The MS Society coordinates a yearly MS Walk. This event is to support those with multiple sclerosis and to walk for a cure for MS. The MS Society's goal is a world free of MS. Orbit Medical strongly agrees with the MS Society and came to support its important cause. On April 12, 2008 at the annual MS Walk in Salt Lake City Orbit Medical employees, family members, friends and pets came out to show their support and walk for a cure to Multiple Sclerosis. The event was a huge success and all involved thoroughly enjoyed the time spent at the walk. There were many donations to the event and Orbit Medical was able to raise nearly $2,500 for the MS cause. This was the first year Orbit Medical has participated in the event but it will not be the last. Orbit Medical will continue to support the MS Society and encourages others to do so as well. The MS Walk is truly a life changing event and provides so much support, donations and and provides an opportunity to walk for a cure to a such a devastating disease that affects so many people. Thanks for all your support!

Labels: MS Walk, Multiple Sclerosis, Orbit Medical, service

Orbit Medical has added a medical glossary to its website. Orbit Medical, a leader in the distribution of durable medical equipment has added a glossary to its website to help its viewers better understand medical conditions and medical equipment. The Orbit Medical glossary is intended to aid in the comprehension of its website with relevant medical conditions, products, and terms. The glossary is not intended to be a source for diagnosing disease or illness and one should always consult a physician when confronted with disease or illness. Orbit Medical strives to help its customers maintain their independence with Power Wheelchairs, CPAP supplies, HomeFill Oxygen tanks and other medical equipment. Orbit Medical will regularly update the glossary if you have any suggestions of terms that you would like to see please email info@orbitmedical.com.

Labels: durable medical equipment, medical glossary, Orbit Medical

The pre-qualification process for an electric wheelchair through Orbit Medical is pretty simple. Patients can either call Orbit Medical or request a no risk phone consultation. Once connected an Orbit Medical trained specialists will ask a few simple question in order to determine if the patient is in need of a power wheelchair.

Questions such as: What is your current level of mobility? Are you currently using a manual wheelchair, cane, or walker? Do you have difficulty completing daily activities?

Once an Orbit Medical trained specialist has determined that a patient is a good candidate for a power wheelchair then the real process begins. Luckily for the patient, the same Orbit Medical trained specialist will be right there through the entire process. The specialist will obtain all necessary information on the customer's behalf; file the insurance papers, and schedule delivery and set-up free of any additional charges.

Orbit Medical understands that a lack of mobility can be life threatening and dealing with insurance companies such as Medicare can be confusing and exhausting. Therefore, Orbit Medical strives to provide outstanding customer service in order to help customers navigate their insurance and drive a brand new power wheelchair!

Labels: electric wheelchairs, health insurance, mobility, Motorized Wheelchairs

Many seniors wish to remain independent and with a growing number of baby boomers entering retirement it is no surprise that we are starting to see a lot of companies sell medical alert devices. Medical alarms can be a good safety measure for seniors and keep them living independently but with all the new companies selling alert devices, how can you be sure that you are getting the best equipment and services possible? Some tips for choosing the best medical alert company are offered here:

1. Start your search with medical alarm companies that are suggested by sources you trust. Ask friends, relatives, community members etc.
2. Make sure the medical alarm company has and will continue to remain in business.
3. Do they have 24/7 customer service, make sure they do not out source their emergency dispatchers and ask how the dispatchers are trained.
4. Is the company UL listed? UL listed indicates industry standard compliancy.
5. Are there any set-up fees and what is the monthly fee? Be skeptical of any long term contracts.
6. See about a money back trial period. Testing out a medical alert service or product may be the only way to be certain that it is right for you.
7. What will they do to make sure that your equipment does not malfunction? Do they regularly test your equipment?
8. Lifetime equipment warranties?
9. Is the system waterproof? Accidents can happen in the shower.
10. What is the range of the system?
    

*These tips are not all inclusive and are intended to promote additional query when searching for a medical alert company.

Labels: medical alarms, senior independence, seniors

According to caregiver.org "there are an estimated 44 million Americans age 18 and older providing unpaid assistance to older people and adults with disabilities who live in the community." With the massive baby boomer generation at or entering the golden years the aforementioned numbers will only increase. As a result the importance of care givers in our society will increase.

