Think Staying at Home Stinks? Try Doing It for Years

​The shelter-in-place order has its consequences for our social, emotional, and financial well-being, but a benefit of it is its opportunity to experience what life is like for those who have chronic conditions that leave them homebound. Such patients are used to decreased socializing, decreased financial and community resources, and increased isolation and loneliness. The current period is nothing new for them. They’re used to doing whatever it takes to maintain what health they have. Plus, they stay sheltered for months or even years, long enough for their careers to be ruined and their friendships to fade.

We trust the coronavirus sheltering in place will be temporary and try to use this time to do the things we normally don’t have time to do. Why not also take this time to understand the needs of people who are usually homebound? Why not also take this time to show these people you care?

If you have a chronic condition that is isolating, now is your chance to share your experiences with the world. Share this post or share your own experience. Stay at the top of others’ social media feeds. Make your voice heard!
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On the other side, we could see a brighter future for people with chronic illnesses and invisible disabilities. Let’s make a positive change! 

Source: Sarah Wynne, Flickr Creative Commons

Darla Nagel is a biomedical copy editor who has an invisible chronic illness. She wants to educate healthcare professionals and encourage patients. If you want to receive quarterly updates from her, email darla.nagel{a}gmail.com.

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