Receiving a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can understandably feel overwhelming, both for the person with MS and their loved ones. It can be challenging to know where to turn and how to manage the many aspects of daily life that may be affected. Fortunately, finding an occupational therapist experienced in your diagnosis (and other neuro conditions) can provide invaluable support, helping people with MS navigate daily challenges and achieve greater independence.
Occupational therapy (OT) plays a crucial role in helping people with MS manage their symptoms, adapt their environment, and maintain daily function. Here’s how OT can make a significant difference:
What Are the Symptoms of MS?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition that affects the central nervous system, leading to a wide variety of symptoms that impact an individual’s ability to live independently. These symptoms can include:
- Tremors and coordination difficulties: Trouble with balance, walking, or fine motor tasks.
- Muscle weakness and fatigue: A common challenge that impacts the ability to perform everyday activities.
- Cognitive difficulties: Issues with memory, concentration, or problem-solving that affect daily function.
- Vision problems: Blurred vision or other sight-related challenges.
- Spasticity: Tightness or stiffness in muscles, which can affect movement.
OTs specialise in helping individuals with MS find practical strategies to manage these symptoms, so they can continue engaging in the activities that matter most to them.
How Occupational Therapy Can Help
Occupational therapists focus on practical, evidence-based strategies to help individuals with MS maintain as much independence as possible. Here are several ways OT can support you:
1. Home Modifications for Safety and Comfort
For people with MS, simple modifications to your home can significantly improve safety and comfort. An OT will assess your living environment and recommend changes that make daily tasks easier, reduce fatigue, and support mobility. Examples of home modifications may include:
- Installing grab rails in bathrooms or at entrances/exits to enhance safety.
- Rearranging furniture for easier navigation.
- Adding ramps or considering stairlifts to improve mobility if stairs are challenging.
- Installing shower chairs or handheld showerheads to make bathing safer.
- Setting up assistive technology, such as shower chairs, profiling beds, scooters or wheelchairs to help with mobility.
Extremely familiar with the NDIS, our team works with you to ensure that the necessary modifications are completed and funded.
2. Maintaining Independence in Daily Activities
Tasks that were once simple – such as dressing, cooking, or bathing – can become more challenging for people living with MS. An OT will collaborate with you to identify strategies that help you maintain independence in your daily routines. We may suggest:
- Adaptive tools like utensils with larger handles to assist with tremors.
- Energy-saving strategies, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps, to help manage fatigue.
- Teaching techniques for completing tasks in a way that conserves energy and prevents strain.
3. Supporting Work or Study Goals
Many individuals with MS want to continue working or studying but face barriers such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or physical limitations. An OT can help you adapt your environment and routine to make this possible, through strategies such as:
- Setting up ergonomic workstations to reduce strain and improve comfort.
- Adjusting work hours to accommodate energy fluctuations.
- Helping you prioritise tasks and manage workload to reduce stress.
4. Driving and Transportation Modifications
If driving is a part of your lifestyle, an OT can assess your ability to drive safely and recommend modifications if necessary. For example, we can help with referring you to a driving specialist OT if that is your goal. Or if driving is no longer feasible, we can assist you in exploring alternative transport options to help maintain your independence.
5. Supporting Mental Wellbeing
MS can bring about emotional challenges such as anxiety, frustration, or a sense of loss. Occupational therapists are not only concerned with physical function but also holistic wellbeing. OTs can support you by:
- Offering cognitive exercises to improve memory and focus.
- Providing stress management strategies, including relaxation techniques, to help with anxiety and frustration.
- Supporting you to set realistic goals that match your energy levels, fostering a sense of accomplishment and reducing feelings of overwhelm.
Why Occupational Therapy is Important for MS
Incorporating occupational therapy into your care plan can have a profound impact on your quality of life. By focusing on the tasks that matter most to you, OTs help you maintain control and achieve your goals, even with the challenges living with MS can bring. At Optimal Living Therapy, we are proud to have a specific interest and expertise in supporting people living with neurological conditions including MS, working with you to navigate daily challenges and create strategies to enhance your independence.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can support you. Our experienced OT team is here to guide you on your journey to living your best life with MS.
