Same Day Essential Medical Supplies

Thomas Chacko

Gilgal Medical Supplies is the world leader in providing essential, life saving medical supplies on same day or in twenty four hours. 

There may be situation where you are running out of supplies such as Ostomy Supplies, urology supplies, CPAP supplies and incontinence. When you travel you may lose your medical supplies or run out of your supplies. Gilgal Medical has the strategic capability to help you with getting you the right supplies on time to alleviate the stress and difficulty associated with it. Simply call us at 407 891 2120 to get your supplies delivered directly to you.

We are also providing mobility supplies such as wheelchair, scooter and transport chairs when you are going for cruise or out of town travelling.

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What is Mepilex and When to use it?

Thomas Chacko

Mepilex® Absorbent Foam Dressing is indicated for exuding wounds and wounds with compromised or fragile periwound skin, featuring Safetac® technology. Can be used under compression.

Mepilex® absorbent foam dressing is trusted around the world to manage a wide range of chronic and acute wounds. The product is easily conformable and highly absorbent, to effectively manage wound exudate.

Every Mepilex wound dressing includes Safetac® –the original contact layer designed to minimize pain and trauma at dressing change, so you can remove it easily without damaging the skin.1  That means less pain for your patients.2  Safetac also seals the wound margins to protect skin from damaging leakage and maceration. 3 

Mepilex may be cut to suit various wound shapes and difficult to dress locations.

  • Soft and conformable
  • Less pain during dressing changes 2 
  • Seals wound margin to avoid maceration3   
  • May be used under compression
Benefits

• Adheres gently to surrounding skin to free hands for secondary fixation
• Does not adhere to wound bed for less trauma to wound upon removal
• Foam pad conforms to body contours and promotes patient comfort
• May be lifted and adjusted without losing its adherent properties
• Absorbs exudate and minimizes risk of maceration
• May be cut to size of wound
• Easy to apply and remove

 

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What is upright walker and how do I find one.

Thomas Chacko

The best new upright rolling walker on the market is now in stock at Oswald’s!

The UPWalker Standing Walker is a revolutionary innovation in mobility. This option is for individuals with special mobility needs. Gilgal Medical is pleased to offer medical grade upright walker to the public at affordable prices. Offering the stability of a traditional walker with the mobility of a rollator, the UPWalker is a unique product for people with unique needs. With customizable handles and armrests, the UPWalker is truly one of a kind. Available in 3 sizes (Standard, Small, and Large).

Features:

  • Adjustable-height armrests and handles with locking brakes
  • Comfortable canvas seat and backrest
  • Sit-to-stand seat handles, making it easy to get up
  • 8″ wheels, making outdoor travel easy
  • Foldable frame; folds to just 10.5″ across for easy storage
  • Comes with personal bag, backrest and cup holder

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Choosing The Right Mobility Scooter

Thomas Chacko

You’ve decided to purchase a mobility scooter. This is the first step to enhancing your mobility. Yet, there are so many different types of scooters out there. How do you know which electric scooter is right for you? When choosing the right mobility scooter, it’s important to ask yourself several questions. Gilgal Medical is the leading distributors of the pride scooters.

  • Do I want a 3-wheel scooter or a 4-wheel scooter?
  • How will I use my motorized scooter?
  • How fast do I want my power scooter to go?
  • How far do I want to travel with my mobility scooter?

First, it’s important to understand the major differences between 3-wheel and 4-wheel electric scooters. A 3-wheel scooter has many benefits, such as a sharper turning radius and more leg room for taller individuals. Three-wheel power scooters are also better suited for smooth, indoor surfaces. In contrast, 4-wheel motorized scooters provide a broader and more stable wheelbase, ensuring better weight distribution. Four-wheel scooters are also well-matched for outdoor driving. The second thing to anticipate when choosing a mobility product is how you will use your scooter. If you need a scooter mainly for inside your home, you want a device that offers a tighter turning radius, such as the Zero Turn 8 or the Go-Go Elite Traveller®. These scooters fit through door frames and maneuver around corners easily. If you prefer to use a scooter outdoors, you need a product that is more rugged and can handle varied terrain, while still offering comfort and stability. The Revo™ 2.0 features suspension components that absorb shock, giving you a smoother and more enjoyable ride. To some, the speed of a scooter is important, as well as safety features. The Raptor cruises up to 14 mph and is equipped with a regenerative braking system. If you are concerned about visibility, then look for a motorized scooter that offers LED lighting. This ensures your safety when driving your scooter in low-light environments. Lastly, the range of a scooter can also play a huge role in choosing the product that is right for you. Many scooters are battery-powered. Consider how far you want to drive your mobility scooter on one charge. Depending on the kind of batteries used, the Victory® 10.2 can travel up to 13 miles in a single charge. Still not sure which scooter is a good fit? Search for our authorized dealer Gilgal Medical and take a Pride® scooter for a test drive today!

