Home care is more than just caring for the elderly and frail. Our carers are trained to provide care to those with complex needs including for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). While we understand people living with MS may need a more hands-on, round-the-clock approach, our aim is to bridge the gap between clinical care and nursing.
If you’re looking for complex care in Blackburn, our compassionate team can provide you or your relative with practical care as well as companionship and a listening ear.
With Choice Care, local families can rest assured their loved one is in good hands.
What is MS?
Multiple sclerosis affects the brain and spinal cord, which form the central nervous system. This means communication of signals to the brain is disrupted, resulting in a range of symptoms.
These include:
- numbness and tingling across your body
- vision problems
- memory loss
- balance and coordination problems
- difficulty walking
- issues with bladder control
- muscle stiffness and spasms
- struggling with thinking and planning.
It’s a lifelong condition with symptoms ranging from mild to seriously debilitating. While it is possible to treat symptoms, the average life expectancy is slightly reduced for people with MS.
MS is most often diagnosed in adults in their 20s and 30s, although it can develop at any age. It’s also more common in women than men.
How we can help
Since the symptoms of MS can vary between individuals, we can adjust our services to meet the needs of you or your loved one, meaning the person receiving care can retain as much independence as possible or desired.
We understand for some people with MS, everyday tasks can be difficult and our carers can provide both help around the home as well as with personal care as much or as little as needed.
We can help with:
- getting in and out of bed
- washing and dressing
- continence and personal care
- grooming and shaving
- administering medication
- light housework
- cooking and meals
- companionship – this could be anything from having a natter over a cuppa to taking a stroll.
Our specialist carers are also trained to spot and respond to early signs that someone’s condition is changing or deteriorating. This means we can help reduce the risks associated with living with more advanced MS, by preventing injuries or helping you or your loved one get treatment for new or worsening symptoms sooner.
How care is arranged
The first step is to arrange a meeting at the home where the care will take place. At this point we can answer any questions you may have and discuss the needs of the individual who requires care.
We will then look to create a care plan that will be tailored to your or their specific needs and the levels of care required. Following this, you’ll receive a no obligation care plan to approve. It’s important to remember that care plans are never set in stone and we understand needs can change over time. Regular reviews of your or your loved one’s care plan will be carried out to ensure we’re providing the most effective support at all times.
If you’re looking for support to manage your or a loved one’s MS symptoms, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team. Call us on 01254 504905 to discuss your care needs and to find out how we can help.