispensers that can be changed with only one hand.
• Counter tops with rounded corners.
• Thresholds or floor level differences of no more than ½” for easy clearance by wheelchairs or power scooters.

In order to reduce maintenance on the exterior of your home, consider upgrading the exterior to low maintenance coverings such as brick, stone, stucco or vinyl siding. All of these allow you to minimize the expense and upkeep of your home.

There are many more ways to improve the functionality of your home making it easier to age in place. Many communities have contractors who specialize in building or retrofitting homes for aging in place. Find a reputable builder who will work with you to accommodate your needs and help you to bring the changes you envision to reality.

101 Mobility Houston Prevents Falls with Vertical Lift Installation

Glen and Deanna Geggatt, of 101 Mobility’s Houston location, may be new to the mobility business, but they are passionate about helping their customers remain safe in their homes. Recently they received a call from a client who had fallen down the three steps that lead from the house to the garage. Thankfully their client sustained no injuries. However, just a few months prior he had fallen down those same stairs and been hospitalized for some fairly significant injuries. Something needed to be done to prevent this from happening again.

When Glen and Deanna arrived that day to discuss mobility options, the homeowner, his wife, and his son were all there to discuss options and share their concerns. The homeowner and his wife both wanted to remain in the home and maintain their independence and mobility. While the son’s main concern was ensuring their safety.

With just three small steps between them and their safety, Glen and Deanna knew a solution was at hand. The problem was the poorly constructed steps had variations in rise. The first step was positioned with a 10” rise, the second with a 7” rise, and the third at an 8” rise. The variations in rise were making it incredibly easy for the homeowners to misjudge their footing, causing them to fall.

The solution was for 101 Mobility to remove the old steps and install a deck or platform at the same height as the garage door leading from the house. The next step was to install a new set of stairs with a uniform rise height making it easier to climb the stairs to the platform. Additionally, a vertical platform lift was installed so that the homeowners did not need to use the stairs at all if they did not want to.

This solution provided two easily accessible ways for the homeowner to enter the home from the garage. With these solutions in place the homeowner is now able to maintain their independence and mobility and continue to “age in place.”

The final result of this solution from 101 Mobility Houston was a very happy homeowner and a son who was “ecstatic” that his parents could now enter and exit their home safely.

Tips for Preventing Falls in Your Home

Because falls are one of the leading causes for injuries among aging adults, we thought we would pass along these Tips for Preventing Injuries from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS). We hope they will help you to stay safe.

 AANS Injury Prevention Tips for Inside the Home

• Buy bath mats and rugs with slip-resistant backing and secure them.
• Do not walk on slippery, freshly washed floors and avoid floor waxes.
• Install grab bars and handrails if you are frail or elderly.
• Improve the lighting in your home; dim lighting can increase the risk of falls.
• Install night lights in halls and bathrooms, and keep a flashlight near your bed.
• Store products in easy-to-reach places; use stepstools/ladders only when absolutely necessary.
• Wear proper shoes with slip-resistant soles.
• Secure loose electrical cords and put away any items that are lying around.
• Do not use recalled products – discard or take back to the store.
• Keep chairs and other furniture away from windows.
• Use safety gates and install window guards.

AANS Injury Prevention Tips for Outside the Home

• Install outdoor handrails if elderly or frail.
• Inspect and remove debris and ice from walkways, driveways, porches, and yards.
• Inspect and remove debris from lawns before mowing or gardening.
• Store outdoor equipment and tools properly.
• Make sure that ladders are stable and secure before using them.
• Do not use broken equipment or tools.
• Do not let children engage in activities inappropriate for their age.
• Supervise younger children at all times.
• Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol or ride as a passenger with anybody else who is under the influence.

As a side note to these outside tips, if you are unstable on your feet please consider asking for help or hiring out your lawn care and outdoor home maintenance projects for your safety.

