Caring for Someone with MS

Home » Web Guides » Health » Multiple Sclerosis

In This Guide

Most Popular

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease that's both difficult to understand and to live with. If you want answers, you'll find them on the Web. The nation's top MS research foundations, clinics, support networks, and health sites provide extensive information on the background of the disease, treatment options, coping, research, and much more. Use this guide to increase your understanding of MS, and become proactive in caring for yourself or your loved one.

Expand All Guide Sections

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that, according to the Mayo Clinic ... read more »

Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms and Diagnosis

The signs and symptoms of MS vary wildly, not only from individual to individual, but from day to ... read more »

MS Treatment and Management

Unfortunately MS is a progressive, chronic disease, meaning it gets worse over time, and there are ... read more »

Living with MS

Multiple sclerosis patients can live long lives, but the degenerative nature of the disease and its ... read more »

MS and Children

MS can be a difficult issue for children to wrangle with. Whether it's a loved one, friend, family ... read more »

Caring for Someone with MS

When a person suffering from multiple sclerosis becomes dependent upon another for care, it's not unusual for one person, often the spouse, to become the main caregiver. But being thrust into this role can be a great source of anxiety and stress. If unprepared, an already difficult time can be exacerbated. This section is filled with sites that offer tips and advice for caregivers, addressing everyday issues about the care they provide, while also offering advice on taking care of themselves.

Dulcinea's Insight

As a caregiver, you might be inclined to neglect your own well-being while focusing your energies elsewhere. Don't forget that your health is crucially important, because a burnt-out, tired, or sick caregiver isn't as effective as one at full strength.

Much of the information you'll find pertaining to care-giving is broadly applicable, and not specific to MS. Approach your research with this in mind, and search for general information in addition to MS-specific information.

Dulcinea's Picks

CaringRoad.com is dedicated to helping caregivers who care for people with chronic diseases. This section is about being a caregiver at home, with links to topics such as getting organized, modifying your home, and legal matters. Be sure to read up on how to care for yourself, too.

go to site »

CarePages is a social network for caregivers to share their experiences and support. See what other caregivers have written about their journey and share your own story. Register with a username and password to view the site's "CarePages" and to create your own.

go to site »

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society provides this brochure from its library entitled "Advanced Multiple Sclerosis: Complications and Caregivers." The article reviews when and how to find professional help and how to manage complications. See the list at the bottom of the page for more resources.

go to site »

The National Caregivers Library provides many resources for caregivers of people with chronic illnesses. Learn how to start a caregiver's journal and keep track of the care you are giving. Along the left-hand side are numerous links to other resources, such as checklists and forms, how to care for yourself as a caregiver, and end-of-life issues, to name a few.

go to site »

The Well Spouse Association strives to help the spouses of people who are living with disabling diseases. Here you'll find a list of support groups listed by state (including Canada). Click on your state to find a list of support groups with contact information.

go to site »

The Multiple Sclerosis Society in the United Kingdom offers a directory search to help you find respite care in your area. Use the clickable map or the search box to find a list of homes with addresses and links for further information.

go to site »