Around 15% of people around the world live with a disability and many (if not all) strive for independence. A common myth is that those living with a disability find maintaining a ‘normal’ life impossible. However, this is not the case. Take a look at the ways people living with disabilities, either hidden or visible, maintain an independent lifestyle.
Research Disability Aids
Technology has come a long way and some simple adaptations to the home can make independence easier. Smart technology can enable the user to use voice technology to activate lights, blinds, light switches and even security systems. This may be beneficial to those who have limited mobility or use of their limbs as it may take some time to get out of bed to do these things manually. Particularly if relaxing in bed reading or watching television. In the U.S. alone around 31% of homes use assistive technology showing that it is progressively becoming the norm.
Managing Expectations
People around you, including loved ones, may have to adapt as you adapt to living with a disability. The symptoms of long-term illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis or Cerebral Palsy may change over time and your ways of living may also have to change. Although some long-term illnesses such as cerebral palsy are not generally progressive, symptoms may change over time. In fact, cerebral palsy life expectancy is thought to be 58 years or more, depending on how severe the symptoms are. You may need further support or other aids to help improve standards of living as you age. Good communication with loved ones can help them understand what you need and when you need it. It can also avoid overprotection or suffocation from others as you maintain your independence.
Becoming Sociable
Everyone has dreams and goals in life, some short-term, some long-term. Studies show that people living with a disability are more likely to suffer from depression or another mental illness. This can make being sociable more difficult. However, setting some social goals can help to act as a preventative measure and encourage a better quality of life. This may be via forums online at first to enable you to talk with others in your position or it may be by joining a social group with like-minded people. Even getting a job or volunteering can activate a social life and prevent mental health decline.
Maintaining independence may take a little more research and a little bit more communication with others as to your needs but this can make a huge, and positive, difference to your quality of life.
