Dealing with a chronic illness is not only painful, but it can also make you feel alone and unsupported. If you have a family, you could feel like a burden for your loved ones, and when you are alone, you will be isolated, due to your reduced confidence and mobility. Thankfully, technology now has loads to offer for those suffering from long term conditions. Find out more below.
Online Community Support Groups
If you live alone, or feel like none of your friends or family members understand what you are dealing with, you can join an online support group. There are plenty of charities offering safe communities on their website and social media groups, helping you connect with people who actually understand what is going on in your life and can share their first hand tips and recommendations. Having a supportive community around you will help you feel more connected with the world.
Telehealth
In case you find it hard to get to the doctor’s office all the time, you can now take advantage of telehealth services. It pretty much feels like you have a nursing practitioner or health visitor in your home, and you can get every test done without leaving your home. This will give you the confidence that your condition is under control, and your doctor is updated on your progress.
Health Monitoring Apps
Of course, you can also use technology to monitor your own health when you don’t have an appointment. There are several apps and portable devices that will give you an audible warning when your blood oxygen or sugar levels are critical, so you can prevent attacks or seizures. You can purchase some of them through medical device websites, so you don’t have to leave the house, either.
Alternative Therapies
Dealing with a chronic illness is not only painful, but it also causes a lot of stress in your life. You can try alternative therapies that will help you manage your mindset and stay grounded. From Reiki to hypnotherapy and meditation, there are several things you can learn yourself or get through qualified practitioners. After all, drugs can only deal with the symptoms, and alternative therapies might help you improve your long term health outcomes.
Mobility Support
In case you find it hard to leave the house alone, you can take advantage of technology to help people with disabilities so you can be more mobile. From getting out on a bus to meet your friends at the local community center, to getting your shopping done, funding your home modifications, getting a ramp installed, and even getting a disabled car funded, there are plenty of great ways you can take advantage of the support available.
Living with a long term health condition can feel you lacking confidence and support. Use technology to your advantage and learn how to manage your own health, taking responsibility for choosing the helpful coping mechanisms. Technology has made it easy to keep an eye on your mind’s and body’s needs.
