It’s not only the best looking chair on the market but the only chair on the market but it’s also the only chair to come with a lifetime warranty on the frame and lifting motor.  What else makes this chair so special?  It’s made in Canada and has Viscose Elastic Memory foam that has been layered over Ultra-cell cushioning which gives you superior comfort. 

          Let’s discuss value.  On-line this chair is retailing at $1400.00 to $1700.00 plus shipping and for white glove service, which is someone coming into your home setting up the chair and helping you move some furniture, it’s an additional $300.00.  So your total is looking close to $2000.00.  Here at BILD I have this chair in the showroom to try and its $1100.00 delivered and set up in your home.  That an estimated $900.00 savings.  It’s almost like buying one and getting one free.   There are multiple color options for this model and also there are other models to choose from.  

            Call us today to find out more at 262-671-2032 (WI) or 847-453-8866 (IL), or schedule a time to come into our showroom and try one out at 9209 W Bluemound Road.  We guarantee you won’t find a better system available.

BILD provides the region’s highest level of expertise in true Universal Design and accessible remodeling.  A company founded by the collaboration of in-house tradesmen and physical and occupational therapists who are extensively trained in the field of universal design and accessibility.  As a company owned by a physical therapist who teaches nationally on the principals of aging in place, universal design, and accessible designs, BILD provides unmatched expertise in accessible modifications.  In addition to the accessibility expertise of experienced and practicing medical professionals, you can work with a project manager who is an experienced and certified as an interior designer.  We believe that intelligent designs for your home can be beautiful, functional, and tailored to your budget.

BILD provides unmatched expertise and familiarity with the 7 principles of universal design: equitable use, flexibility in use, simple and intuitive, perceptible information, tolerance of error, low physical effort, and size and space appropriate for use.  We provide custom tailored solutions for your home, family, community or business that are beautiful, functional and safe.

Visit our website www.bildnow.com to explore some of the solutions that our team of experts can provide to make your home work for you and your family.  We provide a collaborative approach to help you find the best solutions, with in house tradesmen, lift specialists, and an expert team of problem solvers, solution finders.  We are a family owned company that you can trust to treat you well and provide beautiful solutions for your home, business, or church.

Call BILD now for a free Universal Design consultation at 262-671-2032 (WI) or 847-453-8866 (IL)

Many people have trouble convincing elders to have some modifications done to their homes.  Its easy to understand; people feel that it will take value away from the property, they might believe that it will make the home they have lived in for years look institutional and many people are unaware, of the costs of assisted living and nursing homes.  By the way the national average for nursing homes is $83,000 per year (96,000 in Wisconsin) and assisted living is $41,000 per year (42,000 in Wisconsin) and from what I have seen that may not include a meal plan.   In a 2002 study by Min Soo Kang, reported that the elder population in America, 18% will have a disability. This calculates to 51 million Americans who have difficulty in functioning every day. 32% over the age 65 will have difficulty walking which may require use of wheelchairs and canes. To be easier for the elder, some modification that can aid them are wider entrances, grab rails, etc. Remember that we are all living longer so these modifications are even a better value.  Let us look at some quick numbers.  Mom goes into a nursing home in Wisconsin at $96,000 per year and is going to be there 5 years 5 x $96,000 = $480,000.00.  The majority of us do not have that amount of money.  An aging in place or accessibility specialist can help adapt a home for much less of a cost.  An average bathroom remodel costs $15,000 to $20,000 dollars and the bathroom is usually where the majority of injuries occur.  Did you know that last year Medicare spent an average of $9,113 to $13,507 on injuries related to falls and the majority of those where in the bathroom.  There exist many risks for injury to older adults in the common household, therefore impeding upon their capability to successfully age in place, a aging in place specialist can and will help.

