International Day of the Disabled is observed every year on 3rd December. It is promoted by the United Nations with an aim to spread awareness about the rights and well-being of people with disabilities.
Also known as World Disability Day, it is dedicated to people who are disabled and tries to shed some light onto their problems and difficulties. These include people who have physical, mental, sensory or intellectual impairments.
This day is observed for all people living with disabilities, regardless of their age or background. Thus, it also aims to spread awareness about the situation of disabled seniors who probably face even more difficulties due to already existing medical conditions.
Seniors Living With Disabilities
Although World Disability Day is dedicated to individuals living with disabilities, there has not been much discussion around the plight of disabled seniors.
This lack of awareness can severely affect their quality of life and also puts seniors living with disabilities at an increased risk during emergency situations. Hence, it is extremely important disabled seniors receive the required care and support, so that they can live a happy and meaningful life.
How to Care For Seniors Living With Disabilities
1. Talk to Them
One of the most important parts of caring for seniors living with disabilities is to have regular conversations with them. This can help you understand their situation in a much better way and will also give them an opportunity to talk about anything that might be bothering them.
2. Maintain A Healthy Diet
Obesity issues can negatively impact the health and fitness of seniors living with disabilities. Thus, it is important for them to follow a healthy diet that includes essential vitamins and nutrients. There are many simple and healthy recipes for seniors that can help them stay physically fit and strong.
Speaking of which…
3. Exercise
Regular exercise is extremely beneficial for seniors as it can help strengthen their muscles and may improve flexibility as well. Although there are many helpful and easy to do exercises for seniors, those living with disabilities need to consult their doctor before working on any new fitness routine.
4. Mentally Active
Due to their mobility issues, disabled seniors may often find themselves feeling isolated or lonely. Taking care of mental health during such difficult times is important. Also, participating in engaging online activities can help combat mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
5. Offer Assistance
This is one of the most essential parts of caring for disabled seniors. Whenever you feel that they might need a helping hand, you can offer your assistance and ask them exactly how you can help them. This can help build trust and will also allow them to communicate more freely.
6. Prevent Accidents
One of the most common causes of accidents among disabled seniors is slips and falls. These can either lead to serious injuries or they can worsen existing problems. Identifying the most accident-prone areas at home like bathrooms or stairs can help prevent such accidents and ensure the safety of disabled seniors.
7. Give Them Space
Even though seniors living with disabilities may face certain difficulties, they are individuals with their own needs and wishes. Thus, we need to give them their space and treat them with the utmost care and respect.
8. Talk to the Doctor
Asking for suggestions or recommendations from doctors is the best way to take care of seniors living with disabilities. They can guide you on various topics such as the right medication, the needs of disabled seniors and also the best mobility aids for disabled seniors.
Speaking of which, here are some of the best mobility aids for seniors living disabilities.
Power Wheelchair Zip Lite – Vissco
This Power Wheelchair is an amazing mobility aid for senior adults and people with mobility issues. The power wheelchair comes with an easy to use controller, fire retardant upholstery and can run 12 km in a single charge.
- Lightweight and has pneumatic tyres
- Comes with double seat cushions, back cushion and foldable backrest
- Has a weight-bearing capacity of 100 kg
Imperio Wheelchair with Elevated Footrest Mag Wheel - Vissco
Imperio Wheelchair with Elevated Footrest comes with removable sturdy mag wheels which work efficiently on uneven roads too. This is an ergonomic wheelchair which is suitable for those who need added support and comfort while they are travelling.
- Has an improved design and weight bearing capacity
- Has a comfortable and washable rexine seat
- Designed for attendants and self-propelling
Express Power Wheelchair - Vermeiren
The Vermeiren Express Wheelchair provides users and caregivers peace of mind in terms of quality dependability and ease of operation. The wheelchair is comfortable and gives a firm support to the user.
- Ideal for lightweight and indoor wheelchairs
- Foldable footrest
- Fixed armrest
T- Shape Walking Stick - Avanti
This elegant and adjustable walking stick comes with ergonomically designed rubber grips and stylish looks. It is lightweight, easy to use and long lasting.
- Anti slip silicone strips
- Powder coated and adjustable
- Overall length : 750 mm (minimum) + 980 mm (maximum)
Medipedic Walker Castor - Vissco
This Medipedic Walker provides a larger base of support facilitating balancing while walking. This walker is ideal for those who have suffered from a stroke, cerebral palsy, a lower limb fracture or any peripheral nerve disorder.
- Height can be adjusted as per user's comfort
- Provides extra support and stability while walking
- Helps reduce pressure on the legs
Invalid Folding Walker Plain - Vissco
This Invalid Folding Walker provides a large base of support. It helps facilitate balancing while walking and comes with additional points of contact. It has a wider range of stable gravity positioning.
- Acts as an ideal mobility aid
- Easy and convenient to carry
- Rigid and adjustable support
Dura Max Walker with Wheel - Vissco
This Dura Max Walker provides a larger base of support facilitating balancing while walking. It comes with castors that give the user extra support when walking or standing as it offers far more stability than a standard walking stick.
- Lightweight aluminium frame
- Comfortable for senior citizens
- High grade rubber shoes and foam for grip
