On behalf of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week 2022, HCL want to share some tips on how to care for someone with MS.
How to care for someone with MS
Often, when a loved one is diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) part of the adjustment comes with taking on a bigger role in your loved one’s care.
There’s some simple changes you can make that make the transition easier.
1) Assist with day-to-day living. Expect to do more mundane tasks. You may be required to arrange transportation and run errands for a friend or family member. You may also need to take on additional household responsibilities such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, and child care. You may be required to assist with personal care needs such as dressing, feeding, toileting, and bathing depending on your loved one’s MS symptoms.
2) Encourage a healthy lifestyle. Create healthier habits such as eating well and exercising; you may also seek professional assistance if you notice changes in the mood of a loved one.
3) Prepare for the unexpected. What you do as a caregiver may vary from one day to the next.
4) Pain alleviation. Individuals with MS may experience distressing pain. Help ease their discomfort: warm compresses, pressure stockings and loose clothing. Warm compresses, pressure stockings, and loose clothing can all help to alleviate their discomfort.
5) Look after yourself. When you’re a caregiver, it’s critical to prioritise your own needs as well. Juggling the demands of caring for others while also running a household can leave you exhausted. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat well, and try to get a good night’s sleep.
Know When to Ask for Help
Many caregivers and experts agree that in order to do a good job as a caregiver, you need to know when to ask for help.
When you need a break, turn to outside care for your loved one. By organising respite care, you can take time out to look after yourself. Remember, it is not selfish for you to take care of yourself. You deserve to be healthy and feel well.
A Helping Hand
Our specially trained care assistants, with experience in working with people with complex needs, can come into the home and help. Our carers can assist in everything from lifting, bathing and dressing, to cooking and cleaning.
We’re here to help. Email us at info@home-carers.co.uk or call if you have any questions.
0151 737 2820.
