Multiple sclerosis is a disease that disrupts the function of the nervous system, interfering with the ability of the brain to communicate with other parts of the body. The symptoms and severity of MS can differ greatly among those dealing with this disease. Currently, there is no cure for MS, although the symptoms and disabilities associated with the disease can be managed with varying degrees of success. In-home care is an excellent option. With the assistance of certified home health aide Virginia professionals, those living with multiple sclerosis can continue to enjoy the familiar, comfortable surroundings of home.
Steady Increase
There are more than 400,000 people suffering from this disease in the United States today, according to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America. With 200 more people being diagnosed each week, that number is steadily increasing. Fortunately, the number of health care professionals experienced with multiple sclerosis in-home care is also rising. That means more home health aide Virginia options for people to choose from and a better chance of being able to manage this debilitating disease successfully in the home, rather than having to trade independence for residential rehabilitation or an assisted living facility.
In-Home MS Management
There are a variety of ways that an in-home care team can assist in the management of multiple sclerosis. Because of the wide range of symptoms and varying degrees of severity, each MS management plan is highly individualized, encompassing such elements as rehabilitation, assistive care, and pain management strategies. Assistance with specialized therapies, such as cognitive, occupational and speech therapies, also make up a portion of the typical multiple sclerosis management plan. A home health aide can be a vital part of the nutritional support so important for those dealing with MS, helping to ensure a healthy daily diet. Quality care can help slow the progression of MS.
Advantages To At Home Care
While many people do go to a rehabilitation facility for physical therapy and occupational therapy, there are many advantages to doing those sorts of therapies at home. After all, it is the home that a person needs to learn to navigate with new skill sets or abilities that have changed. It just makes sense that the home should be the site of that learning when possible. It is natural for a person to feel more at ease and less stressed at home, which can help that person to get more out of therapy sessions. At home care is often the most cost effective option, an important consideration for many families struggling with multiple sclerosis.
Quality Of Care Matters
Facility care has an entirely different energy than at home care does, though the best facilities do try hard to model the personal, caring assistance a home health aide professional can provide. Health care facilities can be very busy, active places and health care staff have to meet the often competing needs of multiple people. In-home care means one-on-one care, which is often better quality care. And, with a complex, challenging disease like multiple sclerosis, the quality of care can make a real difference in both day-to-day quality of life and overall outcome.If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, there is understandably a great deal of emotion and concern, as well as unanswered questions. Amidst the feelings of confusion, anxiety and fear there is an overwhelming sense of worry over what lies ahead and how to continue living an independent, quality life. Knowing next steps is critical, as is gaining a solid support system and asking healthcare providers the right questions. These are the keys to understanding the disease and being prepared with the necessary information to face a future with multiple sclerosis.
Coping with multiple sclerosis symptoms and the progression of the disease is an ongoing process, and it’s never too early to discover new treatment options and symptom management tactics. Understanding treatment methods and symptom management techniques is one of the first things a person will need to know. Luckily, there are many resources available, support groups, and of course, the guidance of healthcare providers. To start, it’s recommended to meet with your neurologist to discuss appropriate care, and begin treatment as early as possible.
It’s easy to feel alone and overwhelmed with a multiple sclerosis diagnosis. Don’t wait too long to talk about it with caring and encouraging family members and friends. These are the people that will be part of a lifelong support system. Allow time for yourself and those closest to you to digest the news before thinking about the next people to tell. Take your time in disclosing the information.
Remember that multiple sclerosis is only one aspect of your overall health. One can quickly become so overwhelmed with the disease that they neglect all other facets of their life and their health. Continue to take care of yourself and put an emphasis on being healthy and fit through diet and exercise.
Think about how to eliminate stresses that regularly occur in your life, and consider developing a stress management plan. These may be stresses at work, problems with friends or daily occurrences at home that are a constant source of stress. Seek recommendations from your neurologist on how to deal with daily stresses, and be honest about what you’re facing. A doctor can provide the best stress-coping mechanisms that will be beneficial to your health.
These are just several of many strategies that when joined together can create the best possible approach to managing the disease. Medications, treatments, rehabilitation, support groups and companionship from friends and loved ones all play an equally important role in living with multiple sclerosis.
For more information on in-home care plans for managing multiple sclerosis, contact AT Home Care.
