Responding to COVID-19 for People with Physical Disabilities

We have all had to make adjustments and sacrifices in our lives due to the pandemic. This disease is a new obstacle that we are navigating as more information is gathered. Although many scientists from all over the world are putting forth their best efforts a vaccine may still be months away. Many of our clients have disabilities and/or health concerns that mean responding differently to these new challenges. Disability alone does not make a person higher risk of catching the virus but there are some underlying illnesses that do. If you have a serious heart condition, chronic lung disease or a weakened immune system you should take extra precautions until a vaccine is available. Everyone should talk to their healthcare provider about what is best for them, but here at Suncoast Mobility we are taking as many precautions as possible to ensure the safety of our employees and clients. We would like to go over helpful tips to get through this time as safely as possible.

For those with limited mobility, it may be more challenging to keep your distance from others. It is important to be sure that those around you do not have symptoms and are taking all the proper precautions. Be sure that you are disinfecting objects that are frequently used and touched including your mobility equipment. If you have a care provider or others you are reliant on be sure they thoroughly disinfect before entering your home. If you have to go out be sure to wear your mask indoors or in crowds. Try your best to keep your errands to a minimum. Luckily there are many resources to have food delivered to your door. When bringing in items from the store be sure to disinfect thoroughly before bringing inside. Make sure to stock up as much as possible when you do purchase groceries so you can keep your outings to a minimum. If you need help don’t feel guilty about asking neighbors and friends for help. We may be physically distancing but it does not mean we cannot connect with those we love in other ways.

Besides the steps we can take to avoid contact with the virus we must also focus on keeping our immune systems strong. It is important to still find ways to be active and get out in the sun. Go for a cruise around your neighborhood (bring your mask just to be safe). Hang out in your yard or on your balcony and soak up some vitamin D. If you do not have a way to get out in the sun you can always supplement the vitamin D. Aside from your physical health your mental health is also very important. Humans are social creatures and it can be very hard to be away from the ones you love. Be sure to call or video chat with people you love and check in with how they are feeling. Although social media is a good way to keep up with people, it can also be a toxic place so limit your screen time. It is also good to find ways to enjoy your alone time. Start a new project, clean and organize, read, write and binge your favorite show. Most importantly, be kind and patient with yourself as we navigate this strange path. It is new to all of us so there is no right or wrong way to respond. Let us try and make the most of this time and evaluate what our new normal should look like. We now have the time to look at our lives from a new perspective and to leave behind what wasn’t working for us before.

 

Need Further Assistance?

Contact us today to speak with one of our mobility experts about your lifestyle and your specific needs top regain your freedom. Our mobility scooter experts are highly trained and taught to focus on every potential client’s needs. This allows our staff to get you in the right mobility scooter for your lifestyle the first time.

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