by mobilityplus | 21st Jan, 2019 | Lifestyle
No matter how old you are, everyone deserves a nice break from time to time. A long weekend away from the city is always great for your mood and your health. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to explore and visit new places without having to fly or travel abroad.
No matter how old you are, everyone deserves a nice break from time to time. A long weekend away from the city is always great for your mood and health. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to explore and visit new places without having to fly or travel abroad.
They say that travelling gets better with age and it can actually become a more fulfilling experience, when planned to suit our needs and requirements.
While we might become a little less mobile as we grow older, it doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy holidays as much as we used to. Many places in the UK now offer accessible facilities such as walk-in baths and wet rooms to cater for everyone’s needs.
If you’ve ever shelved your holidays because the planning was a bit too much to handle, we’ve taken a look at some of the best accessible stops around the UK. Whether you’re after a break by the coast, a weekend to a vibrant city or a rural escape, you’ll be able to find the right destination for you.
Grindale House, Pickering, North Yorkshire
This beautiful Georgian B&B is great for a peaceful stay to explore the North York Moors National Park. It is a step-free house, as all the eight rooms are located on the ground floor of the property, giving you easy access to your room.
One comes with a wet room that can accommodate a wheelchair user, but we recommend you give the owner some notice and they’ll be able to provide you with any extra equipment you may need. The icing on the cake is their award-winning breakfast. Extensive and beautifully presented, they offer a full English breakfast as well as other delicacies that will kickstart your day.
Citrus Hotel, Cheltenham
The Cheltenham classical Music Festival celebrates its 75th anniversary this summer, featuring magnificent orchestral and choral works and stunning solo performances – and you wouldn’t want to miss this. For an affordable yet comfortable stay in the centre of town, choose the Citrus Hotel, offering a wide range of full-service facilities for your comfort.
There’s lift access to all floors and four rooms available that have been specially-adapted for guests with mobility difficulties. Standard rooms offer a generous space and bathrooms feature wet rooms and safety grabs.
St Michaels Hotel and Spa, Falmouth, Cornwall
Look no further than St Michaels Hotel and Spa for an unforgettable break by the sea. With breath-taking views and tropical landscapes, it feels like a true escape. Go for the nautical room that comes with a wide door for easy access as well as low handled wardrobes and low-level furniture. There’s a level entry just around the main entrance, where you can find the restaurant and lounge, strategically located on the ground floor for easy access too. Take full advantage of the hotel’s facilities and pamper yourself with treatments and services offered by the lush spa and health club. You can also ask for specific services suited for guests with mobility issues.
One Aldwych, London
Perfectly located in the heart of London, this hotel puts accessibility at the forefront. They offer fancy bedroom and suites designed for wheelchair access but what really stands out is their amazing range of facilities that make the hotel even more accessible in order to suit everyone’s requirements.
As you enter, you can find an induction loop at the reception desk to help guests who use hearing aids as well as braille printing on the control panels of their lifts to help visually impaired guests. Accessible bathrooms come with low level wash basins and bathtubs, several grab rails and emergency pull cords.
Whilst staying at One Aldwych, we suggest checking out a musical at one of the renowned theatres nearby and you can enjoy a pre-theatre menu offered by the hotel’s restaurant.
Home Rentals
If you’re looking for something different from the usual yet comfortable hotel, consider renting a cosy apartment for a getaway by the sea or in the countryside. This could be ideal option if you’re travelling with your grandkids.
Some of the most famous rental sites are now committed to offering wheelchair friendly holiday homes across the UK. When searching for a house, make sure you select the “wheelchair accessible” option and the website will filter all the results for you. You can also get in touch with the owner directly and ask them about the property’s facilities.
Once you have your accommodation sorted, it’s time to think about the fun bits in order to enjoy your break at its fullest. When picking a new destination, don’t forget to take a look at some other factors. These include a nice and pleasant weather, historical background and sites to visit and fine dining options to make sure you have a fun and interesting itinerary.
by mobilityplus | 26th Dec, 2018 | Lifestyle
Over two centuries have passed since Dickens first wrote A Christmas Carol, yet it still remains one of the most famous Christmas tales ever published. First written in 1843, the story came at a time when new Christmas traditions like carols and Christmas trees were becoming more popular in British culture.
