Disabled Brits: What piece of kit changed your life?
Posted by Transasaurus-Hex@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 138 comments
So, I'm largely now accepting that I'm disabled, after an industrial accident left me without the use of my hand and my leg. So, going through OT and stuff now, but I was asked what equipment I would need. And I didn't know there was anything to help until I started looking.
So I thought: What did other people get that geniunely changed their lives?
Remarkable-Drop8818@reddit
Benefits
luffychan13@reddit
If you can get them lol. I've been denied twice now.
Red-Peril@reddit
The DWP actually offer a service where a support worker will come out and help you fill out the forms. Apparently (I’ve heard anecdotally from quite a few people in a benefits group I’m part of) the success rate is much higher with this support because they understand the system and know what you need to say and how to say it, so maybe worth trying it?
I do understand that you might not want to put yourself through this again, as I know from first hand experience how exhausting and demoralising the process is, but just thought it might be useful information for you and anyone else who might be thinking of applying.
Link is here for anyone interested:
https://www.gov.uk/support-visit-benefit-claim
marknotgeorge@reddit
I think this should be the default for everyone. Someone that knows the system who visits you to make sure you get what you need, and only what you need. Done right, it should cut down on fraud without demonising people.
NorthAstronaut@reddit
I feel like it would not work like that in practice though. It would turn into, "What can I write in my report to knock off as many points as possible." And pressure from management to be as strict as possible.
jelly10001@reddit
Citizens Advice can also help with applying for benefits.
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
I'm geniunely surprised I didn't have to appeal. The interviewer made it sound like having one hand was fine. Wouldn't be so bad if they were nice people!
feckarse-drinkgirls@reddit
The people crapita hire to the assessments have room temperature IQ
nonotthereta@reddit
God, yes, getting PIP was a (literal) life saver in terms of introducing some quality of life.
Latte-Addict@reddit
I'm currently going through the PIP process (for hearing loss) waiting for this external company 'Maximus' to handle my claim & get back in touch with an assessment date....been six weeks since the txt, guess this is normal?
nonotthereta@reddit
It's all a bit of a blur to me now and I ought to have kept a proper timeline. I've had a quick look through my emails and texts and think it was a couple of months after submitting the application for them to contact me with an assessment date, which was a couple of weeks from then.
This was a few years ago now and the wait times will have shifted a bit. You could always give them a ring and double check you haven't fallen through any cracks if you wanted to. But long waits are fairly normal.
Latte-Addict@reddit
Ok thanks, looks like the waiting times have increased quite a bit. Filled in my first form back in December, last txt I got off Maximus was at the end of March, I would have contacted them but their txt says there's no need. I'll try to wait it out a bit more :)
nonotthereta@reddit
Ok, good luck with the application.
Latte-Addict@reddit
Thank you :)
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
Yeah, wish they weren't so difficult. I have only one functioning leg and have to use a walking stick to even stand, but only get basic mobility.
TheGreenPangolin@reddit
Appeal, or if it's too late for appeal, go through the thing of telling them your disability is worse.
You need to be able to do things safely and without pain, reliably/repeatedly and in a reasonable time (so not taking twice as long as an able bodied person). So if you can't do that, say "no I can't do that without pain" and when they ask how you manage, you manage by being in significant amounts of pain.
NeilDeWheel@reddit
I learnt from mistakes filling out the forms for my benefits. When asked what I could do I always put the best answer, if I was asked could I do go shopping I would put ‘Yes, if I need to get something off a high shelf I can ask someone’. This made it seem I as more able bodied than I was. When you fill out your benefit forms think of your worst day ever and fill out the answers that way.
Do you have trouble walking without help or without pain ? If so when a question asks can you walk x distance the answer is ‘No’. Then explain you are in pain and it’s not possible for you to walk that distance. Same as cooking yourself a meal. If you need any help at all, eg lifting a pan of boiling potatoes, then the answer is ‘no’ you cannot make a meal by yourself.
It is a downer to have to fill out the forms like that but if you soldier on and tell the benefits people that’s it’s very hard but you can do something they will think ‘oh, he’s not that bad off’
nonotthereta@reddit
Yep. It took me 18 months and a tribunal to get what I was eligible for. It's a wretched, damaging system that makes ill people iller through the applications process.
Etheria_system@reddit
Absolutely this. PIP allowed me to finally quit working. I was quite literally working myself to death, my symptoms getting worse and worse, as I knew I had no safety net (no partner, no family). I should have stopped working about 6 years before I actually did. I made my health so much worse. Even though PIP isn’t an out of work benefit, finally getting PIP meant I knew getting ESA would happen and I could focus on looking after myself.
I feel deeply worried for disabled people moving forward. Government policy around benefits is not working in our favour. They’ve already slash benefits in half for new claimants and are planning on not letting you claim incapacity benefits if you’re under 22. Benefits are already not enough, slashing them in half is only going to make people sicker. Same as making it so hard to get PIP did (a benefit with a 0.1% fraud rate)
Mandolele@reddit
I'm on a load of meds, and have a rotating dispenser that I load up, press the button on the top and the mornings pills pop out. This is the one I have , but there's loads of similar ones.
