How to Get Through the Holiday Season on a Knee Scooter
- Edd Siu
November 7, 2023
- The holiday season is a festive time of year that often includes gatherings with family and friends, shopping sprees, and travel.
However, for those navigating this bustling season on a knee scooter due to injury or surgery, the challenges can seem daunting.
Let's explore how you can glide through the holidays on your trusty knee scooter.Preparing Your Home for the Holidays
Creating a welcoming and accessible environment is key when preparing your home for the holidays.
Start by rearranging your furniture to allow for ample space, making it easier for you to maneuver your knee scooter. Remove any clutter that could become a tripping hazard and opt for ground-level decorations to avoid the need to reach or climb.
It's also wise to provide adequate lighting, particularly in walkways and hallways, to ensure a bright and merry atmosphere that's also safe for everyone.Holiday Shopping with a Knee Scooter
While physical shopping might seem challenging, it's certainly possible with a knee scooter.
Plan your shopping trips during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds. Utilize the basket on your knee scooter or attach additional bags for carrying items.
Remember, online shopping is also a convenient option that can save you time and energy.Attending Holiday Events & Gatherings
Don't let your knee scooter keep you from enjoying holiday events.
Inform your hosts about your mobility needs in advance to ensure the venue is accessible. Are there ramps available? Elevators?
Footwear first
Choose comfortable footwear that provides stability on your scooter. Select shoes with non-skid soles to wear on your non-injured foot, reducing the risk of slipping. A sturdy boot or shoe can also protect your foot in crowded settings.
And most importantly, revel in the moment instead of worrying about mobility hurdles.
Traveling During the Holidays
Traveling with a knee scooter requires a bit of extra planning.
Car travel comforts
If you're taking a road trip, pack your knee scooter last so it's the first item out of the car. Bring along a cushion for extra comfort on long drives, and schedule regular stops to stretch and give your knee a rest.
Air travel tips
When booking flights, request a bulkhead or aisle seat for more legroom, and notify the airline about your knee scooter to understand their specific policies. Generally, airlines do accept knee scooters but they must be checked in before boarding.
Further Reading: Flying with a Knee Scooter
Aim to preboard the plane and be ready just in case to demonstrate to the flight crew how your scooter folds down to ensure its safe storage during the flight.Enjoying Holiday Activities
Adapt holiday traditions to fit your current mobility. Engage in activities like cookie baking and tree decorating with family and friends by bringing the tasks to a comfortable level for you.
Embrace new traditions that are knee-scooter-friendly, allowing you to participate fully and joyfully.
Some ideas: cookie decorating party, adult coloring, board games, holiday movie marathons, holiday craft making.Ensuring Safety in Winter Weather
Winter weather brings additional considerations for knee scooter users.
Tread Carefully
Choose scooters with threaded, air-filled tires for better traction, such as the Orthomate all-terrain knee scooter.
Salt your driveway and walkways to prevent ice build-up, and have a family member or neighbor help if you cannot do it yourself.
Stay Dry
Be vigilant of icy conditions, especially in the early mornings and late evenings.
Carry a small towel in your scooter basket to wipe down the seat if it gets wet. It's also a good idea to keep a lightweight, waterproof cover handy to protect the scooter—and your leg—when you're outside.Emotional Well-being During the Holidays
The holiday season can stir a complex mix of emotions when you contend with limited mobility.
It's important to acknowledge feelings of frustration or sadness and to remember that it's okay to reach out to loved ones for support. The holidays are less about the hustle and bustle and more about the shared warmth and joy.
To maintain emotional balance, consider integrating guided meditation or NSDR (non-sleep deep rest) into your routine.
These practices provide a way to find tranquility and rejuvenation amidst the holiday excitement. They can offer a peaceful retreat, helping you stay centered and connected to the festive spirit around you.Final Thoughts
While using a knee scooter may be temporary, the memories you make during the holidays will last a lifetime.
With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can make this holiday season one to remember, filled with love, laughter, and the magic of the holidays.
Cherish these moments and let the spirit of the season lift you.
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