The first edition of the tale proved to be so popular, it had sold out by Christmas eve, following it’s release a mere 5 days previously. By the end of the following year, 13 editions of the book had been released, with Dickens subsequently conducting many readings of the tale all over the country. Today, the story has been reproduced all over the world into film, stage and even opera.
The story tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a penny-pincher who is often visited by the ghost of his former business partner and the spirits of Christmas past, present and those of Christmases yet to come.
While it’s easy to see the book as a mere tale of a miserable old man, there are a host of positive lessons we can take and apply towards creating a more fulfilling life.
1.“No space of regret can make amends for one life’s opportunity misused”
They say the only chances you regret are the ones you don’t take, and this lesson is firmly applied into A Christmas Carol. It is vital we make the most of the time we have and as such make the most of every opportunity that comes our way. There’s nothing worse than looking back and wondering ‘what if’!
2.“It is a fair, even-handed, noble adjustment of things, that while there is infection in disease and sorrow, there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humour.”
Even in the most testing of times, having a positive outlook can encourage positive change. Not just seeing the positive side in a bad situation, but the belief in that better times are coming. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family can really help in working towards a better future.
3.“Oh, tell me I may sponge away the writing on that stone”
Here Scrooge pleads with the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come to erase his name from his own headstone. It is here he realises the time he has wasted on money and power. How this all becomes meaningless at the end of one’s life. To know this now means we are able to change our behaviours now. Having the understanding of where to place our values in life will ensure we spend our time on those worthwhile, rather than those which are only of benefit to ourselves.
4.“The consequence of his taking a dislike to us, and not making merry with us, is, as I think, that he loses some pleasant moments, which could do him no harm. I am sure he loses pleasanter companions than he can find in his own thoughts”
Grudges will never get us anywhere! Holding onto past mistakes or unpleasantries against someone serves no purpose at all. Scrooge’s bitterness is at the heart of his own unhappiness. By adopting an open mind, we have the chance to discover a new sense of happiness.
5.“Spirit, conduct me where you will.”
On the subject of being open minded, everything starts with listening. The more we listen before we respond, the more we are able to learn. Often, we can be quick to speak before fully understanding a situation. Scrooge eventually learns to trust the spirts knowing they do have his best interests at heart and eventually allows them to guide him, rather than discounting them.
6.“I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach”
Finally, Scrooge realises the lessons of the spirts. He understands the meaning of becoming more welcoming, listening and adapting to others around him. It’s never too late to make a change and adapt who you are. No matter what our situation, there is always the chance to make a change, and start again.
by mobilityplus | 4th May, 2018 | Lifestyle
Travelling abroad to a new place is extremely exciting but it can also be intimidating, especially as we get older. With an increased risk of trips and falls, senior citizens should always take extra safety precautions to avoid any mishaps along the way.
However, potential misfortunes should not stop you from travelling the world and seeing amazing places. Instead, follow these five travelling tips to put your mind at ease and get you excited about your next trip away!
#1 Carry out detailed travel research
When you’re getting ready for your next trip away, organisation is key. Whether you’re travelling alone or with family or friends there are lots of elements to research to ensure you have a relaxing and stress-free trip away.
Carry out research into your chosen destination to see what transport links there are, what type of cuisines are available, what the weather will be like and what type of entertainment and activities are on offer. Your research will create a clear picture of what your holiday might be like. If you can imagine yourself having a great time in your chosen destination, then this is the place for you!
It is also worth taking a look into any local customs to see what types of social behaviour is culturally appropriate. For instance, some destinations will expect you to dress appropriately in supermarkets or be respectful when you’re talking about local cultures and traditions.
#2 Choose the right disability options
If you will need assistance throughout your trip, ensure that you select any necessary disability options while you are booking your travel arrangements.
For instance, airlines such as British Airways, Qatar Airways and Air France all offer a number of services that are tailored to the needs of senior passengers or passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities.
