Don’t let your disability dictate your limitations! You are still in charge of both you and your environment. By adjusting to your disability both emotionally and physi- cally, you’ll be able to accept that your disability does not define you or restrict your ability to be comfortable or happy. Study your home and locate where you have the need for grab bars. Having grab bars in calculated locations can assist in balance or transferring. Remem- ber the shower, commode, and an area for stretching or exercise. Getting a bed rail to aid in transferring to bed may help. Reachers can assist you greatly! I have one in the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Never kno where you will be when you drop a hard to reach itesomething on the top shel

Emotionally, it can be tempting to want to avoid people and social situations when you’re feeling down but do- ing so will only make you feel worse. Don’t use your disability as an excuse to isolate yourself from friends and family or activities you love. Instead, you should be doing the opposite. Take whatever chances you’re given to get out and experience new and exciting things. Hang out with friends, go to social gatherings, visit family, try new hobbies. You’ll be much happier if you’re do- ing enjoyable things with people you love. Spending time by yourself is different from isolating yourself. Consider having a weekly date with a close friend or family member. That way, you’ll always have a reason to get out and see someone you enjoy. Lastly, you should always try to fit in alone time, but don’t spend all your time alone!