Tips For Adjusting To Life In A Wheelchair

Wheelchair is an enabler, not a disabler.

Living life in a wheelchair can be difficult however, it is definitely not impossible. Simply ask the millions of people who are doing so every single day. The key is to come to terms with your injury, deal with your frustration and then learn to handle the challenges that you might face from a physical and emotional perspective also. Accept the fact that you wont be able to do some of the things you once did but realize that you can still do many things that others only dream of. After all, each person brings unique life experiences and strengths to their rehabilitation process, use those experiences to add value to your life while improving the lives of others also.

What most people dont realize is that the need for a wheelchair can happen in a few different ways. Sometimes it can happen quickly, with an illness or an accident. Other times the need of a wheelchair happens gradually. Either way, the process for learning to accept the wheelchair as a friend not enemy depends on the person and their drive to make the best of the situation.

Here are a few tips that can help you deal with your new life in a wheelchair.

Acceptance

The first challenge is to overcome your minds limitation. Your mind has to accept the fact that your life has changed. Acceptance doesnt mean you have to give up on all hope, especially if you are engaged in physical therapy. Instead, it is a healthy way to develop a healthy and more positive outlook on the usage of the chair in your life.

Baby Steps

It takes time for your mind and body to adapt to the situation. So, dont force the process. Instead, take it day by day. Take a new baby step in the right direction every day. For instance, on Monday, you may choose to attend a support group with others in the same situation. On Tuesday, you may choose to reconnect with other friends. On Wednesday, you might choose to read about other peoples experiences to see how they coped with the situation, etc. The important thing is to take baby steps toward accepting the situation.

Get Help

Allow others to help you when you need help. Although you can do some things alone, you undoubtedly will require some help. Dont be afraid to ask for help. People that love you will be willing to help you. With time, youll be able to do a lot more things on your own but for now, you may need help.

Change:

Change is good. Change is a normal part of human life. It is a natural process that everyone has to go through. Understanding that change, such as having to use a wheelchair, is a necessary part of lifes pursuit and can really help you adjust to your new way of living life in the chair.

In conclusion, adjusting to life in a wheelchair is hard but if you accept the situation, take your adjustment slow and get help when needed, youll soon realize that life can still be good a bit different but still, very good!