Unfortunately many caregivers are untrained, uninformed and have limited resources to turn to. In most situations little thought is put forth and caregivers just act. It is a life changing decision to care for someone else. Health problems for caregivers have been noted to arise emotionally, mentally, and physically.

Tips for caregivers:

• One of the most important things caregivers must do is remember to take care of themselves as well.
• Look out for signs of depression and anxiety and seek professional help if necessary.
• Activities such as Yoga can placate some emotional, mental, and physical hardships.
• Education and knowledge, know what disabilities and or conditions you are dealing with.
• Then be proactive in order to prevent problems and issues before they occur. Learn to effectively communicate with doctors and therapists, effective communication can go a long way.
• Seek help from other caregivers and be open to help when it comes. Be open to new technologies that can improve both of your lives.
• Get involved in the community, be an activist. Keep up on proposed laws and know your rights.

Labels: caregivers, disability, seniors

Purchasing a wheelchair lift for a vehicle is a big decision and should be carefully assessed. The first questions will consider are my situation and mobility needs. For example; what type of vehicle do I have? Is my vehicle compatible with wheelchair lifts or will I need to make alterations to my vehicle? If I have a car and the lift is placed on the back of the car, can I exit my wheelchair and move to sit inside the vehicle?

Next I will research the different types of lifts and even the possibility of using vehicle ramps. There are two types of wheelchair lifts: Platform and Rotary.

Platform lifts can be solid or folding as well as fully automatic or semi automatic.
With a platform lift it is possible for me to remain in the chair while the lift is in operation.

The rotary lift aka swing lift swings the chair in to the vehicle. Typically used with vans or SUVs.

Once I decide on the type of wheelchair lift best suitable to my needs. I will begin checking different manufacturers and asking them a lot of questions. Is the lift compatible with my wheelchair? Can I operate the lift while my vehicle is off? What happens if my vehicle battery dies is there any back up power? What is the safety rating and risks for the lift? What is the warranty? Who will install my lift? How much maintenance is involved? Where do I go to have my lift serviced? I am not hesitant to ask every question I think of, as this is a big purchase.

Some reputable wheelchair lift manufacturers to check out are The Braun Corporation, and Bruno.

Labels: vehicle lifts, wheelchair lifts, wheelchairs

A recent study called "Aging in Place in America," commission by Clarity and the EAR Foundation, reveals that seniors fear the loss of independence more than they fear death. Almost 89% of seniors want to spend the rest of their lives in their own home. However more than half are concerned with their ability to do so. In light of these findings, what can seniors do in order to remain independent for as long as possible?

The best option is for seniors to remain as active as possible. This will be the greatest benefit for the mind, body, and soul. Activities that get seniors out of the house, involve some physical exercise, social interaction, and use of the brain are the best. Things such as part-time jobs or volunteer work can be beneficial and give seniors feelings of pride and responsibility.

With advances in technologies seniors with limited mobility can remain much more independent and active than ever before. Companies like Orbit Medical, which specializes in the distribution of electric wheelchairs, allows seniors with limited mobility to once again go just about anywhere. An electric wheelchair can bring life and excitement back to someone who has diminished mobility. See what other have to say on Orbit Medical's testimonials page.

There are many options out there for independent seniors, especially with the data evidence that seniors are most fearful of losing their own independence. All options should be explored in an attempt to avoid this fear. After all everybody will be a senior one day.

Labels: electric wheelchairs, health, senior independence, seniors

Sleep Apnea is a relatively new illness with many possible negative side effects. For questions about sleep apnea and treatment see the CPAP FAQ. Do not believe for one second that Sleep Apnea is determined just by age, weight, or lifestyle. There are many people in their tewenties that have sleep apnea and some believe that they had it during early childhood. More and more younger people are being diagnosed with sleep apnea and it is even being linked to SIDS in some cases.

