Cover
Title
Copyright
Contents
A Word From the Author
Acknowledgments
Share Multiple Sclerosis: Tips and Strategies for Making Life Easier, Third Edition
Chapter 1: Basic Principles for Living With MS
Chapter 2: The Thriver’s Guide
Accepting the “New You”
Reassessing What’s Important
Telling Family and Friends How They Can Help
Staying Connected and Involved
Making Compromises
Asking for Help
Letting Go
Putting Yourself First
Talking to Yourself
Taking Responsibility for Your Happiness
Building a Support System
Journaling
Laughing Again
Getting Out
Helping to Find a Cure
Chapter 3: Taking Charge—Mentally and Physically
Memory and Concentration
Quiet Restful Activities
Reading
Watching Television
Playing Games
Staying Active
Chapter 4: Medical Issues
Where to Start
Record Keeping
Doctor Appointments
Prescription Medications
Taking Medication
The Hospital
Managing Your Home Health Care
Authorizations, Denials, and Appeals
Additional Medical Resources
Chapter 5: Family and Friends
Making New Friends
Use the Internet to Make New Friends and Keep the Old
Keeping Friendships Strong
Chapter 6: Marriage
Shelley’s Story
David’s Story
Chapter 7: Sexual Compatibility and Intimacy
Chapter 8: Being a Parent
Parenting 101—General Concepts and Strategies
Communication
Fostering Independence
Realities for Parents With MS
House Rules
Chores
Discipline and Sibling Rivalry
The Early Years—Birth to 10
Bathing
Changing the Sheets or the Baby
Dressing
Shoes and Socks
Mealtime
Health and Safety
Activities
The Middle Years (10–14)
The Teen Years (14–19)
Final Thoughts . . .
Chapter 9: Your House and Home
Getting Started—Making Your Home More Accessible
Home Accessibility
Lighting and Light Switches
Doorknobs, Doors, and Doorways
Under Lock and Key
Ramps, Railings, Stairs, and Support Poles
Faucets and Sinks
Furniture and Rugs
The Bathroom
Organizing the Bathroom
The Toilet
The Tub and Shower
Grab Bars
The Bedroom
Housecleaning and Chores
Home Safety
Chapter 10: Mealtime
Making Your Kitchen More Accessible
Meal Planning and Preparation
Cooking Safety
Serving Meals and Cleaning Up
Streamlining Grocery Shopping
Easier Eating and Drinking
Entertaining
Chapter 11: Dressing—Looking Your Best
Grooming
Dressing Tips
Footwear
Hosiery
Shopping
Choosing the Right Clothing
Accessories
Simple Clothing Alterations
Clothing Resources
Adaptive-Clothing Retailers
Chapter 12: Working
Simple Workplace Modifications
Disclosing Your Disability
Determining What You Need
Working From Home
Creating a Dedicated Workspace
Computer Technology
Telephones
Other Thoughts on Working From Home
When You Can No Longer Work
Chapter 13: Driving and Disability
Evaluating Your Abilities
Making Your Vehicle More Accessible
Getting In and Out of Your Vehicle
Simple Adaptations to Your Car
Professionally Installed Vehicle Modifications
Moderately Priced Modifications
More Costly Options
Transportation Services
Chapter 14: Weekend Getaways and Extended Travel
Planning Your Trip
Choosing a Hotel or Motel
Getting Ready for Your Trip
Your Packing List
A Few Days Before You Leave
Before You Walk Out the Door
Luggage and Travel Accessories
At Your Destination
Traveling by Car
Traveling by Air
Airline Reservations
Services Provided at the Airport
Getting On (and Off) the Airplane
On the Plane
Chapter 15: Finding Help and Support
MS Organizations
Online MS Communities
National and Community-Based Support Services and Resources
Locating Products to Keep You Independent
Selecting the Right Product
Try Before You Buy
Purchasing Durable Medical Equipment
Index
About the Author