It is important to understand that those diagnosed with MND all have different and unique needs. As well as physical impairment, they may also experience cognitive changes, in their thinking and their behaviour. The speed at which MND progresses varies for each person.
Caring for someone with Motor Neurone Disease at home may seem daunting. However, with the appropriate support, it is possible to care for them effectively. At Prestige Inhome Care, we recognise the importance of adopting a personalised approach when providing care for people who are living with MND. With this in mind, we have put together some tips and strategies for those carrying out MND care at home.
Adapt The Home Environment
As the disease progresses, people with MND may experience increased mobility issues, making it difficult to move around the house. Adapting your home environment can help to make everyday tasks easier and safer. This may involve installing handrails, ramps, and other mobility aids.
You may also wish to reorganise furniture to create more space for mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers. Adapting your home environment can also assist with the important step of maintaining physical activity.
Maintain Physical Activity
Ensuring that a person with MND maintains physical activity is essential. This can help to build their capacity and maintain their independence. Exercise improves muscle strength and function, as well as the overall quality of life.
However, as MND progresses, people may face difficulties with mobility, coordination, and fatigue, making it challenging to stay active. Carers can play a vital role in providing support to maintain movement. This can include gentle stretching or working alongside a professional to develop a personalised support plan.
Understand the Disease and its Progression
MND is a progressive and complex disease that affects people in different ways. If you’re caring for someone with motor neurone disease at home, it’s essential to understand the different stages of the disease. It is important for carers to spot the signs and symptoms of progression.
The early symptoms of MND may involve muscle weakness in the hands or feet and muscle twitching. As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more severe and impact mobility, speech, and breathing.
By understanding the disease and its progression, you can adapt your MND care at home accordingly. Your knowledge and understanding will help you provide the best possible support to your loved one.
Communication Devices and Respiratory Devices
MND can cause communication and respiratory difficulties, which can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. To care for people with MND you should be aware of the various MND communication and respiratory devices available. These devices can assist with maintaining communication and breathing function.
There are several different types of communication devices available for those receiving home care. These range from low-tech options such as communication boards to high-tech options such as speech generation devices.
Similarly, there are various respiratory devices available that can support breathing function, including non-invasive ventilation and cough-assist machines. Caregivers should know about these devices and how they can help with breathing and avoid problems related to respiratory function.
Assistive Technology
Assistive technology can be incredibly useful for people caring for someone with motor neurone disease at home. This technology can help those living with MND maintain their independence.
Assistive technology can include a wide range of devices and tools, such as mobility aids, environmental controls, and home automation systems. These technologies can help people with MND to perform everyday tasks with greater ease and independence. These tasks include getting dressed, meal preparation, and using the bathroom.
For MND care at home, carers should have some knowledge of how to operate and correctly set up these devices.
Community Support Groups
Caring for someone with MND can be a challenging task, and it’s important for carers to seek support. It is helpful to know you are not alone in your journey, there are many resources and supports available.
Community groups, such as MND Australia, can be a great source of support for those caring for loved ones with MND.
MND Australia provides information, resources, and support services to people with MND, as well as their families and caregivers. They can also connect people living with MND to support groups, which can provide emotional support and a sense of community.
Seek Professional Support
Similarly to community groups, it’s equally as important for carers to seek professional support. This support can help manage the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of care.
Professional healthcare providers can deliver guidance and aid in managing symptoms of MND. Ultimately this will help boost the quality of life for both the client and their caregiver.
A team of healthcare professionals can include doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech and language therapists. These experts can offer various services, including support for breathing issues, nutritional advice, pain management, and mobility maintenance. You may also benefit from respite care during this challenging time.
Prestige Inhome Care’s MND Services
At Prestige Inhome Care, we understand that caring for someone with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) requires a person-centred approach. We are committed to providing high-quality home care packages that meet the unique needs of people living with MND.
We provide care services to Melbourne, Sydney and the Sunshine Coast. Every day, our in-home teams support clients and their families. We provide a range of services including personal care, in-home nursing and palliative care to meet your needs.