The same applies regarding your accommodation. Ensure that the hotel, B&B or villa that you choose has the right mobility options for you, such as grab rails in bathrooms, walk-in baths, walk-in showers or wide entrances. It is also worth contacting your chosen accommodation ahead of your arrival time, so they can carry out the appropriate preparations for your stay.
#3 Travel at the right time of day
The time of day that you choose to travel can make the world of difference when you begin your trip. Travelling during the early morning or late at night can not only be exhausting but it can also affect your eating and sleeping habits.
Opting to travel during the day, such as late morning and during the afternoon can be easier and stress free. Transport schedules will be running at full capacity so you’ll be able to easily move around and make your way to hotels or excursions.
Transport links, such as flights or coaches, may be more expensive during the day rather than in the early hours, however travelling during the day usually means that there are lots of staff members on hand to support you throughout your journey.
This is also the case for non-stop flights. If possible, book a non-stop flight to minimise any potential stress of catching your connecting flight, or spending a period of time in an unfamiliar airport waiting to start the next leg of your journey.
#4 Print out all of your travel documents
Print out all of your travel documents, including flights, connections and hotel confirmation documents so you can have them at hand when you check in. If you will be navigating yourself around during your travels consider buying a map of the local area so you can keep track on your whereabouts.
It is also worth leaving a copy of your documents with a friend or family member so they can make arrangements if you experience any delays.
#5 Pack in a practical manner
While packing for every possible holiday occasion along with every possible toiletry may seem like a good idea at first, when it comes to travelling, write a list and pack light.
Try to minimise the weight of your bag by purchasing any necessary toiletries at your destination. Then see if your accommodation offers a laundry service so you can wear outfits more than once and keep the weight of your luggage down as much as possible.
However, remember to keep your medication in your carry-on bag so you can take it whenever your prescription requires. It is also worth carrying water and healthy snacks with you, so you can stay hydrated and refreshed throughout your journey.
Your senior years are a great time to visit new locations and experience new lifestyles and cultures. Follow these tips to travel well and travel safe so you can fully enjoy yourself on your next holiday!
by mobilityplus | 5th Mar, 2018 | Lifestyle
Nobody likes spending hours and hours cleaning the bathroom. It can be one of the most laborious of household chores.
So, how can you stay more on top of your bathroom, and keep it clean all week round? We’ve rounded up some simple tips to help you do just that.
1. Keep your cleaning supplies in the bathroom!
This tip is the best way to make it easier to clean the bathroom. By keeping your cleaning supplies in the bathroom, you can just do a bit whenever you’re in there. No more trekking all the way downstairs! Plus, if it’s within arm’s reach, you’re more likely to use it.
2. Grapefruit and salt
How often you have to clean your bath depends on what the tub itself is made from. Most tubs are either acrylic or fibreglass. Fibreglass tends to be more porous, and as such can take up dirt and discolouration a lot easier. On the other hand, acrylic tubs tend to be easier to clear, but you need to use cleaning compounds that are not very harsh.
If you’ve got a walk-in bath, you may think this is an even greater task. But it doesn’t have to be!
If there is some slight discolouration to your tub, don’t treat it with harsh chemicals. Instead, just use half a grapefruit and some table salt. You’ll get a super clean and fragrant tub that simply needs a rinse to remove the salt.
3. Use a bleach pen on your grouting
Grouting can often look bad as a result of bacteria being allowed to grow in the grouting, and discolouring it. If you haven’t got easy to clean anti-bacterial wall panels, like the ones we offer with our bathrooms, you might need to work on cleaning this up.
If you want to make your life easier, consider using a bleach pen to get rid of the discolouration on your grouting. Your tiles will look at fresh as the day that they were laid!
4. Lemon for chrome
Chrome fittings can be a real pain to clean, but also keep clean. A lot of baths and showers, including ours, are fitted with chrome or metallic fixtures.
If you’re struggling to keep them clean and streak-free, why not try using lemons?
Lemons are great for cleaning chrome fittings in any bathroom. Simply cut a lemon in half and rub it on the chrome fittings to get a shiny and spotless finish.
