Friedreich’s ataxia care at home

Why is Friedreich’s Ataxia care at home helpful for older adults?

Friedreich’s ataxia can cause many physical and emotional challenges that will eventually require help from a caregiver. These include:

• Balance and coordination issues that increase fall risk
• Slurred speech
• Vision issues
• Difficulty walking and eventual wheelchair use
• Scoliosis (a curved spine)
• Diabetes
• Dysphagia (trouble swallowing)
• Heart issues
• Peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation in hands and feet)

There is no cure for Friedreich’s ataxia, so at-home care is designed to help manage symptoms and maintain comfort. Care might involve things like applying braces to limbs, facilitating physical therapy or speech therapy appointments, managing co-occurring conditions like diabetes, or post-operative care after surgery to correct skeletal problems.

How to get started arranging Friedreich’s Ataxia care 

At-home care may be the next step for those beginning to struggle while living with Friedreich’s ataxia. Most people will require a wheelchair on average 10 years after being diagnosed, so the earlier you begin your care journey, the easier it may be to integrate this into your life.Our Care Professionals offer visiting care or live-in care depending on your requirements, and can continue to adapt as your condition develops. We always take time to learn what you struggle with most, and our experienced Care Professionals understand the emotional toll that FA can take, as well as the subsequent need for companionship and a listening ear to support mental health. With our help, you can continue to live independently and confidently at home.

Why Home Instead?

Our Care Professionals are highly skilled and trained to help with the unique combination of needs experienced by people with Friedreich’s ataxia; mobility support, help with dysphagia struggles, monitoring associated diabetes, support with communication, and more.

We also work hard to pair you with a Care Professional who complements your personality and interests, so you always enjoy the time you have with your caregiver.

We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). With our experienced Care Professionals, you can be sure you are bringing only the best care into your home, and someone who understands exactly what you need and how you like things done.