Multiple sclerosis — is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, in which the immune system damages the myelin sheath of nerve fibers. As a result, the transmission of nerve impulses is disrupted, which can manifest as weakness in the limbs, impaired coordination, tremors, spasticity, fatigue, problems with vision and balance.
The course of the disease is individual: in some people, symptoms are minimal and rare, in others — they progress and affect daily activity. That is why rehabilitation and properly organized space at home play a key role in maintaining the quality of life.
Creating safe and comfortable conditions in the home where a person with multiple sclerosis lives — is not only about convenience. It's about preventing falls, reducing the risk of injuries, maintaining independence and human dignity.
Why a safe home — the basis of rehabilitation in MS
People with multiple sclerosis often experience the following symptoms:
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Balance disorder,
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Muscle weakness,
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Spasticity,
- Fatigue,
- Sensitivity disorder.
All of this increases the risk of falls, especially in the bathroom, on slippery floors, or when getting out of bed or chairs.
Properly selected products for the rehabilitation of a person diagnosed with multiple sclerosis allow you to minimize physical exertion, reduce the risk of injuries, increase autonomy and facilitate care by relatives or caregivers.
Safe bathroom: shower grab bars and chairs
The bathroom is one of the most dangerous places in the house for a person with impaired coordination. Slippery tiles, wet floors, the need to step over the edge of the bathtub — all this creates a potentially traumatic situation.
Bathroom grab bars
A wall grab bar — is one of the most important safety elements in a shower or bathroom. You can install a handrail near the toilet, in the shower area, above the bathtub or next to the sink.
Advantages of handrails:
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stabilize when standing up and squatting,
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help maintain balance,
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reduce the fear of falling,
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allow a person to remain as independent as possible
It is important to choose models with a non-slip coating and correct fixation to the wall. Folding handrails are suitable for small spaces.
Chairs and shower seats
Weakness in the legs and rapid fatigue make it difficult for a person with MS to stand for long periods of time. A shower chair allows you to take hygiene procedures while sitting, reduces muscle strain and increases safety in the bathroom.
It is better to choose models with:
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height adjustment,
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rubber anti-slip feet,
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backrest and armrests.
There are also benches for moving over the side of the bathtub, which greatly simplifies the bathing process.
Safe mobility aids for multiple sclerosis
Gait disturbance is one of the common symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Unsteadiness, stumbling, weakness in the legs may progress.
Walkers for mobility
Walkers — are an effective way to maintain mobility.
Types of walkers:
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standard (without wheels) — for maximum stability
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two-wheeled — for better gliding
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rollators (4 wheels, seat, brakes) — for active users
A rollator is especially convenient for people with MS, because:
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has a seat for resting,
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is equipped with hand brakes,
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often has a basket for personal belongings.
This allows a person to move independently both at home and on the street.
Canes and crutches
In the initial stages of the disease, it may be sufficient to use an orthopedic cane or a four-legged cane (for greater stability)
They help reduce the load on one of the sides of the body, improve balance and reduce the risk of falling when walking.
Comfort in the bedroom
People with multiple sclerosis often suffer from muscle spasticity, pain , sleep disorders and fatigue.
With such a diagnosis, the following rehabilitation products may be useful:
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Functional beds. With adjustable height and backrest position — for comfortable getting up and preventing bedsores.
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Anti-bedsore mattresses. Especially relevant with reduced mobility, prevent bedsores.
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Lifting supports near the bed. Help get out of bed safely.
Principles of organizing a safe space at home
For people with MS, it is important to reduce unnecessary physical effort. Toilet seats, non-slip mats, special cutlery with thickened handles, orthoses for joint stabilization, and compression products can help organize the daily life of a person with multiple sclerosis.
In addition to using rehabilitation products, it is important to:
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Remove thresholds or install ramps.
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Provide sufficient lighting.
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Remove wires from the floor.
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Use non-slip surfaces.
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Place necessary items at a convenient height.
The fewer obstacles a person with multiple sclerosis has in their path — the lower the risk of injury. It is important to remember: assistive devices — are not a sign of weakness. They are tools for maintaining independence.
When a person with multiple sclerosis can move around independently, take a shower, get out of bed — this significantly improves their psychological state and reduces their level of anxiety.
Multiple sclerosis — it is a disease that requires a comprehensive approach: medication, rehabilitation, and a properly organized lifestyle.
Creating a safe environment at home with bathroom grab bars, shower chairs, non-slip mats, and purchasing a safe mobility device such as a walker or cane can help maintain autonomy, reduce the risk of injury, and significantly improve the quality of life of a person with multiple sclerosis.
