Everyday Life With ALS: A Practical Guide

Acknowledgments

Preface

Introduction
Using the Guide
Spotlight: What Is ALS?
Spotlight on Your Health Care Team

1. Equipment for Daily Living
What Kind of Equipment Will You Need?
The Role of the Occupational Therapist
Help with Activities of Daily Living
Beds
Adaptable Clothing
Telephone Equipment
Books
Spotlight on Clothing and Dressing Hints

2. Saving Energy
Battling Fatigue
Principles of Energy Conservation
Everyday Activities
Personal Care
Spotlight on Care Circles
Spotlight: Checklist for Getting Help

3. Home Modifications
Architectural Barriers
Home Safety
Making Your Home More Accessible
Safety Equipment
Bathroom Modifications
Spotlight on Bathroom Fixtures

4. Mobility and Support Equipment
Maintaining Independence
The Role of the Physical Therapist
Leg Braces
Head and Neck Support
Hand Support
Canes
Walkers
Scooters
Wheelchairs
Transportation Issues
Spotlight on Accessible Vans

5. Respiratory Issues
How Does ALS Affect Breathing?
The Role of the Respiratory Therapist
Assisted Ventilation
Types of Ventilation and Equipment
Coughing and Clearing Secretions
Other Equipment
Medications
Spotlight on Feeding Tubes

6. Speech and Communication
How Does ALS Affect Speech?
The Role of the Speech-Language Pathologist
Assistive Technology
Augmentative, Alternative Communication Devices
Computer Access
Environmental Control Units
Spotlight on Finding Funding

7. Transfers
Moving With Help
Instructions for Caregivers
Special Transfers
Body Mechanics for the Caregiver
Dependent Transfers
Mechanical and Hydraulic Lifts
Bed Positioning
Spotlight on Transfer Tips & Precautions for the Caregiver
Spotlight on Recovering From a Fall

8. Exercise
Why Is Exercise Important?
The Role of the Physical Therapist
Exercise Precautions
Staying Active
Stretching & Range-of-Motion Exercises
Cardiovascular Conditioning
Exercise Equipment
Strength Training
Alternative Exercises
Spotlight on Massage Therapy
Spotlight on Shoulders

9. Exercise Instructions
Guidelines
Stretching Exercises
General Exercise Guidelines
Range-of-Motion Exercises
Swimming & Water-Based Exercise
Spotlight on Passive Range-of-Motion

10. Resources
MDA ALS Division
General Resources
Resources by Chapter