Many gadgets and technology solutions are on the market that can help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) keep independence in their homes. Not only can this assistive technology make your life easier and safer, it can be fun, too. The technology is also getting better and better, with more options and ways to use it.
Voice-recognition software and devices are a growing market. You’ve probably heard of – or even used – voice-activated virtual assistants such as Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa. Tools like this can turn your entire home into a highly accessible place.
For example, you can pair Alexa with Alexa-enabled devices, such as Fire TVs, tablets, and Echo devices, to help you:
If you Google “apps to help people with disabilities,” you’ll see there are thousands out there. They’re designed to help you do everything from find accessible locations to manage your health to improve communication.
Health management apps can track things such as your symptoms, pain levels, and moods, plus your nutrition and exercise. This can be handy information to gather between your checkups. It can help both you and your doctor make better-informed decisions about your treatment.
Because of the thousands of health apps to choose from, it can get overwhelming. A few that are particularly helpful for people with MS include:
MS can affect your vision and speech. If you have primary progressive MS (PPMS) or your relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) or secondary progressive MS (SPMS) is getting into an advanced stage, your ability to write, read, or speak may be affected. These apps and software may help:
Your mood can affect your MS symptoms and overall health. Learning mindfulness and relaxation exercises can boost your mood, help you relax, and increase your focus. Some popular apps that let you do this include:
The Kinova Jaco assistive robotic arm is for anyone who has lost mobility in their arms or hands. You can do everything from scratch an itch to pick up your phone to reach items on a tall shelf. The arm mounts on your wheelchair and has 16 movements that mimic the human arm. This device can greatly boost your independence at home.
Of course, some of these solutions have a large price tag, one that insurance likely won’t cover (but be sure to check first). You can look into financial assistance options to cover -- partially or totally -- the cost, including:
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America: “My MS Manager Mobile App.”
MS Care Connect: “Welcome to MS Care Connect!”
Medicare.org: “5 Best Pill Reminder Apps.”
CoughDrop: “Every voice should be heard.”
App Store: “Speak4Me–Text to Speech.”
Nuance: “Dragon Home version 15 speech recognition.”
Headspace: “A few minutes could change your whole day.”
Insight Timer: “#1 free app for sleep, anxiety and stress.”
Smiling Mind: “Try our free mindfulness app.”
Kinova Assistive: “Enabling New Possibilities.”
Learn how this disease affects the nervous system.
Your options for managing symptoms.
Ideas on how to boost your mood and self-esteem.
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