Making an Impact with Compassionate Care
Motor Neurone Disease
Understanding Motor Neurone Disease (MND)
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a rapidly progressing and fatal neurological condition affecting the brain and spinal cord. Gradually, the messages from motor neurones (nerves) to the muscles are disrupted, leading to muscle stiffness, weakness, and wastage. This complex condition presents various symptoms and challenges.
Symptoms of Motor Neurone Disease
MND manifests differently in each individual, and not everyone experiences the same set of symptoms. Some common symptoms include:
- Walking and mobility problems due to muscle weakness and wastage
- Muscle cramps and spasms
- Stiff joints
- Difficulty swallowing, impacting eating and drinking
- Breathing difficulties and weakened coughing
- Pain and discomfort
- Changes in thinking and behavior
- Emotional lability, causing rapid shifts in emotions
Personalised MND Care at Home
At Chiltern Healthcare Care, we understand the confusion and distress that comes with an MND diagnosis, especially if you led an active life before it. However, moving to a care home is not the only option. Our progressive care approach allows you to stay in the comfort of your own home, whether you are in the early stages of the disease or require palliative end-of-life care. Remaining in familiar surroundings with your loved ones can alleviate pain, anxiety, and stress.
As your mobility declines, we collaborate with Occupational Therapists to provide you with the necessary equipment, like hoists, to maintain independence and the quality of life you deserve.
Our Approach to MND Care
Recognising that daily activities and routines might become challenging, we conduct a thorough assessment of your needs before providing care. Working closely with you and your family, we create a personalised at-home care plan that evolves as your needs change over time.
Our team comprises experienced carers who specialise in MND care. They can assist with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and toileting, as well as help with mobility around your home. If required, we offer meal preparation and feeding support, especially for individuals with a PEG due to swallowing difficulties. Additionally, we are equipped to handle more complex care needs, such as cough assistance or oxygen therapy (O2).
The Importance of an Advance Care Plan
At Chiltern Healthcare, we prioritise having an Advance Care Plan in place for everyone. This plan allows you to pre-record your wishes and decisions, including medical treatment preferences, ensuring your desires are respected even if you’re unable to make decisions for yourself. This provides both you and your loved ones with peace of mind.
Working Together for Comprehensive Care
We believe in a collaborative approach, placing you and your family at the center of our care. With an MND diagnosis, you’ll likely have several specialists involved in your treatment. We work alongside GPs, District Nurses, Community Dieticians, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Physiotherapists in Milton Keynes to provide seamless, professional, and high-quality care.
Contact us today at 01908 373888 to learn more about the exceptional MND care we offer.