It means I only need to worry about getting the pills organised once a week (or having someone else do it, if I'm not in a fit state), but loads of pill organisers do that. The main benefit of this style for me is that pressing the button and the clunk noise and the pills falling into the container is fun. Adding a little bit of joy is always worth it.
Bellebaby97@reddit
Disability Sport, find something and do it, it will improve your life in ways you couldn't possibly have imagined. We all need community and disability sport is it
Imtryingforheckssake@reddit
The long high quality grabbers (because I'm tall).
Bath seat board (because I don't have a separate shower).
Rollator walker, so I can still get some shopping done but sit down whenever I need to.
Good quality but lighter weight stainless steel pans. I can't deal with lifting anything too heavy these days.
TheLightStalker@reddit
Saved up for a specific electric wheelchair and my god it was so worth it. Even on an awful day I just have to move my finger to get about.
Holli303@reddit
Perhaps I'm in the wrong place for this comment because my disability was almost entirely my own fault. I was severely overweight and found out I have a coconut-sized gallstone. I joined a gym which offered chair-based exercise classes, aqua aerobics and swimming. I couldn't fit in my car, I couldn't walk for more than a couple of minutes, and I needed to lose weight to be safe for surgery.
I joined in my gym in May last year. Slowly progressed to lifting weights and group fitness classes. I've gone from 253 lbs to under 140 since then. I still need to have my gallbladder removed, but I don't consider myself disabled anymore. In fact, I'm training for my gym instructor qualification now. I want to focus on strength and conditioning for elderly and disabled people. Everyone deserves to have access to safe fitness within their ability.
ALCATryan@reddit
You’ve done spectacularly well for yourself! Good job!
Holli303@reddit
Thank you! Found some old jeans. I can fit in one leg of them now. I just want to give that back to other people who wat to increase their mobility and be healthier now. I've still got a way to go, but I've found my passion. It's hard work, but it DOES pay off. We all have our limitations. It's finding our limit that's important. Meditation, yoga, swimming, weights, cardio. Name it. It soothes the soul. Our only competition is with ourselves.🥰
starsandshards@reddit
I need you in my life!
Holli303@reddit
I really thought I might catch some hate for this post. Thank you. As soon as I'm formally trained, I'll be here. Until then, I'm just going to keep working hard to really learn how to help people improve their fitness, no matter where they're coming from or what their goals are. Thank you again.🥰
starsandshards@reddit
If anyone gives you hate for this then they're a pleb. You've done amazingly and what you want to continue doing is also amazing. I'm disabled and find exercise very difficult, plus ME means I suffer with post-exertional malaise. I'm just piling the weight on and getting down about it. If I had somewhere to go with people like me AND people like you to guide us, that would be the dream 😍 I wish you all the luck in your endeavours!
Holli303@reddit
Thank you, lovely! ME makes everything so much harder, never had to deal with it myself but my ex's mum had to deal with it. There are some fantastic chair-based exercises you can do with resistance bands and weights that could really help you. I have no idea what your mobility is from the other side of a screen, but if you do a little research, there are plenty of options available on YouTube. If you prefer in-person training, some instructors specialise in this field, both in group fitness and one-to-one. It's well worth looking into. I know that ME makes it hard to stick to a strict fitness schedule, so maybe speak to a few gyms and explain your situation. There are so many options out there! Just start small and find the things you love to help keep you motivated. If you need more help, I'll be happy to do what I can!☺️
Isgortio@reddit
I think having been at the stage you were at, and being able to get to where you are now, you'll have a much better insight into the struggles that your clients will have. You'll have a more niche market that you can tap into, and that's great! One of the things that bothered my mum (also 5ft and weighed about 224lbs) is she'd be excited to go to the gym with these trainers provided by the gym but they'd not really tailor things for her, so she has arthritis in lots of areas and they'd keep trying to get her to do things she was in too much pain to do, so she'd give up quickly.
Holli303@reddit
I'm so sorry she had that experience! Instructors should be there to push you and keep you motivated, not to hurt you! There are always ways of tailoring a movement to make it lower-impact while engaging the same muscle groups. This is so important for people with joint pain or arthritis.
I couldn't have got anywhere close to where I am today without my instructors. Many of them have become genuine friends. It was one of my instructors who encouraged me to start working in fitness.
Has she tried anything like aqua aerobics? It's brilliant resistance training for anyone with joint pain and it's also great fun!
Isgortio@reddit
I don't think your edit is directed towards me as I don't have ME, and neither does my mum lol.
My mum has wanted to try aqua aerobics but she's so self conscious she thinks everyone else there will be skinny young women that will laugh at her. No matter how many times I tell her it's usually older, rounder women that do it!
Holli303@reddit
Damn. I'm so tired today, I clearly can't read anymore. I did Body Pump this morning at 7 am, then tabata, step and pilates tonight from 6-9 pm. Tuesdays are a heavy one for me.
