How to Prepare Your Home For MS

Learn how to modify your home for MS and explore how in-home care can support safety, comfort, and independence for those living with multiple sclerosis.

A multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis can bring many changes to your everyday life. Creating a safe and accessible home can help you stay independent and maintain a high quality of life. With the right modifications and support, your home can meet the unique challenges of MS—without giving up comfort or personal style.

Tips for Preparing Your Home

MS affects everyone differently, but common symptoms include mobility issues, fatigue, balance problems, and vision changes. These practical home tips can help address those challenges:

Floor Surfaces and Accessibility

Replace slippery floors with safer options like textured vinyl, low-pile carpet, or matte-finish tile. Remove throw rugs that could cause tripping, or secure them with double-sided tape. If you use a wheelchair or walker, consider widening doorways to at least 36 inches.

Bathroom Safety

Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower. A shower chair and handheld showerhead make bathing easier and safer. A raised toilet seat can reduce the effort needed to sit or stand. Use non-slip mats inside and outside the shower to prevent falls.

Kitchen Adaptations

Store everyday items on shelves between waist and shoulder height to avoid bending or reaching. Pull-out shelves make it easier to access things at the back of cabinets. If hand strength is an issue, try touch-activated faucets. A rolling cart can help carry items when holding dishes while walking is difficult.

Energy Conservation Strategies

Set up rest areas with comfortable seating around your home. Create activity centers where all needed supplies are within easy reach. Add extra lighting—especially in hallways, stairwells, and workspaces—to make it easier to see and lower the risk of falls.

Temperature Control

Heat can make MS symptoms worse. To stay cool, consider using ceiling fans, a programmable thermostat, or window coverings that block the sun. You can also use portable options like personal fans or cooling vests to stay comfortable.

Communication and Emergency Planning

A smart home system with voice-activated controls can help you manage lights, temperature, and security features. Keep phones easily accessible throughout your home. Have an emergency plan in place with nearby family, friends, or neighbors who can assist if needed.

How Professional In-Home Care Can Help

Home modifications make daily life safer for people with neurological disorders, but professional care can add even more support. Trained in-home caregivers help with daily tasks and provide light medical care when needed.

Daily Activities Management

Caregivers can assist with personal care such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. They also help with cooking and meal prep, ensuring you eat well without exhausting yourself. Light housekeeping helps keep your space clean and organized without draining your energy.

Mobility Assistance

Caregivers are trained to help with moving between beds, chairs, and mobility devices. They can join you on walks, offering balance support and peace of mind. They also provide transportation to appointments or errands, making it easier to get around.

Medication and Health Monitoring

Caregivers remind you to take your medications on time and watch for changes in symptoms. They also keep your healthcare team updated with reports on your daily condition.

Social Engagement

In-home care also means companionship. Caregivers help reduce feelings of isolation by encouraging you to stay active in hobbies or social activities, adapting them as needed.

Financial Considerations and Insurance

Check with your insurance provider about coverage for medical equipment like grab bars or shower chairs. Some MS organizations offer grants for home updates. Medicare may cover certain home health services if ordered by a doctor. Local aging and disability centers may also have resources to help cover the costs of home improvements.

Seasonal Adaptations

MS symptoms can change with the seasons. In winter, keep walkways clear of snow and ice, and consider outdoor handrails or ramps with non-slip surfaces. In the summer, blackout curtains can help you rest during hot afternoons. Make sure seasonal clothing is easy to access as your temperature needs change.

Move Forward With Confidence

Building an MS-friendly home takes planning, but it’s worth it. Start with small changes in key areas, then make more updates as your needs shift. Working with an occupational therapist can help you find the best modifications based on your home and symptoms.

The right mix of home adjustments and caregiving support can help you stay independent and comfortable. With the right setup, your home becomes a place of strength—not limits.

Need help preparing your home for MS or arranging personalized care? Our compassionate team understands the unique challenges of neurological conditions. Call us today at 800-349-0663 or contact us online to discuss how we can support you or your loved one.