The question remains how to find the most qualified aging in place specialist to assist you in adapting your home, as there are many contractors out there who claim to specialize in this area with very little expertise, training, or insight.  One item of great importance is finding a professional with the right credentials.  The National Association of Home Builders offers the fairly well known certification of CAPS – Certified Aging in Place specialist, individuals with this certification have gone through a 3 day training, however just one of those 3 days pertains specifically to the actual implementation of aging in place modifications, the other 2 days are devoted to business and marketing development of your aging in place business.  Another certification is the CEAC – Certified Environmental Access Consultant, a program offered through the durable medical equipment industry and focused on education and instruction in principals of accessible design, aging in place and specific training with extensive self study and competency testing afterwards.  A third qualification is the ECHM – Environmental Certificate in Home Modifications through the University of Southern California.  This is a semester long, multi-module training in accessible home modifications and principals of universal design and aging in place – and by far the most comprehensive of specific home modification training programs available.  With all of these training programs one common point remains: the importance of utilizing the expertise of an occupational or physical therapist.  Working closely with an occupational or physical therapist ensures an extensive knowledge in function, safety, and how to achieve independence with mobility and daily care tasks.  In the expanding market of accessible products, lifts, and resources - working with professionals who have an awareness of what is available  Working the the right professionals to find intelligent solutions can help you remain at home safely, comfortably, and affordably.

This article was written by Edward Still – Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BILD – Bridgeway Indpendent Living Designs, LLC.  BILD is an aging in place and accessible remodeler and lift/elevator company which provides the region’s most trained specialists in accessible design with physical and occupational therapists on staff with the above certifications of CAPS, CEAC, and ECHM.  Milwaukee based BILD serves Wisconsin and Illinois including the Chicago, IL area.  Visit our website to explore the many options for accessible modifications at www.bildnow.com, or call us today for a free consultation – 262-671-2032 (WI) or 847-453-8866 (IL)

Bathrooms are always an issue in regards to safety.  In most condos one can do what they want within their own space, apartments are another issue.  Most apartment owners do not allow a full bathroom remodel and as a renter that’s usually financially impossible.  So what options exist that fulfill creating an accessible and safe environment in the most hazardous space in one’s home?  Option one; a tub cut out.  If one has a difficult stepping over the walls of the bathtub a tub cut out lowers the threshold that one has to navigate.  The tub cut out comes with or without doors.  The tub cut out with a door comes with a lifetime warranty on the seal and offers the accessibility of a shower or bath experience.  A tub cut out can be reversed with a simple tub liner after its use is no longer needed.    Along with the tub cut out one can install grab bars.  Grab bars come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and colors.  Once installed grab bars help ones confidence in maneuvering around the bathroom.  Grab bars also can be uninstalled and the areas can be patched.  Toilet commodes are another temporary option that helps one easy the stress of using the bathroom.  Other temporary solutions are tension mounted ceiling lifts.  These systems help caregivers and loved ones with transfers in the bathroom.  Tension mounted systems are completely temporary and non-invasive to the walls or building with no nails, bolts, or screws.  Portable ceiling lifts for the bedroom also provide a completely non-invasive method to provide assistance for safe transfers.  Learn more about these and other bathroom solutions by visiting the bildnow bathroom safety page.

Stairs and entryways also pose an issue in condos and apartments.  Let’s look at entryways and the ways that these barriers can be overcome.  Portable and modular ramps are usually the quickest and easiest solutions to entry way issues.  The height and slope of the entryway will usually determine on which style of ramp that can be used.  Either of these options should be discussed with the landlord before any decision can be made.  Also stair lifts are not permanent.  The Harmar stair lift that we use is installed to the stairs and can be installed or removed in a day.  Also if one lives on the second floor and there is not an elevator available our stair lift folds up to the industry smallest eleven inches to not block the entire stairs.  We also have a key lock option so the other tenants and owners cannot use it, unless they also can benefit from it.

