ALS
Andmore Care’s ALS Support Services
Strength in Every Step: Supporting the ALS Journey Together
At Andmore Care, we understand the profound challenges ALS presents. Our mission is to offer compassionate, personalized in-home care tailored to each individual’s needs. By working closely with families and leveraging available resources, we aim to empower those with ALS to live with dignity, comfort, and as much independence as possible.
Who Gets ALS?
Each year, approximately 6,000 Americans are diagnosed with ALS, with over 20,000 people currently living with the disease in the U.S. Symptoms typically emerge between the ages of 40 and 70, though they can occur at any age. On average, life expectancy after diagnosis is three to five years, though some individuals live ten years or longer. ALS occurs in two main forms: sporadic, which accounts for 90–95% of cases, and familial, which is inherited and represents 5–10% of cases.
Symptoms of ALS?
Early symptoms vary but may include clumsiness in the hands, weakness in the legs, speech difficulties, or swallowing challenges. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience muscle twitching, stiffness, and fatigue. Symptoms often begin in the extremities and move inward toward the body’s core, with one side typically more affected. Eventually, paralysis may occur, though eye movement is usually preserved. Cognitive changes, such as pseudobulbar affect (uncontrollable laughter or crying) and frontotemporal dementia, may also develop in some cases.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosing ALS involves ruling out other conditions through tests such as EMG, nerve conduction studies, MRIs, and blood work. While receiving an ALS diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, understanding the disease and exploring care options early can provide clarity and direction for patients and families.
Treatment and Living with ALS
While there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. FDA-approved drugs like Riluzole and Edaravone may slow disease progression in some cases. A multidisciplinary care team—including physicians, therapists, and caregivers—can provide support for mobility, communication, nutrition, and respiratory needs. Assistive devices, breathing aids, and feeding tubes may also become necessary as the disease progresses.
Andmore Care is a trusted
PASSPORT provider.
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease or motor neuron disease, is a progressive neuromuscular disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These motor neurons, which control muscle movement, deteriorate and die, leading to the loss of voluntary muscle function. Over time, individuals with ALS experience muscle weakness, paralysis, and difficulty with speaking, swallowing, and breathing. Despite advances in research, there is currently no cure for ALS, but ongoing discoveries in neurology and genetics offer hope for future breakthroughs.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the term “amyotrophic” comes from Greek: “A” means no, “myo” refers to muscle, and “trophic” means nourishment—signifying “no muscle nourishment.” When muscles lack nourishment, they weaken and atrophy. “Lateral” refers to the areas of the spinal cord affected by ALS, and “sclerosis” describes the scarring or hardening in these regions. While ALS significantly impacts mobility and muscle function, it generally spares senses like sight, hearing, and touch, as well as bladder and bowel function.
How Andmore Care Supports Individuals with ALS
Andmore Care is uniquely positioned to be an exceptional care partner for individuals living with ALS, offering personalized, compassionate in-home care tailored to the progressive nature of the disease. Here’s how we stand out in providing support to those with ALS:
Comprehensive Care for Progressive Needs
Comprehensive Care for Progressive Needs ALS presents evolving challenges that require a flexible and proactive approach. Andmore Care provides a full spectrum of services, from assistance with daily living tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation to advanced support for mobility, communication, and respiratory needs as the disease progresses.
Expertise in Neuromuscular Conditions
Our caregivers are trained in managing complex conditions like ALS. They understand the importance of preventing fatigue, handling mobility challenges, and supporting safe swallowing and nutrition practices. By focusing on symptom management and quality of life, we help clients maintain as much independence as possible.
Personalized and Compassionate Care
We take a person-centered approach, designing care plans that adapt to the unique needs and preferences of each individual. Whether it’s facilitating the use of assistive devices, ensuring timely medication reminders, or simply offering companionship, our team provides consistent and empathetic support.
Skilled Communication Support
As ALS can impact speech, our caregivers work alongside speech therapists to support communication efforts, whether through simple tools or advanced assistive devices. This ensures that clients remain connected to their loved ones and maintain their autonomy.
Coordination with Multidisciplinary Teams
ALS care often requires a collaborative effort involving physicians, therapists, and social workers. Andmore Care excels at coordinating with healthcare providers to ensure seamless care, from assisting with medical appointments to helping families navigate resources.
Support for Caregivers and Families
Caring for someone with ALS can be emotionally and physically taxing for family members. Andmore Care offers respite care to provide family caregivers with much-needed breaks, as well as education and emotional support to help them better navigate their loved one’s journey.
Focus on Dignity and Comfort
Our mission is to enable individuals with ALS to age in place or remain where they feel most comfortable. By creating a safe and supportive home environment, we help clients maintain dignity and a sense of control throughout their care journey.
At Andmore Care, we recognize the profound impact ALS has on individuals and their families. Our commitment to delivering high-quality, personalized care makes us an invaluable partner in supporting care recipients with ALS to live with comfort, connection, and hope. Reach out to Andmore Care today to learn how we can assist you. Together, we’ll walk this journey with care, understanding, and strength.