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Tips for living with MS - getting equipped

A huge amount of specialist equipment is available to make life easier. It can be hard to accept that you need this type of help but try to regard these items in the same way as you would a washing-machine or dish-washer, ie a labour-saving device that is there to help you get the most out of life:

  • There are numerous sources of advice and information. Try your local Council as a first port of call. They can be very helpful in terms of supplying information and assisting with adapting your home. Ask your local housing department whether a Care and Repair scheme operates in your area
  • Find out whether there is a Mobility Centre or a Disability Living Centre in your area
  • Occupational therapists can be a useful source of information and can provide practical advice on ways to adapt your home to make it easier to manage
  • If you use a wheelchair, make sure it is suitable for your current needs. Don't put up with one that you were given years ago - your needs may well have changed and it is likely that new, easier to manage models may now be available
  • Use gloves to protect your hands if you use a wheelchair. Cycle gloves are cheaper and last longer than wheelchair gloves
  • Fix a holder for crutches or walking stick to your wheelchair so that they are on hand whenever you need them
  • You may wish to consider a four-wheeled walker with a seat. They are portable, light and mean that you can always sit down wherever you are
  • Install a shower seat if standing for long periods of time is a problem
  • If getting in or out of the bath is a problem, get a bath board or bath seat to sit on
  • Most equipment is standard rather than being custom-made to suit an individual's needs. REMAP is a charitable organisation which exists to provide bespoke aids for people with disabilities. They can adapt anything from wheelchairs and commodes to everyday items such as taps and hi-fis

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