Safety Archives

According to a recent national poll by the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center, older adults and people with disabilities feel there is still a lack of accessible and reliable transportation alternatives. This prevents them from doing what they need to and leaves them feeling without independence, isolated, frustrated and trapped.

More than one in 5 Americans ages 65 and older do not drive, and the demand for transportation is rapidly growing as the boomer population grows. To help meet needs, the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) launched an “Every Ride Counts” campaign. Through the campaign, the NADTC hopes this national effort will increase awareness of local transportation options for people with disabilities and aging adults throughout the United States.

A stunning 80 percent of young people with disabilities surveyed shared they are often prevented from doing the things they would like to do due to lack of transportation. This difference in lifestyle from their peers is one of the leading causes of isolation which leads to depression. Yet, it isn’t only about where they want to go. Many express the need to make it to doctor’s or other essential appointments and cannot due to transportation issues.

According to Carol Wright Kenderdine, co-director, NADTC and assistant Vice President of transportation & mobility for Easterseals, “To address this need, particularly in small communities, NADTC recently funded ten community grants to support planning for alternatives, such as volunteer transportation, rideshare options and expanding transit.” Many hospitals do offer appointment pick-up. You simply need to schedule it when you schedule your appointment. Not all doctors and hospitals, however, can provide pick-up to rural areas.

Thankfully, they say, “we are living in the future,” and apps like Uber are becoming more disability-friendly. Hopefully, we will see more companies like them in the future. If NADTC and companies such as these can combine their efforts, we can lessen the transportation issues people with disabilities and aging adults face.

At Next Day Access, the needs of our customers are important to us. We also support the valiant efforts of NADTC. We offer several products to help people feel safe and comfortable at home and on the go. If you struggle to get around because you lack a vehicle lift on your car, please let us help. Our vehicle lifts are designed to help people move in and out of all vehicles and are easy to use. We urge any drivers for ride-share programs looking into making their vehicle more disability-friendly to contact us today. We can help you install a vehicle lift on your car quickly and efficiently.

You often see automatic door openers when entering a store or commercial business. This is extremely helpful for people using wheelchairs or anyone with mobility difficulties. It is a feat to get a large, heavy, commercial door open. Now imagine trying to open it if you have a disability.

One of the top ways automatic doors benefit your business is by accommodating the needs of all who enter. Automatic doors make entering your business convenient for everyone. Automatic doors consist of hands-free sensors, which make entering easier for those needing additional assistance.

Here are a few other reasons your business needs automatic door openers:

Increases Your Security

Next Day Access offers many distinct types of automatic doors. Certain automated doors can be equipped with additional security features. One of the increased security features offered is the addition of controls or sensors which allow you to monitor who comes in and out of your property.

Conserves Energy

Automatic doors help cut back on building-wide energy usage. The automatic doors can run on low voltage, meaning they will cost you less to run over an extended period. Automatic doors are also insulated, which helps maintain your building’s internal climate. Also, since the doors are only opened when a patron walks into your business, there is less loss of heat occurring through open doors.

Safe Hygienically

Since you do not need to touch automatic doors to open them, they are easier to keep sanitary and clean. This helps to limit the spread of illnesses.

Aesthetically Appealing

Automatic doors look nice and inviting. Using automatic doors creates an aesthetically pleasing entryway into your business as it has a welcoming vibe that is good for business. You can find automatic doors that look contemporary and sleek.

Improves Business

Customers prefer to shop where it is inviting and convenient. Also, since your doors allow everyone to enter your business, you have a higher traffic flow throughout the business, equating to higher sales.

At Next Day Access, we offer several styles of automatic doors. From the standard Open Sesame Large Wireless Wall Push Pad style to the Open Sesame Model 133-an automatic door opening system for free-swinging doors. Contact your local Next Day Access to schedule a free consultation. Our experts can help you figure out the perfect automatic door openers for your business.

