How Carers Can Provide Daily Support for MS
Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) is challenging for both the person diagnosed and their loved ones. MS affects everyone differently, and the symptoms can change over time. Here we explore the most common symptoms of MS and how a live-in carer can make daily life more manageable, comfortable, and fulfilling.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
MS is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It happens when the immune system attacks the protective covering around nerves, causing messages between the brain and the body to slow down or stop.
There’s no cure yet, but many people with MS live long, fulfilling lives with the right care, medication, and support.
Common Symptoms of MS
MS symptoms vary depending on which part of the nervous system is affected. Some symptoms are mild, while others can be more disabling. They may come and go or worsen over time.
Here are the most common symptoms people experience:
1. Fatigue
This is one of the most frequent and debilitating symptoms. It’s more than just the exhausted feeling after a long day at work. MS fatigue can be overwhelming and sudden, even after a good night’s sleep.
2. Mobility Problems
Many people with MS experience muscle weakness, stiffness, or spasms. This can affect walking and balance and increase their risk of falls.
3. Numbness or Tingling
MS can cause unusual sensations, often in the arms, legs, or face. Some describe it as pins and needles, for others, it may feel like numbness or cold patches.
4. Vision Issues
Blurry or double vision, eye pain, or even temporary vision loss can occur, especially during a relapse.
5. Bladder and Bowel Changes
People with MS may struggle with needing to urinate frequently, needing to go quickly, constipation, or incontinence. This can be quite distressing and impact a person’s confidence.
6. Cognitive Changes
Some people experience problems with memory, attention span, or thinking clearly. These changes can be frustrating and can affect daily tasks.
7. Emotional Changes
Living with a long-term condition like MS can affect mood. It’s quite common to feel anxious or low, and MS itself may also contribute to mood swings or depression.
How Carers Can Support Someone With MS
Having a dedicated, compassionate carer can make a big difference in the life of someone with MS. Live-in carers offer personalised and consistent daily support.
Here’s how a carer can help day to day:
Assisting With Mobility
Carers can help with walking aids, transfers, or using a wheelchair safely. They can also help with gentle exercises or stretches to keep joints flexible and reduce stiffness.
Helping Manage Fatigue
A carer can help structure the day to include rest periods, conserve energy, and avoid overexertion. By supporting daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and dressing, they allow the client to focus energy on what matters most to them.
Supporting Personal Care
Bladder and bowel symptoms can be sensitive issues. Carers offer discreet, respectful help with toileting, hygiene, and continence care to support both health and dignity.
Encouraging Mental Wellbeing
Having someone there to talk to, share meals with, or go for a short walk can lift spirits. Carers also provide reassurance during difficult moments and can help monitor changes in mood or mental health.
Medication Support
Carers can help with medication management by reminding patients when their doses are due and closely monitoring any side effects or concerns.
Adapting the Home
Carers often help make small changes to the home environment to improve safety and ease of living. This could include removing tripping hazards, helping to install grab rails, or reorganising spaces for easier access.
Encouraging Independence
One of the most valuable roles of a carer is to support independence. Instead of doing everything for someone, carers assist them in completing tasks with support, which helps build their confidence and control.
Why Consistency Matters
MS can be unpredictable. Some days are better than others. Having a consistent, familiar carer means the person doesn’t need to keep explaining how they feel or what works best for them. This builds trust and creates a calmer, more stable routine, something that’s especially important when symptoms flare up.
Care That’s Personal and Reassuring
Our live-in carers are trained to support people living with MS in a way that promotes comfort, dignity, and independence. Whether it’s helping with daily tasks, offering emotional support, or simply being there through the ups and downs, we’re committed to providing care that truly makes a difference.
If you or a loved one is living with MS and needs support at home, Eximius Support is here to help. Get in touch to find out how our tailored live-in care can provide comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
Further Reading
Understanding the Different Types of MS