By Maureen DeGarmo and Lisa Mark, C.P.O.
Traumatic Illness can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe, with varying consequences. Symptoms such as pain, fatigue, loss of cognitive functioning or lack of mobility require different types of support. But, what do you do when your family cannot provide that support?
Perhaps you live far from family, or they’re unable to assist. Perhaps you live alone. Where, then, do you reach out for support?
- Make a list of the areas where you need help, such as Activities of Daily Living: bathing, using the restroom, dressing, eating, mobility and personal hygiene.
- Do your own research. Perhaps you only need help getting around your home. Mobility aids and modifications can be added to your home. Meal preparation can be simplified by making use of meal-planning websites or by locating grocery delivery services.
- Ask your medical providers. They often know of resources that relate to their own specialty (ask your neurologist for stroke support resources, for example).
- Check the Illness Warriors Resource List, where you will find a wide variety of information and support.
- Hire a professional organizer. Professional organizers are problem solvers, who can review your home and your needs and create customized solutions. Check these resources to find an organizer near you:
Also, at Illness Warriors we provide private consultations via conference call. Help is just a phone call away, anywhere in the world! Read more about this service, here.
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