Unfortunately, our society isn’t perfectly set up for people who fall outside of the normal size, height, or ability range. So whether you’re a little person, a little shorter than average, or anywhere in between, you’ll probably relate to these 17 daily struggles only short people can understand.
Reaching High Shelves
One of the most common daily issues facing short people is the struggle to reach high shelves in stores or even our own homes. It can be annoying and anxiety-invoking to ask someone for help, but it’s also frustrating and potentially dangerous to stand on stools or other objects to reach higher.
Finding Clothes That Fit
In an ideal world, everyone would be able to find comfortable, fashionable clothes that fit them perfectly. But unfortunately, we’re not quite there yet. Many short people struggle to find clothes that fit them properly, especially when it comes to length. One poll even found that a whopping two-thirds of Americans struggle to find clothes that fit comfortably.
Being Mistaken for a Child
People who are significantly shorter than average sometimes go through the annoying experience of being mistaken for a child or teenager. While others may find this to be a funny mistake, it can become frustrating, embarrassing, and patronizing, especially when it happens regularly.
Sitting Comfortably in Chairs
Chairs are usually designed for people of average height, so short-statured individuals often have to put up with dangling feet and awkward sitting positions. Thankfully, cushions and footrests can be used to create a more comfortable, posture-friendly experience.
Reaching Pedals in Vehicles
Similarly, short people often struggle to reach pedals in cars and other vehicles, especially when they’re non-adjustable. While it can help to sit closer to the steering wheel, this can make you more susceptible to injuries in the case of an accident or emergency.
Standing in Crowded Places
When we venture out into public events such as festivals or concerts, it can be incredibly difficult for short people to find a good spot where they can see properly. Being smaller than everyone else can also easily leave you feeling overwhelmed and claustrophobic.
Reaching ATM Machines
The reaching struggle continues when it comes to shopping and finances. ATM machines and keypads can often be too high up for us to comfortably reach, meaning you need to stretch or stand on your tiptoes just to access your money. This can lead to feelings of discomfort, embarrassment, and physical pain.
Fitting into Airplane Seats
Airplane seats are rather restrictive for many people who fall outside of the “normal” height, weight, and ability range. As noted by La Petite Poire, this means that they are uncomfortable for shorter people to sit in, which can lead to significant back, neck, and head pain.
Using Public Restrooms
While most people may not be aware of the challenges public restrooms pose for short individuals, we certainly are. Tall sinks, mirrors, and other amenities can be very difficult to reach comfortably, creating feelings of frustration and a higher risk of strain and injury.
Taking Group Photos
Many people don’t enjoy the awkwardness of group photos, but for short people, they can be even more frustrating. Sometimes, poor arrangements can cause us to be barely visible, overshadowed by the tall folk around us. In these situations, it’s easy to feel overlooked and self-conscious.
Participating in Sports
As much as short people may love and excel in sports, they are often at a fundamental disadvantage because of their height. It is commonly difficult for them to reach equipment, perform necessary movements, or compete against taller people of the same ability level. However, the good news is that, according to The Atlantic, being short can actually give you a unique advantage in soccer.
Using Exercise Equipment
Speaking of sports equipment, these resources can be much more difficult for short people to use comfortably. Handles, grips, and seats can all be more challenging to reach and use properly, which also increases one’s risk of injury, postural issues, and discomfort.
Reaching Overhead Storage
Flying isn’t just a nightmare because of the uncomfortable seats. Short people commonly struggle to reach overhead compartments—an issue that’s also common on buses and trains. While people are usually happy to assist us, it’s annoying to always have to rely on others for seemingly simple tasks.
Finding Comfortable Bedding
While it may be hard for most people to imagine feeling like their bedding is too big, it’s quite common for short people to struggle with oversized sheets, blankets, and duvets that don’t fit them or their shorter beds. Sometimes, we have to go out of our way to research custom or petite-size bedding options just to sleep comfortably.
Accessing Kitchen Counters
Yep, we’re back to the reaching struggle again. Most homes don’t come with countertops, shelves, and cabinets that are properly suited to our requirements. Because of this, some short people have to use step stools or other climbing aids for daily cooking and cleaning tasks.
Riding Bicycles
Standard-sized bikes just aren’t cut out for shorter folk. It can be a real struggle to comfortably reach the pedals and handlebars. This can cause strain and discomfort and increase one’s risk of injury. While custom and petite-sized bicycles are out there, they can be difficult to find, afford, or access.
Dealing with Height Discrimination
While society is becoming more inclusive and open-minded overall, discrimination and exclusion remain common problems. This is also true for short people, who are often discriminated against in social interactions, relationships, or even employment opportunities. Thankfully, we are taking steps in the right direction. For example, New York City recently enacted a law that prohibits height-based discrimination.
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