We all expect to go through changes in our lives. Careers, life goals, marriage, children, our financial situations…But what most of us don’t expect, is the impact of a sudden disability.
Going from being an able-bodied person to someone who has lost their mobility, cognitive abilities or even both is a change so drastic, it can be difficult to comprehend. The onset of a serious injury or illness that has left you disabled could have been the result of a car accident, an accident at work, a mishandled birth or medical negligence – click this link if you’re looking for a disability lawyer near me.
So, while you’re coming to terms with the reason behind this sudden change in your life, you also need to understand the lifestyle changes you might face. Here we’ll examine the biggest lifestyle changes you could anticipate after an unexpected change in your health.
Your finances
Perhaps your disability has left you unable to work and you’re no longer physically able to work every day. If this is the case, then your finances could be difficult to manage. Thankfully, there are benefits that you could be entitled to. Financial hardship after a disability is common, which is why it’s important to reach out and ask for help. This doesn’t mean asking family and friends for cash, but finding out what you might be entitled to can certainly help you manage your finances and reduce the pressure you’re under.
Adapting your home
If you’ve lived an able-bodied life up until now, then the number of changes you may need at home might surprise you. Of course, every disability is different, but if mobility is an issue then you may need to look at widening the doorways of your property, rethink the access to the upstairs of your home, or the entrance. If you’re in a wheelchair, then lowering your countertops, having access to a wet room and getting in and out of bed may require assistance from devices and other tools.
Your support network will change
Sadly, some major life changes mean that some friendships fade into the background. On the other hand, these kinds of challenges also highlight the true friendships in your life and allow you to restructure your support network. Something which we all need when we go through any change in our lives.
Getting out and about
If you drive, then you may need to have certain aspects of your vehicle adapted to suit your mobility and to give you the freedom and independence you deserve. Wheelchair ramps and lifts, as well as steering wheel modifications are commonplace. You may be able to park in disabled bays and ride public transport for free, depending on where you are.
Finally, your mental health
The biggest change to your lifestyle will be the impact on your mental health. Coming to terms with your new life may leave you struggling and unable to cope. It’s important to remember that there is no time limit when it comes to dealing with these changes, relying on your support network and reaching out to health professionals will help you see the positives in your new life.
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