Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an auto-immune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. The immune system goes from fighting off infections and viruses to turning against itself and attacking nerve cells.
The coating that protects the nerves (myelin) is damaged. This causes a range of symptoms such as blurred vision, fatigue, loss of balance, muscle pain and spasms, numbness and tingling, difficulty walking, all of which can have a significant impact on mobility.
Self-Care and MS
More than 8 out of 10 people with MS have relapsing remitting MS, experiencing episodes of new or worsening symptoms (relapses). These can last a few days, weeks or months then slowly improve. With no warning, an individual must be prepared for a relapse, having the relevant home adaptations and mobility equipment to get through this period.
As explained by the NHS, people living with long-term conditions can benefit enormously from being supported to care for themselves. They can live longer, have a better quality of life, be more active and independent. Self-care would include maintaining a good level of physical and mental health and the prevention of illness or accidents. This would include safety in the home.
MS and Stairs
Symptoms such a loss of balance and coordination and blurred vision can make tasks like climbing stairs extremely challenging with a high risk of a trip or fall. The physical strain required to climb stairs can also diminish already low energy levels.
Mobility – Being Prepared
According to the MS Society, most people with MS don’t use a wheelchair. However if MS does affect someone’s mobility, the use of a walking stick, mobility scooter or wheelchair can help retain independence. Being able to deal with the unpredictability and being prepared to manage changes can help those affected by MS retain control and self-esteem.
A Stiltz Homelift is a safe and reliable means of moving between floors. It eliminates the risk of trips and falls on the stairs, giving an individual the confidence to live an independent life as their condition progresses.
Notes from our resident Occupational Therapist, Stuart Barrow
“The severity of MS can vary in different patients, and it can have a massive impact on their quality of life. From the effects the disease has on speech through to the loss on control of limbs. If they are to remain at home, adaption will be needed.”
Stiltz Homelifts Occupational Therapist and owner of Promoting Independence
Judy Turner suffers from multiple sclerosis but she is still mobile and fully able to use the stairs. However, she felt it was important to plan for the future and this involved finding a solution which did not require the need to move house.
“Self-care would include maintaining a good level of physical and mental health and the prevention of illness or accidents. This would include safety in the home…”