 

A great piece of advice. Never buy scooters from unauthorized dealers online who may not provide you the warranty or tech support.

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What are the best Raised Toilet Seats

Thomas Chacko

Raised toilet seat is one of the top needs of elderly people. Getting the right raised toilet seat is very important for our der ones. There may be hundreds of out there to choose from. But ordering the appropriate toilet riser can be little confusing. 

A raised toilet seat, as it sounds, is nothing more than a convenient and comfortable way to be seated on the toilet for those with limited mobility. The mobility challenges that often come with age likely lead to needing a raised toilet seat.

As we have described in previous posts (how to design a safe bathroom and the cost of doing so) there are important and reasonably priced ways to make your bathroom safe. To help you through this process we have researched the Best Raised Toilet Seats for seniors and describe them below, along with tips and background information.

What is a Raised Toilet Seat?

A raised toilet seat is an assistive technology for those with limited mobility designed to help them use the toilet while seated. The raised seat reduces the distance the older adult needs to lower themselves to the seat and stand back-up again. The difference of a few inches can make the world of difference when sitting down and standing up.

How is a Raised Toilet Seat Helpful?

If you do not have mobility limitations going to the bathroom is an afterthought. A raised toilet seat helps to bring back the normalcy and comfortability of going to the bathroom, alone. They are designed to elevate the seat just a few inches. This can make a great difference when sitting down.

The raised toilet seat puts less pressure on your joints and muscles when having to only lower yourself a few inches and standing up much easier as well. The benefits include: reduced pain, comfort, safety and much more.

Who Needs a Raised Toilet Seat?

Anyone that has difficulty bending down, has stiff joints, weak hips, recovering from (hip, knee or back) surgery, as well as finding the transition from sitting to standing difficult could use a raised toilet set. In addition, anyone that has difficulty lowering themselves down to 15-inches (standard height of a toilet) could benefit from using a raised toilet seat (which raises the seat between 17-21 inches).

What is the Size and Shape of a Raised Toilet Seat?

When adding a raised seat to your toilet, it will increase the total height between 2-to-6 inches. The seat itself will either be with a round or elongated front. The options of raised seats accommodate both types. You need to pay attention to extra wide risers and consider the total height in your purchase.

To determine the right height, consider that your knees and hips should be at the same height when sitting on the toilet. If the seat is too low or high it can be uncomfortable and more difficult to get up-and-down. To assist with making the best purchase possible, do some initial measurements to find the right height for you:

  1. Measure from the floor to the back of the thigh (behind the knee) (e.g., 20 inches)
  2. Measure the current height of the seat (e.g., 15 inches)
  3. The raise needed for your toilet seat equals the measurement in step two subtracted from the measurement in step one! (e.g., 5 inches)

Will Insurance Pay for My Raised Toilet Seat?

You should always check with your insurance company when making a purchase like this. In general, most insurance companies (including Medicare) do not cover a raised toilet seat directly but they will cover a commode chair. A commode chair, as defined by most medical services, is a chair that helps individuals with limited mobility get to and from the toilet or bathroom safely and serves as a mobile toilet when unable to reach or it is inaccessible.

Medicare Part B will cover the commode as durable medical equipment (DME) when ordered by a doctor for use in your home if you can’t use a regular toilet. If you choose to position the commode chair over the toilet then Medicare will not cover it.

Common Attachments for Raised Toilet Seats

When purchasing a raised toilet seat, you will want to explore and consider all of the available attachments and additional features. Some of the most common attachments include:

  • A toilet lid to go over the raised seat instead of leaving it open.
  • Splash guards help to prevent any unwanted splashing or leakage when using the toilet.
  • Built-in arms are pre-designed seats with arms already attached (instead of buying them separately).
  • Removable padded handles for the support arms.
  • Support arms are add-ons (removable) to the seat to help with lowering and raising yourself from the toilet seat.

