If you have a disability, you may want to pay greater attention to the types of medications that are prescribed for high cholesterol or low HDL (good) cholesterol. Many individuals with spinal cord injury, for example, have low HDL (good) cholesterol levels, which, according to several experts, is as much a risk for developing heart disease as high LDL cholesterol levels. Speak with your doctor about this and make sure that your HDL levels are above 40. Some adults with developmental disabilities who live in group home settings or with family members are also at risk because of their high intake of foods containing cholesterol and saturated fat and their lower participation in physical activity.

Aerobic exercise is a great way to increase your HDL cholesterol. Studies on long-distance runners have reported very high HDL levels in these well-trained athletes. Persons who use wheelchairs can conduct arm exercises to achieve higher HDL levels, but no one is quite sure how much exercise is required to achieve similar benefits as long-distance runners. A major concern is that too much wheeling or arm exercise may cause an overuse injury. Spreading your exercise throughout the day in smaller increments - 15 to 20 minutes per session - may be a safer way to avoid shoulder injuries and allow you to achieve similar benefits as highly trained athletes.

The key to maintaining your cardiovascular health hasn't changed very much over the past two decades: eat 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables per day; exercise regularly; maintain a safe body weight; and, if necessary, use a cholesterol lowering medication that your doctor feels is right for you.