Turning Seats for Cars, Trucks, Vans and SUVs: FAQs

What Should I Know Before Purchasing a Turning Seat?

Turning automotive seats are individual seats that can be installed into a vehicle to provide better mobility for the driver or passenger. Turning automotive seats by Bruno are universally fit for a wide range of vehicles, from an SUV to a pickup truck or sedan. These seats are typically purchased through a mobility dealer. At 101 Mobility, we sell and install turning automotive seats for customers nationwide.

How does a Turning Automotive Seat work?

Bruno offers four different turning seat models from their Valet™ Signature Seating line. Each model is designed to provide certain features depending on vehicle specifications and customers’ needs. In a compact car or sedan that is low to the ground, the turning seat will rotate outward of the car for an easy exit. In SUVs, pickup trucks and other lifted vehicles, the turning seat will slowly rotate to extend out of the vehicle and then lower to the ground – making transfers a breeze. Click here to take a look at the Valet™ Signature Seating line by Bruno.

Is a Turning Automotive Seat right for me?

Turning automotive seats are great for passengers or drivers. A turning seat will not improve driving ability, but it will allow users to either independently exit their vehicle or safely transfer from their vehicle to a wheelchair or scooter. Anyone with a lifted vehicle may find that a turning automotive seat is even more necessary. People who require the use of a wheelchair will find transfers to be easier with a turning seat. Those who rely on the use of a cane or other assistive walking devices may find that a turning seat allows them to safely exit their vehicle with little or no dependence on others for help.

Will a Turning Automotive Seat installation affect my vehicle’s re-sale value?

No. Our skilled service technicians install the seat without causing any permanent structural modifications to your vehicle;  turning seat installations do not affect the resale value of your vehicle, and they can be moved to a different vehicle.

What do they cost?

A turning automotive seat can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 depending on your physical requirements, potential upgrades and the make, model and year of your vehicle. Many 101 Mobility franchisees offer special payment plans to eligible candidates.

How do I get one?

There is no one-product-fits-all solution. Many customers who have auto lifts or folding ramps for on-the-go access find that turning seats add to their independence. We work closely with our customers to identify which turning seat will best suit their needs. Learn more about purchasing a turning seat by contacting 101 Mobility today. Have the year, make and model of your vehicle on hand. To ensure the best fit for you or your loved one’s needs, we will send a professional service technician to evaluate your car, truck, van or SUV.

Call 101 Mobility today – 1.888.258.0652

Mobility Q&A: Do I Need a Fully-Converted Handicap Van?

By Michelle Seitzer

Maybe you’ve asked the question for yourself, or maybe you’ve asked it on behalf of someone you’re caring for: “Do I/we need a fully-converted handicap van?”

The simple answer is no.

There’s no need to spend every penny on converting your vehicle, a process which costs anywhere from $10,000 to over $20,000, according to this CarsDirect.com article. The broad range estimate includes a rear entry wheelchair ramp, undercarriage modifications (i.e. more support for the extra weight and stress on the axles, springs, shocks and brakes), driver’s “cockpit” adjustments — like a place to lock in a wheelchair or a swivel captain’s chair — to a side entry lift. Even purchasing a used, already converted model can be a hefty expense.

We’ve got a more affordable option to suggest, and it’s one that you can adjust to meet your or a loved one’s unique mobility needs:

• auto lifts — Got a sedan, SUV, van, or pickup? There are auto lifts to support whatever style of vehicle you take on the road, with a variety of storage and power options.
• turning seats — Whether you need help getting up and into — or exiting — the driver’s or passenger seat, a turning automotive seat may be a better solution than the costly driver’s cockpit adjustments suggested above.

Just about any vehicle can support an auto lift  or turning seat, and all of these modifications are easy to add or remove as needed. Call the 101 Mobility professionals in your area (find the office serving you here) to help you get on the road again!

For additional information on the subject, check out this post: Movin’ Right Along: Driving Safety Tips & Car Modifications for Seniors.

