Aging-in-Place Home Modifications for People Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common chronic and degenerative health conditions that can lead to disability. Home modifications to accommodate multiple sclerosis make everyday tasks in the home simpler, safer and better.

A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) consultant can help with the home modifications.

According to Healthline, MS is a disease with unpredictable symptoms and different levels of intensity. Some people experience mostly fatigue and numbness. Severe cases of MS can cause paralysis, vision loss, and diminished brain function. Symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:

• vision problems

• tingling and numbness

• pains and spasms

• weakness or fatigue

• balance problems or dizziness

• bladder issues

• sexual dysfunction

• cognitive problems

• hearing loss

• seizures

• uncontrollable shaking

• breathing problems

• slurred speech

• trouble swallowing

Clearly home modifications should be designed for the particular individual and home. In general, home modifications for people living with multiple sclerosis include:

Home Entrance: widened doorways and hall; ramp or access without steps; covered entrances

Bathroom: raised toilet; lever-operated faucets; grab bars outside and inside shower and bathtub; low or no-threshold shower; shower chair or bench

Kitchen: lowered counters; creating space underneath counter tops to accomodate a wheelchair; front-loading appliances; raised dishwashers; front control ranges; side-by-side refrigerators

General: low pile carpets or non-carpet flooring; lowered thermostats and light switches; raised electrical sockets; rocker-style light switches

If someone you know suffers from common chronic and degenerative health condition like MS, please call Richard at 615-752-0060 to discuss the needs for a home safety inspection and home modification. For more information about the services Richard provides please see Residential Accessibility.

Thank you.