HOME & DAILY LIVING GUIDE
Modifying the way you do things and using assistive devices can help you save energy and continue to do activities on your own. As ALS progresses, you may notice that everyday activities like combing your hair or brushing your teeth are becoming more challenging. There are a number of strategies and devices that can help you continue to perform these tasks independently, while saving energy. The occupational therapist at your ALS clinic, outpatient occupational therapy, or home health agency should be able to assess your challenges and make individualized recommendations for you. |
Grooming and Personal Hygiene Activities
It is important to have a sturdy place where you can sit down and access the things you need in your bathroom. This might be a chair, wheelchair, rolling shower chair, or even the seat on your four-wheel walker or rollator. If you are sitting on something with wheels, be sure to lock the wheels or engage the brakes.
It can also be helpful to rest your arms on the counter if they feel tired or weak when you are doing things like shaving or brushing your teeth. |
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Here are some assistive devices that may help you with grooming activities:
Modifying the way you do your grooming activities and using assistive devices like these can help you save energy and continue to do these tasks on your own for longer.
If you notice that certain activities are taking longer than normal or are using more energy, you can ask your caregiver for help. Whether you do these activities independently or with assistance, it is important to continue to take care of your body and practice good hygiene. |
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If you attend an ALS Clinic or are connected with a local ALS organization, ask if they have grooming devices you could try before deciding to purchase them.
You can learn about bathing and showering options on our Bathing page. |
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Save Money with Equipment Loan Closets
You can potentially save thousands of dollars by borrowing equipment from ALS loan closets. Many local ALS organizations and clinics loan certain types of assistive devices and medical equipment at no cost. Learn more
Oral Hygiene and ALS
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people living with ALS. Unaddressed plaque and bacteria growth can lead to gum disease, thrush (an oral yeast infection), respiratory infections, and other issues.
If maintaining good oral hygiene is becoming challenging, share your concerns with your neurologist, speech language pathologist, or occupational therapist. You can also ask your dentist for suggestions. If going to the dentist’s office is inconvenient or not possible, find out if there is a mobile dentist in your area who could come to your home. |
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Here are some assistive devices that your occupational therapist may recommend to help you with oral hygiene:
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Other things that you may find helpful for maintaining good oral hygiene include Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse, water pics, and electric tongue cleaners. You may need to look around for the right devices that will meet your specific needs. Ideally, they will be lightweight, portable, and easy to use.
Modifying the way you do oral hygiene activities and using assistive devices can help you save energy and continue to do these tasks on your own for longer. However, if you notice that certain activities are taking longer than normal or are using more energy, you can ask your caregiver for help. Whether you do these activities independently or with assistance, it is important to continue to maintain good oral hygiene.
Modifying the way you do oral hygiene activities and using assistive devices can help you save energy and continue to do these tasks on your own for longer. However, if you notice that certain activities are taking longer than normal or are using more energy, you can ask your caregiver for help. Whether you do these activities independently or with assistance, it is important to continue to maintain good oral hygiene.