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Caring for disabled individuals can be a grueling task, both physically and emotionally. They require assistance with everything from housework to medical needs.
It is essential that you take care of yourself so that you can provide your family member with the best care. Here are some helpful hints to get you started:
Be Patient
When caring for disabled individuals, patience is a virtue. They may take longer to complete a task than anticipated or make errors that require correction.
Maintaining this perspective is paramount to providing your patient with the highest standard of care.
For instance, if someone needs help with placing medical equipment or filling out paperwork, be ready to offer that help.
Remember that many patients with disabilities view their disability as an integral part of who they are. Therefore, ensure the medical treatments you suggest will be tailored specifically for their needs.
As a healthcare provider, your responsibility is to assist those with disabilities in living as independently as possible. These tips can help build trust with them and provide them with the assistance they require.
Don’t Feel Sorry
Caring for disabled individuals can be a mentally and physically draining job. While it’s natural to feel sorry when someone you care about has a disability, it is essential not to make them feel pity nor to express your emotions in an inappropriate way.
It’s essential to recognize that disabled people often feel threatened by ableism, the negative stereotype that a disability makes someone less than. No matter how well-meaninged an observation may be, it can erode their credibility and add additional stress.
Don’t Underestimate Their Abilities
One of the greatest difficulties people with disabilities often face is being underestimated, whether in regards to their academics, technical abilities or social knowledge.
People with disabilities often possess the capacity to do things that would normally need the assistance of others, even if it appears difficult. Always ask if they require assistance and follow their lead if requested.
When someone says no to you, don’t feel bad; they may just be trying to protect themselves or their personal space. A simple “Thank you” or genuine smile can make a huge difference in someone’s day. Showing respect and taking time to understand their preferences shows that you value them and care about what works for them. Taking care of disabled individuals can be challenging but rewarding when they recognize your efforts.
Don’t Make Decisions for Them
Making one’s own decisions is the ultimate form of self-determination for those with disabilities, yet this isn’t always the case, particularly in America where ableism still plagues those with physical, cognitive and/or intellectual impairments. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help ensure these rights are respected.
This includes some manners and some good old-fashioned smarts.
Being helpful can make all the difference in a difficult situation.
If you have a loved one with autism or mental illness, be sure to ask questions that lead to more informed answers rather than simply providing general information without further investigation.
You may want to explore the many programs and initiatives available for individuals with physical, intellectual, and/or cognitive impairments.
Don’t Touch Their Mobility Equipment
People with disability support services melbourne typically rely on mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes and artificial limbs to enable them to move around.
It is still important to respect them as people, not mere objects. Therefore, never touch their equipment without asking them first.
When speaking to someone who uses a wheelchair, sit at their level or slightly lower. Doing this will prevent them from straining their necks trying to make eye contact with you.
Furthermore, never lean over them to shake hands or ask them to hold your coats. It invades their personal space and should never be done.