Fortunately, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP therapy is advancing everyday in terms of technology and comfort. This is very positive for those that suffer from Apnea. We all know how terrible it is to go without proper sleep for at least one night. I can not imagine that terrible feeling for years and I can imagine the adverse effects on mental and physical health. If you think you might have apnea do some research, see your physician and improve your quality of life.

Here are some other common sleep apnea and CPAP questions:

Do only older people get sleep apnea? No, in fact anyone at any age can develop sleep
apnea. However, apnea is more common for individuals who are relatively unhealthy. For example apnea is common with obesity and smokers.

Can people die from sleep apnea? It is extremely rare to die directly from sleep apnea, even though oxygen is cut off from your brain, the brain inherently wakes you up in order to tell you to breath. Which leads to a slow and silent killer. The constant awakening is stressful on the heart and correlated with heart disease. Apnea sufferer's are always tired and therefore, lack the energy to exercise which again can lead to heart disease and obesity. Researchers and Doctors are documenting SIDS and Apnea in order to determine if there is any relation.

Are there many undiagnosed people with sleep apnea? Many people do not know they have sleep apnea and attribute the symptoms with other things. A 2000 census showed that one third of all people over 18 (who visit a primary care doctor) are at high risk for sleep apnea. Based on that census it could mean that around 50 to 60 million American suffer from sleep apnea.

What are some common signs of sleep apnea? Early on set signs of sleep apnea are: depression, lack of mental focus, fatigue, frequent naps, long recovery time from being sick, and snoring.

Is CPAP uncomfortable? Not nearly as much as it used to be, advances in technology has allowed CPAP to become much more user friendly. It may take some getting used to but if you haven't been sleeping and CPAP allows you to sleep throughout the night it should be a refreshing device.

Will a CPAP machine keep my partner awake? Again technological advances have brought CPAP therapy a long way. New machines are very quiet and will likely allow your partner to get more sleep than when there was no CPAP machine.



Here are some other CPAP resources: CPAP Questions, CPAP help, and CPAP problems.

Labels: CPAP, sleep apnea, sleep therapy

Many people have a difficult time walking, yet aren't in a condition requiring the use of a power wheelchair. In cases where a patient can walk, but with difficulty, a doctor may prescribe the use of a manual wheelchair. Orbit Medical supplies four different models of wheelchairs from Graham-Field Health Products.

Vista IC
The Vista IC is a standard manual wheelchair with a weight capacity of 250 lbs. The frame has a two position axle fork for adjustable seat height. The Vista IC can also interchange armrests and front riggings with other industry standard brands. The seat width is 16 to 18 inches. The Vista IC can also come in a 20 inch seat width with a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs for special cases.

Metro IC3+
The Metro IC3+ is a sturdy wheelchair that can hold 300 lbs. It has a versatile frame with removable arm pads and easily detachable footrest. It also features black nylon upholstery and comes with a limited lifetime warranty on the side frame and cross brace. The Metro IC3+ has a floor to seat height of 19 and a half inches with an overall height of 36 and a half inches and weighs less than 36 lbs without front riggings.

Metro IC4
The Metro IC4 is a lightweight and sturdy manual wheelchair. The frame is plated with carbon steel and features aluminum cross braces. The Metro IC4 also features industry compatible front rigging, and upholstery, anti-tippers, and flip back arms. This wheelchair has a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs, and weighs 34 lbs itself.

Paramount
The Paramount wheelchair has a weight capacity of 500 lbs. It has a chrome steel frame, as well as embossed leatherette upholstery. The seat is 22 to 24 inches wide and 18 inches deep.

If you think a manual wheelchair would improve your life and mobility or you would like more information on any of these products please ask one of our representatives for more information 1-800-403-9610.

Labels: manual wheelchairs

CPAP
The most effective and most common sleep apnea treatment is continuous positive airway pressure therapy or CPAP therapy. As the name suggests this involves continuous airflow in order to keep the airway from collapsing. This is facilitated with a facemask connected to a machine that generates continuous air flow. Many new users find sleeping with a mask uncomfortable and difficult to get used to, however as this is the most effective option one should not give up after a few nights because it may take weeks or even longer to become accustomed to the mask. On the other hand, many users report that CPAP allows them to sleep so well that the mask does not bother them at all. You may go to these pages for more information on CPAP and sleep apnea.

