Tips for Helping People with Disabilities

According to a report in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, approximately 61 million Americans, or one in four U.S. adults, have a disability that impacts major life activities. Although mobility disabilities are widespread, unfortunately, the world often fails to provide appropriate accommodations. 

With housing for those with mobility challenging being scarce, and transportation lacking in mobility friendly options, wheelchair users are finding it increasingly difficult to uphold their independence. That is why investing in identifying, creating, and expanding alternate mobility solutions to fit the unique needs of everyone is so important. It's a crucial part of ensuring independence and allowing people to live life to their highest potential. Read below for some tips about the best way to help people with disabilities  

Learn About the Disability

If you encounter someone with a disability, it is important to take the time to learn and understand the different types of disabilities. Many people with disabilities will be willing to explain their needs and provide advice on how to best support them. It is also important to research the unique needs that may come with a disability, such as equipment or communication aids that may be necessary.

When interacting with people with disabilities, it is important to treat them with respect and consideration. Don't make assumptions about what they can and cannot do or understand. People with disabilities should be treated with the same respect and consideration as everyone else. It is important to be patient and understanding when interacting with someone with a disability and remember that they are just as capable as anyone else. By taking the time to learn and understand the disability, and by treating people with disabilities with respect and consideration, everyone can create an inclusive environment for people with disabilities. Doing so will promote understanding and acceptance of different disabilities and help create an environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

Know What Mobility Solutions for Transportation Are Available

The United States is a country that is heavily reliant on automobiles for transportation. To access essential services, such as medical care and food, it is essential for individuals to have access to a vehicle. Regrettably, the majority of vehicles are not designed to accommodate people with disabilities. which makes it imperative to find accessible vehicles, such as wheelchair vans and SUVs, to ensure mobility and safety. Furthermore, the independence that comes from access to transportation can promote both physical and mental wellbeing. Finding an appropriate vehicle for those affected by disabilities is one of the most important elements in promoting health and well-being.

Consider Accessibility Ramps for Your Home or Business 

Unfortunately, not only are transportation systems not tailored towards people with disabilities, but housing can be a significant problem as well. People with certain mobility challenges can struggle to enter and leave their homes, due to raised thresholds, steps, or porch ledges. To make things accessible for disabled or elderly individuals, home accessibility solutions such as platform lifts, stair lifts, and/or wheelchair ramps must be installed. While some people may turn to the inexpensive, temporary solutions you can find at your local home improvement shopping center, it is far better and more efficient to construct more permanent solutions to make sure that easy access is always available.

Understand the Importance of Getting a Good Night’s Sleep

A mobility issue that is often overlooked is one of the most basic daily activities - getting in and out of bed. For individuals who suffer from mobility disabilities, this can be an especially difficult and painful obstacle to overcome. This has led to an increased demand for adjustable electric beds in recent years. Such beds are designed with the user in mind; with the push of a button, they are able to help the user safely sit up and get out of bed. Moreover, adjustable electric beds can provide a variety of reclining positions that can aid in pain relief from common mobility disabilities. By investing in specialized beds, individuals can mitigate the challenges posed by their disabilities and take back some of their independence.

There Are Mobility Solutions for Every Disability

Considering how widespread mobility disabilities are, each person’s disability and needs are different, which is why it’s so important for there to be a variety of mobility aids available. Despite the number of solutions seen in the marketplace, however, many of them come at a hefty expense. Unfortunately, Medicare only covers forms of equipment that are medically essential but not others that could have a significant improvement on one’s quality of life. 

Facing the cost of a new mobility device can be intimidating to some individuals, but luckily, there are financing options, grants and funding,  and incentives to help ease the burden, such as tax deductions for durable medical equipment.

United Access: Dedicated to Helping People with Disabilities

United Access has over 25 years of experience helping people with disabilities. We have locations nationwide and are available to assist with your mobility needs. Contact us today to learn more.