Griswold Can Help Support an ALS Diagnosis

Did you know that May is designated as ALS Awareness Month?

ALS, also commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, stands for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. ALS is a progressive disease characterized by the gradual loss of connection between the brain and muscles. This often results in a decline in the ability to walk, talk, eat, and ultimately breathe. While there is currently no cure or treatment that stops its progression, emerging therapies are making strides in slowing the disease and alleviating its symptoms.

Symptoms of ALS

ALS symptoms vary from person to person and gradually worsen as the disease progresses. The symptoms vary by person depending on which nerves are affected. It generally begins with muscle weakness that then spreads and worsens. Other common symptoms include:

• Trouble with ADLs
• Struggling with walking
• Tripping and falling
• Weakness in legs, feet, and/or ankles
• Hand weakness
• Clumsiness
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty swallowing
• Muscle cramps
• Crying, laughing, or yawning at inappropriate times
• General changes in behavior

Symptoms will usually start in the hands or feet, then spread. There is generally no pain associated with the disease. In the later stages, you may experience some pain, but it is not common.

Good Activities for Someone with ALS

If you have recently received an ALS diagnosis, continue to do the things that bring you joy in life. The thought of losing the ability to do them can be difficult. The good news is that there are several assistive devices available that can help you continue to do the things you love to do. You may also find it beneficial to ask your occupational or physical therapist for alternative methods to do the activities you’re used to doing. Several activities that can be easily modified to help you continue to enjoy them include:

• Painting
• Photography
• Reading
• Writing
• Gardening
• Playing card games
• Golfing
• Fishing
• Playing sports
• Traveling

Local Resources

The ALS Association – provides a list of services and support available throughout Florida.

Holy Cross Health – the Phil Smith Neuroscience Institute at Holy Cross Health’s ALS Clinic has been named one of only five Certified Treatment Centers of ExcellenceSM in Florida by the ALS Association.

Your ALS Guide – provides a list of local and national support resources for those living with ALS.

Griswold Care Pairing Can Help

At Griswold, we’re here to support you and help you or your loved one remain safe, comfortable, and independent at home for as long as possible. If you or someone you care about is living with ALS, our referred Caregivers can provide compassionate, personalized support tailored to your evolving needs. ALS can present unique daily challenges, from mobility limitations and fall risks to increasing assistance with personal care and household tasks. Our referred Caregivers can help with a wide range of non-medical home care services, including mobility and transfer assistance, personal care, companionship, homemaking, meal preparation, respite care for family caregivers, and more.

Whether you need just a few hours of support each week or around-the-clock assistance, we offer flexible care options designed to meet you where you are in your journey. For individuals requiring ongoing support, 24/7 or live-in care can provide comfort, consistency, and peace of mind. In many cases, the bond formed between a Caregiver and client becomes more than just care; it becomes a meaningful companionship that enhances the quality of life for both the individual and their family.

If you’d like to learn more about how Griswold can support someone living with ALS, give us a call today. We would be honored to answer your questions and help you explore care options that fit your needs. We support those living in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano Beach, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, and the surrounding area.

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