Another great option for managing stairs for both rental tenants as individuals who need to manage multiple stairs, or travel for accessibility – is the Scalamobil – caregiver assisted stair climber.  This system allows individuals to be easily transported up and down up to 10” stairs with assistance of a single caregiver.  See below for a video demonstration on the Scalamobil system.  BILD offers the Scalamobil on a rental basis as well.

This article was written by Ed Still – Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BILD – Bridgeway Independent Living Designs, LLC.  BILD provides expert opinions and solutions for accessibility with extensively trained physical and occupational therapists who specialize in the field of accessibility.  Visit www.bildnow.com to learn more about solutions for accessibility.  In addition to these temporary solutions for accessibility – BILD offers custom ADA commercial and residential remodeling.

Scalamobil video

Other options for accessible rentals:

The conference will feature the following events and information pertinent to persons with all abilities:

Seminars

Speakers

Events

Vendors

Resources for persons with disabilities

The Expo provides an incredible opportunity to learn more about resources and the latest technology and products that can support individuals with disabilities.  Learn more about the expo by visiting online.

Registration is free and the hours are as follows:

Friday June 28 -     11:00 until 5:00

Saturday June 29 – 11:00 until 5:00

Sunday June 30 -    11:00 until 4:00

BILD is the premier home modification provider for Illinois and Wisconsin providing Accessible Remodeling, Elevators, and Lifts for individuals with disabilities.  BILD uniquely provides a medical perspective from physical and occupational therapists for intelligent solutions.  Services and products include: Bathroom Accessibility and remodeling solutions, Home elevators, Inclined platform wheelchair lifts, Accessible kitchens, Home automation, Dumbwaiters, Premium stair lifts, Ceiling lifts, and many more accessible solutions.  visit us online at www. bildnow.com or call us today at 847-453-8866 (IL) or 262-671-2032 (WI)

This information was provided by BILD – Bridgeway Independent Living Designs, LLC.  BILD serves Wisconsin and Illinois as a premier provider of custom remodeling, home elevators and lifts, and solutions for individuals to remain in their homes as they grow older.  Learn more about us online at www.bildnow.com

Senior connection newspaper provides information, articles and reviews for seniors in the Northern Illinois, Milwaukee, and Madison areas.  This Catholic publication focuses on issues and interests of individuals 50 years and older.  Issues of this publication are carried by many parishes, and contains articles of interest and information for older Catholics, and with topics pertinent to Catholic spirituality.  To learn more about the Senior connection news publication visit the Senior connection online

For information on how you can obtain a copy or subscribe visit this link

This information was provided by BILD the region’s most trusted home modification provider.  BILD provides accessible bathroom modifications, stair lifts, and various home adaptations for individuals with mobility impairments or hoping to stay in their homes.  Call BILD today for a free consultation at 262-671-2032 (WI) or 847-453-8866 (IL) or visit www.bildnow.com

Are you having difficult managing stairs at home?  Acquiring a stairlift may be a great solution for safe access to your home.  Here are a number of considerations to consider as not every stairlift is created the same.

Safely transferring at the top of the stairs:

One consideration that needs to be accounted for is how to safely transfer at the top of the stairs.  Stair lifts with a 90 degree swivel will provide for an easier and safer transfer at the top of the stairs.  Another feature to facilitate safe transfers, is foldup armrests.  Having an armrest that folds out of the way may seem like a minor feature but can make it much easier to transfer by scooting independently from a wheelchair. 

Eliminating a trip hazard:

Generally speaking stairlift tracks extend roughly 12-18” beyond the top and bottom steps.  There are options available to shorten the track length, or provide a folding track at the bottom of the stairs.  Be sure you know about the options.  Harmar offers an automatic mechanical folding rail that reliably folds up the track every time it moves up the stairs.

Maintenance free options:

One of the unique patented features and advantages of the Harmar Pinnacle lift system is that it has a greaseless track system.  This is unique from any other system available and allows for easy and maintenance free use of your stairlift system.  This eliminates the potential for stains, odors, or maintenance needs.

