Originally Posted by
Machka
I didn't give it up due to medical problems. I gave it up due to distance problems. For me, it came down to the simplest and least expensive way to accomplish what I wanted to accomplish.
You've got to take stock of your own situation.
Can you get where you need to go by some other method of transportation (the bus? an occasional taxi? friends or family?)
Can you move to where it would be easier to get around on foot or perhaps with something like a cat trike or e-bike?
Can you move to an area where medical facilities (doctor's offices, hospitals, or whatever's needed) are close at hand?
How does money factor into these things.
Weigh up the pros and cons and what's possible, put money into the equation ... and come up with your decision. What's best for YOU!
+1. You have to be flexible and adaptive while making reasonable plans. A car is not ALWAYS the best choice for daily travel!!!
Money is an important factor, but there are other considerations, such as maintaining independence and autonomy, and just having fun in your daily life.
I developed a serious cardiac problem about 18 months ago. Prior to that, I had become more sedentary in my daily living. Now, due in large part to the exercise afforded by a carfree lifestyle, my health is greatly improved. Blood pressure, lipids, and blood sugar are all in the low range of normal. My heart's ejection fraction has gone from 20% (cardiac cripple) to 45% (near normal). My doctors can hardly believe the improvements! My walks are a big part of both fun and autonomy, and walking even helps me save a little money. I hope to be back on the bike soon, but so far it's just little trips on a borrowed bike. (I stupidly gave my bike away while despondent about my health.
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