True or False: Can Seniors Develop MS?

Most people that develop Multiple Sclerosis, or MS, do so when they are in their 20s and 30s. However, late-onset MS can appear in seniors anytime over the age of 50, making it a serious health issue that is frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed. Family caregivers who are taking care of an elderly relative, may not even recognize the symptoms of MS and delay getting their aging loved one to a doctor as a result.

National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness and Education Month takes place every March, giving family caregivers all over the country a chance to learn more about this neurological disease and how it can affect their aging relative.

Symptoms of Late-Onset Multiple Sclerosis

Because so many of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis are similar to other age-related diseases, it can be difficult for family caregivers and doctors to differentiate between MS and other health issues. The most common red flags include seniors complaining about poor vision, muscle weakness, numbness and tingling in the extremities and tremors. Unlike when MS appears in younger adults, the symptoms progress quite rapidly in seniors. It’s not unusual for an aging adult to move from an initial MS diagnosis to being totally bound to a wheelchair within a year.

Treating Late Onset MS in Seniors

There is no cure for MS but working closely with a doctor can help alleviate many symptoms in seniors. The right combination of medication can minimize many of the side effects of the condition and in some cases, they can slow down the progress. However, family caregivers should not look at slow progress and mistakenly think their elderly loved one will be OK on their own. It’s common for elderly adults to lose their ability to live independently not long after they receive a diagnosis.

Many seniors want to age in place and prefer facing their golden years in the comfort of their own homes. When they are diagnosed with MS, this dream becomes a real challenge. It means that they need to rely on family caregivers to help them manage the day-to-day tasks of staying safe, healthy, and comfortable. When aging adults are looking for a way to stay home, many turn to home care providers.

In-Home Care for Seniors with MS

Home care providers are professionals who know how to help elderly adults with all kinds of daily tasks. They can be scheduled to come day or night to the aging adult’s home and help out whenever they are needed. Many come early in the morning to help seniors get showered, dressed and groomed for the day. In the moderate to advanced stages of MS, elderly adults cannot stay home alone, so home care providers can do so. There are even home care providers that will provide overnight care for aging adults with MS.

No matter what the senior and their family members need, a home care provider can help them achieve a rich life despite the challenges that multiple sclerosis can bring.

If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring Home Care in Amagansett, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.