How to Install Your Raised Toilet Seat

Each toilet seat riser will have different instructions for installation. You will likely have to remove the toilet lid to install the seat and it may then go on top or in storage. You should have a screwdriver handy to remove the lid.

Most importantly, you want to ensure there is a secure fit on the existing toilet seat or toilet bowl.

For many seats there are just a few steps for installation but with additional features comes additional steps. Don’t worry! There are plenty of easy-to-follow instructional videos online should you need them.

Safety Features to Consider

Safety should always be your top priority when caring for your aging loved one. To make sure the raised toilet seat is safe, consider the following key attributes:

Slip resistant pads will secure the raised toilet seat and, in many cases, allow for an easy-installation. If you need additional support when getting up-and-down then support arms and clamping them down will be essential. A slip in bracket, attaches to the toilet in seconds without knobs, clamps, screws or other complicated devices, gives an older adult with leg or knee challenges easier access.

Top 10 Raised Toilet Seats

Review each of the top 10 listed below to find the best option for you for price, height, weight-limit, support arms and other important features to keep your aging parent safe when going to the bathroom. The top companies listed below include: Carex, Drive Medical, Essential Medical Supply, PCP, AquaSense, and Vaunn Medical.

Each of the raised toilet seats listed below has a unique difference that may just bring the comfort and support you need.

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Choosing Walkers or Wheelchairs. What is right for you?

Thomas Chacko

Walkers vs Wheelchairs: Which is Right for You?

If you need a mobility aid, you may be able to choose between a walker or a wheelchair. You may be left wondering, “Should I use a walker or a wheelchair?” There are a few things to consider when making your choice.

Types of Walkers

You can find several different types of walkers with various features, including:

  • Standard Walker: This is the classic four-leg walker without wheels. Instead, the legs have rubber tips to avoid skidding and provide stability. You’ll need to pick up the walker to move.
  • Two-wheel Walker: This type of walker has wheels in the front to offer a bit of help with motion while also helping support your weight.
  • Three-wheel Walker: This walker is lightweight and easy to maneuver, but it will not support all of your weight. It simply helps you maintain your balance.
  • Four-wheel Walker: These are for people who have good balance but need a bit of help getting around. You can also find four-wheel walkers extra compartments for storage.
  • Knee Walker: This walker offers a platform for resting your knee, which can be helpful if you have a knee or foot injury.

Other factors to consider when choosing a walker include grip type and height. When you stand with your arms hanging down, the walker grip should be at your wrists.

You also want to choose a comfortable grip. For instance, if you have arthritis, consider a walker with a larger grip.

Types of Wheelchairs

You can find a great variety of wheelchairs to fit your mobility needs. While there are many different subcategories to consider, wheelchairs can generally be divided into manual and powered wheelchairs.

Manual Wheelchairs: Manual wheelchairs are propelled by hand. You can have someone push the wheelchair or use your hands to spin the wheels for movement.

Depending on the terrain you have to travel and your upper body strength, you can find lightweight and heavy chairs. You can also choose between the folding frame and rigid frame manual wheelchairs. You’ll also find reclining, bariatric, and footrest options when choosing your wheelchair.

Powered WheelchairsPowered wheelchairs rely on a battery and a controller. These chairs make it easier to travel without having to use

both of your arms for movement and navigation constantly.

Powered wheelchairs come in various sizes. There are specialized wheelchairs able to carry respirators, speech devices, and other gadgets. Powered wheelchairs are usually adjustable, too. That means you can sit at just the right height for your body.

You can find powered wheelchairs that function in front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or center-wheel drive. Some will also allow you to switch between drives for functionality.

Should I Choose a Walker or a Wheelchair?

You and your care team can decide the best option for your mobility needs based on your condition and recovery plan. In some cases, especially if you are recovering from an injury, your doctor or physical therapist might recommend starting with a wheelchair and then graduating with a walker. You can consider additional features such as safety features, design and color, recline and back support, storage, and more.

Whether you prefer a walker or a wheelchair, Gilgal Medical for our excellent selection today.

