Strategies for Maintaining Mobility

There are a number of lifestyle changes that become necessary when living with ALS. Although not all people with ALS experience the same symptoms or the same sequences or patterns of progression, most individuals will experience progressive muscle weakness, affecting their independence and mobility. The best way to cope with these changes is to prepare both yourself and your physical surroundings.

Staying safe and participating in life the way you choose are important to everyone. To do this while living with ALS requires ongoing evaluation of your physical and environmental situation and adjusting as necessary over time. There are a variety of adaptations, strategies and equipment options available to help you remain safe and mobile as you lose muscle strength and coordination in your arms and legs.

These videos have been developed to introduce and explain the ways you can maintain your independence and remain safe while living with ALS. More in-depth information is listed after the videos, and we strongly encourage you to follow up with your local chapter and ALS clinic team for more information.

Planning for Changes in Mobility

Mark Weston, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2019, speaks with Shannon Terrell, DPT at the Kaiser ALS clinic, to learn more about the right equipment and solutions to maintain his independence as ALS progresses.

Strategies to Help with Everyday Activities

Everyday tasks, such as eating, dressing, bathing and toileting, and moving from one place to another, become obstacles as ALS progresses over time. Shannon Terrell, DPT offers some tips and techniques to manage these challenges.

Equipment Available to Keep You Mobile

Ellen Alires-Trujillo was diagnosed with ALS in 2020 and is looking for ways she can manage the symptoms of her disease and remain independent for as long as possible. Michele Longo, mobility equipment specialist, explains the options available to help keep Ellen mobile.

Obtaining a Power Wheelchair Customized to Your Needs

Michele Longo, mobility equipment specialist, discusses the importance of working with a specialist who understands ALS and who can anticipate what will be needed in a power wheelchair for maximum independence and long-term comfort.

Caregiver Questions: Using and Maintaining a Power Wheelchair

ALS caregiver Lorenzo Trujillo is interested in learning more about how a power wheelchair can help his spouse Ellen retain her mobility and independence as the disease progresses. Here he speaks with Michele Longo, mobility equipment specialist, who offers answers for concerned caregivers.

The Importance of Stretching and Positioning

Shannon Terrell, DPT, shares simple things anyone can do to prevent muscle or joint pain and other complications related to decreased mobility.

Additional Information

For additional information about managing mobility changes, please refer to the following resources:

Acknowledgements

We would like to extend a sincere thank you to all who participated in the filming of these videos.

Ellen Alires-Trujillo and Lorenzo Truijillo, Mark and Kathleen Weston, and Dale and Kari Etchells, for their time and for allowing us to share this very personal journey
The clinicians who shared their time and expertise
Our colleagues at The ALS Association Rocky Mountain Chapter
The staff at Numotion in Denver, Colorado