My doctor has recommended a power wheelchair for me. I'm all for it but my family disagrees.?

They don't think I'm really disabled enough for one, implying that if I just tried harder I could get better. But I have a degenerative nerve disorder in my leg, as well as arthritis and diabetes, and I'm not going to get better. How can I change their minds about the stigma of being in a wheelchair?

I'm going through this same thing with my husband, who doesn't quite understand that walking any distance is very painful. A regular wheelchair helps, but it certainly wouldn't be as helpful as a power chair for folks like you and me.

In this case, I don't think there's anything we can do to change their minds. Just get the power wheelchair (like I intend to do, too) and tell your family members that this is what the doctor prescribed for you. They aren't doctors and they aren't in a position to evaluate the extent of your condition or know what's best for you. If they give you any more grief about it, just tell them that the subject is no longer open for discussion.

And if they STILL bug you about it, put a set of power wheelchair tire tracks up and down their rumps. That's what I plan to do!

Maybe just use it for when you really need it, but don't give up on trying. With the diabetes in play it might be best to walk around a bit and keep the circulation going.

just order it, u need it ,so get it ,don't let anybody tell u no! u desurve it,especally when they hav these power chairs, some people cant get them!.

Never say never! Always try, not for their sake, but for ur own. There is always hope. U dont wanna be babied all tha time, do ya? Some will feel bad, think ur a puss, think its funny, disgusting. U dont wanna lota ppl look at ya all tha time. Prey for a miricle & maybe one will come to u. God Bless.

I think that probably your family is afraid that you will get into a wheelchair, and just give up. You should have a sit down and discuss this with them, and maybe come to some sort of compromise with them.

In some instances our families try to control too much of our personal choices. This is a choice for you not your family. If this new wheel chair is what you need then go get it. Your family does not have the same needs as you so pay them no nevermind regarding the chair. They will adjust & you will have what you need. Peace

it sounds like, with the diabetes, it would be good to keep some circulation so even with a wheelchair you should probably still walk around to prevent sores forming. However, a power wheelchair (or a regular one) would probably be helpful for the dnd and arthritis. If your insurance covers it, I don't think your family really has a lot of say in it. The support would be nice and you can remind them that if they love you then they don't want you to suffer. You can also remind them that one of the best Presidents this country ever had was in a wheelchair while in office.
Wheelchairs are just aids, like glasses and they do not define a person.
good luck with your family.

Sometimes it's hard for families to accept that a loved one is needing some assistance. Explain to them that getting a mobility aid is meant to help you remain independent. If you're doctor is recommending it, and you feel it would make life easier for you, by all means get it.

Pull up some info on the internet on your disorders and prove to them you will not get better, or have your dr. explain it to them and have him describe the type of pain your feeling. Im so sorry to hear that. I will keep you in my prayers and i wish you and your family the best of luck. NOW go get that chair, you deserve not to suffer