This post is for people who are getting a mobility aid/have one but are struggling with using it because of fear and/or internalized ableism.
These are things that have helped me personally feel more confident using my aid.
(credentials: I've been physically disabled for roughly 5 years, and a cane user for 4 [consistently for 3])
★ Decorate your mobility aids/find one that matches your style.
- I find having a cane that I find pretty rather than one that is plain and medical makes me more excited to use it than if it didn't reflect my interests
★ Remind yourself that you know your body/needs better than anyone else
-It's extremely easy to worry about what other people think about your aid. Whether it's strangers or people who you personally know. Especially if those people directly make comments on your aid. Do your best to remind yourself (and them, if you're able to/want to do so) that you know your needs better than they do. You got this aid for a reason, trust your judgment(/doctor's judgement if they were the ones who recommended an aid.)
★Simplify it for yourself
-Sometimes telling myself "I use this metal stick to help me walk" makes it feel less scary
-There's a real chance you'll never be "ready" to use your aid. So do it before you're ready. The confidence can come later. I was terrified of using my cane at first, but now I rarely notice stares. (And if you're never confident/always scared. That's ok too)
★ Come up with what to say when/if people ask about it
-Sometimes it's overwhelming when people ask questions about your aid. So I like thinking of what I'll say if someone asks. This can be, disclosing your disability, disclosing the symptoms you use it for, simply saying your disabled, making up a funny story, or simply saying you don't to answer that.
This is all I can think of right now. Feel free to add any more suggestions in the comments/reblog with more suggestions 💕
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