The rainy season is here — and while the sound of rain may bring comfort to some, it can also bring health risks, mobility challenges, and emotional strain, especially for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
We understand that weather affects us differently. That’s why this piece is for every PWD, caregiver, or concerned community member asking: “How do we cope with this season?”
The Reality of Rainy Season for PWDs
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In many parts of Nigeria today, we face:
°•Flooded roads and poor drainage
°•Cold, damp environments
°•Increased respiratory infections and body pains
°•Restricted access to health care and mobility aids
For persons with physical, sensory, and chronic conditions, these conditions can:
• Aggravate arthritis, muscular pain, and asthma
• Increase risk of fever, cough, and hypothermia
• Lead to emotional withdrawal, isolation, or anxiety
• Damage wheelchairs, crutches, or assistive devices
Health & Safety Tips for Rainy Season (PWD-Focused)
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¶ Stay Warm, Dry, and Layered.
• Wear thermal or cotton clothing in layers to retain body heat
• Keep feet dry — dampness increases risk of colds and foot sores
• For wheelchair users: use waterproof covers, ponchos, or wrap knees and thighs in fleece
• Avoid wet surfaces, as falls are more common during rainy days
💡 Did You Know? Cold weather worsens spasticity, arthritis, and nerve pain in people with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, or amputations.
¶ Boost Immunity Through Diet & Hygiene.
• Eat warm, nutrient-rich meals: eg. beans, yam, eggs, soups, fruits with vitamin C
• Drink warm water or ginger tea to soothe throat and improve circulation
• Practice strict hand hygiene — colds and flu spread faster indoors
• If you use assistive devices, sanitize handles, gloves, and fabrics regularly
🧠 Fun Fact: Bitter leaf, ginger, garlic, and citrus fruits are natural immunity boosters — and easy to find in local markets. (Source: mysasun website).
¶ Protect Mobility Aids.
• Dry wheelchairs, crutches, or prosthetics immediately after exposure to rain
• Oil moving parts regularly to prevent rust
• Store devices indoors or under plastic sheeting
• For blind individuals, use rubber-tipped canes that grip slippery floors better
¶ Mind Your Mental Health
The cold season can trigger feelings of:
• Isolation, especially when mobility is reduced
• Low mood or seasonal depression, due to fewer social interactions.
📌 Try This:
~ Stay connected with people via calls, WhatsApp, or radio chats
~ Set small goals to look forward to: new hobbies, audio books, light stretching
~ If sadness persists for more than 2 weeks, talk to someone you trust
¶ Prepare Emergency Essentials
• Keep a small weather kit: extra meds, gloves, torchlight, batteries, pain relief
• Have your doctor or caregiver’s number saved in multiple places
• Keep paths in the house dry and non-slippery
• Charge your phone when rain threatens power cuts
For Caregivers, Families, and Communities:
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💙 Always ask before helping: “How can I assist you safely?”
💙 Don’t block access to ramps, stairs, or walkways
💙 Share useful tips and check in regularly
💙 Use inclusive language that promotes dignity, not pity
We know the rain is a blessing — but it shouldn’t become a barrier. That’s why we’re reminding everyone:
“Inclusion must continue — rain or shine.”
We stand with every person living with a disability in this season. Your health, safety, and comfort matter. And together, we’ll weather this season with care, courage, and community.
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Do you have your own tip for staying safe in the rainy season? Share it with us using #RainReadyPWD or tag @IsonyeFoundation
Isonye Foundation
#RainReadyPWD
#IsonyeFoundation
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