If you’re in a wheelchair because of an injury/illness or due to old age, getting used to your wheelchair can be quite challenging. At some point, it will be a part of your lifestyle that you will have to get used to.
However, that doesn’t mean that life in a wheelchair needs to be intolerable. In fact, you can try to make it as enjoyable as possible. You might think that this is impossible but we’ve got a couple of tips for you that you can consider. If you would like to learn more about how you can adapt to life in a wheelchair, feel free to continue reading down below.
Investing in a Wheelchair for You
Wheelchairs can be considered as an investment. After all, a good wheelchair can truly make all the difference if it is well-fitted and customised for you. You’ll be able to comfortably get around for long periods of time without feeling tired or restless.
Nowadays, there are various models of wheelchairs. For example, there are standing wheelchairs that allow you to stand up with the support of being strapped to a chair. This can be the best wheelchair for you if putting weight on your feet does not necessarily cause you pain.
The most important thing to take note of is that you’ll need a wheelchair that is comfortable, practical but still a chair that you like aesthetically. It will definitely make the whole situation much easier for you.
Modifying Your Home
Modifying your home can make getting around in your wheelchair much easier and convenient for you. For example, if you have a multi-level home, you can consider bringing certain rooms such as your bathroom closer to you without needing to purchase a stairlift. You can start by adding threshold rams for uneven floor levels or even a modular outdoor ramp so that you can enter and exit your home.
You can also start small by decluttering your place so that your wheelchair does not get caught on objects. You can reach out to your local insurance provider, local businesses, or charity organisations to help modify your home to best suit your needs. There are many support systems that are there to help you the best they can.
Keeping Healthy Through Exercise
Physical exercise is known to have many benefits for mood improvement and muscle strengthening. The best part is that physical exercise is still very much possible even in a wheelchair. Sitting for a long time can be bad for your health and cause you to feel weaker, so it’s definitely important to remain as active as possible.
Depending on the nature of your disability, you can find ways to exercise with the help of a trainer, a certified consultant or a physician that can help recommend an exercise routine that is safe for you and your condition. Even if you might not be physically able to go to a gym, there are other supportive equipment to help keep you in shape.
Remaining Patient
Getting used to being in a wheelchair does not happen overnight. It is a journey that takes patience especially since you’ll have to get used to various adaptations. However, there’s no need to rush things. Try to remain patient and focus on what you can do instead of what you can’t do.
Finding Support Systems
Seek out support groups for people who are experiencing a very similar situation as you. Finding solidarity and support systems is critical in the processing of adapting to life in a wheelchair. More importantly, you can also hold those you love closer to you so that you are constantly surrounded in an environment of love and positivity.
Final Thoughts
Adapting to life in a wheelchair can be very challenging at times but there are definitely ways that you can try out so that things can be made easier for you. You can start by investing in a comfortable wheelchair for you, modifying your home accordingly, keeping healthy through exercise, remaining patient and most importantly, finding support systems throughout the whole process. There is no need to rush adaptability as it takes time to get used to.
If you are looking for quality wheelchairs to assist your daily living, then look no further than Get About Mobility. At Get About Mobility, we only offer premium daily living aids at the most competitive prices. This means you can trust every purchase to be safe, effective and durable.
If you are looking for a wheelchair, visit our online store or call Get About Mobility on 1300 168 902 or
leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.