ALS Home Care
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a difficult diagnosis that requires a series of major adjustments for both the individual and their families. For many, the goal is to remain comfortably at home for as long as possible, spending time with loved ones.
In-home care for individuals with ALS needs to be thoughtful and tailored each step of the way. One of the key differentiating factors is age. According to the ALS Association, the average age of diagnosis is 55 years old. Many of those affected by ALS still have children living at home and a spouse that may or may not be working. The personality and schedule of the caregiver should reflect these needs.
Tandem Careplanning has a network of professional, highly-vetted caregivers that can provide additional support to individuals living with ALS, as well as their families. While all caregivers undergo through background checks and training courses beforehand, we encourage care seekers to interview and get to know potential candidates before deciding who they want to share their days with and have in their homes. The Tandem Careplanning team is available 24/7 throughout the process, providing resources and guidance as needs evolve.
Why Choose Tandem?
ALS can be a bumpy road, with uncertainty around every corner. This can be hard to balance when getting care from a single, full-time caregiver, which can lack flexibility and an individual focus. It can be even more difficult to manage within the family and ALS caregiver burnout is common.
Working with Tandem Careplanning, you have access to a dedicated Care Team that provides stability and continuity throughout the process. If you decide you need more help with ALS management, simply add more shifts or call our Care Team to discuss adding a service or person to your roster. That might include caregivers who have medical or other specialized expertise, should the need arise. Either way, we’re with you throughout the journey and all the twists and turns of the road ahead.
Learn more about our online tools and dedicated 24/7 support system.
Why is ALS Home Care Unique?
Approximately 16,000 Americans are living with ALS at any given point in time. No two are the same. At Tandem Careplanning, we understand that and work hard to adapt to your life and preferences.
Maximizing ALS Management
There remains an urgent need for new disease-modifying treatments for ALS. In the meantime, physical therapy is an important part of most patient’s care, as it can be helpful to offset muscle weakness and loss of function. Tandem’s caregivers can help you prepare and drive to medical or physical therapy appointments. Depending on your caregiver's skill set, they can help carry out tasks or exercises recommended by a physical therapist.
Modifying Your House
As the disease progresses, individuals with ALS may choose to have a home safety assessment performed to reduce potential hazards and barriers to getting around. We see this as an ongoing process to continually optimize your home for your life.
Maintaining Independence
If the person requiring care lives alone, companionship and scheduled activities can be a great addition to your caregiving service. Conversely, if they’re part of a busy household, you may want a person who respects your family’s privacy and works more quietly behind the scenes. Perhaps all you need is respite care, to prevent ALS caregiver burnout. Whatever you need, we’re here.