I promise you, aqua is usually populated by people who need low-impact exercise. The older ladies at my gym all go, and they're the naughtiest class of the lot of them! So much fun! Nobody cares about anything but their own workout and being friendly...and unabashedly flirting with the instructor😂
She could always go and watch a class if the gym allows it. Most people at the gym are only in competition with themselves. It's superb for people who are recovering from surgery or childbirth too. I would highly recommend checking it out. I was a XXXL when I first joined. Nobody cares what you look like. Anyone who's worth your time will support and encourage you. Your mum, in this case. I hope you can get her on baord to have a look!
LadyBeanBag@reddit
My dad is physically disabled and has recently been doing hydrotherapy. OP if you see this, I can say that out of all the various PT stuff my dad has had over the years this has been the most effective. He’s found a local pool with accessible access (he can’t use ladders because of his hands and lack of sternum lol) and he says it’s made it easier to move about and helped the nerve pain in his back pain too.
Holli303@reddit
Any kind of water-based movement is SO good for you! You can do resistance training and cardio without causing damage to joints. It's superb for building bone density and muscle mass. It also gives you a lot of control over the intensity. This is a brilliant move! So pleased he's found a fitness plan that works for him!
Ill-Appointment6494@reddit
Amazing work. Well done.
Holli303@reddit
Thank you, lovely!
Amonette2012@reddit
Wow!!!!
Holli303@reddit
Thank you!🙏
Nashella@reddit
What an excellent recovery story. Good luck for the qualification, you got this!
Holli303@reddit
Thank you! Someone called me a whale at the first gym I went to. I never went back. Thankfully, all I've received at my current gym is support and encouragement. It's completely changed my life. I just feel utterly grateful for the wonderful people who have helped me get this far. Every kind word matters. So, thank you again x
JS_AH@reddit
Alexa linked to lightbulbs, curtain openers and smart socks, to limit bending, stretching and awkward access points.
nathderbyshire@reddit
I wouldn't recommend Alexa or any cloud based system now though. IKEA is very affordable for smart home tech and the devices run locally. If your internet goes down, the physical switches you can buy will still work and you aren't tied to any cloud features.
The most expensive item is their hub, but as the devices are matter over thread based, they can be paired to any hub like a Google or apple TV speaker or streamer and controlled through the phones software while still being local based.
Sad_Introduction8995@reddit
I am reading avidly as I have just started supporting someone with macular degeneration.
baileylikethedrink@reddit
Speaking on behalf of a family member - a blue badge. They can’t walk far so knowing they can park near lifts, attractions and entrances is game changing for them.
sporops@reddit
Not quite the same but I install ceiling track hoists for disabled people and the difference it must make is huge.
Installed one the other day, chap could actually walk (walking sling) himself to the bathroom, from his bedroom and take a leak standing up, said he’d never done it in 30 years.
TheDuraMaters@reddit
Another "I'm not the disabled person" comment but I work in the NHS and lots of my patients are telling me how much they love the slip-in Sketchers.
MillyMcMophead@reddit
My mum who has severe arthritis and can't bend to put her own shoes on loves her slip-ins, they're brilliant!
MoonShineWashingLine@reddit
You may already have one but I just bought a dishwasher as I stuggle to do 4 people's dishes every day now. It's been great so far. Next on my list is a roomba but for now I use one of those small hand held hoovers until my partner can tackle it properly.
Also wouldn't be with my hearing aids or my artificial lens (I have early onset cataracts, one eye done!).
V8boyo@reddit
I'm not disabled but a good mate is blind and says those rayban meta glasses are fantastic. There are a lot of apps that make them great for blind people like reading ingredients on cans in the supermarket.
PresentationCalm8506@reddit
Definitely blue badge, it goes with you, not the car, so perfect if someone else drives you, and generally free parking in hospital car parks
GlitchingGecko@reddit
Hook Helper with Zipper Pull - helps you do up shirts and zip clothing with one hand.
Nelson Knife - Knife with fork prongs on the end for one handed eating.
Elastic No Tie Laces - Turns regular laced shoes into slip ons.
Oxo Good Grips - Originally made for people with disabilities to make cooking easier. Lot of things in their selection that may help.
IHateTheLetter-C-@reddit
I'm not disabled but I love #3, would suggest it to anyone! They look just like standard ones if you tie them but you don't have to undo them, and they stay tied.
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
Thank you!
Reddit____user___@reddit
The white painted metal right angle thingy that goes under my mattress and sticks up at 90 degrees to the bed for me to grab to assist myself to a seated position.
It’s worth it’s weight in gold.
I literally wouldn’t be able to get out of bed without it.
ByEthanFox@reddit
Not disabled, but helped someone once with this. Years ago I worked for a videogames retailer and had a customer who lost use of their hand in a car accident.
I was able to hook them up with an Ascii one-handed Playstation controller, which were specifically designed for one-handed use, and they were over the moon (they were starting to think they might have to stop with console videogames).
These days there are various videogame controllers designed for people with one usable hand (or less!).
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
Ooh nice, I'll have to look! My gaming habits did a real 180 because of it; it'll be nice to play a game like Dark Souls again.
Thank you! :3
Etheria_system@reddit
Have a look at r/disabledgamers
LichenTheMood@reddit
You know if you have the pokemon nostalgia the let's go pikachu and eevee games are able to be played with one joycon without any issues. Though it does rely on the motion controls for throwing balls which is a bit annoying.
fiofo@reddit
I have one of those! I inherited it from my grandad because he had arthritis in his hands and couldn't use the regular controller.
silentv0ices@reddit
A higher also known as comfort level toilet.
