Those living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) understand that it can impact their daily life. For older adults with this condition, performing daily care tasks can become more difficult over time. This article will explore some of the daily challenges those with ALS may face while aging at home. It will also help address options to improve care at home.
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a nervous system disease that can affect physical function. It is a rare condition that affects roughly 35,000 Americans. When dealing with this disease, the nerve cells break down. This reduces the ability of your muscles to function properly.
For individuals living with ALS, symptoms can start in different areas of the body at first. Muscular weakness in the extremities is most often the first major symptom. As the disease progresses, other functions of the nervous system may begin to deteriorate. This can result in clumsiness, muscle cramping, loss of motor function, slurred speech, behavioral changes, and more. In advanced stages, ALS can inhibit chewing, swallowing, and even breathing.
How Can Lou Gehrig’s Disease Affect Quality of Life for Elders?
Generally, loss of nerve motor function can reduce your loved one’s ability to care for themselves. ALS can also affect your loved one’s ability to properly communicate their needs. As a result, meeting their needs can become progressively more difficult for family caregivers.
Elder Care for ALS
Proper care and support at home can help improve your loved one’s quality of life. As your loved one’s condition progresses, their in-home care plan can adapt to their changing needs. Over time, more care will be necessary for daily life. This most often comes in the form of mobility assistance. It can become more difficult for your loved one to meet their basic needs, from hygiene care to properly feeding themselves.
In-Home Care for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Safe Harbor Home Healthcare Services ensures that our in-home caregivers are trained to handle the needs of our clients. From our certified home health aids to our nursing staff, we make sure that your loved one is cared for by an experienced caregiver. Our experts are also trained to work with families as the client’s needs change. By working as a team, we can ensure that your loved one has their needs met every step of the way.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
