If you’re preparing an aging loved one to live at home alone, you already know the value of peace of mind. When it comes to his or her safety, turning to the experts at Forsyth Medical Supply is the best first step!
Serving the community from the same location for more than five decades, Forsyth Medical Supply is the most trusted resource – among individuals and medical professionals alike – for medical supplies, furniture and assistance equipment.
“We have a large showroom of more than 8,000 products for customers to touch, feel and visualize,” said Store Manager Brenna Chandler. “Plus, our staff shares knowledgeable information and can answer many questions family members have. Caregivers and loved ones often visit us just to browse their options and see what’s available to their aging parents and grandparents.”
What are known as “daily living aids” come in all forms, and some are simply products to help with everyday tasks. Some of the most popular items include a sock aid that allows seniors to put socks on without reaching all the way to their feet, and simple shoe horns that make putting on their shoes easier. Weighted and bendable utensils will steady their hands to assist in feeding themselves, while reachers or “grabbers” allow them to pick things up off the floor without bending over, which always reduces the risk of a fall.
For all-important bath time safety, long-handled sponges are essential, while more extensive bathroom safety and hygiene items include shower chairs, grab bars and elevated toilet risers to raise the height of the commode. Rinse-free products such as shampoo and bathing wipes are a great tool to keep loved ones clean in between regular bathing.
“Mobility plays the largest role in determining if a loved one can remain safely at home, and various models of canes, walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs are assembled right on the sales floor,” said Brenna. “Our staff can correctly adjust canes and walkers to the appropriate height and help choose the rollator that would work best for your parent or grandparent.”
A three-wheel rollator is a great option for tighter spaces in the home, while a wider model may be appropriate for someone of larger size or height. An electric wheelchair is a great tool for those with limited mobility, given its excellent turning radius. And, it can be easily broken down to allow the caregiver to load and unload in the car for transport. Portable ramps are also displayed in-store, and the staff can help you choose the length of ramp to work best for your specific space.
If you’re still unsure which product will work best for your family member, some of these are available to rent for a short time before deciding to purchase.
“We have more than 25 therapeutic reclining lift chairs made by Golden Technology on our sales floor in different styles, sizes and fabric options,” said Brenna. “A lift chair can be a big help for those who struggle with getting up and down from a seated position. Our models not only include the lift but also provide relief to the muscles and joints, can include power lumbar and head support for the spine, reduce swelling in the lower extremities in specialty positions, as well as lay flat like a bed. Some customers use their chairs as much as they do their beds. We encourage customers to come try them out with a staff member to get the right fit. Technicians are on staff to help with any problems that arise in the chair for the lifetime of the product.
During the process of helping your family member settle into a safe, secure daily routine, stop by Forsyth Medical Supply for insight and inspiration on the best home care products available. The showroom is located at 3033 Trenwest Drive, Winston-Salem, NC, 336.768.5512, and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Visit forsythmedicalsupply.com to view available products.
