If you are living with a disability then you’re not alone – according to the US Census Bureau around 1 in 5 people in the US are disabled. While a disability may cause certain limitations, there is no reason for it to reduce quality of life. With this in mind, here are some top ways to cope with restrictions, overcome challenges, and live well with a disability.
Learn to Accept your Disability
Learning that you have any type of disability can be extremely upsetting and difficult to accept. It is normal to take time to grieve your loss. Never feel the need to suppress or hide your true feelings during this difficult time. However, it is important that you learn to live with the limitations of your disability, so that you can move forward and live a fulfilling life. Make sure that you focus on the things you can still do, instead of dwelling on any restrictions. It is also important to learn as much as you can about your condition. This will help you understand what to expect and set goals for your future.
Seek specialist treatment
Persistent pain can have a negative effect on your physical and mental wellbeing and make it more difficult for you to cope with your disability. For that reason, you should seek specialist advice and treatment to help alleviate pain and manage your symptoms. Many disabled people find that regular massage therapy helps reduce pain and improve their quality of life. Massage is also an effective way to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. Visiting a chiropractor can also help disabled people regain some mobility and manage their symptoms. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals who use spinal manipulation to improve bodily functions, alleviate pain, and treat a wide range of medical conditions. Take a look at this chiropractor review site to compare some of the best chiropractors in the local area.
Find a hobby
Having a disability shouldn’t stop you from discovering and trying new hobbies. Finding a hobby you enjoy is a great way to keep active and improve your quality of life. Some ideas for hobbies for disabled people include swimming, drawing, crafts, gardening, and fishing. Volunteering is another fantastic way to keep active and give yourself a renewed sense of meaning and purpose. Plenty of organizations welcome volunteers, and sacrificing some of your time to help others is sure to make you feel more productive and positive. Adopting a pet has also been shown to improve the lives of people living with disabilities. Many people find that caring for a pet provides great joy and a sense of purpose.
Set goals for your future
When you have a disability, it is important to look forward and not dwell on the past or the things you can no longer do. Challenge yourself and make realistic life goals that you can work towards. This may include learning a new skill, following a physical therapy program to help regain mobility, returning to work, or traveling to a new country. Whatever your individual goals, make sure you have a time frame in place, so you can monitor your progress, identify if you are deviating from your plan, and celebrate once you achieve a goal.
Explore Medical Supplies & Equipment
Whether your disability is visible or invisible, the medical equipment industry is bursting with devices that can help make your life easier. From well-known products such as wheelchairs and walkers to lesser-known items such as long-reach bath sponges, wearable pain relief products, and tie-free shoelaces, there’s something for everyone. If you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and explore the many medical supplies and equipment available on the market. You never know what you may find and how life-changing it will be!
