The ALS Association recommends reducing background noise, watching nonverbal cues and giving the person time to communicate. Established communication tools should stay within easy reach.
Transfers, positioning and movement support should follow the care plan and the techniques recommended by the person's healthcare or therapy team.
Caregivers can document changes in daily function and report them to the designated family or healthcare contact without making medical conclusions.
Hands-on personal care can be paced around fatigue and mobility while protecting privacy and allowing the person to direct how assistance is provided.
Caregivers can prepare and serve meals according to established dietary or swallowing instructions. New swallowing problems should be reported to the appropriate clinician.
Laundry, light housekeeping and keeping frequently used items within reach can reduce unnecessary physical effort during the day.
Transportation and accompaniment can help with medical appointments and errands when scheduled within the care plan and agency service scope. Veterans living with ALS may also receive condition-related services and caregiver support through the North Texas VA Health Care System.
Mobility, communication, eating and personal care needs can change. The care plan should be reviewed before old routines become impractical or unsafe, with families also considering community support available through the Dallas Area Agency on Aging when additional assistance may be helpful.
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