Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Staying Positive During COVID-19

In recent months, COVID-19 has made life challenging. However, the virus has also given us a few opportunities. We have learned how to use technology in new ways, making life easier for people with disabilities and able-bodied people alike. It also seems like people are spending more time outside, and on simpler pleasures.
The Corona virus will change the way that we think about ourselves, each other, and the world around us. To help you through these trying times, here are some positive outcomes that have occurred, in spite of COVID-19.
The pandemic is changing how we deliver healthcare
Now, Medicare allows providers to bill for telemedicine. By using programs such as Skype, Facetime, and email, more people have easy access to these services. Telemedicine will allow wheelchair to meet with their medical teams from the comfort of their homes, and will cut down on their transportation costs.
There is an increased understanding of health and safety
Now more than ever, we understand the importance of practicing good hygiene skills. By properly washing and sanitizing ourselves, our wheelchairs, and medical devices, we will stay healthier, and prevent the spread of viruses and germs.

We have an opportunity to save money
The internet makes shopping more accessible for people with disabilities because it can be done from home, which also allows you to practice social distancing.

Less travel time means more family time

Since we can’t spend as much time traveling, we don’t have to rush to as many appointments. That means we can spend less time coordinating accessible transportation, which can be a pain if you don’t have your own accessible vehicle. As a result, you’ll have more time to spend with your family or social distancing partners.

We have a new appreciation for our loved ones.

If accessible transportation is an issue, apps like Zoom, Facetime, and Skype, have made it easy to connect with our loved ones. Even after quarantine is over, these apps can be a great way for wheelchair users to stay connected with their families and friends.


Public parks are a safe and accessible way to enjoy the outdoors.

There are a variety of public parks that offer accessible nature trails. If you’re feeling cooped up in your home, these parks usually have plenty of space, giving you the opportunity to get out of the house while practicing social distancing.

Let’s get creative with our cooking

For wheelchair users, restaurants may be difficult to get around. By practicing social distancing and cooking ourselves, we can eat healthier and save money, all from the comfort of our own homes. 

Organize and prioritize

Social distancing gives us the opportunity to do things that we’ve always wanted or needed to do, but never had time for. If it’s been difficult to find time for reading, writing, cleaning, or completing a DIY project, now’s the perfect opportunity! You can take this time to repair things that have been on your to-do list, or make your home more accessible.
Remote working may make life easier
For wheelchair users, the ability to work from home may be more accessible than going into the office. Without the cost of driving or ride sharing, you’ll also save money on gas.

While rather short, we hope that this list can help you to stay active and positive during the COVID-19 pandemic. With some creative thinking, you can use this time to accomplish your goals from the comfort of your own home. Stay safe, stay positive, and above all else, keep up the great work!

References:

Authors:
Mary Carol Peterson














Kyle Romano














Edited by:
Kyle Romano

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