At Access Care, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality live-in care services to those who would like to keep their independence while getting the help and support that they need.
With over 3 decades of experience in providing live-in care, our dedicated team of professional live-in carers have had the privilege of working with numerous home care clients living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
In our next Access Care blog post, we are going to share valuable insights and information tailored specifically to those with MS or those with a loved one living with MS, that might be looking into live-in care.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Access Care Explains: What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord.
In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibres, leading to inflammation and damage. This damage disrupts the flow of information between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in a wide range of symptoms.
These symptoms can vary greatly among individuals but often include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems with coordination and balance. While the exact cause of MS remains unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Although there is currently no cure for MS, various treatments and therapies are available to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, allowing individuals to maintain a better quality of life.
Access Care Explains: Symptoms of MS
The symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can quite a bit from person to person and they may also change over time.
Common symptoms of MS can include:
Fatigue: A persistent sense of tiredness or exhaustion that doesn't improve with rest.
Difficulty Walking: Having trouble with mobility which may include unsteady gait, balance problems, or muscle weakness.
Numbness or Tingling: Experiencing the sensations of pins and needles, usually in the legs, arms, face, or other parts of the body.
Muscle Weakness: Noticeably reduced strength in one or more limbs, which can have an impact on daily activities.
Coordination and Balance Problems: Difficulties with fine motor skills and balance problems, this can lead to an increased risk of falls.
Vision Problems: Blurry or experiencing double vision, partial or complete loss of vision, usually in one eye at a time, accompanied by pain during eye movement.
Spasticity: Muscle stiffness and involuntary muscle movements, which can cause a person pain and limit movement.
Dizziness and Vertigo: Feeling like you are spinning or feeling off-balance.
Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: Troubles with urgency, frequency, or retention of urine, and also bowel issues such as constipation.
Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, attention, problem-solving, and other cognitive functions.
Emotional Changes: Those living with MS may experience mood swings, depression, and anxiety, which can be a direct result of the disease or in response to the challenges of living with MS.
Pain: Chronic or acute pain, which can occur in various parts of the body.
Speech and Swallowing Problems: Slurred speech, trouble forming words, and issues with swallowing.
The symptoms of MS can fluctuate, with periods of new symptoms or relapses followed by times of remission where the symptoms may see improvement or disappear altogether. The unpredictability and range of symptoms make MS a uniquely challenging condition to manage.
Access Care Explains: Diagnosis of MS
Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can be hard due to the wide range of symptoms and their potential to overlap with other conditions.
In diagnosing MS, there is no single test, instead, a comprehensive evaluation is typically carried out by a neurologist.
The diagnostic process of MS often includes the following steps:
Medical History and Symptom Review: A thorough review of the patient's medical history and a detailed discussion of their symptoms and any changes over time.
Neurological Examination: A physical examination to look at neurological function, including tests of coordination, balance, reflexes, muscle strength, and sensory responses.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans are used to see if there are any lesions in the brain and spinal cord that are indicative of MS. These lesions are areas where the myelin has been damaged.
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): During a lumbar puncture, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the lower back. Analysing the CSF can reveal abnormalities in antibodies and proteins that are associated with MS.
Evoked Potentials Tests: These tests are done to measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimuli. If there any delays in the nervous system's response, this can indicate demyelination.
Blood Tests: While there is not one single blood test for MS, blood tests can be used to rule out other conditions that may mimic MS symptoms, such as infections, vitamin deficiencies, and other autoimmune disorders.
The combination of these diagnostic tools helps to confirm the presence of MS and rule out other potential causes of the symptoms. Early and accurate diagnosis is so important for managing the disease effectively and starting the best treatment quickly.
Access Care Explains: Treatments for MS
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), however there are numerous treatments that are available to help manage the symptoms, reduce the frequency of relapses, and slow the progression of the disease.
The primary categories of treatments for MS include disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), symptomatic treatments, and lifestyle modifications. Often, a person living with MS will bring in a live-in carer as a part of the lifestyle modification process - to help them live their lives independently but with the help of a live-in carer.
Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)
DMTs main aim is to reduce the number of relapses, minimise inflammation, and slow the progression of disability. These treatments work by modulating the immune system to prevent it from attacking the central nervous system. Common DMTs include:
Injectable Medications: Such as interferon beta-1a (Avonex, Rebif) and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone).
Oral Medications: Including fingolimod (Gilenya), dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera), and teriflunomide (Aubagio).
Infusion Therapies: Examples are natalizumab (Tysabri), ocrelizumab (Ocrevus), and alemtuzumab (Lemtrada).
Symptomatic Treatments
In addition to DMTs, there are a variety of different medications and therapies that can help manage specific symptoms of MS:
Muscle Relaxants: Such as baclofen and tizanidine to reduce muscle spasticity and stiffness.
