Wellness is a dynamic state of physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being that can be achieved even in the presence of a chronic illness or disability.
For a person living with MS, the road to wellness involves more than treatment of the disease. Equally important are health promotion and prevention strategies, satisfying personal relationships, a strong support network, fulfilling work and leisure activities, a meaningful place in the community, and adequate attention to one's inner self.
- Clinics
- Community Resources
- Cognition
- Physical Exercise brings numerous benefits, find classes in your area.
Family members and caregivers also need to pay attention to their own health and well-being. In order to offer the best possible care and support to someone else, it is important to make sure that one’s own needs are being addressed.
MS Clinics at local, affiliated centers offer specialized multidisciplinary care including diagnosis and second opinions. Each clinic is reviewed and approved by the chapter's Clinical Advisory Committee and National Clinical Care Committee. Clinics' staff, directed by MS Specialists, include a neurologist, nurse practitioner, physical therapist, medical equipment vendor, care manager and are assisted by chapter staff.
The chapter can also provide referrals to neurologists and other medical professionals who are knowledgeable and capable of caring for people with MS. Contact us at 1-800-344-4867, option "1" or email karen.hooper@nmss.org for a listing of those professionals in your community.
Cognition refers to a range of high-level brain functions, including the ability to learn and remember information: organize, plan, and problem-solve; focus, maintain, and shift attention as necessary; understand and use language; accurately perceive the environment, and perform calculations. Cognitive changes are common in people with MS—approximately 50% of people with MS will develop problems with cognition.
- Read more at our National website
- Try brain games at mymsmyway.com
The benefits of exercise are numerous, and today there are many classes and wellness activities that are adaptable to differing levels of ability. The chapter offers a variety of fun, challenging and interesting exercise options – from stretching classes and yoga to hydrotherapy and swimming
- and invites you to check the offerings available in your community. Aquatic exercise utilizes the freedom and enhanced mobility created by water to increase strength, mobility and coordination. Sign up, meet new people, and enjoy moving for your well-being!
For wellness options in Imperial County, contact katie.freiert@nmss.org or 714-689-9601.
Accessible trails grant access to nature to people who use a wheelchair or scooter. People with fatigue and weakness will also find accessible trails more “user-friendly” than trails with steep grades and rough walking surfaces. Learn more on our National website or link to the National Trails Training Partnership.