101 Mobility Opens First Tennessee Franchise in Knoxville

Keith Kregel, Dave and Lori Dean, Franchise Owners, are proud to announce the opening of 101 Mobility Knoxville. This opening will add to 101 Mobility’s 19 franchises nationwide. Keith Kregel and the Deans intend to be Eastern Tennessee’s leading source of trusted residential and commercial accessibility solutions.

Marine corps veteran, retired firefighter (ski-patroller) of twenty years, and paramedic with a degree in EMS Management – this is what Keith Kregel alone brings to the 101 Mobility Knoxville team. Through Keith’s years of service to his country and community, he’s gained valuable skills in customer care, construction, and on-the-spot problem solving. At the age of nine, Keith Kregel’s mother passed away, this vulnerability left him able to relate to those facing life challenges and fueled an earnest desire to make people feel secure and valued.

“I chose 101 Mobility because I wanted to be a part of a sincere company that does business the right way… offering quality support and stand-out products.”

The Deans bring with them a perfectly paired background. In addition to an extensive corporate portfolio, Dave and Lori both obtained masters degrees; Dave’s strong-suit is business and marketing while Lori’s expertise is in the finance and accounting. Dave and Lori Dean currently run a successful retail appliance store in Tennessee which has been in operation since 2004. The Deans feel that opening a 101 Mobility franchise will be an excellent complement to their existing appliance repair and installation company. More recently, the Deans have a son who has committed to serving our country as a United States Airman. Their son indirectly helped them to realize the importance of taking care of our military veterans that need mobility solutions.

When asked why Eastern Tennessee, Dave shared a personal story to explain how important it is for them to serve a growing yet overlooked sector of their community,

“My parents reached a point in their lives when getting around the house became difficult.  We looked at eliminating steps, adding grab bars, modifying the bathrooms… During our research, we quickly realized that there wasn’t a local place to go or someone to talk to that we could trust. 101 Mobility is the answer for anyone wanting intuitive mobility advice and solutions.”

Keith, originally from Long Island, New York adds that Eastern Tennessee is a great place. It is where he raises his two children along with his Knoxville native wife and even coaches the local football team.

“There are good people here; we aim to provide customer service second to none and quality mobility solutions to make lives better here in Tennessee.”

101 Mobility Knoxville will strive to help clients maintain their sense of freedom and dignity by installing top-tier mobility products ranging from stair lifts to wheelchair ramps and more. Call 865.896.9425 or visit http://knoxville.101mobility.com for assistance or additional information.

Winter Survival Guide: 5 tips for staying safe, and sane, throughout the season

By Michelle Seitzer

Longer evenings, colder temps and bone-chilling winds. Slick ice and slippery snow-covered roads and walkways. Higher heating bills. Cabin fever. The winter season can be a recipe for disaster, especially for individuals who live alone, have mobility issues, or are prone to depression or SAD (seasonal affective disorder).

There are plenty of things to enjoy about winter though, like hot chocolate, a warm fireside rocking chair and good book, and the simple beauty of a freshly fallen snow. By following these tips, you can survive, even thrive, during the season:

Tip #1: Stay connected socially, and stay intellectually active. If you don’t have a computer or tablet, this may be a good time to purchase one. Besides the entertainment and educational value, technology can help you keep in touch with “the outside world” on a more regular basis. Whether you have a computer or not, you should call your family, friends and grandkids often in the winter. Read books, work on puzzles, write letters. Invite nearby neighbors over to play cards, enjoy a meal together, or just to chat. Staying busy — and connected — is also a great way for others to know that you’re safe: not hearing from you after they’ve been used to regular contact may prompt a vital check-in.

Tip #2: Keep moving. Play in the snow with your grandkids. Shovel (carefully) the walkways around your home. Bundle up and get outside on sunny days for a much-needed Vitamin D boost. Exercise indoors with a favorite fitness DVD. Find a way to stay physically active as much as possible, even though you’d probably rather curl up on the couch. You’ll avoid gaining the notorious winter weight, and you’ll better maintain your mobility even though the weather may cause you to be more isolated than usual.

