No matter how or when you came to have limited mobility, adjusting to life with a wheelchair can be difficult. The journey is different for each individual, but the following tips may make it easier to adapt and move forward as a new wheelchair user. If you need more advice on using a wheelchair, you are always welcome to consult the team here at Mark Drug Medical Supply. Mark Drug Medical Supply is your destination for mobility aids and more in Wheeling, IL.

As you get used to being physically disabled, you might find yourself focusing on your lost mobility, and how that loss impacts your life. This is only natural, and grieving is an important process that should not be overlooked. That said, remember to celebrate the abilities you still have, and concentrate on improving those abilities to compensate for the ones you’ve lost. This can give you a fresh perspective and the motivation to move forward.

It can be very frustrating to be unable to do things that used to come naturally. However, that frustration can be a source of inspiration, and many wheelchair users have come up with ingenious ways to solve problems and make their lives easier. One example is driving a car: drivers with disabilities have the option of using hand controls, rather than pedals, so they can still operate a vehicle without using their legs. As you adapt to using a wheelchair, you will probably discover many more creative solutions to improve your daily life.

As a new wheelchair user, you might be worried about feeling like a burden to others or losing your independence. These are understandable concerns, but keep in mind that everyone – disabled or not – relies on other people for support. Your support needs may be different now, but they are no less valid or important. If you need support that your friends and family cannot provide, don’t hesitate to seek out caregivers, therapists, and support groups in your area. Remember: reaching out is a source of strength, not a sign of weakness!

Some people assume that living with a disability means retreating from the world, or no longer taking part in society. This is definitely not the case! Wheelchair users may navigate the world in their own unique way, but they can still be as active and involved as anyone else. As a wheelchair user, you can participate in adaptive sports, arts and crafts, volunteering, and many other pursuits that can help you stay connected to the community. Staying involved is good for your physical and mental health, and it can also expand your support network.

One of the first things you’ll learn as a new wheelchair user is just how many different wheelchairs there are! The options range from simple manual wheelchairs to power wheelchairs packed with specialized features. Of course, having the right wheelchair for your needs will make the transition much easier. Your doctor or physical therapist can assist you with choosing a wheelchair, and with making the necessary adjustments to ensure the correct fit.

No matter what kind of wheelchair you need, you can find it here at Mark Drug Medical Supply. We serve Chicago’s North Shore area at our store in Wheeling, IL. Come shop with us today!