Mobility and Accessibility
As your multiple sclerosis changes, what you need to be comfortable, safe and independent at home and in the world may also evolve. To respond to your changing needs, you may have to adjust your own mindset. The resources below will help you do this and provide advice on how to make concrete adjustments to your home, your office and your community.
Reclaim Control
It’s rarely easy to make the decision that you need help to stay mobile. For most people, a period of healthy grieving is the necessary first step to accepting new ways of engaging with the world. Once you get through that period and make changes, devices and mobility aids will help you conserve energy, remain independent and take control of your life. Read “Roll with it” in Momentum Magazine.
Make Your Home and Workplace Accessible
To remain fully engaged in the activities you care about, your home, workplace and neighborhood must all be accessible and suited to your needs. Make modifications to your house or apartment and seek necessary accommodations in your workplace. For help identifying exactly what tools and modifications you need, talk to an occupational therapist. Learn to advocate for yourself and others in the same situation. It takes work to get your life set up for MS, but it will help you stay active where you need to be — and where you’re needed. Read “Office accommodations” in Momentum Magazine.
Stay Mobile
Staying mobile is all about getting where you want to go and doing what you want to do — safely, comfortably and independently. You can keep yourself mobile by managing your symptoms, minimizing your risk of falls, and taking full advantage of mobility aids, automobile adaptations (see English and Spanish brochures) and accessible transportation. Read “Taking the next step” in Momentum Magazine.
Get the Right Technology and Equipment
Technology can help you overcome the challenges of MS. Assistive devices and durable medical equipment (also called DME) can help you accomplish everyday activities and maintain your independence.
Of course, these aids can be expensive. See the page Assistance for Adaptive Equipment for tips on locating reputable dealers, buying used devices and DME, and getting insurance to cover the bill. Read “Dream machines” in Momentum Magazine.
Additional Resources
- ADA and People with MS
- At Home with MS
- Getting Real with Real Estate
- Home Modification Policies
- National Rehabilitation Information Center
Find an MS Care Provider
The National MS Society’s Partners in MS Care program connects you to local healthcare providers and medical facilities that have shown exceptional care, knowledge and expertise in treating patients with MS. All partners, whether they are a neurologist or social worker, have a strong relationship with the MS Society and connect their patients to the information, resources and support they need to live their best lives with MS. Find a Partners in MS Care provider.
Information and resources provided by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
