How Disabilities Impact Americans, Part 4
This is part 4 of a 4-part series examining how disabilities impact Americans, and how they may be able to get help.
Additional Health Problems are Common for People Living With Disabilities
Adults living with disabilities are more likely to have additional health issues than the average healthy US adult. This can create more strain on them and introduce challenges to their life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, adults with disabilities are three times more likely to experience a stroke, cancer, or heart disease over those without disabilities.
Adults with disabilities also have other conditions more frequently than adults without disabilities. Some of these conditions can have negative effects on a person’s well being, as well:
- Obesity 38.2% vs 26.2%
- Smoke 28.2% vs 13.4%
- Diabetes 16.3% vs 7.2%
It is important to note that many of these health issues can develop due to a combination of factors from a lack of preventative care, sedentary lifestyle, genetics, or various environmental factors.
The CDC also reports that close to half of adults with disabilities do not receive any aerobic physical activity. For many people, exercise can be extremely helpful in reducing, or even potentially preventing, these additional conditions. Of course, for people dealing with medical conditions, it is essential to speak to their physician before engaging in any exercise program to ensure they’re doing so safely.
Access to healthcare is another enormous challenge for those with disabilities. These challenges arise mainly due to costs, lack of transportation, communication, and/or language issues, or not being educated or informed about the issue.
Having less access to healthcare reduces the likelihood that those living with disabilities receive timely and effective care for their needs, making this population segment more vulnerable.
The good news is that SSI and SSDI benefits can help offset some financial challenges related to mental and physical impairments. And do not forget that many pharmaceutical companies offer discounts on prescriptions for certain medical conditions. Medicare even makes it easy to find pharmaceutical assistance programs for specific drug types. It is possible to find free and affordable assistance with many non-disability related health issues, such as help to quit smoking, weight loss programs, and adaptive sports teams specifically designated for individuals with disabilities.
Part 1 • Part 2 • Part 3 • Part 4 • Infographic
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