If you suffer from a disability, there are ways to overcome the physical and mental challenges that will make living with a disability easier. Taking steps to manage the challenges that come from living with a disability will improve your quality of life and make it easier to manage necessary tasks.
What is a Disability?
A disability can be many things, but the Social Security Administration has its own definition of what a disability is as it pertains to Social Security benefits. According to the SSA you are disabled if it is impossible for you to engage in any substantial gainful activity because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) that is either expected to result in death or has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months.
Some examples of common disabilities recognized by the Social Security Administration are:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Many forms of cancer
- Leukemia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- COPD
- Arthritis
- Deafness
- Blindness
- TBI
To get Social Security disability benefits you must apply for benefits and show medical evidence that demonstrates that you have a medical condition that is recognized by the SSA and that you are unable to work because of that condition. The evidence that you submit needs to show that you meet the SSA’s Blue Book requirements for the condition that you have, or it must show why your condition makes it impossible for you to work.
Overcoming Physical Challenges
To overcome physical challenges that are a result of your disability you can do things like:
Use Assistive Devices
Assistive and adaptive devices can be used to help people with disabilities stay active, get around the house, and manage their household tasks. Walkers, wheelchairs, and canes are considered adaptive devices, but they’re not the only adaptive devices out there. Electronics like home assistants, smart appliances and devices, and security alerts can also help people overcome physical challenges to be safe and comfortable at home.
Make Home Modifications
Home modifications are another way that people who have physical disabilities can be safe at home. Installing grab bars, smart lighting that turns on with the voice, and adding on ramps all can help people overcome physical disabilities. So can new flooring with anti-slip technology, traction mats for the bathroom, and railings along hallways. Home modifications allow people with a physical disability stay in the home they love.
Overcoming Mental Challenges
There are also mental challenges that people with disabilities face. Often, after becoming disabled, people struggle with depression, feeling useless, or anxiety. Some things that can help people overcome mental challenges associated with a disability are:
- Building a strong support network of friends and family
- Getting professional help from counselors or therapists
- Investing in inclusive education or learning new skills
- Getting a pet
- Finding volunteer work that will provide a sense of purpose
Getting regular activity and having regular social interaction will help too.
Speak With a Social Security Disability Attorney
If you need help with your disability case, fill out the Free Case Evaluation to get connected with an independent social security attorney who subscribes to the website and may be able to help you with your case.