Tip #3: Winterize your home. Have family members or friends help you cover drafty windows and doors and check to see that all heating systems are operational and functioning correctly. Avoid outdoor hazards by making sure you have salt for your walking paths and wheelchair ramps. Hire a neighbor to shovel or salt the paths if you cannot do so safely. Consider using flameless candles or flameless logs in your fireplace. If you choose to heat certain areas of the home with space heaters, exercise caution.

Tip #4: Eat healthy, nourishing foods and stay hydrated. Yes, it’s possible to get dehydrated in the winter, so be sure to drink plenty of fluids. (Think of how dry your skin gets when you spend some time in the cold air.) Hot beverages can be soothing and a welcome comfort in the colder months. Also, since you’re not getting as many nutrients from natural sunlight during the winter, and you’re more susceptible to colds, flus and viruses, it’s important to get those good-for-you vitamins in your food. Read this Winter Nutrition Guide to learn what you should eat, and often, in the winter months.

Tip #5: Have a readiness plan in place. If a blizzard knocks out power and blocks major roads for days on end, do you have enough food and water to survive? What if you rely on a stairlift or ramp that operates on electricity? Will you be able to move around your home without it? Do you have a way to stay warm without heat? Be prepared for a power outage with a generator; our company, 101 Mobility, sells the Generac line of  products. If you live in a rural area, perhaps setting up a signal or system with your closest neighbor is also wise, so you can keep an eye on each other during a weather emergency and reach out for help if the need arises. Head to Ready.gov to create your readiness plan; you’ll also find great tips for building a disaster kit too.

Dig deeper: check out a previous post, Aging in Place Alone: Tips for Avoiding Isolation and Injury, for more on this topic.

Aging in Place: Planning Ahead for the Summer Season

Chirping birds, budding trees, and plants pushing through the ground: yes, spring is in the air, which means summer isn’t far behind.

We’re not trying to rush the seasons here — just offering a reminder. Now is the time to plan ahead and prepare for those “dog days,” because as fun as summer can be, there are special risks to consider, issues (like heat stroke, bee stings, and dehydration) that surface regularly in June, July and August. Make this summer safer and more enjoyable with these tips…

Here comes the sun: Extensive and unprotected sun exposure is not good for anyone, but the danger to seniors and children are far greater. Staying out in the heat too long, say the health experts at MedlinePlus, can cause heat stroke (a life-threatening illness), heat exhaustion, heat cramps or heat rash. Prevent a trip to the ER by drinking plenty of waterand fluids that replenish salt and minerals; skip alcoholic or caffeinated drinks as these will dehydrate you. Cut down on the time you spend in the sun, but if you must soak up its warmth, protect your skin with sunblock, an umbrella, hat, or better yet, all three.

Also, many medications don’t mingle well with sun exposure. Read the warning labels carefully and avoid going outside for extended periods of time if the risks are too great. If you have to be outside, be sure to dress appropriately, use sunscreen, and stay fully hydrated. Ask your doctor what he/she recommends in terms of sun exposure (i.e. avoid it entirely or take certain precautions first).

Pet owners: don’t leave your furry friend in the car, even for just a quick errand. Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a parked car on a sunny (or hazy), warm day can reach the boiling point, causing serious damage or death to your beloved animal. Be sensitive to your pet’s heat tolerance at home too. It’s OK if Fido enjoys catching some rays in the backyard as long as there are shaded areas where he can get relief from the heat. Make sure there is always fresh, cool water for your pet to drink. Take shorter walks in the summertime, or take them earlier or later in the day, before the sun is at its strongest.