If you are a business owner, you often likely think of new or creative ways to bring in more revenue. One of the best ways to ensure your business is more successful is to make it accessible to everyone. Most business owners know there are laws for your business to be ADA compliant. These laws vary from state to state, and there are many ways to comply. However, you can also do more than just what is considered compliant. One way is by adding a Vertical Platform Lift to your business.

What is a Vertical Platform Lift?

A Vertical Platform Lift (VPL), also known as a porch lift, is like a small elevator. It gives access to people using scooters or wheelchairs or people with limited mobility a lift from the ground level to a porch or deck. Many people opt for a VPL because it isn’t as large as most wheelchair ramps and can save a tremendous amount of space.

Vertical Platform Lifts or VPLs are gaining popularity in local businesses these days. If a consumer sees that you offer this form of lift, it shows that you care about all your customer’s needs and that your business is inclusive.

Here are a few other benefits to having a VPL installed at your company:

First, the VPL gives your customers full access.

Since the VPL will help your customers access each floor in your business, you have all your products or services on full display. For example, if you have a patio only accessible by stairs, a VPL installation would be perfect. The more services or products your customers are aware of, the more interested they might be in trying out services or making purchases. It doesn’t hurt either that the greater access sets you apart from your competition.

Vertical Platform Lifts help with safety.

It can be dangerous for wheelchair-enabled users or individuals with limited mobility to try to navigate through a building. The VPL keeps customers safe and allows them to feel like they can maintain their independence. Keep in mind, that you never want a liability on your hands, so striving to keep your business as safe as possible is a win-win.

Installing a VPL will give your business a better reputation.

When a business adds modifications that ensure every customer has the best experience, it boosts your company’s reputation. Most successful business owners will tell you that it really is the small things that matter. Making sure your bathrooms are handicap accessible, your pathways are wide enough, and you have lifts so everyone can enjoy the entire establishment says a lot.

At Next Day Access, we can install a vertical platform lift in no time, with as little disturbance as possible. We can also help in other areas of need, whether you are trying to ensure you are ADA compliant or would just like to offer more amenities to people with mobility concerns. For example, we have a large assortment of grab bars for the bathroom, wheelchair ramps, and much more. Contact us today, and we can help ensure your business is readily available to everyone.

If you own a commercial property, you should make it accessible for everyone to enter. When creating your storefront entrance, make it accessible for individuals of different mobility levels. Creating an accessible entrance to your storefront might seem daunting. To ease those concerns, let us help you easily get an accessible entrance.

Next Day Access specializes in wheelchair ramps of all sizes. Since they are cost-effective and relatively affordable, your business would benefit from one. Here are a few wheelchair ramp designs you could choose from:

3 Ramps to Make Your Business Accessible

Big Lug Threshold Ramp

This ramp provides 42 inches of width in front of the doorway. When installing the ramp, you may choose to also install handrails for added stability. This ramp has a small footprint and works best for those using walkers or wheelchairs trying to get over the threshold.

Open Weave Ramp

This longer ramp features an open-weave surface which makes it ideal for storefronts in areas where snowy and icy conditions pose a threat. It is made entirely out of aluminum and boasts two-way traction with an astonishing 1,000-pound weight capacity.

Solid Surface Wheelchair Ramp

This signature ramp is one of our most popular ramps. This aluminum ramp offers an easily configured fit, has a 1,000-pound weight capacity, and installs in a matter of hours. Its surface is solid which provides a smooth ride.

At Next Day Access, we can have your storefront accessible ready in no time. We proudly sell, deliver, and install a wide range of commercial wheelchair ramps, among other home accessibility products. When you are ready to prepare your storefront for the public, contact us!

Mobility is the most common disability among older Americans. So it’s no wonder that everyday tasks can present new and challenging difficulties. This becomes increasingly true for those who choose to age in place. More than one in three seniors over the age of 65 fall each year and 80 percent of those falls occur in the bathroom. Next Day Access wants to make sure you live in a home without barriers. This includes making sure you have a quality product that increases your safety while at home.

