Motor Neurone Disease is a degenerative condition affecting the brain and nervous system, which in turn can weaken, stiffen and waste muscle tone. As the condition worsens it can affect the ability to breathe, move, swallow and talk.

Care for this depends on what stage of the disease the individual is at, and what they are able to do for themselves. Majority of clients will require hoisting, personal care, with some requiring ventilation, cough assist, enteral nutrition and catheter care.

Shepherd Healthcare Group and our team of experienced Lead Nurses support people who have Motor Neurone Disease to maintain their independence at home, with the support of a team of specialist carers, support workers and nurses who have completed Motor Neurone Disease training.

Specialist needs

Shepherd Healthcare Group recognises that clients who have Motor Neurone Disease may have other complex health needs and we support:

• People who have a tracheostomy
• People who use a ventilator (BiPAP/CPAP)
• People who have a gastrostomy tube
• People who have epilepsy
• People who need support to take medications
• People who require full moving and handling support
• People who require support with personal care, including continence care.

Motor Neurone Disease Facts

• Motor neurone disease (MND) describes a group of diseases that affect the nerves (motor neurones) in the brain and spinal cord that tell your muscles what to do.
• MND is a life-shortening condition that progressively affects the brain and nervous system.  Sadly, there is no cure.
• It affects around 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time.
• It can affect adults of any age, but is more likely to affect people over 50.
• There is a 1 in 300 risk of getting MND across a lifetime.
• With MND, messages from the motor neurones gradually stop reaching the muscles. This leads the muscles to weaken, stiffen and waste. MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe.

(source: Motor Neurone Disease Association).