Heat is hazardous no matter where you are. Yes, it’s important to stay protected when you’re outside or traveling in the car, but keeping cool inside the house is equally important. This Summer Safety Guide for Seniors (from the New York Chapter of the Red Cross) offers several great tips for beating the heat all summer long. First, limit strenuous physical activity, particularly during the sun’s peak hours (10am to 4pm). If you must be active or need to exercise, get up early, says the article: the coolest part of the day is between 4 and 7am.

If your senior family member lives in an older home and doesn’t have central air or window units — or can’t afford the subsequent electric bills — there are a few cost-effective tricks for staying cool in the summer heat. First, break up the day by heading out to an air-conditioned restaurant, mall, movie theater, library, or local senior center. A cool bath or shower, or a damp cool washcloth (with ice cubes tucked inside) dabbed on the face, wrists and back of the neck may offer a welcome reprieve, says the Red Cross. (Note: the installation of grab bars in the bathroom may be a wise idea if you are concerned about a senior loved one who may take a cool shower during the day when you, the caregiver, is away.)

Another way to beat the heat: close the curtains on windows that get a lot of sunlight and hang out in the coolest part of the house (the basement feels great in the summer, doesn’t it?). Portable, hand-held fans/misters and strategically-placed box and standing fans also help keep the air moving.

Man vs. the machine: In the winter, you’re checking furnaces, space heaters, fireplaces and the like. In the summer, check your fans and cooling systems (whether you have central air or window units). Clean out dusty, dirty filters; examine circuits, plug-ins, and power sources, and if you have AC in your car, check your coolant levels.

Have an auto lift, vertical platform lift, or some other type of outdoor mobility equipment? Take time to check all the moving parts and make sure things are working properly. Check first with the company who installed the lift: they may provide professionals who can visit your home to service the equipment, or their team can offer guidance over the phone regarding how to perform a basic check. You can also call our 101 Mobility team at 1-888-249-3092 for assistance.

Strong summer storms can cause power outages, flash floods, fires, and other dangerous situations, particularly for seniors who live alone and in a rural area, away from neighbors or family. Disaster preparedness is key. 

This document from the CDC offers disaster planning tips for families of older adults. Besides having a basic emergency supply kit, the CDC recommends that seniors have “a personalized emergency plan listing where they can go in an emergency, what they should bring with them (such as medications, eyeglasses, hearing aids and extra batteries, oxygen, or assistive technologies), how they will get there, and who they should call for help.” Should evacuation be necessary, special provisions must be made to transport equipment for those family members who rely on a mobility, communication, or assistive device, such as a power scooter or walker (or a service animal). A list of medications, emergency information, doctors’ and pharmacy contact numbers should also be kept safely in a waterproof bag, says the CDC, along with a backup list of this same information at a friend’s home or other remote location.

Making Your Pool or Spa Mobility-Friendly

Splash!

Nothing signals summer like a refreshing dip in the pool. But if you are disabled or have a mobility issue, getting in and out of the pool is a challenge that might prevent you from enjoying the feel of cool water against your skin on a hot July day.

If you have a pool or spa, now is the time to prepare it for the fast-approaching swimming season.

The ADA requires that pools open to the public (hotels, fitness centers, schools, etc.) have handicapped-accessible entrances. However, if you have your own pool, modifications and additions may be necessary. Even if you plan to swim at a public pool, you may still need a mobility accessory to help you get into the water.

101 Mobility offers a number of pool and spa lifts from trusted manufacturers like Aqua Creek, Harmar and Sterling (check them out here). All are ADA compliant and include such features as dual flip-up arm rests, a removable and adjustable footrest, a 360-degree power rotation, and high weight capacity. Some function on a rechargeable batter; others are manually operated. The spa lift in particular boasts a submersible remote control for safe and smooth movement in the hot tub or jacuzzi.

Always keep safety in mind, especially in regards to younger swimmers. For example, the grandchildren may think your pool lift is a novel way to make an entrance into the water, but they need to understand that it is a special type of mobility equipment and not a toy. Get other pool safety tips at PoolSafely.gov.

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.