Women and Multiple Sclerosis Concerns

Having multiple sclerosis can be very challenging. The disease is unpredictable, so it is often difficult to plan a schedule or know when to tackle physical tasks. Momentum and energy can fluctuate throughout the day, but strategic breaks and a good attitude can go a long way. Some tips for different areas of life can also help manage MS and make life more pleasurable.

MS and Housework

One of the hardest things to do to be satisfied with your cleaning attempts is not to expect perfection. If you do, you will be beating yourself up over a little dust, a little clutter, or a little pile of dishes in the sink. Instead, know that the house will never be perfect, especially if you are the main housekeeper and you have MS. Accept clean over spotless. This will be a good base for the following household tips:

• Pare down clutter, because it becomes a source of stress and can be tripped over and cause injuries.
• Use helpful cleaning aids such as a dishwasher, high-reach dusters, "swiffer" mops (with disposable pads), self-cleaning shower sprays, and so on. Whatever reduces fatigue is helpful for cleaning. Ask around.
• Start the cleaning from the rafters/ceiling and work down to the floor, vacuuming or sweeping last.
• Enlist family and friends for help, because this will cut down on time and fatigue.
• Take more than one session to complete cleaning.
• If you have the money, hire a cleaning service (a real luxury and worth the investment.) Even a once-a-month thorough cleaning will help with dust and dirt.

MS and a Career

If you are fortunate to be in the workforce, find ways to lighten your work load:

• Ask your employer to make reasonable physical accomodations for you, such as providing small breaks or adaptive work equipment.
• Switch to a part-time schedule if your finances allow.
• If you can, try to telecommute. Sometimes a job can be adapted for a home office.
• If you are interested in being a freelancer, now might be the time to seek such opportunities (this lends well to careers in writing, publishing, graphic design, accounting, and counseling.)
• If you are financially able, consider a less-stressful part-time job in another field.
• If you cannot immediately change your situation, look for work closer to home (shorter commute) or work with a definite lunch hour and built-in breaks (government work, etc.)
• Finally, take breaks when you can and get plenty of sleep.

MS and Childcare

Caring for children can be made easier with a few tips:

• For very small children, enlist the help of family members and close friends (for babysitting, helping with driving, doing activities, and shopping.)
• Find out about good preschools in your area, where you can bring children and get a little respite.
• Join a mommy group for adult interaction and support.
• Don't overschedule activities--- this is bad for the children as well as for you.
• Plan ahead and don't wait until the last minute to prepare for an activity.

MS and Relationships

To maintain good relationships with loved ones and acquaintances, it's important to be honest about how you are feeling, what your limitations are, and if you are angry or upset with others. It's understandable to not always be in the best mood and real friends and loved ones will understand.

Try:

• accepting help when it is needed
• listening to others' problems without interrupting with your own
• sharing your problems when you are both open to it
• discussing your physical health situation so others understand where you're coming from
• finding small ways to express your gratitude for others

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