Etheria_system@reddit
Yes! I have a toilet frame that’s super higher and it’s amazing
Etheria_system@reddit
My powerchair (had to raise £20k for it, will always be grateful), my rollator (for inside the house as I’m ambulatory and still try to walk a bit when I can). Custom fit neck brace, wrist brace, body brace, spine brace.
And they’re not really a piece of kit per se but paid carers. I was so ashamed of needing them at first. Now I couldn’t cope without them
CoffeeIgnoramus@reddit
I'm not disabled but had a family member who lost the use of one arm/hand. Not sure if this is what you're eluding to, but we found things like the small kitchen gadgets were super helpful, like the one handed (electric) can openers and jar openers were great. Steering nob installed professionally with indicator buttons on the car (this was in a different European country, so not sure if that's allowed in the UK).
No-Jicama-6523@reddit
Ooh, this reminds me of the best jar/bottle opener I’ve ever used and it’s also one handed…
https://amzn.eu/d/0axv7sYd
I don’t have this exact one, it screws underneath a cabinet, I’d never actually noticed it’s fundamentally one handed. Does a huge range of sizes. As long as you can hold and rotate the jar/bottle, but not even with as much strength as is often required for the hand holding the jar whilst using another tool. Honestly, it’s brilliant. I don’t even bother trying not to use it.
Isgortio@reddit
That looks fantastic! I'm fully able but I'm a short woman with small hands, some jars I just cannot grip the entire lid with my hand so I can't easily rotate it. Ordering one now :D thanks!
CoffeeIgnoramus@reddit
We bought this type:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chulovs-Electric-Opener-Kitchen-Automatic/dp/B0BYYRD765?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&smid=A2PSMYGQYP6RH3&th=1
It seemed to work well, but was only used for a few years but great if grip strength isn't good.
Yours looks like it could last a while though!
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
I was looking at a steering knob, actually. Never even considered an electric can opener, I shall have a look. Thank you!
CoffeeIgnoramus@reddit
Can opener (this brand was what she had and actually, I bought one too): https://www.argos.co.uk/product/7553684?deeplink=true&utm_custom6=PLA
Sorry, can't find the knob she had, but an automatic car and the nob with buttons worked well, she drove like that for over 30 years.
yazshousefortea@reddit
Lots of things you can do one handed like open toothpaste with the aid of your teeth or by putting the tube between your knees.
Eventually though you may just wish to buy automatic toothpaste and soap dispensers!
It was the little things I struggled with one handed, like pouring cereal, which would end up all over the table instead of in the bowl. A scooper put in the cereal box or tub of rice etc would be a great solution.
A page holder that you put on your thumb and it presses the page down can help you hold a book open. (For the times you want a read a book that doesn’t have a digital version!)
confuzzledfather@reddit
A wheelchair. Lot's of people recoil at the idea of using one, but that can be transformative to your mobility if you struggle on your feet.
Also if you have trouble walking far, things like the Hypershell Exoskeleton can massively increase your stamina.
Impressive_Pack5554@reddit
Therapy, a stool to sit on to cook and clean, bath chair, scrubby brush to help you clean yourself
mrbadger2000@reddit
Sock putting on thingy. Never thought it would work. It does.
SerendipitousCrow@reddit
Sock aid! I love to recommend a sock aid and people don't give them a fair chance because they think they're a faff
eastkent@reddit
I bought one of those! My knees appear to be made of elastic bands now and any slight disturbance to them, like throwing one leg over the other to put a sock on, can result in a mighty clunk and then stiffness and pain for a week or two. Being able to put socks on while my leg is virtually straight has been quite good.
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
This is actually the item that triggered this entire topic of conversation, I have real trouble getting socks on with only one functional hand!
VxDeva80@reddit
I'd come here to say the same thing. Such a cheap bit of equipment, but makes my mums life so much easier.
ChanceHovercraft1754@reddit
I can't give a changed my life piece.
But a lot of people overlook at lot of gadgets and stuff as "not worth the effort"
Think slapchop, automatic jar openers etc
Coming at those with an open mind of "will this help me now" rather than "these used to be gimmicks" that has been what really helped some people around me.
wildeaboutoscar@reddit
See also pre chopped fruit and vegetables. A lot of people think it's for lazy people but they're actually really useful if you struggle to use a knife properly. Just a shame they're usually more expensive.
ElBisonBonasus@reddit
Do you need suggestions for your disability or in general, for any disability?
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
Both, I suppose. Also just nice to hear positive stories.
ElBisonBonasus@reddit
Having ADHD, noise cancelling headphones are really great. I also found electronic/house music that has no lyrics and listen to that on a low enough volume to cancel out office noise.
It was a workplace reasonable adjustment as well, so I don't have to pay for it.
I just feel guilty for using it at work, probably should work on that.
wildeaboutoscar@reddit
I use loops for a similar reason and it makes such a difference.
BoltersnRivets@reddit
give the chill house genre a listen, I often find I stick Capital Chill on in the background
ElBisonBonasus@reddit
I will give it a go.
