Living with ALS in Chester & Lancaster Counties

Did you know that May is ALS Awareness Month?

This is the time of year to spread information and understanding of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Read on to learn about signs, statistics, and how Griswold can help those living with ALS in Lancaster, Malvern, Exton, Millersville, West Chester, and other surrounding areas.

What is ALS?

ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. There is no cure for the disease yet.

Most people who develop ALS are between the ages of 40 and 70, with an average age of 55. However, cases of the disease do rarely occur in people in their twenties and thirties.

Managing ALS

The rate at which ALS progresses can be quite variable, as well. Although the mean survival time with ALS is two to five years, some people live five years, 10 years, or even longer.

Symptoms can begin in the muscles that control speech and swallowing or in the hands, arms, legs, or feet. Not all people with ALS experience the same symptoms or the same sequences or patterns of progression. However, progressive muscle weakness and paralysis are universally experienced.

Resources for Those with ALS in Chester and Lancaster Counties

• National and Local ALS Support Groups: This link provides information on several national support groups, as well as ones based in Pennsylvania. These groups are for those living with ALS, as well as Caregivers supporting those with the disease.
• Certified Clinics Offering ALS Support: This link provides information on Pennsylvania clinics that specialize in ALS care.
• Navigating ALS in Pennsylvania: This link provides a general overview, provided by the ALS Association, of how to navigate ALS in Pennsylvania.

How Can Griswold Help? 

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ALS, a Griswold-referred Caregiver may support you in the comfort of your or your loved one’s home. These Caregivers may offer a variety of specialized home care services that help you and your loved one Live Assured.

If you are living with ALS in Chester & Lancaster Counties and need support so that you or a loved one can continue living at home, give us a call today! We are happy to put together a personalized care plan for you.