Adapting to life with a disability can feel overwhelming, as you might fear you will be stripped of your independence. Using a wheelchair will result in various physical limitations, but there are ways to overcome the hurdles you will face and enjoy a better quality of life.
If you want to not only survive but thrive with a disability, read the following advice on how to live an independent life when using a wheelchair.
Learn How to Use a Wheelchair
Mastering a wheelchair will take time and experience. You will need to develop a rhythm, make mistakes along the way, and practice maneuvers to feel confident in the chair. It might feel frustrating when using a wheelchair for the first time, but you must have some patience and persevere.
Also, you might find helpful training in your city or online, which can help you learn the basics and even some complex or skillful moves. If you are unsure where to visit, ask your doctor for more information.
Buy or Hire a Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle
You might worry about how you will travel from A to B without a car. However, you can buy or hire a wheelchair-accessible vehicle from alliedmobility.com, for example, which will allow you to make short or long journeys without hassle or fuss. It is the best way to maintain an independent lifestyle, as you can visit loved ones with ease, go shopping regularly, and enjoy fun days out during your spare time.
Join a Disability Support Group
A disability support group provides members with many benefits. Talking to others will make you feel less alone with a disability, as you will realize many people face the same challenges and emotions as you. In addition to sharing stories and struggles, you will likely find various helpful solutions to help you enjoy more daily independence and process your new way of life.
Download Wheelchair Access Apps
It is natural to worry if a venue is wheelchair-accessible before you arrive, as unfortunately, not all restaurants, stores, and buildings will be. Eliminate fears in advance by downloading helpful apps to find wheelchair-accessible places. Great app options include WheelMap, Wheely, WheelMate, and Google Maps, to name but a few apps.
Exercise Regularly & Play Sports
Exercise allows you to lead a more independent lifestyle when using a wheelchair. For example, weightlifting and cardio will improve your upper body strength and resilience, which will help you to lift items with ease and improve your wheelchair speed and technique.
Completing various exercises or fun activities with other wheelchair users will allow you to challenge yourself while lifting your mood and providing a sense of satisfaction. For instance, you can go swimming or participate in a team sport, such as basketball, rugby, tennis, or fencing. Many sports can be modified for wheelchair users, and if you can’t find a team in your neighborhood, consider creating one to play your favorite sport with other wheelchair users.