This is the one I like https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7aRwBUvvLHXXeICc4NiOhp?si=Rxf20uIWSR-V9msU2atC6A
Sivear@reddit
Tricky question isn’t it as audio description software for someone who is visually impaired isn’t going to offer the greatest benefit to someone who is a wheelchair user.
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
Honestly, I'm very much in the "I can't hear without my subtitles" phase, now! lmao
ElBisonBonasus@reddit
That's not a you issue though. That's a general issue with audio mixing in the past 10-15 years.
Even with proper sound system people struggle to hear what the actors are saying.
AcidHouseMouse@reddit
Alexa helped a fair bit for switching stuff on and off when I struggle to get out of bed. Most of my plug sockets and light bulbs are Alexa controlled now.
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
I'm always worried about the privacy aspect; especially with Amazon. Ya know?
LichenTheMood@reddit
You can end run around alexa. The hue bulbs for instance link via an app on your phone.
Basically turns your phone into a remote control for your lights. Admittedly it works best if you live alone or with people content to reach for their phone instead of the lightswitch. If you live with others then alexa can be an easier sell for day to day use.
It wouldn't be the first time folks trading privacy for convenience turned into disabled people trading privacy for dignity.
AcidHouseMouse@reddit
Totally understand. Its been a game changer for me but if I had the choice I’d rather not be listened in on by an Amazon machine.
Anxious_wank@reddit
Alexa/home assistant is great, massively helped someone I know who couldn't feel with their hands anymore, or apply the right pressure/angle to switches etc.
EmmaInFrance@reddit
I have a smart plug for my living room lamps, as the socket is difficult to access, and smart bulbs in the living room too.
It's a small thing but it takes away a tiny bit of pressure, all day, everyday.
NeilDeWheel@reddit
A bloody good solicitor to get the max compensation I could get.
After I was put in a wheelchair by a driver knocking me off my motorcycle I initially went with my bike insurance solicitors. It was only after I changed solicitors did I realise the one I went with first was totally crap and I would have missed out if I would have stayed with them.
Getting compensation can make a huge difference as it will allow you to make the adaptions you need to live your life to the fullest. Be that adaptions to your house, an adapted car, a good quality wheelchair for when you’re having a bad day, counselling, any extra costs when you go on holiday. There are loads of things that compensation can help with.
If you need a recommendation of a great solicitors then DM me.
AnomalyBadger@reddit
Hypershell exo skeleton- it helped sort my walking gait out and allowed me to do more than I previously could.
EmmaInFrance@reddit
I'm late diagnosed AuDHD with PDA, in my 50s and I also have sciatica which, most of the time, isn't too bad to live with but I had a disc that was trapping a nerve a year or two ago and I need to use a stick (a hiking stick from Decathlon) to walk more than a few steps.
So... giving myself permission to be disabled and not feeling guilty about resting and not being productive has been one of the most important things that I've had to learn.
That's not a piece of kit but, before I learnt that, I couldn't buy the things that help me!
Trying out and continuing to use a bullet journal to manage my life and make lists has been absolutely lifechanging when it comes to my ADHD but also the autistic rumination regarding everything that needs doing, as I can just write it all down and not have to constantly worry that I've not forgotten anything.
I saw something online about it back in 2017, maybe even just before my ADHD was actually diagnosed, although I was already self-diagnosed? It was described as being a system that was very adaptable and very successful for people with ADHD, so I decided to give it a try.
I started very simply, with a €2 lined notebook and a biro, although there was already plenty of people creating fancy, decorative bullet journals.
Once I filled that notebook, with my, and my kids', monthly appointments, plus to-do lists, and pages for my craft projects, I bought my first 'posh' Leuchtturm1917 A5 dotted grid notebook, with an essential penholder, so I can always use ut wherever I go. I'm now on my third.
They're not cheap but they last a long time and the thinner, high quality paper means that it stays less bulky.
I have adapted how I use it to suit my needs, over the years, and I've had periods where I've used stamps, stickers and washi tape, and times, like now, when I keep things very simple and basic.
I have always been someone who never got past the 2nd of January in classic diaries or planners. I was really shocked by how well it worked.
I have had several periods of severe insomnia, and autistic rumination can still make it extremely difficult to get to sleep.
Two things have helped there: a friend bought me a weighted blanket and, again, with a 'what have I got to lose?' attitude, I tried a free white noise app on my phone.
I had the best night's sleep for years.
Very quickly, I tried the other tyoes of noise offered and I found out that pink noise works best for me and it stops the 'freight train in my head' rumination on that day's events and what I had to do tomorrow.
A few months later, I read a Guardian article about research that showed that pink and brown noise are often far more effective for ND people :-)
As others have said, smart plugs and bulbs, plus using Alexa to help with lots of little things. I now have an Alexa skill and command that plays pink noise too.
Loops earplugs and buying my AuDHD kids noise cancelling headphones to use at home, so I don't have to listen to tinny phone music, or when they were younger, StampyLongNose videos!
An airfryer! Yes, I know everyone raves about them.
But as someone who struggles to cook and to eat, it has really made a huge difference to me.