5. Don’t let mildew set in
The best way to stop mildew building up over time is to never let it set in. Some showers, like our walk-in showers, have easy clean wall panels that prevent mildew setting into the tiles.
However, if you don’t have easy clean wall panels, you should use a squeegee to wipe down the walls, tub and shower doors. Those extra couple of minutes can really help to minimise your cleaning time in the long-run.
6. Put your shower curtain in the washing machine
Shower curtains can end up looking grotty and unclean after a little while, but rather than buying a new one each time, you can simply throw it in the washing machine. Just don’t go over 40 degrees!
By following these small, simple steps every day (or every other day) you’ll help keep your bathroom clean and tidy. An oasis of calm at the centre of your house, ready for you to step inside and have some proper relaxation.
Mobility-Plus bathrooms are designed to help you keep your bathroom cleaner and germ free. With all of our installations we provide a handy guide on how to maintain your bathing products fitted by Mobility-Plus.
by nadezda gurska | 12th Sep, 2017 | Lifestyle
With autumn well underway and winter fast approaching, the cold weather may deter some people, particularly those with mobility issues, from venturing into the great British outdoors.
However, with Autumnal foliage and winter sun making the coming months visually beautiful, and some British outdoor attractions staying open all year, the cold weather should be no excuse to stay indoors. Below are just a few outdoor attractions which should be on anyone’s ‘to do’ list this winter:
Stonehenge is one of the best known prehistoric monuments in Europe. Not only does the site play host to the Stone Circle, there is also an exhibition and visitor centre with 250 ancient objects and a 5,500 year old man. Stonehenge caters to all those with mobility issues. The main areas around the car park, visitor centre and Stone Circle are accessible by wheelchair, the visitor shuttle bus is accessible for wheelchairs and there are accessible toilets at the visitor centre.
Stirling Castle was the favoured residence of Scotland’s kings and queens and continues to bode the craftsmanship and colour it did in the 16th century. With one of the best accessibility plans in the country, Stirling Castle is welcoming to all those with mobility issues. With a visitor centre free of steps, a lift to take visitors to top floor exhibitions, and gradients across the castle all being minimised, the castle should be a favourite destination for anyone looking to explore Britain’s history these coming months.
Situated in the heart of Yorkshire, Harewood house was built in the 18th century and features a large stately home, a bird garden, and hundreds of acres of gardens for visitors to enjoy. The house itself is highly suited to visitors with mobility issues. Although electric wheelchairs are not allowed in the state rooms, courtesy indoor wheelchairs are available and service dogs are welcome. The bird garden, shop, terrace café and courtyard cafés are also all suitable for those with mobility issues.
by nadezda gurska | 12th Sep, 2017 | Lifestyle
The weather is dropping in the UK as we move slowly into autumn time, so as the temperature dips, it’s never been more important to look after your health, especially if you or someone you know is of the elderly age bracket.
There are many things to consider to keep healthy, especially in old age, but there are things that you can do to help such as keeping up with personal hygiene by taking a hot bath or shower, staying active and mobile, keeping warm and eating healthy food. With that in mind, we’ve put together three of our favourite hearty recipes to keep you healthy during the autumn months.
Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkins are a great source of beta-cryptoxanthin which is a powerful anti-inflammatory, paired with some warm and crusty rolls you’ve got a warming, hearty, healthy, arthritis relieving recipe. Great for promoting general well-being and aiding mobility in the joints.
Click here for Pumpkin Soup recipe
Salmon Picatta
Fish, particularly salmon, is the superhero of healthy food. Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which is not only great for the joints in easing the symptoms of arthritis but also helps reduce the risk of heart disease and plaque build-up in the arteries. Here’s a sumptuous Salmon Picatta recipe which we just love. Click here for Salmon Picatta recipe
Mixed berries with dark chocolate sauce
Strawberries, blackberries and blueberries are full of antioxidants that are great for your health and wellbeing. To add a little guilty pleasure, drizzle the berries in melted dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is loaded with nutrients that have many health benefits, particularly for the heart and brain as it is said to increase blood flow. Great for people with disorders such as Alzheimer’s.
