If you're the adult child of a disabled parent, you probably do what you can to help them. You might know there are disability services out there that can help them with their needs, but you might be overwhelmed and confused about how to get your parent signed up. We're here to help. Our website is a guide to helping adult children in your situation. You can learn more about what disability services can do for your parent here. You can also check out our informative posts about how to choose a disability lawyer, how to help your parent apply for disability, what to do if your parent is denied, and more.
Overcoming Barriers to Independence When You Have Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is often unpredictable. For some people, it can also be cruel. If you suffer from it and it's affecting you to the point where you struggle to live independently, you may feel frustrated. However, there are some approaches you can try to make independent living easier.
Remain Insistent
Chronic pain can arise for lots of reasons. Sometimes the condition is identifiable, such as cancer or nerve damage. In other cases, the condition is a hidden disability that not many people understand. Regardless of what causes your chronic pain, you need to be insistent when interacting with medical professionals. Give your doctor and carers an honest and real-time overview of how you feel and whether their treatments are effective. The more candid information they have, the easier it is for you to get a tailored treatment plan.
Supported Living
Chronic pain can bring different limitations each day. If you find that you consistently struggle with personal care or moving around your home, you may benefit from supported independent living. Specialist disability accommodation can help you live as independently as possible. In the long term, using it can have benefits for your mental health. When you're able to achieve daily tasks without exacerbating your pain or having to give up altogether, your mental health benefits too. Discuss supported independent living with your care team to see what options are available.
Get Outside
When you feel pain every day, your home feels like your comfort zone. And while your home can still remain as your sanctuary, it's important to get outside too. Getting out and engaging in everyday activities helps you socialise. Socialising is important for your mental health, and when you're feeling happier your pain levels may feel lower. Naturally, getting out isn't always easy when you have certain types of chronic pain. If you try supported living services, you may find that you benefit from a carer who can help you get out of the house.
Try Exercise
Exercise may also sound unpalatable when you're suffering from chronic pain. However, it can strengthen your bones and muscles, which then makes the pain less severe. If you're currently working on an independent living program, discuss how you can add exercise to it. Your medical team may be able to suggest gentle exercises that you can try at home. Or, they can help you get out of the house and try gentle fitness classes, walking, or swimming.