A few different stim toys - again, I had to give myself permission to buy them as they're seen as kids stuff.
Stim jewellery as fidgets, both specifically designed for that purpose - I have a discreet silver ADHD ring with little balls threaded on it - and traditional jewellery, with my favourite being a large malachite pendant that acts as a wearable worry stone. And my mum bought us all semi precious stone round bead bracelets for Christmas - they've turned out to be excellent fidget toys!
Things like buying two of certain things, so I have one upstairs and one downstairs, because if I have to go up/downstairs to get something, that adds an extra cognitive load and it just won't happen.
And buying several pairs of scissors so that I can always find at least one pair.
My tumble dryer and dishwasher are extremely important, for similar reasons.
I need glasses with progressive lenses, so I own a magnifying headset for close craft work - shout out to the mini painters!
A pilates cushion that I use on the sofa to both support my back, and because the bobbles help with sensory overwhelm.
A stylus for my phone because touch screens cause pain in my fingers.
Lots of little things, as I said, most of which have become so integrated into my daily life that it's hard to remember them!
But I wouldn't have most of them if I hadn't given myself that permission to send money on myself and my needs, rather than just trying to carry on without them because other people manage without, so I should to.
Additional-Guard-211@reddit
Through “Access to Work” i have Nuance Dragon Professional dictation software. Mine is because of my dyslexia but for you, if you wanted a job with typing this would be a game changer. Its in a different league to the standard Microsoft or apple dictation because it learns the users voice, learns new words, and can teach it commends, like open a certain app, click send email, etc. All paid for by DWP and my a small bit by my employer.
fourlegsfaster@reddit
I'm interested that OT haven't visited your home, perhaps it varies according to NHS trusts. When my partner started to lose mobility, we were visited, and although we had thought of some needs, others we hadn't. he was offered and took a perching stool so that he could clean teeth and shave at the bathroom sink, and when I said it was great, and we would use it for him to eat at the table (he had difficulty rising from lower seats, they gave us another, so I didn't have to shift it up and down stairs. I'm writing give, but all moveable equipment is on loan.
I cheekily asked for a key safe, in case I forgot my keys and he had difficulty getting to the door. The OTs put it on the list, they knew the future, because we needed carers to come once he was bedbound, and now I am by myself, I don't have to worry about keys. So a small blessing for me when my life was changed by bereavement, not disability.
feckarse-drinkgirls@reddit
Tourette's syndrome: driving license
I can actually go places now without having to worry im going to get shouted at/ threatened/ attacked on the bus because of my tics
MingePies@reddit
Just want to say fantastic username given the condition. Bravo.
feckarse-drinkgirls@reddit
Replace the words with whatever racial slurs you can think of and you'll have the bulk of my vocal tics
LichenTheMood@reddit
Hospital style bed bath wipes (not typicwl baby wipes) and no rinse shampoo are incredibly useful for days when showering is just too fucking difficult
pinkdaisylemon@reddit
Where can you buy these wipes?
LichenTheMood@reddit
Amazon has them, there are probably other places too
starsandshards@reddit
Fresh Wipes are pretty good!
CrazyPlatypusLady@reddit
These are incredible.
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
My husband just pointed these out to me today, actually! Days (Like today) I know exactly what you mean.
LichenTheMood@reddit
you can microwave most of them to warm them up
The only downside really is that they don't exfoliate. Like at all, which is lame
Timely_Egg_6827@reddit
Not a disability aid but if you can rinse then soap impregnated sponges make life easier as no hassling with lids and bottles. Shampoo bars too. The camping style wet wipes are good though. The microwaving sounds great. You can dip in warm water too.
Red-Peril@reddit
Random list in no particular order.
Loo frame to help you get on and off the loo (I have the one without the raised seat but those are good too, I’ve heard), my electric wheelchair (so much more independence than having someone pushing me, plus I get to talk to them as they can walk next to me as opposed to having a conversation with the top of my head), although don’t underestimate the sheer lack of awareness of most pedestrians, especially as you’re now lower than head height. Electric can opener, button hook to help with clothes buttons, a sock thing that helps you put your socks on (sorry, can’t remember what it’s called), my Kindle (books are HEAVY), a bath/shower seat, a jar opener, a hot water dispenser so you don’t have to lift a kettle, tap handle things that make crappy rented house taps easier to turn (not that I’m bitter 😂), pump bottles for shampoo, soap, body wash etc so you don’t have to squeeze things, water wipes for intimate cleaning and those adult wipes for the rest of your body on days when you just can’t. I find the body wipes are a little harsh on my lady bits, the water wipes are better for me personally although ymmv.
Dry shampoo. Energy gels in your car and handbag for when you’re out and about and suddenly your energy levels just drain out of your feet - they’re not great to rely on as they can make you push yourself too far but when you just need that extra oomph to get you home so you can collapse in safety, they can be life savers. Hair towel wraps so you don’t have to manhandle an entire towel round your hair when you wash it, one of those long handled litter picker things so you can pick up stuff you’ve dropped without having to always ask someone else to do it or fall over when you’re out and try to do it yourself (not that I’d know about that🤭).