Shower and Tub Safety

According to the CDC, over 1.5 million aging adults seek emergency care every year for fall-related injuries. Showers are one of the most at-risk areas to experience such an injury due to the slippery surfaces that come with water. There are a few steps you can take to help prevent slips and falls. A walk-in shower is an easy way to either take your mobility chair into the shower or avoid losing your balance by stepping over the high edge of a tub. Walk-in tubs provide the same security of not having to make a huge step in but allow you the relaxation of soaking in a tub.

Adjusting Problem Areas

To guarantee safety in and out of the bathtub or shower stall, install reachable grab bars by the bathtub and shower. This should be specialty-designed items that will support weight, as opposed to a towel rack or bar, which can cause further injury if used as a grab bar. One more thing to not forget, make sure to address toilet safety. This problematic area accounts for 14 percent of falls. For even more ease in the bathroom, Next Day Access recommends a Bio Bidet. By offering both comfort and the functionality of a heavy-duty commode, the Bio Bidet offers a cleansing method that sets it apart from the competition.

Keeping it Clean

Since bathrooms set you up for falls, don’t leave things to chance. Make sure all spills are immediately wiped up and the bathroom floor is not slick from residue. Additionally, don’t let décor stand in your way. Clear away any unnecessary items so that there is plenty of space to move around. Also make sure that any rugs or bath mats are tied securely to the floor to avoid a tripping or fall hazard. For even more safety, cover sharp edges of counters, cabinets and faucets with towels while the bathroom is in use.

Although bathrooms can be a huge safety hazard if you aren’t careful, these tips and products can help keep you or your loved ones safe and in their own home. To learn more about home safety and how you can make your home more accessible, contact the team at Next Day Access today.

It is common to develop limited mobility when aging. It’s no wonder everyday tasks can present new challenges; this becomes increasingly true for those who choose to age in place. Limited mobility in older adults can cause falling. One in three older adults age 65 and older falls each year, and eighty percent occur in the bathroom. Next Day Access wants to make sure you or a loved one can live in your home without barriers. Here are some preventative measures to increase bathroom safety in the home.

Shower and Tub Safety

According to the CDC, 3 million aging adults seek emergency care every year for fall-related injuries. Showers are one of the most at-risk areas to experience an injury due to the slippery surfaces that come with water. There are a few steps you can take to help prevent slips and falls and increase bathroom safety. A curbless shower is an easy way to either take your mobility device into the shower or avoid losing your balance by stepping over the high edge of a tub. Walk-in tubs also provide the same security of not having to take a huge step but allow you the relaxation of soaking in a tub.

Adjusting Problem Areas

To guarantee safety in and out of the bathtub or shower stall, install reachable grab bars by the bathtub and shower. This should be specialty-designed items that will support weight, as opposed to a towel rack or bar, which can cause further injury if used as a grab bar. One more thing to not forget, make sure to address toilet safety. This problematic area accounts for 14 percent of falls. For even more ease in the bathroom, Next Day Access recommends a Bio Bidet. By offering both comfort and the functionality of a heavy-duty commode, the Bio Bidet offers a cleansing method that sets it apart from the competition.

Keeping It Clean

Since bathrooms set you up for falls, don’t leave things to chance. Make sure all spills are immediately wiped up and the bathroom floor is not slick from residue. Additionally, don’t let décor stand in your way. Clear away any unnecessary items so that there is plenty of space to move around. Also make sure that any rugs or bath mats are tied securely to the floor to avoid a tripping or fall hazard. For even more safety, cover sharp edges of counters, cabinets and faucets with towels while the bathroom is in use.

Although bathrooms can be a huge safety hazard if you aren’t careful, these tips and products can help keep you or your loved ones safe and in their own home. To learn more about home safety and how you can make your home more accessible, contact the team at Next Day Access today.

Find a Location

Accessibility Products

Mobility Products

Home & Bath Safety Products

Tag: Safety

Overcoming Transportation Difficulties

The Importance of Automatic Door Openers for Your Commercial Business