Multiple Sclerosis: Symptoms and Caregiving Guidelines

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disorder that interferes with the body’s central nervous system. It damages the sheaths of the nerve cells in a person’s brain and spinal cord, often making it hard for them to move around as easily as they used to.

People with MS often lead normal or near-normal lives with minimal setbacks; however, in some cases it can shorten one’s lifespan. If your loved one is at risk for MS or has severe symptoms due to the disease, Nest & Care, a trusted provider of in home care in Montgomery County, MD, lists some guidelines to provide your loved one with the care they need.

Signs and Symptoms

MS can affect people in different ways. Some of the early signs of MS include:

  • Dizziness
  • Balance Problems
  • Vision Problems
  • Fatigue or Weakness
  • Pains and Spasms
  • Bladder Issues
  • Sexual Dysfunction
  • Cognitive Problems
  • Numbness and Tingling

MS Caregiving Guidelines

Each person is different. So, create a customized care plan while keeping these guidelines in mind from your trusted provider of home health care in Rockville, Maryland.

  • Educate yourself – the more you know about MS, the more you will feel ready to face the challenges that it can pose. Learning as much as you can about the illness and possible treatment options can empower you to help your loved one make decisions about their care.

  • You may have to make some home modifications to better suit the needs of your loved one with MS, particularly if they are in a wheelchair. Having slip-resistant mats, grab bars, hand rails, and other home modifications can make your home safer for your loved one.

  • Exercising offers numerous benefits for people of all ages, but some exercises are specially designed to help boost balance, flexibility, and energy. Talk to your loved one’s doctor or physical therapist to get some workout ideas suitable for patients with MS.

  • Seniors with MS may have speech impairments, but this does not mean they are hard of hearing or are unable to understand you. There is no reason to speak slower or yell. Just communicate respectfully and treat your loved one with dignity.

  • Stay positive. By continuing to have a positive disposition, your loved one may also feel more positive, which can result in lowered stress levels.

  • Know when to ask for help. We offer skilled nursing and home care services in Silver Spring, Maryland that can help both you and your loved one with MS enjoy a higher quality of life.

Nest & Care is a dedicated in-home care in Montgomery County, MD. We provide service in Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, and its neighboring communities. If you’re looking for a dedicated and professional caregiver who can help a loved one for their daily needs, Nest & Care can help. We carefully match each client with the best caregiver and formulate an individualized plan that best suits the family’s needs and goals. Excellent service to our clients and families is of paramount importance to us. Call us today for your free in-home assessment by a Nest & Care Registered Nurse.