Living a Full Life With Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, such as muscle weakness, balance problems, fatigue and changes in how we think or feel. While MS can be challenging, many people continue to live full, active and meaningful lives with the right support.

Living with MS is not just about managing symptoms – it’s also about making the most of each day. Practical adjustments at home, regular routines and emotional support can all help someone stay independent and confident.

In this guide, we explore how MS affects older adults and how thoughtful care and support can help them live well at home.

Understanding MS in older adults

MS is a neurological condition that affects how messages travel between the brain and the body. It is often diagnosed in people in their 20s or 30s, but symptoms can become more noticeable or change with age. For some people, MS progresses slowly over time, while others may experience flare-ups and periods of stability.

As we get older, managing MS can become more complex. Some people may experience:

• Difficulty walking or moving around
• Muscle stiffness or spasms
• Fatigue or low energy
• Memory or concentration problems
• Changes in mood, such as anxiety or depression
• Bladder or bowel issues

These symptoms can affect daily life in different ways, but with the right care, many people are able to manage them effectively.

Managing MS symptoms day to day

Living with MS means finding a balance between activity and rest. A regular routine and gentle lifestyle changes can help make everyday tasks more manageable.

Here are some helpful ways to support daily life with MS:

• Pace activities throughout the day – doing a little at a time and taking regular breaks can help conserve energy.
• Stay cool and comfortable – heat can make MS symptoms worse, so keeping the home well-ventilated or using cooling packs may help.
• Use aids and equipment if needed – walking sticks, grab rails or adjustable chairs can help with mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
• Follow prescribed treatment plans – medication, physiotherapy or occupational therapy can all play a part in managing symptoms.
• Keep mentally active – puzzles, music, reading or conversation can help support memory and mood.

MS affects everyone differently. What works for one person may not work for another, so it’s important to focus on what feels right for each individual.

Creating a supportive home environment

Making small changes around the home can help someone with MS stay safe, comfortable and independent.

Here are some simple ideas:

• Remove tripping hazards – clear away rugs, cords or clutter that could cause falls.
• Add grab rails and non-slip mats – especially in the bathroom, kitchen and near stairs.
• Make everyday items easy to reach – store things at waist height to reduce bending and stretching.
• Choose supportive furniture – chairs with firm arms and high backs can make standing easier and reduce fatigue.
• Consider smart home devices – voice-activated assistants or automatic lights can be helpful when mobility is limited.

A few thoughtful changes can make a big difference in someone’s ability to manage daily life with confidence.

Staying active with MS

While MS can make movement more difficult, staying active in a gentle and safe way is important for both body and mind. Regular activity helps maintain strength, flexibility and circulation.

Here are some good options:

• Low-impact exercises – walking, stretching, swimming or seated exercises can support movement without overexertion.
• Work with a physiotherapist – they can recommend safe movements and stretches tailored to individual needs.
• Break activities into short sessions – a few minutes of movement at a time can still be beneficial.
• Stay flexible with plans – energy levels may vary from day to day, and that’s okay.

It’s not about doing everything – just finding what feels good and supports wellbeing.

Eating well to support energy and health

A balanced diet can help support energy levels, brain health and overall wellbeing for people living with MS. While there’s no specific MS diet, healthy eating habits can play an important role.

Some tips include:

• Eat regular, nourishing meals – to maintain energy and avoid fatigue.
• Include fibre-rich foods – like whole grains, fruits and vegetables, to support digestion.
• Stay hydrated – water, herbal teas and low-sugar drinks can help with focus and energy.
• Limit processed foods and high salt – these can increase inflammation and lead to other health issues.

If swallowing or preparing food becomes difficult, a live-in carer can help make mealtimes easier and more enjoyable.

Looking after emotional wellbeing

Living with a long-term condition like MS can bring emotional challenges. There may be days of frustration, sadness or worry – but emotional support is just as important as physical care.

Ways to support mental wellbeing include:

• Keep in touch with friends and family – even small conversations can lift spirits.
• Try gentle hobbies – art, reading, music or gardening can offer comfort and joy.
• Acknowledge difficult feelings – it’s okay to feel low at times. Talking to a GP or counsellor can help.
• Celebrate small wins – progress may be slow, but every step forward matters.

Supporting emotional health helps build resilience and can make each day feel a little brighter.

How live-in care can help

At Country Cousins, we understand that living with MS can affect many parts of daily life – but no one has to face it alone. Our experienced live-in carers are here to offer kind, consistent support, tailored to each person’s needs.

From help with getting around the home and preparing meals, to managing medication and offering companionship, our carers are trained to support older adults living with MS. They offer a steady, familiar presence – helping to make life feel more manageable, comfortable and connected.

Whether it’s a short period of recovery or ongoing support, our live-in carers focus on promoting independence, safety and wellbeing at home.

Talk to our team today

If you or a loved one are living with multiple sclerosis and would benefit from gentle, compassionate live-in care, we’re here to help.

Call us on 0808 501 2985 to speak with one of our friendly team. We’re available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. You can also contact us through our online enquiry form.