Living with Multiple Sclerosis: Construct a Care Plan That Works

Dealing with a multiple sclerosis diagnosis is challenging on many levels. First, you must adjust to the possible shock at the news. Second, you must inform your family of the diagnosis. Third, you must make a plan for the many lifestyle changes that will follow.

The following five steps will help guide you through constructing a care plan on living with multiple sclerosis. Whether your symptoms are mild or extreme, you must squarely face the disease through preparation and planning to achieve the maximum level of comfort and health.

  1. Review Your Health Insurance

First things first: it’s time to look over your insurance policy. Many of those suffering from multiple sclerosis require treatment from specialists. If you will need neurological or physical therapy in the future, will your current plan cover the costs?

  1. Examine Your Finances

If you have already retired and are living on a fixed income, make sure your cash flow is adequate to cover any changes you must make around your home in order to increase accessibility. If you are still working and dependent on that income for survival, it’s time to start researching disability benefits that may be necessary to uphold your current lifestyle, especially if you still have dependents living at home.

  1. Learn About Your Condition

One of the most proactive ways to manage any disease is to learn all of the facts and research surrounding the condition. Make sure you know how to track your symptoms and spot any worsening issues or irregularities that require an immediate visit to your doctor. Staying informed can help you combat sudden episodes with calmness.

  1. Don’t Give Up on Your Wellness Routine

As disheartening as it may have been the first time you learned you are living with multiple sclerosis, don’t let the diagnosis keep you from maintain your physical wellbeing to any extent you are able. Stick to both an aerobic and strength training routine and decrease the risk of developing other conditions while limiting the affects of multiple sclerosis.

  1. Focus on Mental Health as Well as Physical Health

Many of those living with multiple sclerosis are aware of the profound negative effects of stress, anxiety and depression and how each contributes to a vicious cycle of repeated flare-ups in symptoms. Practice yoga, learn deep breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques and speak to a mental wellness professional on a regular basis. You may also benefit from joining a multiple sclerosis support group and meeting others who face many of the same obstacles as you.

For all of your concerns on how living with multiple sclerosis affects your insurance and financial standing, it’s best to speak with a professional who has helped many others who have walked in your shoes. Call My Senior Health Plan today to speak with a caring representative about the current challenges in your life.