Caring for an ALS Patient
What is ALS? It is commonly referred to as the Lou Gehrig’s disease, amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. It is the neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. It is also the debilitating disorder of the motor nerves which rapidly causes progressive muscle weakness and spasms.
According to the ALS Association, most people with ALS are diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 70, with some rare cases of people in their twenties and thirties. Most ALS patients live for 3 to 5 years after after diagnosis. However about 10% also get the chance to live for 10 years or more.
Approximately 6,000 people are diagnosed every year and this diagnosis occur around the world with no racial, ethnic or socioeconomic boundaries where anyone can be affected. Few signs and symptoms of ALS include :
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing,speaking and breathing.
- Keeping a good posture and difficulty holding one’s head up.
- Tripping and falling.
- Trouble with activities of daily living.
- Difficulty walking.
- Uncontrollable periods of laughing and crying.
- Muscle cramps and twitches.
River Oaks Homecare is committed to stepping in with round the clock hands on non-medical care. We are here to relieve families who are the caregivers, making sure our ALS clients are well taken care of.
We are dedicated to helping seniors continue to experience the richness of life. Call us today – 267-755-7500.
