I am in my late 40s and have Multiple Sclerosis. I’m fortunate in that I don’t suffer with fatigue or any cognitive dysfunction. However, I am struggling increasingly with my mobility.
Without going into huge detail, I don’t need advice about resting or pain management or talking to medical professionals. However, what I do need to do is come to terms with the fact that I’m losing some of my physical independence and work out how to make the necessary adaptations.
I have a busy, demanding senior job that I love and do really well. At work, I cope pretty well with some low-level practical help from supportive colleagues. But work is easy. I drive to my office, take a few steps and am at my desk and I don’t have to move more than a handful of steps from one meeting to another during the day.
Where I really struggle is at home. I have to plan my outfit for the day based on whether or not I can lift my legs enough to put on trousers or tights. I can’t put on my own jewellery and I don’t feel confident showering when I’m alone in the house.
Getting up and down stairs is difficult and I certainly can’t manage it carrying a drink. Similarly, I can’t load or unload the dishwasher, washing machine or tumble dryer. Standing to prepare meals for more than five minutes is difficult. Earlier this evening I got stuck on the floor because I got down to turn on the fire.
If I want to go shopping I have to hire a mobility scooter. I have my groceries delivered because pushing the trolley around supermarkets is beyond me most days. I can only walk about 100 yards before my left leg pretty much gives up.
Emotionally, it’s quite hard to rationalise the difference between the me at work and me at home. I think part of this is because solutions are easy to find at work and I am at the top of my game professionally but I have no idea what to do at home.
Any practical suggestions please MN?
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To ask for practical advice on adjusting to (my) failing mobility?
45 replies
OvertiredandConfused · 08/01/2018 20:29
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