My brother takes precautions to safely navigate his home
MG flare-ups can make mobility challenging for him
As I enter my 50s, I find myself living alone as an expatriate in Asia, and I constantly worry about accidentally injuring myself. I’m particularly concerned about slipping and falling. I’ve realized that as we age, it’s essential to prioritize safety.
Recently, I had a conversation with my twin brother, Aaron, about his experiences managing myasthenia gravis (MG) as he ages. Aaron was diagnosed with MG in 1999, when he was 24 years old. He receives regular help from family, exercises when his symptoms allow it, and always prepares before going out for errands. But getting around his home can be challenging due to MG, so he’s had to learn how to navigate it safely.
Being prepared
I don’t want to imply that Aaron is in danger in his home. He lives with family members who provide support. Still, I’d never considered that he needs to take precautions to get around safely.
When he experiences a flare-up, his mobility at home can become difficult, especially if he is alone in a room. Each time we talk, I learn about new challenges he faces due to MG. After losing his ability to work, Aaron became somewhat of a homebody and turned to gaming as a coping mechanism for his disability. I’ve always assumed that home was a comfortable place for him.
During our conversation, he confided that he sometimes struggles to stand up from a chair, particularly when his muscles are weak from a flare-up. To help him stand, he now only sits in sturdy chairs with armrests. He also positions himself near walls in his apartment that he can lean on for support when needed.
In the center of his apartment is a large washing machine, which he occasionally uses to rest or steady himself. Throughout his home, he has identified various appliances and furniture, such as tables, that he can rely on.
Aaron and our relatives ensure the house is cleaned regularly to remove any objects or obstacles from the floor. He said that he’s experienced difficulty lifting his feet while walking during severe flare-ups, leading to trips and falls.
Another precaution he took was to stop wearing heavy boots that made it harder to lift his feet.
While living with MG presents challenges, Aaron has made navigating his home easier. That reminded me of a saying: “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” Knowing that Aaron has taken precautions comforts me, and I plan to brainstorm ways to make my home safer.
Note: Myasthenia Gravis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Myasthenia Gravis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to myasthenia gravis.
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