Can’t think of anything else of the top of my head, hope at least some of this is useful, OP, sorry you’ve found yourself in the position of needing this advice. Hope you’re doing as well as possible given your new circumstances.
ddmf@reddit
A huge amount of my issues stem from being too cold - can't afford to have the heating up really high so bought a far infra red sauna, costs about 25p for 30 mins at 55c and keeps my hands from freezing up for a couple of days.
BestInFife@reddit
If you're interested in going to the gym but unsure if you'd be able to hold dumbbells or grip onto machines, I would recommendthe General Purpose Gripping Aid by Active Hands. I believe they are a UK company, the product is a bit pricey yet you will get so much use out of it. Essentially you put your hand round a dumbbell, for example, and then use the gripping aid's velcro to tighten your grip so you won't let go.
The next one I use and would recommend is Wrist Splint. It's a splint with a metal plate inside. If you have weak wrists due to your disability, this works well with using the gripping aid.
In general, the Active Hands website is worth looking at for all sorts of aids. I was petrified of going to the free weights section of the gym before since I couldn't hold the weights properly, but I can do it normally now with the gripping aid + wrist splint combo.
Ok_Aioli3897@reddit
Food processor for dicing things like onions
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
Honestly, I really miss mundane things like chopping onions. :(
Tape_Badger@reddit
My daughter lost use of her hand due to a brain tumour. She used to do a lot of cooking and was gutted to realise there was so much she couldn't do anymore.
We now have a food processor for chopping, a standing rotary grater (although, we have just upgraded the food processor to one with a grater on it and it's great (ha!) so you could kill two birds with one stone there), a standing mixer with various options like a dough hook as well as a whisk, an electric jar and can opener, a pan pickle (stops saucepans/bowls from spinning or running away whilst stirring or mixing), a spreading board (holds the bread/whatever still while you spread butter etc on top), and a clamp-on peeler. Folding chopping boards are also really helpful for sliding things into the bin/pan one-handed.
It's been an adjustment, but we are definitely at a point now where she can do most things with just the one hand.
Honest-Cover9513@reddit
Small thing - a shoe horn. Sounds so simple but I've got EDS and my fingers can dislocate when I'm putting on shoes.
Big thing: a wet room. I couldn't lift my legs of the side of the bath, never mind sit down in it, so keeping clean was a nightmare. It's possibly my favourite room in the flat!
NB. I got mine through my local council, if you need one i strongly suggest you give them a call.
eastkent@reddit
We did that, and we got one! It's been amazing.
Honest-Cover9513@reddit
Excellent!!
boredathome1962@reddit
Something I bought for my father in law, a breakfast tray with a single handle, so he could hold it in one hand while going up stairs, his other hand holding the banister. Simple, but really helpful.
CrazyPlatypusLady@reddit
Beyond the things that make life so much easier (handles in the bathroom, various kitchen assistive devices, zip pull, button loop, sock putter onner thingy), a mobility scooter saved my life I think.
My eldest and I share a genetic condition, and a second hand scooter. It was bought for an absolute bargain price thanks, in part, to it looking like it needed a lot of work, and me being married to a man who can fix pretty much any electric vehicle.
If there's a journey I can do on the rather than having to walk too far, get buses etc, I will. Same for the Youngling. It's improved fatigue, because I'm not having to deal with physical exertion hangovers. Mental health because although I can't go out for long walks any more, I can go for scoots. And I get to avoid buses. Its got around a 25mi range.
The offspring also has a wheelchair, manual, that opened their world up too. We're waiting for an assessment to see if they can get an electric wheelchair, I'm not holding out much hope but a friend has offered to chip in if we get nowhere.
Also, get yourself signed up to local Shopmobility schemes. There's no central point of contact for them, so you'll need to apply to every one individually unfortunately. Offspring is now a member of 3 different ones. But it means that we can travel to those points and not have to lug our own equipment about.
Competitive_Test6697@reddit
Get into voice activated devices. Hook Alexa or whatever up to TV, lights and plugs.
Even speech to text notes and messages.
Even text to speech and audible software.
Low tech rubbish grabber. Ergonomic non slip trays, tea cups with robust handles etc
liluniqueme@reddit
I'm disabled and quite recently too. Rheumatoid arthritis so it's a daily thing. Some days I'm okay...ISH and others I'm useless.
Can openers, jar openers, a pair of scissors that are big enough for my swollen hands. Looser clothing so it's not a constant struggle to pull things up or down etc. Some shops have started coming out with a range of adaptive clothing.
That said, the most important thing that really helped me was to stop beating myself up about it. Life is cruel and you've been played a shitty hand. Learn to find joy in the smallest achievement.
BOrdinary01@reddit
Probably sounds lame and its not a kit, but honestly The Equality Act 2010. It really has been helpful when I needed help or to ask for reasonable adjustments.
jonathing@reddit
Good quality running shoes. Previously walking very fast at all was much too painful. After switching to well cushioned running shoes (ironically ones I'd bought for a half marathon just before I was injured) means I can walk further/faster.
tofu__enthusiast@reddit
My mum had to use a frame to get around for a while after a car accident. I found her a bag on eBay which attached to her frame so she could carry stuff around with her easily. It was handmade, really good quality, and cost about a tenner - whoever’s making them and selling them for so cheap is an absolute saint. It made a huge difference!
