There are hordes of people everywhere and interminably long queues. The weather is sweltering and the family have descended in their droves. The festive season is stressful enough without needing special requirements due to your disabilities, but there are ways to ease the burden this year.
Shop smart
Skip the endless lines and shop online. There are so many benefits to shopping online. No waiting around, no pesky traffic, and uncomfortable shopping layouts to navigate. Click, choose, pay online and everything is delivered to your doorstep.
If you prefer to shop in store, avoid shopping during peak hours. Do your shopping during the week, instead of on the weekend. If you absolutely have to go on a weekend, late Sunday afternoons are usually quieter than most days – pop in an hour or two before the store closes.
Chilled cooking
Cooking can be relaxing and enjoyable, but during the festive season, things can get heated quickly – especially if you have a disability and you’re juggling a heavier workload with the family around.
- Plan your menu ahead of time.
- Gather your ingredients together early, especially seasonal goods that fly off the shelf fast.
- De-clutter your kitchen to make space for the extra hands.
- If you can, do a little prep work in advance, like marinating the meat or defrosting the turkey.
Take back the beach
With a walking disability, the beach is probably not the simplest place to navigate. One of the main discomforts is the sand. If you are paraplegic and have to make use of a wheelchair, some beaches rent out special wheelchairs that are easier to move across the sand with. You could also ask a friend or family member to place you on the sand, so you can lay on the beach leisurely, without any attention being drawn to you. Try to visit the beach during the week, or earlier during the day, to avoid crowds of people.
Travel comfortably
If you have any disabilities, you may avoid travelling, but there are ways to enjoy it like everyone else. The first thing to consider is how far you will be able to travel and which mode of transport will be the easiest. Wherever you choose to go, make sure that the facilities cater to your needs, e.g. ramps for your wheelchair, bathrooms for disabled and so on. Consider travelling in a group where you can interact with others and there are extra hands if you need help. Group holidays and tours that are designed especially for others with your condition are also great ways of travelling – with assistance.
Get social
The festive season is also party season. Socialising may not be easy if you are disabled, but you can take baby steps. If you aren’t comfortable with big groups, try talking to one person. You can try this by asking for the time or introducing yourself if you are feeling brave. If you are worried about anything concerning food available, space, or anything about your disability, don’t be afraid to ask. It will only benefit you in the long run.
Get support
For 24/7 medical advice, just download the Hello Doctor app, and enter your username and password. This way, you have a doctor on stand-by throughout the holiday. Let us take care of you, so you can have a carefree holiday!
References:
http://blog.ncpad.org/2012/12/20/4-shopping-tips-for-people-with-disabilities-this-christmas/
https://www.myhandicap.com/en/information-disability-chonical-illness/travel-and-mobility/accessible-holidays-disability/holiday-tips-disabled/
http://www.thekitchn.com/cooking-with-a-physical-disability-171416
http://disabilityhorizons.com/2014/08/top-10-tips-for-a-hassle-free-accessible-holiday/
http://www.refinery29.com/people-with-disabilities-beach-pictures#slide-7