Narrow folding stairlift:

Another Advantage to the Pinnacle stairlift is that it folds up to only 11” from the wall, an industry best.  This makes this system ideal for narrow stairways, and opens up the pathway for moving objects up and down stairs, or for individuals who need more room to manage the stairway.

Heavy duty stairlift:

Harmar offers also the heaviest weight capacity stairlift on the Marked as well.  A version of the Pinnacle stairlift will allow up to a 600# weight capacity.

Configuration options:

Stair lift systems are available in straight, curved, indoor and outdoor options.

Remote call/send control:

Infrared call send controls are ideal for stair lift users and can be utilized to move the lift to or from the opposite landing remotely.

Factory certified installation:

Factory certified installation of your stair lift system is recommended and ensures proper functioning and performance of your stair lift system.

Consider the alternatives:

Stair lifts work very well for many individuals however are not the best solution for every individual.  Make sure you learn about other alternatives including: vertical platform lifts, inclined platform lifts, and home elevators, before you decide which system is best for you.

Call BILD to find out more about options for stair lifts and other mobility and accessibility options for your home.  Milwaukee based BILD provides expert and unique options for safety, comfort and independence in the home.  BILD provides lift options for the home including: stair lifts, platform lifts, home elevators, and vertical platform lifts.  Contact BILD at 262-671-2032 (WI) or 847-453-8866 (IL) and visit www.bildnow.com to learn more about your many options for home access.

Learn more about:   home elevators   stair lifts   inclined platform lifts    vertical platform lifts    Mechanical stair lifts

Are you considering building a new home, one that you can stay in for the rest of your days.  As with most things, having a good plan in place and thinking through the details of your home can save a great deal of expense and cost later on.  It is possible to create a beautiful and functional new space, and with principals of aging in place and universal design – it can be a safe and comfortable space that keeps you independent as long as possible.

Who is best qualified to assist in aging in place designs for the home?

5 years ago I went for my CAPS (certified aging in place specialist) certification.  There was a mix and variety of different professionals there, mainly individuals from the trades/construction.  The key point that was made over and over was the importance of connecting and working with an experienced physical or occupational therapist.  The CAPS certification consisted of 3 days of education with 1 day for marketing, 1 day for business, and the last day was an overview of accessibility considerations.  The work of a physical or occupational therapists consists of years of education and experience with how to help individuals function more independently and safely.  Having an accessibility consultant who has a medical background as a therapist, and training in relation specifically to home modifications such as CAPS, CEAC, or ECHM (by University of Southern California), will provide a functional and medical perspective that greatly assists in determining an intelligent and customized plan for aging in place.

Aging in place consultants for Wisconsin and Illinois:

BILD has these experts with the above qualifications who will help to create a plan and assist you in designing a home that you can age in place in.  There are many details such as placement of outlets, lighting needs, temperature moderation, visual cues, forgiving materials, grab bar and safety support placements, and other items which can have a huge influence in how to create a safe, beautiful and comfortable environment that supports your independent lifestyle.

Call us today to discuss how we can help:  262-671-2032 (WI) 847-453-8866 (IL)

This makes sense for the individual as well as for payer sources as well as it is generally actually more cost effective to stay in your home rather than go to a facility. Currently in the Milwaukee market the average cost for private room nursing home care is on average $115,000/year (per Met Life cost review). Think of the cost of modifying your home to create a more safe and accessible environment, (which can be accomplished in a way that actually enhances the beauty of your home) and we can accomplish this for a fraction of the cost of a year’s nursing home (and that’s only average care). Looking from this perspective, you can’t afford not to adapt your home to be safe and accessible.

BILD offers individualized services to make adaptations and solutions that make sense for cost effective and beautiful solutions that work. We can work with your existing long term care insurance benefits to create modifications that make it easier and safer for you to stay in your home. Call us today for a free consultation at 262-671-2032 (WI) or 847-453-8866 (IL)

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