Having a long-term illness or disability can have a huge impact on how you live your life, especially if it’s an illness or disability that comes on suddenly. After being diagnosed with a disability, you’ll be forced to make major changes to your daily routine and even your food to accommodate it. Additionally, it can impair your capacity to travel, which can be heartbreaking for people who enjoy exploring our wonderful green planet. While traveling with a chronic disease or disability may be more difficult than in the past, it is not impossible, and we have some suggestions on how to do so successfully.
Look for luggage storage facilities.
If you are the sort who rarely stays in one place, you may have to find a way to transport your belongings. This isn’t good for people with disabilities or chronic illnesses that cause joint and muscular pain. Did you know that luggage storage is available? Wherever you go, look for places like this to store your bags while you explore. These services can help prevent unnecessary suffering for as low as 5 euros each day.
Travel insurance changes
If you require higher-level medical care, make sure your travel insurance covers it – and don’t leave anything out! You may be wondering “is narcolepsy a disability?” and whether it’s worth mentioning for your insurance, and it definitely is! Many basic insurance cover a wide range of destinations, but it’s worth double-checking to avoid high emergency medical bills while traveling. You should also research necessary immunizations before traveling, as you will need to make appointments well in advance.
Sort through your medications.
Plan cautiously and check your meds. Will you run out? Do you need some extra painkillers? Pack extra in case your flights are delayed or you can’t get home on time. A great way to keep your medicine organized is to buy a pill organizer. If you use a pill organizer, keep the original labels with you in case you need to reorder medication.
Another recommendation is to keep your medications in your carry-on in case your suitcase gets lost. So you know you have the medication you need.
Use aids
You may use a wheelchair or a walking stick at home, so consider what you may require while traveling. Using them at home may not be necessary, but when travelling, long periods of standing or walking may be required. If you anticipate you’ll require assistive aids while traveling, make sure to plan ahead of time for things like wheelchair rentals and folding walking sticks.
Find doctors or hospitals.
If you’re going on a trip, whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a month-long journey across the globe, you should know where the nearest hospitals and doctor’s offices are in case of an accident or other medical emergency. Learning a few simple phrases in a foreign language is often a good idea while visiting a new country. When you’re in pain, phrases like “directions to the hospital” or “this is my medical condition” might make all the difference.
Allow extra time
Finally, people with chronic illnesses or disabilities should take their time. Rushing can induce stress, which can lead to pain and discomfort. If you’re going to see the Great Wall of China, that’s awesome! Just make sure you plan ahead of time so you can enjoy the event rather than endure.