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Transport Chair and Wheelchairs

Thomas Chacko

Ambulation devices are widely available, but choosing the right one - especially as a first time user - can be overwhelming. There are several different options with various features that can significantly impact accessibility, utility, and comfort.

Wheelchairs and transport chairs both are designed to help increase mobility and convenience for elderly and disabled individuals. Knowing the differences between the two and considering the needs of the user will aid in the decision to choose one over the other.

To ensure choosing the best wheelchair or transport chair, we’ve created a guide to help you determine which mobility aid is right for you!

What's the Difference Between a Wheelchair and a Transport Chair?

WHEELCHAIR

lacura wheelchair

Fitted with four wheels, two small front wheels and two larger rear tires topped with rotating handrails

Self-propelling, hand rims on rear wheels allow users to push themselves forward

Chair is built of heavy-duty reinforced steel construction for prolonged use

Features a wide range of accessories: trays, cup holders, bags, cushions, oxygen attachments, etc.

TRANSPORT CHAIR

TRANSPORT CHAIR

Fitted with four small wheels, rear wheels are fixed (do not swivel) and are equipped with brakes which can be engaged as the user enters or exit the chair

Requires the assistance of another person to push the chair from behind

Lightweight and easy to store, the chair is designed to fold compactly in size

Narrow frames allow the chair to easily pass through most doors and aisles

When choosing between a wheelchair and a transport chair, look for differences in the rear wheels. Transport chairs have 8”-12” rear wheels that cannot be reached while sitting in the chair. Wheelchairs, however, are built with larger 18”-24” wheels topped with an easy-to-grip, rotating handrail that allow users to propel themselves forward. Transport chairs require the assistance of a second person to push from behind.

There is also a significant difference between braking systems. Wheelchairs often feature a push-lock wheel mechanism, locking the chair in place for users to safely enter or exit the chair. Transport chairs are equipped with brakes on the handles located on the back of the chair. This feature enables the person pushing the chair to apply the brakes more easily. Handbrakes help navigate steep slopes and a wider variety of outdoor terrains.

Suited for longer-duration sitting, most wheelchairs are equipped with padded armrests, backrests, and seats for optimum comfort. Transport chairs, however, are travel-friendly; The lightweight and compact design easily folds to fit in a car trunk, making it less bulky than a standard wheelchair.

transporting wheelchairs

What To Consider When Choosing Between the Two...

When choosing between a wheelchair and a transport chair, there are a few questions you need to consider that change from person to person. Do you require assistance getting in and out a vehicle? You might want to consider a transport chair that is lightweight, flexible, and easy to fold, lift, and store in a car trunk. Consider the environment in which you plan to use the chair. Does it have narrow doors and hallways? If so, you will want a transport chair that is narrow enough to navigate these pitfalls.

For someone with limited mobility who may not be able to walk unaided, a wheelchair can reduce the risk and fear of falling in the home or outdoors allowing you to move around with increased confidence. A wheelchair can also provide the user with a more active lifestyle, allowing them to partake in daily activities without additional assistance.

If you prefer a wheelchair, we recommend the: ProBasics K1 Standard Wheelchair

probasics standard wheelchair

ProBasics K1 Standard Wheelchair is constructed of a heavy-duty reinforced steel in black powder coat finish for strength and durability. Chair features push-to-lock wheel locks and precision sealed bearings in the front and rear wheels, ensuring long lasting performance and reliability. In addition to locking wheels, the chair includes tool-free swing-away footrests with heel loops or elevating padded leg rests with composite footplates. Available in multiple seat widths: 16”, 18” and 20”.

If you prefer a transport chair, we recommend: ProBasics Transport Chair

ProBasics Transport Chair

Making transportation effortless, this lightweight transport chair features flared handles and handy back-release hinges to allow the back to fold down flat and compact for storage. The silver vein carbon steel frame with permanent rear axle provides strength and durability. For added safety, the chair is equipped with composite footrests and heel loops to keep legs and feet stable throughout transportation. The push-to-lock rear wheel locks are designed to secure the patient in place for easy entrance and exit from the chair.

Not sure either of those is the right fit? Browse all of our wheelchair options.

Now that you’ve found the right wheelchair, find the perfect wheelchair cushion to use with it!

References

Sellers, Margaret. (2019). Transport Chair vs. Wheelchair: What’s the Difference? Mobility Deck. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2AfOcp4.

