Are you living with muscular dystrophy and want to work?
In this guide on jobs for someone with muscular dystrophy, you will find information about discovering suitable career pathways, looking for job opportunities, accessing workplace modifications and feeling confident at work.
No two individuals with muscular dystrophy have the same experiences, goals or needs when it comes to employment.
For more personalised advice about jobs for someone with muscular dystrophy, get in touch with APM today. A dedicated APM Employment Consultant will work closely with you to find solutions that are right for you.
What is muscular dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that affect the muscles which we use for movement.
Sometimes the muscles that control the heart and other muscles may be affected too. Over time, the muscle tissue breaks down, causing muscle loss and progressive weakness.
There are many different types of muscular dystrophy including:
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy
- Becker muscular dystrophy
- Myotonic dystrophy
- Congenital muscular dystrophy
- Limb girdle muscular dystrophy
- Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)
Individuals with muscular dystrophy have wide ranging experiences and symptoms.
Symptoms that may impact a person's ability to work include:
- Falling over, or affected balance
- Weakness (unable to lift objects)
- Unable to walk
- Breathing difficulties
- Heart problems
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fine motor limitations
Brainstorm job types and career pathways with an Employment Consultant
There are people with muscular dystrophy working in a wide range of roles and industries. When thinking about what types of jobs would be a good fit for you, consider:
- What are my interests and passions?
- What are my skills and qualifications?
- What experience do I have?
- Will I need further training?
- What type of environment do I work best in?
- What are my limitations?
- Are there assistive technologies that could help me?
- How many hours do I want to work?
Talking with an Employment Consultant may help you discover job options that you have not considered before. They can also help you identify the next steps you'll need to take on the road to employment.
Try different search methods when looking for jobs for someone with muscular dystrophy
There are many different ways to find new jobs. Try a combination of methods for the best results.
- Online employment search engines
- Jobs boards
- Networking websites like LinkedIn
- Word of mouth
- Company websites
- Cold pitching (approaching a company you want to work for)
For more information, check out APM's guide on how to find a job.
Get support from Disability Employment Services
Searching for work can be a long process, and it's natural to feel discouraged along the way. Extra support is available, don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
If you're living with muscular dystrophy and looking for work, you could be eligible for Disability Employment Services, a government funded program which assists people living with injury, illness or disability to find and keep a job.
When you register for Disability Employment Services with APM, we can help you with:
- Career advice
- Finding suitable job opportunities
- Writing resumes and cover letters
- Preparing for interviews
- Accessing support services such as mental health services
- Accessing workplace modifications
- Accessing funding for things such as transport or work uniforms
- Ongoing workplace support
Ready to get started? Register for Disability Employment Services today.
Workplace modifications can help you feel more confident in your role
Workplace modifications are changes in your job role or work environment that make it easier or more accessible to perform well at work. Workplace modifications are often specific as no two people have the same experience.
At APM, we can help you access workplace modifications and assistive technologies at no cost to you or your employer. We work closely with you and your employer to find sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.
Workplace modifications could include:
- Redesigning your workspace to be more accessible
- Ergonomic equipment to help manage fatigue
- Speech recognition software if using a keyboard is difficult
- Restructuring your job and removing physically demanding tasks
- Flexible schedule and time off for appointments
- Scheduled breaks to manage fatigue
- Aid, assistant or support animal
- Accessible toilet facilities
- Mobility equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers etc.
Register with APM today and let's get started on your journey to employment!
Working in a supportive environment can bring life changing benefits for someone with muscular dystrophy.
Not only does work help you be more financially independent, it can improve your confidence and self esteem and give you a sense of purpose.
Ready to experience the life changing benefits of work? Register with APM today and let's get started.