Thriving Well: Simple Ways You Can Be Independent With Limited Mobility
The CDC once reported that roughly 13.7% of Americans have limited mobility, and its newer data put mobility disability at about 12% of U.S. adults. That means serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs, whether from birth, illness or a later injury.
If you're included in that number, you already know you need to keep a healthy body. Beyond this, it's also important to keep as much independence as you can. Thankfully, there are simple ways to do that.
Use Assistive Technology
Functional mobility is a key component of independence for people with disabilities, and research on mobility devices links them with greater participation in daily life. If you have grown up with limited mobility, you will know assistive technology like walkers, crutches and wheelchairs.
Assistive technology has improved over the years, so you have more choices than before. Power wheelchairs, scooters, advanced prosthetics, home modifications and smart-home devices can help you get around and handle daily tasks on your own.
Your health care provider or a physical therapist can help you choose the right mobility aid and learn to use it safely. Ask your doctor about a referral and what your insurance covers.
Build Your Own Network Of Friends
Genuine friendships can provide a more profound connection and support community participation for people with disabilities, according to work published by the Center on Human Policy at Syracuse University. Building your own network can also help you understand your personal boundaries and choose the people you want around you.
If you're not sure where to begin, try a network or support group for people who share your condition. For example, a cerebral palsy resource site can point you to peer groups for people living with cerebral palsy.
Creating genuine bonds with people you choose can give you a safe space where you can be yourself.
Get Your Family Involved
Family is often closely involved in the life of a person with limited mobility. They can be your greatest helpers or, without meaning to, a roadblock to independence. That is why it is important to make them part of the process.
Start by telling them you want more independence and asking how they feel about it. Having parents and other loved ones on the same page can make the move toward independence smoother.
The idea of independence can be intimidating, but it is manageable. When you're ready, learn about the different ways other people with limited mobility make it work.
That way, you can pick what works best for you and start truly thriving.
HP Thoughts: If surgery is part of your care, you need enough information about what it involves and how it may affect your physical well-being afterward. Read our post to know more: Things To Know Before You Get Surgery.
Sources
- Disability Impacts All of Us, CDC
- Mobility Aids, MedlinePlus
