I have a disabled friend who confided in me that she once found her disability really affected her confidence when it came to dating. She felt that being in a wheel chair would be off putting for her dates. Since then she has met the man of her dreams. They had many wonderful dates before they made the decision to move in together. She is now full of happiness, love and confidence but it made me realise that there might be other people with disabilities out there who are feeling nervous about dating. So I had a chat with my friend to see what she recommends from her past experience and to explore some date night ideas for disabled people.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored blog post
Online dating
First up if you’re looking to meet someone try an online dating site. Paraplegic dating sites can really help your confidence and can be an enabler to many wonderful dates and wonderful times ahead. You can take things at your own pace; swapping messages and photos and maybe a few video calls before you actually meet up in person.
Watch YouTube for tips and advice
There’s a brilliant channel on YouTube called Single Disabled. It helps people with disabilities navigate the world of dating and relationships. It talks about dating with disabilities, including amputee dating, dating with chronic illness and dating when you’re blind.
There’s a great video on this channel by Jenna Farmer where she discusses body image when you have chronic illness or a disability. It has some brilliant advice from following people on social media that look like you, to writing positive affirmations about yourself and surrounding yourself with positive people.
The perfect date night ideas for disabled people
Whether it’s you with the disability or your date, here’s some date night ideas for disabled people.
Go on a picnic
If the sun is shining why not pack a picnic and head to the park? Being outdoors in nature is so good for your well-being and Vitamin D is great for uplifting your mood. Combine that with good food and exciting new company, an alfresco date could be perfect!
Bonus idea: Another great way to connect with your significant other on a date night is to play a game of jigsaw puzzles together. I’m A Puzzle offers a large selection of free online puzzles.
Watch a movie
First dates are often nerve-wracking so a great way to break the ice is to go to the cinema. You can enjoy the movie together without having to make polite conversation and it gives you a chance to get used to just being in each other’s company. Afterwards, you have a natural talking point, discussing what you liked, or didn’t like, about the film, to ease you into more general conversation.
Go to a museum or art gallery
Adding a bit of culture to your date can be an enjoyable way to see if you share similar interests. Accessible museums often have nice flat floors with plenty of space, perfect for anyone with mobility issues. They usually have audio guides which is really helpful if you are visually impaired.
Go for a walk
There are many accessible walking paths across the UK. Some walking trails even have gates that can be unlocked with a RADAR key. Country Parks often have mobility scooters to loan and there are lots of trails that are wheelchair friendly.
Top Tip: Check venues in advance of a date to find out how accessible they are, if there have paved paths for walks and where the nearest disabled toilets and facilities are located.
Don’t be afraid to be adventurous
If you’re dating someone with a disability it can be easy to make an assumption that there are certain things that they can’t do. That may well be the case but don’t assume it is. Ask your date if something is possible and if they would like to do it. If they are limited in what they can do, why not get creative to come up with alternative ideas.