Surgery
There are two surgeries to deal with sleep apnea; the first Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) surgery completely removes the uvula in the esophagus. The other Laser-Assisted Uvulaplasty (LAUP) is a laser surgery on the uvula and is done in several steps. The latter is less invasive but, a relatively new procedure. Patients should explore all options and consult their doctor and a number of sources before undertaking any surgeries.

Lifestyle Changes
-If you are a smoker you increase your chances of developing sleep apnea as smoke cuts off your lung capacity. If you have sleep apnea it is a good idea to quit smoking.

-Avoid alcohol before going to sleep. Alcohol relaxes your breathing reflexes and can seriously worsen apnea.

-Being overweight affects your breathing not only when you sleep but during awake hours as well. When you have apnea and are overweight it can be extremely difficult to lose weight because you will simply lack the necessary energy to exercise. Do what ever you can to lose weight naturally. Exercise is a key to lessening the effects of sleep apnea.

Labels: CPAP, sleep apnea

With so many websites on the internet it is increasingly difficult to find legitimate medical, disability and senior releated information. Orbit Medical has put together a Resource Directory that has categorized listings of quality websites that provide information, services, or products. A few more quality websites that cater to the health of older Americans are below.

The National Institute of Health is a great resource for information. Along with health information you can find research, the latest health news, information on grants, and a directory of other health related institutes. Within this directory I came across the National Institute of Aging. It specializes in research on the biomedical, social, and behavioral aspects of the aging process. Along with the prevention of age related diseases and the promotion of better quality of life for older Americans.

The National Institute of Aging has developed a website called NIH Senior Health. The site has information on many senior health related issues. However, I really appreciate the site because it is very user friendly. The site also incorporates many videos with credible sources giving valid information. Anybody looking for health related information that appreciates simple website navigation and along with quality information will be happy to have found this site.

Labels: disability, health, senior websites, seniors

Wheelchair Maintenance is vital to prolong the life of a power wheelchair. Regularly review this wheelchair maintenance checklist to help your power chair function properly.

General Power Wheelchair Guidelines

• Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme weather. Keep within temperatures of 18 degrees F (-8 C) and 122 degrees F (50 C).


• If your power chair contacts water, thoroughly dry all parts as soon as possible and place chair in a warm, dry area to allow undetectable water to evaporate.


• Avoid bumping the joystick and keep it clean.


• Make sure all wires and connectors are secure.
  

Daily Checks

• Ensure that tires look and function normally.


• With the controller turned off, inspect the joystick for damage. Make sure it returns to the neutral position when released.


• Look over the rubber boot that surrounds the joystick, if you notice any damage consult your owners manual.


• Observe the controller cable, make sure it is intact and no wires are exposed.


• Tighten any loose hardware.
  

Weekly Checks

• Inspect the controller at the power base, look for corrosion.


• If tires are pneumatic check that they are properly inflated, consult your owner’s manual for proper inflation levels.


• If necessary calibrate the joystick.


• Test the brakes and ensure proper functioning.


• Clean wheelchair and the wheelchair cushion
  

Monthly Checks

• Check the tread on the tires for uneven wear.


• Check the caster wheels for wear.


• Check the caster forks and ensure that they are functioning properly.


• Remove debris from the tires and caster wheels, such as hair and dirt.
  

Yearly Checks

• Take the chair to an authorized provider for an annual tune-up.
  
  

*These checks and balances are generalized and not specific to any one wheelchair. It is recommended that wheelchair chair users familiarize themselves with the owner's manual in order to understand problems and take appropriate measures to address such issues.

Labels: electric wheelchairs, Motorized Wheelchairs, Power Wheelchairs, Wheelchair Maintenance

Electric wheelchairs have come a long way in a relatively short amount of time. They are becoming ever more technical with wires, motors, suspensions the list goes on and will continue. While it is easy to assume that technological advances make life easier, and they typically do, they can also give way to more problems. However, problems typically start small but when left unsolved they grow bigger and more expensive.

