Adjusting to disability can be tough. We sometimes assume a disability is something that affects people from birth. This isn’t always the case.
In fact, were you aware that 80% of people with disabilities were actually born without them? This means that 80% of people have had to learn to adjust to a whole different way of life after being diagnosed. 80% of people become disabled through illnesses, accidents or worsening health conditions.
Despite having their life changed significantly, a disability doesn’t have to take away your independence. With the right adjustments within your home, there is no reason why you have to surrender your freedom to your disability.
Adjusting To Disability: Think About Kitchen Design
For those dealing with a sudden physical disability, it’s likely that your home isn’t properly equipped to deal with your new circumstances. It’s understandable that you want to stay in your own home, which is why there are certain changes you can make to ensure this can happen.
For example, it’s important to think about the design and layout of your kitchen. Are your cupboards positioned in a location that is difficult to reach? For those in a wheelchair, is the kitchen big enough to comfortably allow you to cook? These are things to consider when adapting the home to your needs. It may require a little bit of work before its okay to be alone.
Adjusting To Disability: Adapt Your Bathroom
Your bathroom is definitely another important factor that should be considered and adapted ASAP. For people who have limited mobility, it can be hard work completing simple tasks such as using the toilet and getting into the shower. Luckily, there are certain ways to adapt your bathroom to make it easier for you. For example, adding handrails to the toilet will assist you in lowering yourself down. You can only add rails to the bath to act in the same way. Many people prefer walk in showers – easier to get in and you can easily place a stool inside.
Consider Getting a Stairlift
Getting upstairs in their home is a huge concern for people who find themselves with limited mobility. Apart from rearranging their whole home to permanently live downstairs, people often feel like they have no choice but to move home. We don’t think that this should be their only option. By investing in a high quality stairlift, you can give yourself the assistance needed to access the upstairs floors of your property. Available in a large variety of styles, you can find the perfect one to suit your individual needs.
Remember That Your Safety is the Most Important Thing
When it comes to living with a disability, the most important thing is making sure that you are safe. Whilst it’s understandable that you want to regain as much independence as possible, it’s not worth doing so at the expense of your safety. This is why it’s important to properly consider every room and aspect of your home. Is your home adequately equipped to deal with your new disability? Can you easily contact someone if there is an emergency?
If you’re looking to add a stairlift to your home, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Specialising in new and reconditioned stairlifts, we can help you regain your independence and have freedom in your own home.
Please give us a call on 0800 046 3438 to discuss in further detail.