a vicious cycle that we want to
minimize. There may be some
activities that a person shouldn’t
be doing. It’s about finding that
just-right balance to stay active,
but in a safe way.”
Plan ahead. When going for
an outing, think through factors
that might give trouble. “Will
there be crowds of people, uneven
walkways or far-flung parking
lots?” Dr. Finlayson asked.
“Anyone with bladder or
bowel issues should try to know
how quickly they can reach a
restroom without putting their
safety at risk. Bladder urgency
has been shown to be a significant factor in falls by people
with MS,” she added.
Timing is everything. More
falls happen in the afternoon,
because people are more tired
later in the day. “Planning means
choosing a time of day when one
will have more energy for more
demanding activities,” Dr. Finlayson said. “When you are tired,
you may also be less attentive to
hazards or more easily distracted.”
Use the right tool for the
job. “Using a cane or crutches
may seem like ‘giving in’ to the
disease for some people, and
many people will try to stay
upright by holding onto walls
or furniture instead,” said Debra
Frankel, an occupational therapist and associate vice president
of Programs, Services and Clinical Activities for the Society.
“ ‘Wall-walking’ is the body’s cry
for some help to walk safely. It’s
all too often not safe enough.”
It’s about finding that just-
right balance to stay active.
It’s not just accepting the need
to use a tool, it’s choosing the
right one, Dr. Finlayson pointed
out. “A lot of people have mul-
tiple mobility devices because
they know their symptoms vary.
Here’s where planning counts. If
one is going to be in a demand-
ing environment or have a lot
of walking to do, give serious
consideration to using the most
supportive device.” A physical or
occupational therapist can help
find the right devices and offer
practical training on how to use
them to best advantage.
