The reality is that the media and common misconceptions have lowered expectations for people with disabilities. Disabled people often have aids such as canes, crutches, wheelchairs, medical devices, and other technology, it’s important that these devices be well cared for so as to enhance natural beauty.

Mobility aids are items meant to assist a person with some physical activity such as walking. These usually include wheelchairs, walkers, support canes, and canes specifically for navigation by the blind. All of these items need to be cleaned on a regular basis. They need to be as free from nicks as possible. That’s not to say that a few nicks here and there are of much importance. When a cane or wheelchair looks like it’s been through a war, it might be time to give it a make-over or replace it altogether. Most mobility aids such as wheelchairs come with a few replaceable parts, or one can order these parts separately. White canes for the blind need to be relatively nickless. Some canes are made with replaceable reflective tape, and other canes are simply painted white. For canes painted white, one could try using a white marker or a little paint to fix up the nicked spot and make it look nicer. Cane tips are totally replaceable and so are sections of folding and telescopic canes. Walkers with wheels that squeak may need some WD40 to relieve everyone’s ears of the annoyance. Keeping these little things in mind make a huge difference in how disabled people are perceived on a daily basis.

Then there’s the question of service animals. While laws prevent people from discriminating against disabled people on account of service animals, it’s always a good idea to make sure they are well groomed to increase the comfort of those who may be present. It’s also worth noting that groomed animals tend to have better hygiene. Schools meant for service animals and their handlers often include classes on animal care such as brushing, nail clipping, dental hygiene, and medical care. Make sure that all harnesses and leashes are equally cared for, and that there are hygiene bags for use after the dog or animal has been relieved. Besides an animal’s health and the look of mobility aids, there’s also the question of personal health and hygiene.

Many disabled people have conditions that require the use of medical equipment. Always remember to have that equipment on hand at all times in case of emergency or just for daily maintenance. Be sure that all equipment has been cleaned or is cleaned on a daily basis. Any equipment carrying body fluid must be free of leaks as some body fluids aren’t preferable to most noses. To eliminate the problem, it’s not a bad idea to regularly flush the equipment if it’s convenient to do so.

Disabled people, just like anyone else, are capable of natural beauty. Making sure that aids, animals, and medical equipment are clean and cared for add pride and confidence to a person’s appearance. Confidence breeds success, and success breeds true freedom.

By: James A. Penn