If you’re taking care of someone with a disability, there are many things you can do to help.
First, don’t assume that disabled people can’t do things they can normally do. They may be able to handle the basics, but they often need more support in other areas.
Patience is key
You will encounter many difficult situations when working with disabled people. Whether you’re trying to calm down an injured person or give them the best care possible, patience is essential.
Patience can be a skill you develop over time, and it comes with a number of benefits. For one, it helps you deal with stress and negative emotions.
It can also help you achieve your goals. In a 2012 study, researcher Rachel Schnitker found that patient people of all stripes were more satisfied with their lives than less patient people.
In another study, Schnitker asked 71 undergraduates to spend two weeks learning patience skills like identifying feelings and their triggers, regulating their emotions, and empathizing with others. She found that those who were more patient toward people who were annoying them, or had a challenging job, were more likely to be optimistic and happy with their lives.
Don’t feel sorry for them
Often, non-disabled people will try to provide helpful advice to their disabled friends and relatives – often with very little understanding of disability and/or what the disabled person is going through.
Ableism refers to a variety of attitudes and actions that devalue someone based on their disability.
These reactions can be irritating for disabled people as well as their family and friends. They can be especially triggering for young disabled children who are still struggling to make sense of their new world and their new reality.
Take care of yourself
Providing care for your disabled loved one can be stressful, exhausting and emotionally draining. Caregivers need to make sure they get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, exercise, stay socially connected and avoid stress-causing behaviors such as smoking and alcohol abuse.
Caregivers should seek support if they are experiencing emotional or physical difficulties. Many therapists, social workers and clergy members are available to offer counseling or support.
There are many people in the disability community who have been through similar situations, and they can offer advice. There are many different types of support groups, and you can even join a support group that is specifically for your family member’s disability diagnosis.
It is also important to learn as much as you can about your disability so that you understand what is going on with your loved one and the challenges that they may be facing. This will help you provide better care.
Be a champion
A disability advocate is someone who actively supports people with disabilities’ rights.
You might consider joining an existing disability activist organization or volunteering for a non-profit organization if you are a disability activist. These organizations often have a focus on specific disability issues, so you can use your expertise and experience to help them accomplish their goals.
You might also consider becoming an individual advocate for someone you care about. This is a great way of supporting someone with a disability. However, it takes a lot time and dedication.
. You don’t have to become an expert on every issue or change your lifestyle for the better, but you should do enough research to know what you’re getting into before you start.
Physical activity is essential for everyone, but it’s even more important for disabled people. It improves mood, stamina, and fights chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
It can be difficult to get moving when you have a disability. There are many exercises that can help disabled people get moving and stay active.
Aerobics
Aerobics is a great way to increase heart health, burn calories, and strengthen your muscles. Regular aerobic exercise can reduce your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or cancer.
In addition to a regular workout routine, it’s important to include other forms of physical activity, like stretching and strength-building exercises, as well as good nutrition. The National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD) has resources for getting started.
If you aren’t able to go out for a traditional aerobics class, there are several at-home options available. These include video games, which simulate activities like bowling, tennis and boxing.
Swimming
If you’re a person with a disability, swimming might be one of your best options for getting some exercise. Swimming is a great aerobic exercise that strengthens the heart and increases circulation.
It also releases chemicals that improve your mood and can help fight depression. Swimming is an excellent treatment for obesity and burns calories.
Swimming exercises for disabled people can also increase muscle strength and motor function. It also reduces stress and fatigue and builds confidence.
Numerous studies have shown that swimming improves the quality and life of people with disabilities. This activity improves a person’s sense of independence and can even teach a survival skill.
