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Learning About Diabetes Diagnosis, Treatment and Research

Welcome to my site, my name is Jess Indaja. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after struggling with my weight throughout my teen years and adulthood. My doctor informed me about all of the dangers associated with my diet and exercise habits. I was encouraged to change the way I ate and moved in an effort to reverse my blood sugar problem. I made the changes, but still struggle with controlling my blood sugar. After going through this trying situation, I decided to make a site that may help others with problems associated with type 2 diabetes. I will discuss diagnostic procedures, treatments and medical research concerning this disease. I hope you visit often and learn all you can to control your type 2 diabetes or help others with this condition.

Learning About Diabetes Diagnosis, Treatment and Research

Making Your Home Accessible After A Stroke: 4 Considerations For Independent Living

by Carla Hudson

Every year, more than 795,000 people in the U.S. suffer from a stroke. While some of those people make full or nearly full recoveries, others are left with some level of physical disability. If you have suffered from a stroke and have limited mobility, here are some changes you can make to your home so you can continue to live independently. 

Lift Chairs

You may find that getting up or sitting down in your living room can be more difficult after your stroke. A lift chair can be a great addition to your home, as it helps you to sit and stand without the need for additional assistance. These chairs resemble traditional recliners, so they can coordinate with your existing decor. The lifting mechanism simply raises and lowers the seat for you. Some models also come with extending foot rests, massage options and remote control operation. Even if you no longer need the chair, it can still make a comfortable addition to your home.

Barrier-Free Showers

Barrier-free showers can be ideal for anyone with long-term mobility issues. The new shower can be installed where your existing bathtub sits, and the unique design means the shower is nearly even with your floor. This means you can roll a wheelchair or walker into the shower independently. Many of these showers are designed to work as a tub or shower, and some include built-in seats so you can be more comfortable as you bathe. Be sure to have grab bars installed near the shower and toilet for even greater accessibility.

Furniture Organization

Whether you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair, you may need more room to move about your home freely. Having friends or relatives rearrange your furniture can make independent living easier. Be sure that there is enough room for you to access your sofa, couch, kitchen table, and bed, and have rugs removed if they pose a tripping hazard for you. Consider removing the box spring from your bed to make it easier to get in and out of each day.

Appliance Options

It may be more difficult for you to access your appliances if you are in a wheelchair. You can switch from top-loading washers and dryers to front-loading models, but be sure that the control panels are conveniently located and within your reach. A side-by-side refrigerator can make it easier to get to items in your freezer, and placing your microwave on a shorter microwave cart can also be a big help. You can even purchase a microwave drawer, which can be installed in the lower section of your kitchen cabinets for easy access. If possible, work with a contractor to re-position wall ovens so they are within your reach. You may also want to have your kitchen counters lowered as well.

Your primary care physician and your rehabilitation team can help you to find other ways to live independently in your home. Work with them and your family to make the changes you need to create a comfortable living environment as you learn to overcome the disabilities caused by your stroke. 

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