Silver and Gold Magazine Summer 2017 | Page 25

Assistive Devices DO Expire A re you looking for a walker for mom? Are you planning to find one at a garage sale? Is your friend passing down used hearing devices? Shopper beware, as these accessible and assistive devices do expire. Just like when you were buying a car seat for a newborn, it’s important to find a recently-manufactured one that is user-specific – not all are built the same, nor will they be useful and safe for every user. When Mary was handed down a fifteen-year-old used walker, she was thrilled that she didn’t have to spend her own money on one! Little did she know that walker would in time hurt her wrists with every bump of the sidewalk. Why? Because when it was manufactured fifteen years ago, the technology wasn’t what it is today – shock absorption and design has been vastly improved upon since then. Leading the the way way Leading to healthier, healthier, to independent lifestyles lifestyles independent Senior’s Day is every Thursday! Save 20% * An ill-fitting device can cause a sore back, strain the neck and shoulders, even cause trips and falls. Learn your options For walkers, for example, there are a number of devices tha t are specific to each person’s abilities: From folding walkers for those who need to put significant weight onto it, to rollator walkers for those who need a walker for balance but do not need to put much weight onto it. There are 3-wheel walkers, U-step walkers, even knee walkers. The designs have come a long way, and not every device will fit every person, even physically. It’s important to take into consideration the person’s abilities, strength, stride, even height. The same goes for hearing devices, respiratory equipment, visual aids, etc. When in doubt, speak with your healthcare provider or visit your nearest specialty equipment consultant. For many devices, there are rental options available to ‘test drive’ before you buy, and money- back guarantees.• Did You Know... If someone you know has a long-term physical disability, they can get help paying for equipment and supplies through the government’s Assistive Devices Program. In addition, the War Amps, Lions Clubs, March of Dimes can also assist with financial support. Seniors, present your Shoppers Optimum Card® to save 20% and earn Shoppers Optimum Points® on your purchases. We also provide the following services: • CPAP equipment + consultants • Compression fittings • Product consultation + rental • Mobility device repairs PLUS – SPECIAL VOUCHER Present this voucher at any of the following participating stores † for 20% off your purchase Burlington 3023 New St Oakville 448 Speers Rd 905 632-2312 905 844-1445 20 OFF YOUR PURCHASE † Hamilton 250 King St E 905 547-0188 Hamilton Mountain 1575 Upper Ottawa St Mississauga St. Catharines 1077 N. Service Rd. 145 Carlton St 905 281-0166 % 905 560-5661 905 641-5200 †Offer valid from June 1st through August 31st, 2017 at a specified Shoppers Home HealthCare ® retail location only. *Discount applies to our regular prices on merchandise purchased by seniors and their accompanying family members with a valid Shoppers Optimum Card ® . Not applicable on sale items, government funded items, items requuiring installation, custom-ordered items, and previously purchased merchandise. Offer based on the purchase total of eligible products after redemptions & before taxes. Not valid at Shoppers Drug Mart ® stores. Not valid in conjunction with Seniors Day discount and any other offers. See cashier for details. Silver & Gold Magazine ~ Summer 2017 25