According to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, approximately 400,000 people throughout the United States are currently suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and around 200 new cases will be diagnosed each week.
Multiple Sclerosis Signs & Symptoms
It is important for you as a family caregiver to be aware of the condition and prepared not only to recognize its potential signs and symptoms but to give your senior the homecare they need should Multiple Sclerosis occur in their care journey.
Signs of Multiple Sclerosis include:
- Vision problems
- Pains throughout the body not otherwise explainable
- Spasms in the body not related to another condition
- Tingling and numbness in the body, particularly in the fingers, hands, and feet
- Problems with balance
- Dizziness
- Bladder issues that are unusual or increased
- Cognitive difficulties
- Fatigue
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, record them with as much detail as possible and get in touch with their doctor to discuss the symptoms, their frequency, their severity, and any factors that influence them. This can help ensure your parent gets the care they need as soon as possible.
It is important to note all people are different and will experience their own personal set of symptoms, which means you must be vigilant about what your parent is going through and not discount any diagnosis or possibility because they are lacking any one symptom.
Multiple Sclerosis Risk Factors
- Gender: Women are twice as likely as men to develop the condition.
- Ethnicity: Those of European descent are far more likely to experience it than those of African, Asian, or Native American descent.
- Age: Most cases are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, but it can occur at any age.
Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis
There are several forms of multiple sclerosis, each with its own set of common symptoms, and it is important your loved one receives an accurate diagnosis so they are able to get on the course of treatment and management right for their particular needs.
Contact Care Options for Kids for Multiple Sclerosis Home Care Services
If you are a family caregiver for an elderly adult who has recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis or your loved one’s symptoms have progressed to the point they need further assistance and care, now is the time to start elderly homecare for them.
An elderly homecare services provider can be in the home with your aging parent on a customized schedule, which means they are there when your parent needs them according to their symptoms and challenges and the care you already give them.
Through their highly personalized approach to care, assistance, and support, this elderly care provider can help your senior to manage their symptoms and challenges while also pursuing a lifestyle that is as independent and fulfilling as possible. This can include helping them with tasks around the house, providing assistance with personal care tasks, offering safe and reliable transportation to where your parent needs and wants to go and giving reminders and support to remain compliant with their medications, treatments, and other guidelines given by their doctor.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services, contact the caring staff at Care Options for Kids. Call today at (888) 592-5855.
Sources
https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/facts-statistics-infographic
https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/early-signs
