No matter how old you are, if you love handling your problems on your own with minimal assistance, a mobility disability may get in the way of your preferences. If you’re old, stubborn, and want to avoid a retirement home at all costs, there are things you can do around the house to make your day-to-day tasks easier. Use these tips for living independently with a mobility disability to ensure you live on your own for as long as possible and feel confident in your independence.
Opt for an In-Home Assistant
If you struggle with specific tasks around the house, an in-home assistant can help you tackle them so you can continue to live on your own. Even if you only need a maid to help you clean the house, it’s one less thing you need to spend energy on. Consider the tasks you have the hardest time with and hire specialists to do those jobs.
When everything is difficult to handle, hire an assistant that specializes in senior care. While you’ll rely on them for many things around the house, you’ll retain your home and preferred way of living.
Improve Your Car
Staying on the road and driving in your own car is one of the most empowering feelings and can help you stay independent. Driving can help you retain your reflexes and quick-thinking skills. If you have a mobility disability that affects your ability to drive, there are alterations you can make to the vehicle to keep you on the road. Adaptive driving equipment comes in many forms, including but not limited to:
- Hand controls
- Pedal extenders
- Scooter lifts
- Swivel seats
- Left-foot accelerators
These improvements to your vehicle, in addition to an accessible parking permit, ensure that you can continue to drive to events and the store whenever you want to. You won’t need to spend money on having groceries delivered and won’t need to rely on anyone to chauffeur you around.
Consider Remodeling or Relocating
You may live in your forever home and love it, but if it has too many stairs or different levels, you may put yourself in danger by living there. One of the most important tips for living independently with a mobility disability is to evaluate the safety of your home. You may need to commission an intensive remodel to install mobility-friendly features, such as ramps, so you can stay in the home.
If it’s impossible to remove the stairs out of the home, consider downsizing to a ranch or single-level home. Your life will be easier with less space to worry about and fewer dangerous steps that could cause harmful falls.
