Everybody wants to be the healthiest version of themselves. Feeling well, staying active, and being an involved member in the community are a few healthy habits that can greatly improve a person’s quality of life. Sometimes, a disability may hinder a person’s ability to find an active hobby or maintain healthy relationships. That is why it is essential for adults with disabilities to have access to the health care and health programs they need in order to thrive. Here are seven healthy habits that adults with disabilities may be able to implement to improve their health, happiness, and overall well-being.
Seven Healthy Habits for Individuals with Disabilities
- Get Outside Every Day
Simply going for a walk once a day can improve your mood while simultaneously getting your body up and moving. This is a simple healthy living activity that has the potential to ease anxieties with the calmness of nature. Taking advantage of an opportunity to stretch your legs or feel the fresh air on your face is an accessible habit to adopt. Sometimes, a short stroll outside is all you need to recharge yourself for the rest of the day. - Practice Adaptive Yoga
Yoga is a peaceful, restorative exercise that has been shown to help calm both the mind and the body. The combination of improving balance, strengthening the body, relieving stress, and practicing deep breathing can help people with a range of physical and mental abilities. One of the best things about adaptive yoga is that it can be customized for people who are mobility impaired. To learn more about the benefits of yoga, take a look at our blog post on Adaptive Yoga: How to Stay Active when Disabled. - Be Inspired to Create
Being creative, in any sense of the word, can benefit a person’s mental health as it allows our minds to be artistic and imaginative. For adults with disabilities, Covey offers an array of creative events that can stimulate the mind and bring people together. Upcoming events include pottery painting, scrapbooking, and Valentine’s Day card making. Participating in one of these events can easily spark a new hobby, which is another healthy habit! - Participate in Wheelchair Exercise Classes
Being in a wheelchair can limit the amount of workout classes one can participate in. But, with a rise in wheelchair exercise classes, people in wheelchairs are able to experience the health benefits (and the fun!) of a fitness class. Physical activity is not confined to a certain group of people. Wheelchair users can experience the joy and health benefits of an exercise program that is prescribed to their individual needs. - Go for a Swim
Not only can swimming be accessible for people with a range of physical disabilities, but it’s also a fun way to engage in aerobic activity. Moving through water is a great way to build muscle strength, improve heart health, and alleviate pressure on joints. Although swimming can be challenging, sometimes it feels more like a pleasant pastime than a difficult workout. And you’re always in good company with Covey! On “Fitness Monday,” our Covey Connects calendar rotates through a variety of physical exercise programs including swimming at the Oshkosh, WI YMCA. “Swimming is on rotation about once every 3 weeks,” shares Covey’s Director of Community Based Programs, Risa Hill. “We swim in the family section of the pool, so we’re safe to stand in the water. We often play water basketball, swim in the “lazy river,” go down the water slide, and enjoy the hot tub!” Check out our event calendar to see when we are swimming next! - Maintain Good Nutrition
A significant part of healthy living is fueling your body with nutritious food. When it comes to adults living with disabilities, they can experience additional physical and psychological problems when their diet is poor. A proper diet can look different for everyone. Whether it’s an emphasis on a variety of nutritious food groups or a special diet that meets individual needs, nutrition is necessary for a healthier quality of life. - Foster Positive Relationships
Having people who you can always rely on is key to a well-rounded, healthy life. Connecting with a circle of friends or being an active participant in a community can help someone feel accepted and appreciated. When it comes to health, maintaining fulfilling relationships is just as important as physical activity.
Stay Healthy at Covey
Covey is a nonprofit organization that encourages people with disabilities to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Here at Covey, we create a safe environment for our clients to better themselves and participate in the community. Our compassionate staff provides knowledgeable care to every client.
The Covey Connects program offers a series of classes, both in-person and online, that provide opportunities for adults with disabilities to learn healthy habits and explore new interests such as virtual yoga classes, cooking classes, music therapy, outdoor recreation, and much more! Check out our calendar of events for “Fitness Monday,” an exciting program that offers a variety of physical exercise programs. To sign up, visit our website or contact Myranda Hazlett at mhazlett@covey.org.
