Self-care is essential for Arizonans with disabilities

April Reed

Submitted photo

This isn’t just a message for people with disabilities; it’s a call to action for the broader community. Lawmakers must prioritize funding for accessible services and support systems. City planners, business owners and neighbors must ensure public spaces are inclusive and accessible.”

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The term “self-care” often conjures up images of spa days, luxurious vacations, bubble baths and more. For people living with disabilities, however, self-care is much more than an occasional indulgence.

It is about taking the time and energy to prioritize one’s physical and mental well-being, to feel confident navigating a landscape that isn’t always designed for you, to invest in one’s independence, dignity, and long-term health.

While 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. and 1 in 7 Arizonans live with a disability, conversations surrounding general health and wellness typically exclude this population. It’s a missed opportunity to highlight how intentional self-care not only helps people with disabilities to navigate daily life but also empowers them to thrive. 

At Ability360, we see the impact of self-care every single day. Our Sports & Fitness Center is a vibrant hub where members of all ages and abilities build strength, discover community and take ownership of their well-being. Home Care Services supports everyday independence, offering assistance with bathing, dressing and meal prep — not to take over lives, but to help individuals live them on their own terms.

The Independent Living Skills Program provide children, teens and adults the tools they need to become more self-reliant, confident and prepared to face life’s challenges.

Self-care looks different for every person and must be shaped by individual needs, wants and realities. For some, it’s creating a morning routine that eases anxiety. For others, it’s carving out time to rest without guilt, or reaching out to someone who understands the daily hurdles of navigating disability.

Sometimes, it’s as simple — and powerful — as choosing joy, embracing adventure or exploring spaces that welcome and include you.

This isn’t just a message for people with disabilities; it’s a call to action for the broader community. Lawmakers must prioritize funding for accessible services and support systems. City planners, business owners and neighbors must ensure public spaces are inclusive and accessible.

When people with disabilities can fully participate in society, everyone benefits. Healthy, empowered individuals create stronger families, communities and economies.

As we recognize Self-Care Awareness Month this September, let’s shift the narrative. Self-care for people with disabilities isn’t a trend or a luxury, it’s essential. It’s time we recognize it, fund it and support it, not just during a single month, but all year long.

Editor’s note: April Reed is vice president of advocacy for Ability360, a nonprofit that empowers Arizonans with disabilities in Maricopa, Pima, Pinal and Gila counties, with offices in Phoenix, Coolidge, Gilbert/Mesa and Tucson. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.