Claire and Lulu are a disabled couple who have learned to navigate the challenges of daily life with resilience and teamwork. Balancing their individual needs with the demands of their disabilities, they rely on each other and the support of caregivers to manage their lives. In this blog, Claire shares their experiences, the vital role caregivers play in their journey, and offer advice to other disabled couples on how to seek and accept help when it’s needed most.
Continue reading to learn more.
Balancing Life as a Disabled Couple
As a disabled couple, navigating daily life requires extra assistance and a lot of teamwork. Our challenges may differ from those faced by others, but we take pride in learning how to balance our needs and ask for help when necessary. This balancing act can be difficult, especially on days when both of us are feeling low and need extra support for daily tasks. When I’m feeling a bit better, I’m able to help LuLu, and when she’s up to it, she supports me. In many ways, this dynamic is similar to any other couple's, managing life’s ups and downs together.
The Essential Role of Caregivers
Our ability to manage our daily lives effectively would be nearly impossible without the support of our caregivers. We are incredibly grateful for the help we receive from both our families and hired assistance. This support is essential for maintaining our quality of life and ensuring that our needs are met. Whether it's personal care, household chores, or just companionship, our caregivers play a crucial role in making our days smoother and less stressful.
Navigating Difficult Times
During particularly challenging periods, we make a concerted effort to check in with each other more frequently. We focus on the present and dream about the future as a way to stay hopeful and motivated. Our shared experiences with hardship have created a deeper level of understanding between us and strengthened our bond. These difficult times have not only tested us but also brought us closer together, enhancing our empathy and connection.
Advice for Other Disabled Couples
For other disabled couples, my advice is to recognize and honor when it’s time to seek outside help. Accepting assistance can be a tough adjustment, especially if you’re used to being independent. As my own disability has evolved over the years, my need for support has grown. Being in a relationship doesn’t change this need. If you’re hesitant about hiring caregivers, remember that your need for help is completely valid. Although finding the right caregivers can be a long and tiring process, having the right support team in place makes a significant difference. It can make daily life more manageable and alleviate some of the physical and emotional burdens.
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