Get Help Managing ALS Symptoms With Our Home Care Services

August 16, 2023

A senior sits down with his hands on a walker as a woman stands behind him with her hand on his shoulder, assisting with managing ALS symptoms.

Try these tips for managing ALS symptoms.

ALS (sometimes called Lou Gehrig’s disease) is a degenerating neurological disease that brings many physical challenges that often lead to clinical depression. For individuals helping older loved ones with managing ALS symptoms, it’s hard not to feel stressed and uncertain about how to help the individual live life to the fullest and remain optimistic.

It’s important for family caregivers to understand the issues the disease brings in order to provide the best care for someone with ALS.

How Can You Help Someone With ALS Live a Better Quality of Life?

Continuum, the top provider of home care in St. Louis, Kirkwood, Clayton, and the surrounding area, has put together the recommendations below to help ensure the best care for those living with ALS:

  • People with muscle diseases like ALS are proficient thinkers, even if they are often unable to communicate clearly. Talk about choices openly while making joint decisions about the person’s ALS care.
  • Use adaptive devices. Using adaptive tools like a wheelchair helps aid self-sufficiency.  Adaptive tools are readily available for assorted everyday tasks, such as eating, opening jars and doors, buttoning or zipping up clothing, writing, and taking a shower.
  • Ensure the person with ALS has access to a computer and the internet. Computers, along with other assistive systems, supply entertainment and social interaction and make it possible for the person with ALS to help with tasks like paying bills, tracking down information, hiring services, and shopping.
  • Ask if the person wants assistance before jumping in and helping with a task. Do not take over tasks that still can be performed if the person is provided with adaptive products and time.
  • Patience is a virtue. Though it may often seem quicker and more efficient to take over certain tasks, show patience and allow the person to accomplish the tasks that they can.

For people managing ALS symptoms, self-reliance and exceptional ALS care are imperative. The home care professionals at Continuum are thoroughly trained and experienced in providing the care and support needed to ensure those with ALS live their best lives.

Get in touch with us any time at 314-863-9912 for additional information about our services.