Pain Management: These include medications like gabapentin, pregabalin, and amitriptyline to address neuropathic pain.
Fatigue Management: Medicines like amantadine and modafinil may help with combating severe fatigue.
Physical Therapy: Customised exercises to improve mobility, strength, and overall physical function.
Steroid Treatments: Corticosteroids like methylprednisolone may be used for short-term relief during severe relapses by reducing inflammation.
The great thing about introducing a live-in carer to a person living with MS, is that the live-in carer can take on the task of managing the medications, ensuring they take the right ones, at the right time and never run out.
Lifestyle Modifications
Leading a more healthy lifestyle can have a major impact on the overall well-being of a person living with MS:
Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activities tailored to a person’s individual abilities can help them to improve their strength, balance, and endurance.
Balanced Diet: By having a diet rich in lots of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, it can really help to support overall health.
Stress Management: Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve emotional health.
Adequate Rest: Ensuring sufficient sleep and rest periods to manage fatigue and improve energy levels.
By using all these various treatment approaches, people living with MS can better manage their condition and keep a higher quality of life.
It is so important for those living with MS to work closely with their healthcare providers and loved ones/live-in carers, to develop and stick to a tailored treatment plan that takes into account their specific needs and circumstances.
What is Live-in Care?
Live-in care is a type of personalised and flexible care service where a professional home carer lives in the home of their live-in care client that need the support and assistance. The live-in care setup helps to make sure that the live-in care client receives continuous support and supervision from within the comfort and familiarity of their own home.
Live-in care can be really beneficial for those living with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or those recovering from surgery, as it gives them a steady presence that can deal with both medical and everyday needs.
The live-in carer will help with various daily activities, including personal hygiene, medication management, meal preparation, mobility support, and companion care. This type of care helps the client and live-in carer to form a strong one-on-one relationship, leading to tailored and consistent live-in care that aligns with the live-in care clients unique needs and preferences.
Live-in care is a great alternative to residential care home facilities, as it offers a more personalised approach that helps maintain a client’s independence and quality of life.
Benefits of Live-in Care for People with MS
With live-in care, there are lots of advantages for people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), as it means the live-in carer is able to cater to their unique and evolving needs.
Some of the key benefits of live-in care for those living with MS include:
Personalised Care: Live-in carers can tailor their support to the unique requirements of their live-in care client who is living with MS. This personalised approach helps to make sure that care solutions that are in place are adaptable to the changing health status and needs of the client.
Consistent Support: Having a dedicated live-in carer living in the home provides continuous and consistent 24 hour live in care. This is particularly useful for managing the unpredictable nature of MS symptoms, including sudden flare-ups and relapses.
Enhanced Quality of Life: With a live-in carer, people with MS can keep a higher level of independence and comfort within their own home. This familiarity promotes better mental and emotional health and well-being.
Quick Response to Emergencies: Quick and immediate assistance is available in case of emergencies or sudden changes in health. This quick response can be really important in managing severe symptoms and preventing complications.
Relief for Family Members: Live-in care provides significant relief for family members who may otherwise be responsible for the care of their loved one. Live-in care gives family members the opportunity to spend quality time with their loved ones without the added stress of full-time care responsibilities.
Customisable Routine: Live-in carer can adapt daily routines to fit their live-in carers lifestyle, preferences, and energy levels. This flexibility helps manage fatigue and other MS-related challenges more effectively.
Comprehensive Care Management: Live-in carers can help with a range of tasks, from medical and personal care to household chores and running errands. This comprehensive support helps to make sure that all aspects of the live-in care clients needs are met, building a more holistic approach to care.
Overall, live-in care provides a supportive and nurturing environment that allows live-in care clients with MS to live as independently and comfortably as possible while getting the dedicated live-in care that they need.
Services Included in Live-in Care for MS Clients
Medication Management
Our home carers are trained to manage and give their live-in care clients their medications, helping to make sure that live-in care clients take the correct dosages at the right times. This is so important for managing MS symptoms effectively.
Personal Care
From bathing and dressing to grooming and toileting, our live-in carers provide dignified and respectful personal care, tailored to their live-in care clients needs and preferences.
Mobility Assistance
Many people with MS experience mobility challenges. Our live-in carers are equipped to help and support safe movement around the home, transfers, and using mobility aids.
Housekeeping and Meal Preparation
Maintaining a clean and organised home is essential for health and well-being. Our live-in carers take on housekeeping tasks and prepare nutritious meals, ensuring that their live-in care client eats a balanced diet that supports their health.
Companion Care
Loneliness and isolation can be big concerns for people with MS. Our live-in carers provide companion care and emotional support, encouraging them to take part in activities and conversations that enrich their life.
