The hints and tips on this page have been submitted by people living with MND and are not as such endorsed by the MND Association. We would always recommend you consult a relevant Health Professional before trying any pieces of equipment or medications/treatments.
Bed Aids
A non slip mat on the floor by the bed reduces the risk of slipping.
A bed lever will help you turn over in bed.
Raising the height of the bed with bed blocks may make it easier to get in and out.
Utilities
Let your electricity supplier know that you are living with a disability, as in the event of a power failure in your area you will be given priority for reconnection.
If you need to do extra washing as a result of your disability, contact your local water supplier as you may be entitled to a cheaper water rate.
Communication
A portable door or bicycle bell enables you to ask for assistance with minimal effort.
Wipe on/wipe off boards can be a useful way of communicating if speech is limited or lost.
Using a foam wrist/arm support and a tilting board with your computer keyboard provides a comfortable support for your wrists/lower arm in a position that suits you.
Walking sticks
If you are tall and are experiencing difficulty finding a walking stick to suit your needs, try the Disability Living Foundation. They can signpost you to organisations who manufacture adjustable walking sticks.
Disabled Living Foundation, 380-384 Harrow Road, London W9 2HU.
Telephone: 0845 130 9177 or email
advice@dlf.org.uk. Website:
www.dlf.org.uk/ Using a walking stick upside down to move a weak limb allows repostioning of legs.
Wear an arm strap to keep your walking stick attached to your arm, this will free both hands if needed.
Pen/pencil grips
Writing grips are soft, plastic, bulb shaped grips that slip onto any standard size pen or pencil and have a convenient roll-proof design.
The Disability Living Foundation can signpost you to organisations who manufacture a range of writing equipment.
Disabled Living Foundation, 380-384 Harrow Road, London W9 2HU.
Telephone: 0845 130 9177 or email
advice@dlf.org.uk Website:
www.dlf.org.uk/
Reduced grip?
Use devices that will improve the grip such as:
- Key turners
- Tap Handles
- Jar/can/bottle openers
All available by mail order (contact MND Connect for details).
Slippery Surfaces
If you use a rollator around the house, the chances are you probably use it to transport items from one room to another.
To prevent objects slipping off the seat, covering it with a product such as 'Fablon Multi Grip' could help to overcome this problem.
Available on a roll from DIY outlets it can be used on many slippery surfaces around the home.
Shower Stool
To prevent your shower stool rusting inside, due to water seeping in through the holes, remove the rubber feet and grease the inside of the legs with WD40 (or grease) using a bottle brush. Putting a hole in the centre of each of the rubber feet should allow water trapped in the legs to escape.
Life With MND
