Make Your Outdoor Space Safer for People with Mobility Issues

Creating a safe and accessible outdoor space is important for Vernon and Salmon Arm residents facing mobility challenges. A backyard deck, patio, garden, driveway, and walkways should be safe and enjoyable. Whether you or a loved one use a cane, walker, wheelchair, or scooter, the team at Lakeside Medical Supplies can help.

And this is not just a summer requirement! During the coming winter months, we all might be aware of slippery surfaces and poor visibility that increases the risk. We’ve put together some suggestions to help you and your loved ones continue to enjoy the outdoors – comfortably and independently:

Uneven ground, gravel, or cracked concrete can pose serious tripping hazards. One of the many landscaping companies who serve Vernon or Salmon Arm can help resolve this. They can advise you on the best choice for slip-resistant surfaces like textured concrete, paving, or composite decking. Consider what might be needed to ensure pathways are wide enough for mobility wheelchairs and walkers. Landscaping companies can also help with inground and above-ground lighting to keep your property well-lit – even at night. As temperatures drop, always use ice melt to prevent dangerous build-up of snow and ice on your driveway, ramps, stairs, decks, and landings.

Good lighting can make all the difference—especially during darker winter evenings. Install motion-sensor or solar-powered lights along pathways, stairs, and entrances to prevent falls after dark. Lakeside Medical can install sturdy grab bars by doors, ramps, or steps to offer extra stability when conditions are icy or wet.

Start planning now to purchase outdoor furniture that’s easy to get in and out of—chairs with arms, a firm cushion, and a good proper height are ideal. Avoid low seating or pieces that move around easily, such as lightweight plastic chairs. Non-slip carpets around seating areas also reduce the risk of accidents.

Take a look at the many mobility aids we sell on our website, that are designed to work outdoors even in the winter, such as power chairs, scooters, or rollators with large wheels for stability on uneven terrain. Taking these out into the backyard can allow you to soak up some of that important Vitamin D all winter long! At Lakeside Medical Supplies, our friendly team can recommend the right products to help you or a loved one stay mobile and safe at home all season long.

Contact Lakeside Medical Supplies in Salmon Arm (250-832-2431) or Vernon (250-542-2425) and let us help you find mobility solutions that help you or your loved ones get outdoors safely.