Resources?

[Alkia]

Hi Everyone,
I'm here because my childhood sweetheart was in a terrible accident which resulted in a SCI.  My main concern is his quality of life because his home is not accessible and he is basically trapped in his bedroom.  He is in good spirits and can do most things for himself. He is unable to get downstairs in his home to cook for himself and he is unable to go into his bathroom because the door frame is too narrow. So he hasn't showered in almost two years (he uses a basin of soap & water).  This breaks my heart and I don't know where to start.  I found a support group in the area for him and he promised to call them.  Does anyone have any suggestions on where to start to find resources to make his home accessible?
Thanks

[Andy]

hi Alkia

welcome to you

a lot will depend on where you are located as to what help and support is available

Andy

[missy elliott]

Hi,

I don't know much about your case. Since I have a degree in special education the fact that I acquired an incomplete spinal cord injury 17 years ago; I have some understanderstanding.  You need to get yourself a case management worker.  This person will help you find services that you need provided and help you find them.  I  would check through Vocational Rehabilitation (state run) or possibly a case manager in your hospital.  Good luck!

                                                                                                         Missy

[chrisarnold]

This is a difficult (but not insoluble) situation.

Door widening is possible and although rather disruptive, is usually no problem. Access to the first floor is a bigger problem. The usual way that this can be done is a lift. (Stanner chairs are only suitable for persons with limited leg strength or cardiac problems.

It may mean moving house. After my injury I faced not only upstairs, a split level landing, narrow doors and halls, and inaccessible bathrooms, but the fact the only methods of getting into the house were down steep steps at the rear, or 10 stone steps rising to the front. This may not affect your case so much.

Missy and calena both have good advice. I am surprised that more guidance on these matters was not offered during rehab. (Did he attend a full Spinal Injury unit?)

The Citizens' Advice Bureau may be able to help.