Using a wheelchair.

[Bookworm55]

I hesitated to read this but the author has a very positive view .

theguardian.com/lifeandstyl...

[zen4]

Thanks so muc h for sending this link. Its a wonderful article and it really resonates with me. I used to work as an OT and many people were so resistant to any type of aid for the house or mobility that could make their life easier and they struggled to realise how much a wheelchair or mobility scooter can open up your life when many avenues have been closed to you or are incredibly difficult for both yourself and your family and friends. At the same time I do understand their view as my RA started at 22 and its incredibly hard to accept help when you're young with a mostly invisible condition. Now at 73 I use either a motability car with a blue badge and walk a tiny bit or use a mobility scooter and this means I can get out and about a fair bit.

[Deeb1764]

I think it’s a lovely article as it’s her take on her RA. My hubby and I had a conversation about wheelchairs a few weeks back and I said to him” I would prefer to be in a chair and out and about instead of confined to home or exhausted by the use of crutches.

[Bookworm55 in reply to Deeb1764]

Yes I think I would too tbh.

[medway-lady]

Well I don't need one but going abroad and being technically disabled I registered now for assistance at the airport. For CKD not RA ! so if it means as it does queue jumping by sitting in a wheelchair for a few minutes then great. I only have done this as got caught in a long queue in Cypress in sunshine for hours without a drink. I asked for help to get fluid and Tui were very unhelpful so was told register for assistance and thats what I've done for USA in April. I had horrific blood loss caused by the delay and it was not good. It made me quite ill.

[Bookworm55 in reply to medway-lady]

I think you’re very sensible. My sister’s mother in law was very sprightly but did have a potentially serious heart condition for many years and always registered for assistance when travelling .

[Connie49]

Such a timely article for me. I actually took my first (reluctant) look at powered wheelchairs yesterday!

[ABwn]

Thank you for sharing. It's a very positive and interesting article.

[Happy5]

Thanks for the article. Agree never rule anything out regarding mobility. Difficult with this condition as it varies how you feel day to day. I go from barely walking to being able to walk some what with a stick or rollators.

Onwards and upwards eh?

[Numptybrain]

I’ve just had my old manual wheelchair renewed by nhs. My new one is perfect has straps at the back that can be pulled in so my spine is better supported ( that’s what’s affected most) . I also use a rollator and a mobility scooter for when I go out for longer periods of time. I’ve been using a wheelchair since 2016 but do use a rollator when I can for small walks. I had a brain hemmoraghe so it weakened my legs and arms plus I have spinal OA osteoporosis and RA mucky mixture. I’d be totally housebound without my aids.

Take care

Wendy xx

[katieoxo60]

Thank you Bookworm 55 for the link about migrating to a wheelchair . Its much easier I have to say but still has its limitations considering how many years access rules have been in force. It also can in some cases still limit the persons independence . In my case I need someone to push me , someone to take the wheelchair down the five steps at home and up and down steps when out. But its easier than being out of breath , in pain and coughing because I can't get enough breathe.