Managing your disability or illness

Whether you have been diagnosed with an illness or disability or an existing condition has changed, it is important to have easy access to up to date information. Many older and disabled people feel more able to manage and accept their condition if they have a good understanding of what it means and have access to possible sources of help and support. These are our suggestions of how broadband can help you manage your disability or illness.

On-line access to support organisations

Many organisations and charities now have websites which have a variety of information about disability and illness. This can help people who feel isolated because they cannot physically get out as well as people with mental health conditions such as depression.

On-line access to medical information

There are now many on-line medical dictionaries and websites available which with broadband give you quick and easy access to a range of information. If you are a British Sign Language user there are even medical translation services. Visit our BSL Broadband guide for more about video translation.

Chat rooms

Some websites for disabled people and those with long-tem illnesses include chat rooms. With broadband you can get onto the Internet at anytime and use your keyboard to chat to people who understand how you feel. For people with speech impairments who find face to face communication difficult, general on-line chat rooms are also a great way to socialise.

Message boards

Again they are found on some websites and allow users to discuss a subject. You can use a Message Board to share information about your condition or ask a question. Unlike chat rooms not everyone taking part has to be online at the same time, so you can join in when it is convenient to you.

More information

The following websites provide more information on managing your illness or disability

DIAL