My Chronic Life

I know many chronically ill people who are unable to leave their homes whenever they want due to pain, medication side effects, being unable to drive and just not feeling well. When this happens loneliness can set in. If you are young and your peers are working and have a family of their own it can be difficult for them to make time to visit you. You may not feel well enough for visitors. You may be embarrassed of how your house looks because you’re not able to keep it clean.

Whatever the reasons, being almost homebound or totally homebound is quite common. In the Chronic Illness Support Group I run, this is a very big issue for our members. We have members who are no longer able to come to meetings because of their health issues. I try to keep in touch with them though.

There’s a trend now of people with disABILITIES and chronic illnesses using a computer and the internet to connect with the outside world. Just look around and see how many blogs are authored by people with medical conditions, how many websites and message boards are made for us too.

Having the right equipment for your computer is a must. If you have arthritis you may need an ergonomic keyboard. If you are paralyzed, you may need a head pointer to type. There are so many examples of technology that make using your computer easier or even open up the means of computer usage.

Many of these products are expensive. Some government agencies and non-profit groups provide the technology. If you are looking to buy something for yourself shop around and even tried refurbished. You may be able to find something among used cisco parts, or other companies that sell used equipment if new is too expensive. Be sure to check for a warranty, the company’s customer service ability to work with you and other types of feedback from buyers.

Being online can help you feel that you are a part of society, especially a section of society that understands you.