Life in a wheelchair can come with unique health challenges that may affect your happiness and quality of life. Yet, various actions cancare for your mind and body, which will allow you to live your life to the fullest.
Don’t allow a disability to hold you back in life. Read the following wellbeing advice if you are new to using a wheelchair.
Stretch Out
Sitting down in a wheelchair all day isn’t great for your muscles and organs. Remove stress and pressure from your body by stretching your upper body muscles regularly. If you can stand up, try to do so at least once per day to prevent unwanted pain and strain.
Follow a Nutritious, Balanced Diet
A nutritious, balanced diet will provide your body with the fuel it needs to move from A to B in a wheelchair, reach for items, and complete various tasks. What’s more, a healthy diet will help you adopt a positive, proactive mindset.
Consume a minimum of five portions of fruit and vegetables per day, which should accompany pasta, bread, potatoes, or other types of starchy carbs. Also, add some protein onto each plate, such as meat, fish, eggs, pulses, or beans. However, don’t eat more than two portions of fish each week, and switch up dishes to keep healthy mealtimes interesting and enjoyable.
Buy a Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle
Life in a wheelchair doesn’t need to feel restrictive, and you don’t need to give up your healthy social life. Enjoy the same freedoms as before with a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) from alliedmobility.com, as it will allow you to complete errands, visit loved ones, go to work, or socialize at your leisure.
Different options are available to suit your needs and preference, too, such as a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) or a minibus conversion. The vehicle will allow you to enjoy a more independent lifestyle, which will increase your happiness and prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation – which is key.
Prevent Pressure Sores
Pressure sores are an unfortunate problem many people face when using a wheelchair, which might need healing withbed rest. If you can step up from a wheelchair, it is essential to do so as often as you can to prevent pressure sores from developing. If you cannot move out of a wheelchair alone, request assistance to move at least once per hour. Also, add an air cushion to your wheelchair seat to improve your comfort and prevent painful pressure sores.
Exercise Regularly
A wheelchair doesn’t rule out exercise. In fact, it is more important than ever to maintain an active lifestyle, as it is good for your physical and mental health. As adapting to life in a wheelchair can feel daunting, exercise can increase your likelihood of depression or anxiety. If you are stuck for workout ideas, talk to your doctor about the best exercises to perform in a wheelchair, such as wheelchair sports, sitting exercises, or gym equipment adapted for wheelchair use.
