How Can a Live-in Carer Support Someone Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
Most people with Multiple Sclerosis want to remain in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by familiar routines, family, and friends. With full-time Live-in care, that wish becomes possible. A Live-in Carer offers 24-hour support tailored to your needs, helping you to maintain independence, control, and a high quality of life.
Personalised Care at Home
MS can bring a range of symptoms including fatigue, mobility challenges, bladder and bowel problems, vision changes, and sometimes difficulties with memory or speech. With the guidance of your MS Nurse and healthcare team, these can be managed safely at home with the daily support of a trained Live-in Carer. An Occupational Therapist may also recommend aids and equipment to make life easier, and your Carer will be experienced in using them to keep you safe and comfortable.
The Support a Live-in Carer Can Offer
Personal Care
Care is always given at times and in ways that you choose. This may include bathing, dressing, shaving, hair care, applying make-up, or helping with jewellery. Living with MS does not mean your appearance or self-confidence needs to be compromised—your Carer will listen to your preferences and support you with sensitivity.
Continence Support
MS can cause a variety of bladder and bowel challenges. Your Carer can provide discreet help with bathroom needs, incontinence products, or more complex requirements such as catheter or stoma care. They can also monitor changes and liaise with your GP or MS Nurse to keep you comfortable.
Mobility Assistance
Muscle weakness or coordination problems can make it harder to get around. Your Carer will be there to help—whether supporting you with transfers, using a hoist, or simply offering a steadying hand. They can also reposition you in bed, reduce fall risks, and provide reassurance for both you and your family.
Medication Management
From ordering and collecting prescriptions to safe administration, your Carer can ensure your medication is taken as prescribed. They can also provide gentle reminders, assist with pain management, and help communicate with your GP or MS Nurse if any adjustments are needed.
Domestic Support
A Live-in Carer takes the pressure off daily chores. They can manage household tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and shopping. Many enjoy gardening and outdoor activities, or helping with tasks that can be more challenging if your vision is affected—such as reading recipes, labels, or emails.
Meals and Nutrition
Your Carer will prepare fresh, nutritious meals suited to your preferences and dietary needs. Cooking can also be a shared, enjoyable activity. As swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) can sometimes affect people with MS, your Carer will adapt meals to make them safe, balanced, and appealing.
Companionship and Emotional Support
Beyond practical care, your Carer is also there for company—chatting, watching TV, listening to music, or simply sharing quiet moments. Many clients build lasting friendships with their Carers, making them a trusted companion as well as a caregiver.
Pet Care
If you have pets, your Carer can help with feeding, walking, or vet visits, so you can continue to enjoy their companionship without added stress. Pets are often a huge source of comfort and emotional stability for people living with MS.
Social and Community Life
A Carer can accompany you to see family and friends, visit local groups, or attend appointments. They also help you welcome visitors at home, ensuring you remain connected to the people and activities that matter most.
Health and Emotional Wellbeing
Your Carer will help you access medical care when needed, accompany you to appointments, and work alongside your healthcare team. They understand the emotional impact of MS and will support you with empathy and encouragement, helping you face challenges with dignity.
Cognitive Support
If MS affects your memory or concentration, your Carer can provide practical help—such as reminders for important dates, appointments, or daily tasks. They can also support with communication if words become difficult, helping you to express yourself and stay connected with loved ones and professionals.
Finding the Right Carer
At Access Care, we have been introducing professionally trained Live-in Carers to people with MS for over 25 years. Many of our Carers have specialist training and experience in MS care, giving them the insight, skills, and compassion to offer the best possible support.
We take time to get to know you—your needs, your preferences, and your lifestyle—so we can match you with a Carer who not only has the right qualifications and experience but also shares your interests and values.
Our role is to introduce you to suitable Carers. Your role is to choose the one who feels right for you.
Additional Resources
MS-UK – Offers counselling, a helpline, and online activities such as exercise and mindfulness courses.
MS Society – The UK’s largest MS charity, offering support, information, and financial guidance.
MS Trust – Provides information, resources, and a confidential helpline.