The transition phase when you are trying to adjust to a new life owing to disability can be painful; however, it is not impossible. Many have done so, and many more are sure to do so. Living a near to normal life as much as possible with a disability and requires a lot of patience and perseverance. However, hats off to the ones that live better than many that are devoid of any disability.

In this article, let us focus on the following aspects related to disability so that you can get a better insight into the subject. The sub-topics will highlight:

1. Fast facts about disability 

2. Adjusting to the new life for a healthy living

Let us take one sub-topic at a time. 

Check out the fast facts that are mentioned in the points below-

➢ About 15% of the world’s population lives with some form of disability or the other (as of November 2017). Disability is regarded as a "human rights issue." It is said that individuals, aside from being disabled by the body, are also "disabled by society." Reports by WHO and World Bank imply the same.

➢ Individuals suffering from disability usually do not receive adequate health care. It is either due to the fact that they cannot afford the necessary healthcare or the area where they reside does not offer adequate amenities for the same.

➢ Education completion gaps are usually reported in all age groups and all kinds of household setups.

➢ As per data that is obtained on a global basis, it is seen that rate of employment for men with disabilities is lower (approximately 52%) as compared to women with a disability that was found to be around 21%.

➢ Americans with Disabilities: 2010, the report suggests the status of individuals with disabilities, whether or not there has been an increase in the rate of people with disabilities and type of disability.

➢ The report revealed that people belonging to the age group 80 and above were susceptible to developing disability by eight times more than people belonging to other ages

➢ As far as types of disabilities are concerned, few were blind, few had difficulty hearing and have to use hearing aids. Aside from that, a majority of the people in this category were confined to wheelchairs and found it difficult to carry out their normal daily activities like climbing stairs and walking. 

Despite the above scenario, the various healthcare service providers available these days have made life simpler for the disabled. More and more people are banking upon the innumerable resources for the disabled available these days. 

Having said about a few facts, let us take a look at how you can adjust to the new life in the second point of the article. 

 What you can do to adopt well to your new life. Follow these tips so that the process of transition is hassle-free and smooth.

➢ Come to terms-The sooner you accept the change, the better it is. Emotionally, it can be challenging. But you must be relieved that you are breathing and you are not the only one in this state.

➢ Utilize resources galore- The fact that some many resources and aids can help you to lead a nearly normal life has made survival easier. Most importantly, these aids or tools also allow you to perform your daily tasks to a great extent, like before. At least, you know you do not have to be confined to one place for the rest of your life. As far as wheelchairs are concerned, you have the option to choose from a wide array of designs and styles to suit your needs.  

➢ Be realistic in your approach- No matter what, you have to accept your limitations now. Pacifying yourself will not help. You have to face it. Always think that there are people who are in the worst condition than you are in. Follow the instruction by your primary healthcare provider. It will help you to feel and get better sooner.

➢ Join a support group – You will come across many such support groups that develop disability awareness among all. Most importantly, the awareness that has to be developed is not just involving the one that is disabled, but the ones he has to deal with in his daily life. He must not find it difficult to connect with friends that once used to be great buddies. 

People in such groups are a great source of confidence and will boost your morale since these are basically forums where you can share your queries, woes, and agonies with several people that are in this state. 

Remember, sharing your problems does not lower your self-esteem; it only helps you to seek help and improve your life. 

➢ Protect yourself- Some laws protect the rights of people with disability. You have to be your own advocate. If you are not confident enough, you can seek the assistance of a legal professional that can help you to understand the rules and norms.

➢ Offer help – Just because you require aid in the form of a wheelchair or a hearing aid does not mean you are of no use anymore. Offer help whenever possible and if it suits your schedule.

In this regard, being a volunteer for any program or function can help you to make a valuable contribution. You can also develop new hobbies and meet new friends over the forum and support groups. 

You still be of immense help to society and most importantly, your loved ones at home. After all, your loved ones at home must feel lucky to have you around, a rare privilege that not too many people get to enjoy, spending valuable time with near ones at home, since life these days has become so mechanical, and people hardly find time to connect with one another.