The single best tool for extending the life of your power wheelchair and dollars is preventative maintenance. It is not necessary to be a wheelchair expert or a certified repair person. However, a general understanding as to how the power wheelchair functions can go a long way when analyzing causes and symptoms. A general understanding will help you to recognize small problems and diagnose them before they become big and expensive.

Being familiar with your power wheelchair is an effective tool for preventative maintenance. If it begins to perform differently or sound differently, may be a sign of problems. Keeping owners manuals nearby and following the manufactures suggested tips for tune-ups or annual services is always a good measure. In addition, a quick daily wipe down so dirt doesn't build on bearings. Properly adjust arm and foot rests and make sure bolts are tight.

Preventative maintenance is key in extending the life of your power wheelchair. Who knows your wheelchair better than you and if something does not seem right, do not doubt your feelings.

Labels: electric wheelchairs, Motorized Wheelchairs, Power Wheelchairs, Wheelchair Maintenance

Asthma can restrict one's ability to function normally in every day activities, and for some, hinder their ability to live a typical lifestyle. Various medications and precautions are available to keep consistent control of asthma. The most common of available medications are inhaled medicines. Medications taken through inhalers, as opposed to pill and liquid forms, have an immediate effect on airways affected by asthma and lowers absorption into the rest of the body. Developing habits of using a peak flow meter to measure how much air you can exhale can warn you of when an attack is coming. One sign that your asthma is acting up is if you are unable to forcibly exhale a certain amount of air. In this case take necessary steps as instructed by a doctor to prevent an attack.

When taking medication for asthma, patients need to check with their doctor to see if other medications will conflict with their asthma and which over-the-counter medicines should be avoided. It is known that aspirin and decongestants can conflict with common asthma medications, and could worsen symptoms. The weather also has an affect on asthma. As temperatures decrease those with asthma need to take extra precautions to always have medicine on hand that provide immediate relief. They also should make sure medications that are meant to be taken regularly are used as prescribed by their doctors. Doing so will help keep control of asthma during winter seasons.

Asthma is controllable and there are various ways to control it. Doctors have numerous tips for stopping and preventing asthma attacks and by following your doctor's advice controlling your asthma is achievable.

Labels: asthma

Asthma is a common disease that has an affect on many people. Asthma causes inflammation of bronchial tubes in the lungs, and results in breathing complications varying for each person. Asthma causes a narrowing and swelling of airways and as a result normal air movement in and out of the lungs is impeded. Asthma does not affect air sacs or lung tissue but only disturbs bronchial tubes.
There are three major factors that cause asthma attacks: inflammation, hypersensitivity, and muscle constriction (bronchospasm).

Inflammation
When exposed to particles in the air, usually some kind of allergen or irritant, bronchial tubes become red and swollen. The tubes can then be blocked by clumps of sticky mucus that is produced by the inflamed tissue. Inflammation cells gather at these clumps and cause tissue damage. Narrowing of the airways is increased as damaged cells are discarded into airways and breathing becomes difficult to the person.

Hyperactivity
Chronically inflamed bronchial tubes can be very sensitive to allergens or other irritants causing a state of heightened sensitivity known as hypersensitivity or bronchial hyperactivity (BHR). When allergens and irritants are triggered, hyperactivity may result in increased swelling and narrowing of the airways. Though bronchial hyperactivity can be found in many degrees and in many individuals, it is most commonly found with greater severity in asthmatics, as well as allergic individuals not diagnosed with asthma. While some may have severe BHR and chronic symptoms, asthmatics may also have mild BHR and no chronic symptoms.

Bronchospasm
Asthma attacks cause the muscles around bronchial tubes to constrict and tighten. This condition known as bronchospasm is caused by nerves in the bronchial tubes.

When one experiences an asthma attack the typical results range from shortness of breath, to wheezing and coughing. Because airflow to and from the lungs is hampered a person cannot breath heavily, exercise normally, and in some cases cannot breath normally doing everyday tasks. Those with asthma should consult a physician to keep the affects of asthma to a minimum. Various medications are available to control asthma, but no permanent cure has been found.

Labels: asthma