Maximising Your Independence with Motor Neurone Disease (MND)
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive neurological condition that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. Gradually, messages stop reaching the muscles, which in turn leads to weakness and wasting of these muscles.
Not all MND symptoms necessarily happen to everyone and it is unlikely they will all develop at the same time, or in any specific order. MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe, reducing your level of independence in day-to-day activities.
Who’s the best person to help with MND?
An Occupational Therapist is the best person to ask advice and help with sourcing equipment. The role of an Occupational Therapist is to work with people to maximise their level of independence in day-to-day activities. Where Motor Neurone Disease impacts on this independence, our team of highly experienced neurological occupational therapists are available to help.
How do Occupational Therapists assist?
Support with sourcing the right equipment to help with difficulties as they arise is one way that our OT team can assist people with MND. An Occupational Therapist can work with you to find equipment to help across a wide range of areas including:
- Mobility Aids and minor modifications (ramps / rails) to improve safety and prevent falls both in home and in the community. This can also include falls monitors and call systems for in home and community use.
Learn more about Home Modifications
- Daily living aids to provide increased ability to perform tasks within the kitchen, bathroom and daily tasks such as grooming and dressing, as well as education on ways to manage these tasks as the condition changes.
Learn more about Functional Assessments
- Environmental aids to provide increased independence in controlling the home environment including lighting, heating / cooling, television and music to ensure the individual can continue to manage their own needs for as long as possible.
- Assistive devices including wheelchairs, adjustable beds, hoists, pressure care and hygiene support devices to ensure that the individual and their supports are empowered to remain safe and at home for as long as possible.
Learn more about Assistive Technology
Need to know more?
For advice on how to maximise your level of independence in day-to-day activities, contact us today for an Occupational Therapy assessment via email at admin@ssrg.com.au or you can call us on 1300 729 190 and we will be happy to help!