Choosing the Right Stairlift Means Staying Mobile

At 101 Mobility, we understand that the loss of mobility and the ability to easily climb the stairs of your home can come as a shock. It can seem like once easy chores, like carrying the laundry up the stairs, can suddenly become difficult and even dangerous. If you hate to admit that you are wary of climbing the stairs, it might be time to consider installing a stairlift in your home. Before you disrupt your daily routine, give up the home that you love so much, and you move to an apartment or ranch home, consider the possibilities that come with installing a stairlift.

Stairlifts generally come in two styles: straight rail or curved rail. We carry both styles at 101 Mobility. Straight rail stairlifts are designed for stairs that do not turn or curve before they reach the second floor. We can often install a straight rail stairlift within 24 hours for your convenience. Curved rail stairlifts are designed for stairways that have a landing or curve that must be maneuvered on the way to the second floor. We can custom design a curved rail stairlift to meet the specific needs of your stairway.

When you begin shopping for a stairlift for your home, there are many important factors to consider. We offer you this check list to help you choose the stairlift that is best for your home and your needs.

• Choose a stairlift company that is local and can provide the prompt, professional service you need.
• Choose a stairlift company that has a reputation for excellent service and superior products.
• For your peace of mind always work with a company that has expert installers. We always recommend having a professional install your stairlift. They are complicated machines and should not be installed by anyone without factory training. 101 Mobility installers are factory trained and certified so you can be confident that your stairlift will be installed properly and safely.
• Make sure you get all the options that will make your stairlift the best fit for your needs. Consider how far away from the wall the rail will be mounted. Will you want a fold up seat, arm rests, foot rests, or a swivel seat? All of these options are valuable and make every day use of your stairlift more comfortable.
• Ask for testimonials from other customers.
• Have a list of concerns and questions ready when your sales consultant comes for your appointment. Knowing what concerns you want to have addressed will make the initial appointment easier and will help to ensure you get all your questions answered. Consider asking a friend or relative to join you for the appointment if you are unsure what questions to ask.
• Get a written quote for the cost of the stairlift and the cost of installation.

We know that staying in your home for as long as possible is your ultimate goal. At 101 Mobility, we want to help you reach your goal. Please call us for a free, no obligation appointment. Let us show you how our stairlifts can help you maintain your freedom and stay in your home.

Call 101 Mobility at (888) 258-0652.

Veterans! Do You Qualify for a HISA Grant?

Are you a U.S. military veteran? Do you suffer from a disability due to your service? There is a lot of help out there for funding improvements to your home to assist you with your comfort and recovery.

The Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant can be used for any home improvement necessary for the continuation of treatment or for disability access to the home and essential lavatory and sanitary facilities. Among the improvements a HISA Grant will cover are:

• Allowing entrance or exit from veteran’s home;
• Improving access for use of essential lavatory and   sanitary facilities;
• Improving access to kitchen and bathroom counters;
• Handrails and grab rails;
• Lowered Electrical outlets and switches;
• Improving paths or driveways;
• Improving plumbing and electrical work for dialysis patients

A HISA grant is available to veterans who have received a medical determination indicating that improvements and structural alterations are necessary or appropriate for the effective and economical treatment of a disability. A veteran may receive both a HISA grant and either a Special Home Adaptation (SHA) grant (below) or a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant (below).Home improvement benefits up to $4,100 are available to veterans with a service-connected disability, and up to $1,200 is available to veterans with non-service-related disabilities.To apply, the veteran must first have a prescription from a VA or a fee-basis physician. This must include:

• Specific items required;
• The diagnosis with medical justification;
• The veteran’s name, address, SSN, and phone number(s);

In addition, a list of other items regarding the exact work to be completed, costs, and site drawings must be compiled and submitted as well.101 Mobility is glad to help in this process from start to finish. We are here to make sure that you get the modifications and the equipment that you need in order to live a more comfortable and accessible life.Call us today at 1.888.236.6917 or visit us at: www.101Mobility.com and let us help get you the assistance you need without any hassle or inconvenience to you.Source: http://www.prosthetics.va.gov/docs/HISA_english.pdf