What to Keep in Mind When Planning Outdoor Activities with Minor Disabilities

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Are you planning on heading outdoors for some fresh air and adventure? Well, honestly, something like that is really great, right? Who wouldn’t want to spend more time outdoors? While sure, there’s plenty of advice when it comes to being in the great outdoors, like not feeding wildlife and leaving nothing behind but footprints, those who have a disability might struggle.

So, those who have something that would be considered more minor, such as being hard of hearing or seeing (like needing glasses or contacts) or even having a cane or small brace, could also be considered a tad more minor.

Basically, you’re not limited, but a little extra planning and seriously go a long way when it comes to all of this. So, no matter what you’re doing outdoors or the season itself, you just need to make some minor adjustments. But what exactly? Well, here’s exactly what you need to know!

Be Mindful of Glasses and Contact Lenses

Glasses are great—until they start fogging up halfway through a walk or slip off when you’re running. It doesn’t really matter if you’re hiking, cycling, or even just strolling; keeping those frames secure and clear is key. But if you’re planning something more intense, a strap or band to keep your glasses in place can save you from that awkward moment when they slip down your nose at the worst time.

Okay, now it was pointed out that glasses can be a bit of a pain, but what about contact lenses? Well, they’re not 100% outdoor adventure-proof, either. Yes, you read that right! Actually, outdoor environments can sometimes be a little tricky.

Dusty trails or dry air can leave your eyes feeling irritated. Plus, you can’t swim with your contact lenses in, at least not in a lake, pond, or ocean. But you could look into prescription goggles as a good alternative, and you might want to pack some resetting drops, too.

You’ll Have to Protect Hearing Aids During Outdoor Fun

So, what if you’re not wearing glasses, but instead, you’re wearing hearing aids? Well, usually, when you get them from your audiologist, they’ll inform you of what you can and can’t do, and yes, that goes for what you can do outside with them, too. Basically, they’ll need some extra care. For example, swimming with hearing aids isn’t recommended—most are water-resistant, not waterproof.

Plus, lakes, pools, or even a heavy rainstorm could damage them. If water-based activities are on the agenda, it’s best to remove them beforehand to avoid any mishaps. For other outdoor adventures, it’s all about getting your hearing aids ready for outdoor activities.

Another example would be wearing a clip, or secure strap can help ensure they don’t fall out during a brisk hike or bike ride (and yes the wind can get intense). Just keep in mind that yes, you will take to take some action, and yes, you’ll have to be careful.

Keep Mobility Aids in Mind

If you use mobility aids like walking sticks, braces, or prosthetics, it’s essential to think about where you’ll be going. Now, some of these are 100% manageable when it comes to certain activities, but obviously not everything.

Just think about it—uneven terrain, loose gravel, and even slippery trails after rain can be challenging. It’s a good idea to look more into this, where you’ll go, and what trails and activities are safest. There are usually some that cater to those who have more mobility challenges.

*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.