Night-Time Care
MS symptoms can often become worse at night, making it difficult to sleep. Our home carers can provide night-time care, helping with any needs that arise and ensuring the live-in care client feels safe and supported.
Who Else Can Benefit from Live-in Care?
It’s not just those living with MS that can benefit from having the support of a live-in carer. Over the years, our Access Care live-in carers have had the opportunity to provide live-in care for the following groups of people:
Elderly Individuals
Live-in care is not only helpful for people with MS but also for elderly people who may need some more support with daily activities, mobility, and medical management.
People living with Dementia
Our live-in carers are trained to provide specialised care for live-in care clients living with dementia. They can help them maintain their independence while offering them the extra support that they need.
People with Disabilities
Live-in care is an excellent option for people living with physical or intellectual disabilities, providing them with the necessary support to live independently and achieve their goals.
Why Live-in Care is Better than Residential Care for MS Clients
Personalised Attention
In residential care settings, staff-to-resident ratios can limit the amount of personalised attention each person receives. Home care offers one-to-one support, ensuring that the live-in care client’s unique needs are met.
Comfort of Home
Staying in their own home means those living with MS are able to stay in a familiar environment, surrounded by their cherished belongings and memories, which can be incredibly comforting and help to reduce anxiety.
Cost-Effective
Live-in care can often be more cost-effective than residential care, especially for couples who both need help and support. It eliminates the need for separate rooms in a care home and provides comprehensive care in one single package.
MS Charities and Organisations
A List of UK MS Charities & Organisations
MS Society
Website: www.mssociety.org.uk
Description: A leading UK charity for people affected by MS, offering support, information, and funding for research aimed at better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for multiple sclerosis.
. MS Trust
Website: www.mstrust.org.uk
Description: This charity provides lots of information and practical support for people living with MS and their families. They focus on training and educating MS healthcare professionals.
Website: www.shift.ms
Description: Founded by people with MS, this social network offers a supportive community where people with MS can connect, share experiences, and access resources tailored to their needs.
Multiple Sclerosis National Therapy Centres
Website: www.msnetwork.org.uk
Description: A network of independent therapy centres across the UK that provide a range of therapies and support services for people living with MS.
Overcoming MS
Website: www.overcomingms.org
Description: Focused on promoting a holistic approach to managing MS, this organisation provides guidance and resources centred around diet, exercise, medication, and mental health.
MS-UK
Website: www.ms-uk.org
Description: An independent charity dedicated to empowering people with MS to live healthier and happier lives by providing information, advice, and support through various services.
Revive MS Support
Website: www.revivemssupport.org.uk
Description: Based in Scotland, this charity offers a comprehensive range of services from physiotherapy to counselling, aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals affected by MS.
About Access Care
Our Access Care Mission
At Access Care, our number 1 priority is to provide high-quality live-in care that enables our live-in care clients to live independently and with dignity.
We have been connecting families with professional private carers across the UK since 1994, ensuring they receive the personalised help and support that they need.
Our live-in care Services
We offer a range of live-in care services tailored to meet the unique and individual needs of our live-in care clients, including:
Medicine Prompts
Night-Time Care
Cooking and Housekeeping
Companion Care
Personal Care
Mobility Assistance
Why Access Care?
We carefully vet all of our live-in carers and make sure they are trained to provide the highest standard of live-in care.
We work closely with families to match live-in carers to their loved ones' personalities and needs, this helps to ensure there is a harmonious and supportive home environment.
Introducing the Concept of a Live-in Carer to Your Loved One
If you think that live-in care is the answer to your loved one’s care needs, but you are worried that they may push back on the idea, here are our top tips to help the conversation go well:
Start the Conversation Early
Introducing the idea of a live-in carer can be a sensitive topic. Start the conversation early, giving your loved one plenty of time to consider the benefits and ask questions.
Focus on Benefits
Highlight the advantages of having a home carer, such as personalised support, companion care, and the ability for them to stay at home. Reassure your loved one that they will be able to keep their independence and daily routines.
Involve Them in the Process
Involve your loved one in the selection process, give them the chance to meet potential live-in carers and voice their preferences. This involvement can help them feel more in control of the situation and comfortable with the decision.
Live-in Care: A Compassionate & Effective Solution
Live-in care is a compassionate and effective solution for people living with MS, offering them personalised support and the comfort of staying at home.
At Access Care, we are dedicated to providing the very best live-in care that enhances the quality of life for our live-in care clients.
If you’re considering live-in care for your loved one, get in touch with us today to learn more about our live-in care services and how we can help. You can contact us by phone on 01264 319 399 or alternatively email us at hello@access-care.co.uk.
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