Anonymous. (2019). What is the Difference Between a Wheelchair and Transport Chair? Chair Institute. Retreived from https://bit.ly/3fEUdw1.


Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this site, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.

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Wheel Chair Tips for Caregivers

Thomas Chacko

6 Ways on Taking Care of Someone in a Wheelchair

Caring for a loved one who relies on a wheelchair for mobility can be a challenge. You probably worry about their safety and security. Consider the following tips to keep your loved ones safe as they use their wheelchair.

Keep the Handles Free

As convenient as they may seem, the handles on the back of a wheelchair are not a safe spot to hang things like purses, blankets, or backpacks. Keep the wheelchair handles free from any clutter to maintain balance. Also, if items fall off the handles, they may also get caught in one of the wheels, causing an accident.

Use Seat Cushions

For maximum comfort, use a seat cushion for back support.  Also, donut-shaped seat cushions help relieve pain and are ergonomically designed to minimize pressure point stress.

Check the Wheelchair Locks

Use a wheelchair with easy push-to-lock wheel brakes for added security.

When transferring senior folks in and out of the wheelchair, always double-check to ensure the wheelchair locks are secure and working correctly. The brakes help you maintain proper balance when moving your loved one in and out of the wheelchair.

Use Transfer Aids

Transferring people in wheelchairs can be tricky. To avoid accidents and falls, use gait belts to aid patient handling and mobility.  A gait belt goes on the person being moved to provide the caregiver with a secure place to grab onto when helping. Along with keeping the patient safe, gait belts help to protect the caregiver’s back during transfer.

Consider buying a gait belt with a buckle to secure it. This makes movement easier to control, e

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Elongated Toilet Seat VS Round Toilet Seats

Thomas Chacko

 Round Or Elongated. How to determine the right Toilet Seat Riser.

Determining if a toilet seat is round or elongated is very easy by taking one simple measurement.

 

Per North American plumbing standards, toilets are either round or elongated (oval or oblong).

Measure your toilet, not your toilet seat, determine if you need a round or elongated toilet seat.

Measure from the seat mounting holes to the front, top edge of the bowl.
(see diagram)

Elongated bowls = 18.5 inches,

Round bowls = 16.5 inches.

Measure the length of the toilet bowl from the center of the toilet seat bolt holes at the back of the toilet, to the front edge of the toilet bowl.

Round toilet bowls measure at about 16.5 inches. Elongated toilet bowls measure about 18.5 inches.

That’s all it takes. Once you determine the measurement click on this link below to buy the right toilet seat riser. Gilgal Medical Supplies is the largest wholesaler and retailer of bath room accessories.  Generally toilet seats aren’t sold based on exact measurement, they’re sold based on the shape of your toilet. Once you know whether you have a round or elongated toilet, you’re set. Buy elongated toilet riser today.

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Ostomy Pouch and Skin Barrier

Thomas Chacko

What is an Ostomy pouch? What is a skin barrier or wafer?

 

At first, it can be overwhelming. Living with an ostomy can feel as if your whole world is going to change forever. It can be scary. It’s normal to have many feelings, emotions and anxieties. But you’re not alone. There are thousands of people who go through ostomy every day. We at Gilgal medical completely surround you with the support, inspiration, insights and ideas that you need to live with an ostomy in your own way. Ostomy nurses and product specialists are just a phone call away. Have specific questions about what ostomy products might be right for you? Call 407 891 2120.  

This brief synopsis will take you through all of the components of your ostomy system and help you find the right products and accessories that work for your body. Our catalog offers a wide range of comfortable, secure pouch and skin barrier options will allow you to find a customized system that works best for your ostomy type and lifestyle.

 

What is an Ostomy Pouch?

Pouch is a plastic bag that is attached to the stoma. This is the most recognizable and important part of your ostomy system; the pouch collects your stoma’s output. It should be emptied or replaced when it is one-third to one-half full. There are drainable pouch and disposable pouch. A full pouch can pull away from the barrier or skin due to the added weight and can also cause bulging under your clothes.

 

What is a Skin Barrier or Wafer?

A skin barrier is also called a “wafer,” your skin barrier is the piece of the pouching system that sticks to your body. It holds your pouch in place and should help protect the skin around your stoma from damage. It should fit snugly around your stoma to help prevent leakage and have an opening customized to your unique size and shape.

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