Living with Disabilities
As the body ages, your energy, strength, and mood changes. You may lose some or all of your hearing and sight. Your arms and legs may not be as strong as in the past. You may find yourself going to the bathroom more than usual, and may have a hard time doing things you need to do every day. All of these changes occur with age.
When these changes occur, talk to your doctor to get the best treatment possible. Your doctor will provide you with the resources to better manage your disability.
You can learn about disability-related programs, services, laws, and benefits at www.disability.gov.
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“Ready New York for Seniors and People with Disabilities” brochure (English Español 中文)
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This brochure is also available in English in an audio format. To receive an audio copy, call 311 (TTY:212-504-4115)
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Relationships
Enjoying time with friends and family is a big deal for older adults. It’s important to have even just one or two people in your life that you can depend on. You can talk to them on the phone, meet for a walk, or do something fun.
- Locate a Senior Center near you
- National Council on Aging – “Fact Sheet/Senior Centers”
If you’re feeling down because you lost someone, find someone to talk to like a neighbor or family member. If you don’t want to talk with someone you know, find a person or place that can help you like your doctor. They can help you sort through some of those feelings. Remember you are not alone.
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Join an “Alert and Alive” discussion group
If you take care of someone, you need to take care of yourself too. Remember to eat well and try to relax when you can. Caring for someone else can make you feel worn out. Ask someone else to take over for a while so you can take a break from time to time.
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NYC Department of Aging– “Caregiver Support”
