Living with Disability

Living with a disability can present unique challenges and obstacles. It is important to remember that living with a disability does not define a person’s worth or capabilities. Many of those with disabilities are able to lead fulfilling and successful lives, actively pursuing their personal and business goals and aspirations. They also can actively participating in communities.

One of the key aspects of living with disability is learning to adapt and find ways to navigate daily tasks and activities in a way that works best for the individual. This may involve utilizing assistive devices, making modifications to one’s work and/or home environment, or seeking support from healthcare professionals or support networks. living with disability

It is also important for individuals with disabilities to advocate for themselves and their needs, whether it be at home, school, workplace, or even in social situations.  Learning to speak up, to advocating for yourself, and asking for accommodations or assistance when needed, individuals can ensure they have resources and support necessary to thrive.  Learning to not be ashamed to ask.  Most people actually like to help others.

Pursuing Hospice Care

It is possible that a person who is living with disability can develop into a life threatening illness. If a person’s disability, or illness, becomes life threatening, a person may decide to pursue hospice care.  This decision is usually based on their medical condition and maybe advised by a recommendation of their healthcare providers. In general, hospice care is appropriate when a patient has a terminal illness or condition and is no longer seeking curative treatment. Some common indicators that may help providers make that determination include:

    • The patient has a life expectancy of six months or less, based on their medical assessments;
    • The patient is experiencing significant pain or other distressing symptoms that are difficult to manage;
    • The patient has had multiple hospitalizations or emergency room visits in a short period of time;
    • The patient is no longer responding to curative treatment or has chosen to stop pursuing any type of aggressive treatment;
    • The patient or family members feel overwhelmed by the physical, emotional or financial demands of care.

A Personal Decision

This ultimately is a personal decision. It should be one that is made in conjunction with their healthcare providers, the patient, and their loved ones. One will want to have an open and honest conversations about end-of-life care preferences and goals before these actions need to be carried out.  Importantly, one must also determine the right time to engage with hospice care.  https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/people.html

It should be noted that hospice care is not necessarily irreversible, but it is usually provided for individuals who are terminal, and have a life expectancy of 6 months or less. There is a possibility for a patient’s condition to improve, even when the odds seemed against that. The patient may be transitioned to a different type of care.  Hospice care is focused solely on providing comfort and quality of life which is a shift from curative treatment plans.

In Conclusion

It is important for a society to promote inclusion and accessibility for all individuals, including those living with disabilities.  The objective is to create a more inclusive and understanding environment for all.  By recognizing strengths and talents of individuals living with disability, and providing the support necessary, along with Living with Disabilityaccommodations, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live their best life, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

Please contact us if you, or someone you know, needs home health care or hospice care

Transition Care Telemetry