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Multiple Sclerosis Caregivers
A caregiver is someone who can provide you with support and encouragement to help you live well with multiple sclerosis (MS). It could be your spouse, parent, other family member or good friend. Regardless of who it is, it's important for the two of you to talk openly and honestly about your needs and wants. Some people with MS need more physical and practical assistance; others want more emotional support. Often it's a combination of both. You and your caregiver should work together to find the most effective ways you can support each other. In doing so, you may discover a deeper level of understanding and closeness in your relationship.
Emotional support
MS affects both you and your loved one. It can help to lean on each other for support. Your caregiver can help motivate you to stay on therapy and can help you make decisions about medical, financial and other issues. You can support your caregiver by showing him or her special appreciation and listening to his or her concerns. And you and your caregiver should talk openly together, empathize with one another and provide support through difficult emotional times.
Practical considerations
A caregiver can help make life easier for you by pitching in on household chores, responsibilities and other activities. This can allow you to have more time and energy to do things you really enjoy. In addition, a caregiver can be a great resource in helping you manage your MS. You may want to ask your caregiver to:
- Accompany you to your medical appointments and help you communicate with your doctor.
- Keep a record of your symptoms, medications and questions.
- Assist with your therapy regimen, such as keeping track of your therapy schedule, helping you prepare and perform injections and rotating injection sites.
MS Support stories
Supporting someone who is living with MS might be challenging, frustrating, and also very rewarding. Read what some caregivers have to say about their roles, responsibilities and joys involved in supporting a loved one.
Brian
Brian, MS LifeLines Ambassador and caregiver to Wendi, an MS LifeLines Ambassador who is living with relapsing MS. MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.
With three children and a busy schedule, MS LifeLines Ambassador Brian knows it can be easy to get overwhelmed. That's why he does everything he can to make sure his wife, Wendi, a stay-at-home mom living with relapsing MS,...
Read MoreKelly
Kelly, MS LifeLines Ambassador and caregiver to Mike, an MS LifeLines Ambassador who is living with relapsing MS. MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.
How do you support your loved one with relapsing MS? For some people, becoming a caregiver is a big change. For others, such as MS LifeLines® Ambassador Kelly, it's just an extension of the support she offers as a spouse...
Read More
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Call MS LifeLines at 1-877-447-3243 anytime, day or night. A live representative will always answer your call.
