My greatest fear from when they put me on disability has come true. I've become "that guy." The one who spends his day on his butt watching TV. I don't even want to get up and get the mail or paper because it requires me to move.

I can't do the volunteering that some of the other people in the park do because it requires being able to stand for a period of time, two hands, being able to move. I do the exercise class the park where I live has for residents 3x a week and I enjoy the socialization but it's like exercising with my grandparents. Most of the people are in their 70s-80s. The people closer to my age are still working as do my friends. I was forced to retire from fencing after my back surgery.

I don't even have a pet to talk to. A dog isn't an option and I have never been a cat person. I am going crazy. I hate my life so much I don't know what to do. I don't know how much longer I can do this.

Hi SDfencer,

It's very tough to adjust to a disability.
It's a truly major life adjustment.

Are you able to see a therapist for support?

I am encouraging you to consider getting a dog if you'd benefit from having a dog. I understand you feel the community rules for dogs make it difficult for you to have a dog; however, communities often make accommodations for people with disabilities. In some states, the laws make it possible to have a companion animal and necessary accommodations for the animal.

I am encouraging you to contact your state's office for Independent Living to ask more about this, and/or to gain a caseworker, if possible.

If the office for Independent Living cannot answer your questions and/or you need more assistance, please contact Legal Aid, if your state has Legal Aid programs available. Many Legal Aid offices have special funds to assist people with disabilities, at no cost.

If you are disabled and would benefit from having a dog, I believe there is a very good chance you can have a dog. Please check with these agencies to understand the pertinent laws in your state of residence.

I hope you will find a helping hand!

Warmly,
DejaVu

dear SDfencer
i couldn't have said it any better
awesome advice
singing
hold on
hold on
hold on
hold on

we won't let you go
love
me

Well, we are allowed to have a small dog here but it wouldn't be practical. I would have to cart over to the doggie area several times a day and in the morning.

The problem is I want to go out and do stuff. I just don't even have the desire to get up. If my chair had a restroom built into it I'd never get up.

I can drive and get around but I want people nearer to my own age. I went to a senior center recommended to me and There were so many oxygen tanks there if someone lit a match-- KABOOM.

Of course I've gotten into whining about my situation. When I do go out, like to our aerobics class 3 days a week, they all tell me what an inspiration I am and what a great attitude I have. I just need someone to talk to during the day or some sort of distraction. It's been 100+ degrees the last 3 days so I have to stay in. The heat literally shuts me down.

Aw crap, just fix me.

That kind of heat will wear most people down.. Does your area have cooling centers? If so maybe visit one of those and see what is happening there.

Sounds like carting over to the doggie area a few times a day would give you the motivation to get you out of your chair?

Dave.

Sounds like a plan....


Gerry

Hey Fence,

I think Dave's idea might just be a start; and a good reason to get up.

I understand your lack of incentive at the Senior Center; which is not for everyone, and most likely not in your case.


Gerry

Hi SDFencer,

If you are unable to transport your dog to the common doggie area, for any reason related to your physical limitations, it's likely you may ask for an accommodation so you may take your dog to a closer area, as in just outside your back door or make some mutually agreeable arrangement which does work for you.

The local senior center isn't for everyone.
Some centers have a younger crowd than others.

I am also very limited by the heat. It's been one of those weeks of trying to stay cool. I can feel cooped up, too. I am thankful we have air conditioning.

SD, Are you having a more difficult time with depression?
If so, have you talked with your doctor about this?

I am going on my third week of bupropion (Wellbutrin) and have much more energy and it's not as difficult to do everyday tasks. I think it's going to continue to be helpful. I have great difficulty with med sensitivities, so when I find one that works and I can tolerate it, I am very happy!

So, what kind of a dog do you want to have as a companion animal?

We are here for you.
DejaVu