Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can be unpredictable, and abilities can change daily. Understanding the diagnosis, medications, management techniques, and the at-home care plan will help you and your loved one be prepared and handle changes as they occur. Our tips below will help you.
Four Tips For MS Caregivers
1. MODIFYING THE HOME FOR SAFETY
Ensuring the home is safe, accessible, and comfortable is essential to reduce the chance of injury and be prepared for mobility changes. When identifying adaptations to make in the home, talk to your health care team. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist or occupational therapist. They will come to your home and provide suggestions on modifications to help you or your loved one with MS stay as independent as possible while ensuring accessibility and safety. Modifications may include ramps, widening of doorways, minor bath renovations, remote door openers, and addition of mobility-assisting equipment.
2. SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE FOR DAILY ACTIVITIES
Daily activities such as bathing, cooking, eating, taking medications, and getting to doctor’s appointments may be challenging for the person with MS. Advice and training are available to help caregivers and patients learn how to modify daily activities and be comfortable with the identified treatment plan. If you are unsure how to do something listed on the care plan, contact your health care team. They will walk you through the process to ensure you are comfortable and understand the best technique to care for your loved one.
3. PLANNING AHEAD FOR FLARE-UPS AND RELAPSES
While working with your healthcare team, your doctors will also share symptom management techniques and strategies to deal with MS flare-ups and relapses. You may not need the information now, but MS symptoms can change overnight. Learning how to make activities such as getting in and out of the tub or shower, dressing, and toileting easier will be valuable skills as changes in abilities occur.
4. HOW HOME CARE CAN HELP
MS flare-ups and relapses can happen overnight. The severity and length of time until symptoms become manageable again is not predictable. At Caregivers by WholeCare, we will work with you to put a plan in place for support and assistance before a flare-up or relapse occurs. We have found that this proactive approach gives many of our clients and their caregivers' peace of mind they didn’t know they were lacking.
We would love to be part of your community of care. Give us a call at 615-422-7549 to learn how we can be a part of your support team.
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