Care and support for MND patients

In living with Motor Neurone Disease, individuals and whole families need significant support to deal with the growing challenges the devastating condition brings. Here, Eximius Live-in Support discuss the condition, its impact, and some of the care options available

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a degenerative neurological condition that affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. The disease leads to the death of motor neurons responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements. As a result, people with MND experience progressive muscle weakness and wasting, which can eventually lead to complete paralysis.

MND affects people of all ages, although it is more commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 50. The disease can progress rapidly, with some people experiencing significant disability within a few months of diagnosis, while others may live for several years with milder symptoms. Join us as we raise awareness, promote understanding, and offer hope to those impacted by this challenging disease.

Symptoms of MND

The symptoms of MND can vary from person to person, depending on which motor neurons are affected. The most common symptoms include:

• Muscle weakness, particularly in the arms and legs
• Difficulty with speech and swallowing
• Muscle cramps and twitches
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Difficulty breathing
• As the disease progresses, people with MND may experience additional symptoms such as weight loss, muscle stiffness, and difficulty with fine motor skills such as writing or buttoning clothes.

Challenges faced by people with MND

Living with MND can be incredibly challenging for the person with the disease and their loved ones. Some of the main challenges faced by people with MND include:

Loss of independence

As the disease progresses, people with MND may require assistance with everyday tasks such as dressing, bathing, and eating. This loss of independence can be a difficult adjustment.

Communication difficulties

As the disease affects the muscles responsible for speech, people with MND may experience difficulties communicating with others. This can be frustrating and isolating, particularly if the person cannot express their needs and wishes.

Emotional impact

Living with a progressive disease can be emotionally challenging, and people with MND may experience a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and anxiety. They must have access to emotional support through family and friends or professional counselling services.

Financial strain

People with MND may require significant medical care and support, which can be expensive. Additionally, the person may need to stop working due to their condition, which can lead to financial strain for themselves and their family.

Caring for someone with MND

Caring for someone with MND can be a demanding and emotional experience. It requires a lot of patience, empathy, and understanding. Caregivers need to be able to provide physical and emotional support and assist with practical tasks such as medication management and personal care.

One of the most important things for caregivers to remember is prioritising the person’s independence and dignity. This means allowing the person to do as much as they can for themselves while also providing support and assistance when needed. This helps the person to maintain a sense of control over their life, which can be important for their emotional wellbeing.

Caregivers must also be prepared for the physical challenges of caring for someone with MND. This could involve learning how to safely transfer the person from bed to chair or assist with feeding and bathing. It is important to seek professional training and advice on these tasks to ensure that the person receives the best possible care.

In addition to physical care, caregivers must also provide emotional support to the person with MND. This may involve listening to their concerns and fears, providing reassurance and comfort, and helping them to stay engaged with the world around them. Carers should also be aware of their own emotional needs and seek support when necessary.

Providing live-in care for people with MND

At Eximius, we understand the challenges faced by people with MND and their families. We provide live-in care services that are tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. Our highly trained and experienced companions can assist with all aspects of daily living, including personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and mobility support.

If you or a loved one is living with MND, Eximius can provide the support you need to live a comfortable and fulfilling life. Our services are available throughout the UK and can be tailored to meet your unique needs and preferences.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you.

Email: info@eximiussupport.uk 

Telephone Number: 01494 424222 / 0203 794 9933

Website: www.eximiussupport.uk