RafRafRafRaf@reddit
Adapted driving stuff - returning to driving after becoming severely disabled has absolutely changed, arguably saved my life. RIDC have outstanding fact sheets about the different adaptations possible but the long and short of it is that with good/corrected vision and cognition and reasonable reaction time for at least a couple of different movements, pretty much anyone can learn to drive. GET YOURSELF A FEW HOURS OF DRIVING LESSONS - your body and your driving method may be significantly different, and you’ll be a much better driver sooner for a bit of support with the transition.
Beds - bought a very nice adapted bed for about a tenth of its retail price second hand.
If you use a stick or crutches do yourself a favour and get (a) good one/s - lighter weight, shock absorbers, nicer handgrip…
Have a comfy chair that supports your body really well, a riser recliner if needs be. You won’t care what it looks like when you’re sat in it - comfort and function over aesthetics. (There are some that aren’t hideous, but that really is secondary… your quality of life will be improved much more by it feeling good than if it looks good!) I have complex seating needs so I have one from Consolor that has a 3D carved Raf-shaped gap in it; it wins no awards for beauty but it’s really very comfortable.
Toilet adaptations (cue many childish jokes): get rails, or a frame, or whatever. Get a bigger comfier seat that doesn’t put any pressure on the backs of your legs. Toilet seat raisers to help you stand back up after use are a thing. Consider a BioBidet if wiping is hard. Do not skimp on making the bog somewhere you are as safe, independent, and comfortable as possible. Even if it’s just one really good grab rail in just the right place - it’ll make it safer and easier to sit down, to get troos out the way, and stand up.
For all of the above, you probably want a good long chat with an occupational therapist (OT). You can start with your local authority one but it’s likely that they won’t be able to cover everything (at all or in good time) - they’ll sort what they can, certainly the absolute essentials of life, then go to a private OT or indeed just privately track down the rest yourself.
Timely_Egg_6827@reddit
For yourself, any devices that are voice activated should help a lot.
With my Dad when his mobility went, there were a lot of little things like rails and raised seats that helped.
I have use of limbs but can't trust my right leg due to neuropathy and rails with a shower stool helped a lot.
Phone adult services at the council and ask for an occupational health assesor to come visit you. They walk round your house, discuss your life and work out what could help and what they can help with. They also can direct you to the right places. Things like drop down bed rails could be a help as we used to use with a strap to help my Dad turn over in bed.
https://www.mobilitysmart.co.uk/
MillyMcMophead@reddit
A blue badge, a shower seat, gadgets for opening jars and bottles, a sponge on a stick, a chair in the bedroom and bathroom door sitting on to get dressed, a Radar key for public loos (cheap online), a wheelchair, walking sticks (love my Flexifoot one), and a walking stick that lives in the car permanently for when I forget my other one.
Mostly though you need a bloody good sense of humour to get you through the hard bits. I remember when I first got ill and people were treating me with kid gloves, I had to remind them that I was still the same grumpy old bat and hadn't lost my sense of humour.
DameKumquat@reddit
Captioned TV and films and theatre, for me.
For my hand problems - wearing pull-on tops rather than shirts with buttons, and the sewing service of my local dry cleaner to put big chunky hooks on trousers. I can actually type on my phone as fast or faster than with a keyboard nowadays, so for work I'll take notes on the phone and email myself. Good grips Oxo peeler and can opener. Food processor (the little ones are generally shit, just splash out on a proper Magimix and the blades and extra bowls). Lots of handles round the house designed to be easy to open, no doorknobs needing twisting. Cooking meals that don't need food cut up on the plate (if I go out, I have to ask for pizza and steak to be sliced for me).
No idea if any of that will be relevant to you!
nonotthereta@reddit
POTS and CFS since getting covid in 2020 - a staiflift was the thing that meant I stopped using more energy than I had just trying to navigate my home, and allowed me to start rebuilding and progressing again.
It was also pretty soul destroying to be trapped upstairs on a sunny day because I knew I didn't have the strength in my legs to get me back upstairs if I went outside, so it was an instant quality of life booster too. Shame I couldn't get over the "embarrassment" of using a stairlift in my 30s any sooner.
Accomplished-Pen-69@reddit
Swiss Army Knife.
JS_AH@reddit
I'm not sure where in the UK you are based, but if you search "virtual house assistive technology" you should see quite a few councils have virtual house walkarounds (a bit like a Rightmove virtual house tour) where you can see lots of kit and how it can help. Most councils keep similar kit so don't worry too much about if the ones you look at are your region or not, but may give some inspiration.
ukbot-nicolabot@reddit
OP marked this as the best answer, given by /u/VooDooBooBooBear.
^(What is this?)
VooDooBooBooBear@reddit
Am deaf, got a cochlear implant and it changed my life completely. I can have conversations without reading lips, listen to music, hear mundane things like birds or fire alarms. It's amazing and genuinely thing i wouldn't be here if not for it.
Transasaurus-Hex@reddit (OP)
!Answer
Geniunely pleased to hear it. What's your favourite song, and what was your first song?
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