Many people do not realize that memory loss can be symptomatic of multiple sclerosis (MS). The National Library of Medicine explains that cognitive impairment due to MS can present along with the physical symptoms: There can be marked intellectual and social disabilities, putting additional strain on patients and their loved ones.
At Ridgeland Place, our trained caregivers are familiar with the MS and memory loss connection and help residents with this condition, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia live more fulfilling lives. Keep reading to learn more about what MS is, the symptoms, and how these individuals can be best cared for in loving communities that specialize in memory care.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis impacts the central nervous system when an individual’s immune system malfunctions. When working properly, the immune system fights unwelcome organisms like bacteria but with MS, it mistakenly goes after the body’s myelin sheaths. Those are supposed to serve as protection for neurons and aid with their means of communication – they can be compared to the insulation that protects electrical wires.
The brain and spinal cord rely on myelin for neurons to work. Without it, the signals do not arrive whole at their intended locations. This is why people with MS lose their coordination, have significant weakness, and feel nerve pain. In many cases, they become paralyzed as their conditions worsen.
The Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis-Related Memory Loss
JAMA Network explains that cognitive impairment affects 40% to 60% of MS patients. This can impact their:
- Attention and ability to focus
- Executive functions like self-control, planning, and reasoning
- Information-processing speed
- Memory recall (especially recent ones)
- Visual-spatial perception
When these cognitive issues appear, the patients almost always have the accompanying motor and sensory difficulties that are typical of the disease. Fortunately, overt dementia is not commonly seen in MS patients. Most of the time the cognitive decline follows a gradual process that mirrors the same phases as other forms of dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease.
How Memory Care Communities Support Residents With MS
Memory care communities like Ridgeland Place offer welcoming residential living environments for seniors facing the challenges of multiple sclerosis (MS). Individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis encounter unique obstacles and the unpredictability of the symptoms demand specialized care and a secure environment. This is where memory care communities shine, offering personalized care plans and highly trained, compassionate caregivers.
Ridgeland Place has experienced healthcare professionals who design routines that address the specific needs of seniors with MS. We provide wheelchair-accessible spaces, emergency response systems, and secure environments that allow residents and their loved ones to live their lives without fear.
Social connections are vital for combating isolation, a common issue for seniors with MS. Memory care communities can create vibrant, engaging environments where residents can connect, share experiences, and find a sense of belonging. Our team members are not just caregivers – they are partners in our residents’ journeys, offering physical and emotional support.
The Connections Program
Ridgeland Place’s groundbreaking memory program, Connections, follows a “Connect, Move, and Learn” philosophy. It is designed to preserve brain function through holistic approaches that incorporate healthy meals, physical movement, socialization, and engaging activities that help maintain cognition. The Connections program promotes neuroplasticity and inspires residents to look forward to each new day.
Memory Care at Ridgeland Place Supports Residents Who Have Multiple Sclerosis
Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? Experience the transformative support and understanding you deserve with memory care at Ridgeland Place. Our team’s mission is to create a secure and engaging environment tailored to your unique needs. Contact us to learn more about how memory care at Ridgeland Place can make a difference in your journey with MS – we celebrate and enhance all lives with kindness and integrity.