By Kim Ousley
For some amputees, isolation isn’t simply about feeling lonely. Physical barriers, inaccessible transportation, financial constraints, and a lack of support can make leaving home difficult, even impossible. And when getting out the front door becomes a challenge, so does staying connected to the people and communities around you.
Joe Smith, a new amputee of only a few months, lives on the top floor of a house owned by a family member. The problem is, he doesn’t have a prosthetic leg yet and can’t get up and down the stairs to leave the house. He feels extremely isolated, alone, and forgotten by everyone he knows. If it weren’t for the Zoom amputee support groups he joins weekly, he would have little connection with the outside world.
Carol Jones, an amputee living in a rural farming community, faces a different barrier. Public transportation doesn’t reach her area, leaving her stuck at home and feeling depressed and isolated. She has trouble finding friends or family who can drive the 30 minutes into town to take her to appointments, the grocery store, or even just to get out and be among other people.
Social isolation can be especially challenging for amputees and other people with disabilities, limiting their ability to participate in their communities and enjoy a fulfilling social life. Despite efforts to promote greater inclusion, physical, social, and systemic barriers can make it difficult to participate in local activities and form deeper connections. (Centre Disability Support)
Many amputees live in rural areas far from public transportation or family and friends who can provide transportation. Others may be trapped in their homes due to physical limitations or inaccessible housing. Inaccessible environments, societal stigma, economic challenges, and limited support networks can all contribute to feelings of loneliness and exclusion, negatively affecting both mental and physical health and reducing overall quality of life.
An amputee may be unable to work or may live in a home that isn’t set up to accommodate their mobility needs. Public transportation may not be a viable option. Some people may not have access to technology such as a cellphone, laptop, or tablet, let alone reliable Wi-Fi in their area. Financial constraints can also limit someone’s ability to participate in social events, travel, or join community activities.
Over time, these barriers can amplify feelings of hopelessness and emotional distress and contribute to declining physical health. A lack of activity and social connection can also contribute to health concerns and leave a person without the energy or strength to participate in activities over time.
One way society can help create a better and safer quality of life for everyone is by improving accessibility. That means designing public spaces, transportation, workplaces, and communities to accommodate people with different needs and abilities.
It also means everyone, including policymakers, community leaders, and individuals, has a role to play in creating solutions that ensure people with disabilities can fully participate in society. Accessibility and inclusion shouldn’t stop at the front door. Amputees and other people with disabilities deserve the opportunity to participate in their communities, build relationships, and experience life outside their homes.