Beyond What Meets The Eye | Invisible Disabilities Week 2024

Did you know that 93% of disabled people don't use a wheelchair?

Not all disabilities are visible to the eye, but they can still impact someone's life just as much as visible disabilities.

At Solent Mobility Centre, we support everyone, whether your disability is visible or hidden. This week, we're spreading awareness for Invisible Disabilities Week 2024.

In this blog, we'll tell you all about invisible disabilities, what they are, and what support is available to help you or a loved one living with a disability.

What is an Invisible Disability?

An invisible disability is a physical, mental, or neurological condition that usually cannot be seen from the outside of a person. These conditions can be limiting and challenging to a person's movements, senses, or daily activities.

What are some Invisible Disabilities?

• Autism

• Anxiety

• Chronic Pain

• Dementia

• Depression

• Diabetes

• Endometriosis

• Epilepsy

• Hearing Loss

• Impaired Vision

• Multiple Sclerosis

What is Invisible Disabilities Week?

Invisible Disabilities Week is an annual event to bring awareness, education, and support to family, friends, and the community for unseen disabilities. It's hosted by the Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) and was founded in 2014.

This year's Invisible Disability Week will take place between the 20th and 26th of October. There are many ways you can celebrate this week, such as spreading awareness on social media, sharing your personal stories of living with an invisible disability, joining support groups, and getting the word out about invisible disabilities.

Many people choose to wear blue during this week! It's a great way to show your support at work, school, or in public.

Support for Invisible Disabilities

Hidden Disabilities Charity

The Hidden Disabilities Charity is a charity based in Hull, committed to raising awareness and providing a supportive community for those with invisible conditions. They also provide clubs and events for those living with a disability to socialise and get active.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

The HD Sunflower supports hidden disabilities of all kinds. They also created the sunflower lanyard, which is a useful visual cue that discreetly acknowledges that the wearer has an invisible disability and may need support.

How we can help you

At Solent Mobility Centre, we understand that not all disabilities are visible, and our staff are trained to help you regardless of your condition. Our store has a wide variety of mobility aids from simple daily living aids to wheelchairs, scooters, and furniture.

Visit us today at our store in Lee-on-Solent's lively high street, and our friendly expert team will assist you in finding the most suitable mobility aids for your needs.