Many people with
Fibromyalgia or other medical issues
believe that obtaining a post-secondary education is not in their future, but
they are wrong. My other
post is about working while having an illness. Educational institutions offer services to help those with
disabilities, but it is not automatic; it must be requested. The Adaptive
Educational Services or Disability Support department is there to serve the
students.
Adaptive services provide benefits for persons with learning,
physical and emotional disorders. Learning disorders include autism, dyslexia,
Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD) and others. Physical disorder examples are
chronic pain, sight problems, hearing impairments and much more. Anxiety and
depression are two examples of emotional disorders.
Ivy Tech’s Disability Services link
IUPUI ‘s
Adaptive Education Services link
Below are a few examples of how disability support can
help with going to college, university. Depending on the institution services
may vary.
- Sight - books on tape or software converts text to an out
loud reader, larger print materials
- Hearing impairment- interpreters, written instructions,
written lecture notes
- Emotional problems (ADD or anxiety) – a quiet room to take
tests or exams, a recorder for class lectures
- Learning disability –software convert text to reader
- Speech problem – oral answers given in written form,
interpreter relay answer
- Chronic but invisible illnesses – report of absences but no
penalty
-
Mobility problem – adaptive seats and tables
Apparel: Keep clean clothing around that needs very little ironing. Choose materials that require very little upkeep such as cotton.
Beauty: Hair maintenance can be difficult when you have pain
or very little energy. Lose the boring ponytail; instead opt for full or
partial wigs for an easy yet polished look.
Soreness: Pain does not always happen at home and good
on-the-go alternatives are needed. Use products that can be used in a car or around you when in a bind. Try pain or heat
patches, muscle rubs, etc. 
