Arthritis
Arthritis is a common, often lifelong, condition that is characterised by pain and inflammation in one or more joint.
Multiple Sclerosis is a neurological condition that affects the central nervous system by damaging the coating around the nerve fibres; this coating is called myelin. Around 100,000 people a year are affected by MS across the UK; it is the most common disease of the central nervous system in younger adults.
The majority of those diagnosed with the condition are between the ages of 20 – 40. However, it can affect younger and older people. Women are almost three times as likely to have MS as men and it has been suggested that hormones may play a role in developing the illness.
Common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis include extreme exhaustion, muscle spasms, dizzy spells and loss of balance, numbness, difficulty swallowing and moving arms or legs. Bowel and bladder problems, loss of vision or eye discomfort, cognitive impairment and sexual dysfunction are also symptoms associated with MS. This is caused by the nerve fibres becoming increasingly damaged as the immune system attacks the protective coating that surrounds them. As a result, messages travelling up the nerve fibres in the central nervous system are slowed down, distorted or lost completely.
The type and severity of symptoms related to Multiple Sclerosis vary in each instance depending on which nerves are affected and the extent to which they are damaged. Often MS symptoms fluctuate, some sufferers can have symptoms for a short space of time and then have a symptom-free period that can last for months or years. However, others experience more regular symptoms. As the protective coating is progressively attacked and worn away the nerves become more susceptible to damage; generally, symptoms worsen over time as the nerves decline. However, with the right lifestyle changes, therapies and medication, all with the appropriate support, MS sufferers can continue to live as normal a life as possible.
Our Multiple Sclerosis Care and Support
At Advance we understand that living, or caring for a loved one, with MS can be a very stressful and daunting time. That is why our team members are fully equipped to minimise the disruption a diagnosis can cause by providing those affected with the support to cope, and manage the daily challenges, Multiple Sclerosis can cause. We appreciate that everyone’s experience of MS is different, and we caterto each individual’s specific requirements. Our people-centred approach allows our support assistants to deliver the right medical, emotional and physical support needed by their client in familiar surroundings, enabling them to continue enjoying full control over their lives and live as comfortably as possible with their condition.
Our support assistants are specially trained to provide Multiple Sclerosis care and support. They offer assistance ranging from help around the house and aiding social interaction to personal care. From household chores and assisting recreational activities, to more sensitive issues – such as bathing, continence care and catheter maintenance, Advance are there to carry out all the practical care aspects with discretion, whilst promoting independence and dignity. This allows friends and family to spend more time creating special memories and experiences with their loved one in between.
As well as offering medical and practical support where necessary, our support assistants also offer emotional support, companionship and encouragement. Whilst they understand helping with household chores and the medical aspects of Multiple Sclerosis is vital, they also appreciate the positive benefits a chat about shared likes, dislikes and hobbies can have on a client’s morale. This is why we pair clients with support assistants who have a complementary personality, as well as possessing the relevant skill set.Our Multiple Sclerosis care includes:
The differing needs of each Multiple Sclerosis sufferer can make it difficult to choose the MS support and home care suitable for you or your loved one. It is natural to have many questions and reservations about welcoming a support assistant into your home. Our friendly, highly experienced, team members are always on hand to explain all aspects of the MS care and support services we offer, and to provide quality, impartial advice and information when required.
Explore our care services.
