For those of us who are wheelchair bound, we have fewer options when it comes to taking care of ourselves. We have to find ways to adapt to be able to follow many healthy recommendations. However, some things may come easier to those of us who get around in wheelchairs than to the general population.

I’m speaking specifically about meditation. Being in a wheelchair for many years has helped me develop plenty of patience. Because of that patience, when I tried meditation for the first time, it came completely naturally.

Try a daily 15 minutes or so of quiet meditation. Turn off all distractions, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Take the time to really let yourself escape the daily pressures. For me, it’s the most free I ever feel. And I can do it every day. Try it.

As a wheelchair user, there are some real safety issues that should always be top of mind. Not the least of these safety issues is the danger of pressure ulcers (also known as bedsores).

The more limited your mobility is, the more you must guard against the danger of pressure ulcers. If you are in your wheelchair for essentially all your mobility needs, you are at greatest risk. Here are some tips to help you avoid this painful condition.

1. A family member or nurse should check every day for the beginning signs of a pressure ulcer. Look for spots of redness that don’t turn white when you press it with your finger. For those with darker skin color, it can be harder to recognize this early stage. The next stage to watch for is the formation of blisters, which then form an open sore.

2. Avoid friction. Be careful not to drag your skin across sheets or out of your seat. Learn to lift properly to avoid creating an abrasion.

3. Control moisture. Too much moisture from excessive perspiration or urine can make the skin soft and more prone to bed sores. Talk to you doctor or nurse about options for those with incontinence.

4. Minimize irritation from chemicals. Avoid irritating antiseptics, hydrogen peroxide, iodine solution or other harsh chemicals to clean or disinfect the skin.

5. Eat healthy and get exercise. A balanced diet that’s high in calcium, vitamins C and E, and zinc will help. Additionally, even the simplest exercises and stretching can increase blood flow and aid in protection.

6. Change positions every hour. When you’re in your wheelchair, be sure to shift your weight and/or position each hour.

I just had to write about this new product I found for those of us with disabilities - especially those in wheelchairs. It’s called a walk-in bathtub.

From what I’ve read, they can be a little awkward to get in and out of. But compared to the risk of falling that comes with getting in and out of a regular bathtub, it’s worth a little awkwardness. Here’s a photo.

And best of all it’s a jetted tub to soothe away those aches and pains. The door is even made extra light so that is super easy to close tightly. When it comes to personal care for those in a wheelchair, this may be the ultimate pampering.