I hope this will help someone… - Multiple System A...

Multiple System Atrophy Trust

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I hope this will help someone…

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
20 Replies

I am lucky that I can still shower myself. Hubby has to help me get in the shower and sat on my shower chair but I can still manage. However, getting dried afterwards is simply exhausting. A nurse from the hospice suggested a towelling bath robe so I wear this and just lay down until I can get dressed. It’s been a game-changer for me. So simple - I hope this helps someone else!

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Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1
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20 Replies
thedjsupreme profile image
thedjsupreme

A good idea. I'm early enough in diagnosis but will bear it in mind

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1 in reply tothedjsupreme

So simple yet effective xx

esj20 profile image
esj20

Thank you for this, so simple as I’ve never thought of doing that. I too cannot dry myself properly.

Thanks again, now going to order a robe

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1 in reply toesj20

Sometimes the simplest things are the best. It’s been a game-changer for me! Hope it helps xxx

Frenchoak profile image
Frenchoak

Excellent idea! Bathing or showering is so exhausting now! I'm also really struggling with writing now, so frustrating, waiting for someone else to write things down! One way I'm getting around this is the purchase of a Dymo labelling machine-brilliant , I've been labelling all sorts of things & can write labels for diary appointments or in cards etc! Best £32 I've spent! Told people last year that I'm not doing Xmas cards this year, will donate to msa trust instead. So that's that sorted! Plus I've joined Jacqui Lawson e-cards for next 2 years @ £36.... no more card shopping, writing or expensive postal co s ts! Win, win!!

Anyone else got some good practical ideas 💡 🤔 for the pot??! 😀😀

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1

thank you for the tip!

Derkie54 profile image
Derkie54

Good tip, we need a good ideas pinned post.My wife has lost all mobility so cannot get into the bathroom.

To wash her hair we bought an inflatable wash basin, it has a cut-out for the head and it is placed on the bed, works for us.

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1

that’s a fantastic idea - i hope you’re both getting used to your new normal

You're right, we’re all fumbling through and tips can really help. Xx

Frenchoak profile image
Frenchoak

Another thing I've found useful, is having my mobile phone on a lanyard so if I go upstairs (I need to use 2 handrails so can't carry anything up or down) I can sling it round my neck, then I've got it handy upstairs in case of falls. I keep the cord within reach too when I have a shower or bath, or go out in garden, it allows more "reach" to the phone! Also just bought a lightweight hairdryer and a plastic kitchen jug, rather than a heavy glass jug!

FredaE profile image
FredaE in reply toFrenchoak

lanyard stops phones falling off the bed and can be used to take some of the weight while you are using them

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1

Thank you! I’ve got a lanyard for my phone and glasses which hangs around my neck as I can’hold things and walk with my zimmer. Hubby also got me a ‘bell’ - he carries the receiving bell and I have the button around my neck! I don’t currently pour things but I may just pinch the plastic jug idea!

Spangle2000 profile image
Spangle2000

Thanks for the tip. Drying myself is getting gradually more difficult so it would make my life easier. I’m also struggling with writing, like French oak, so the Dymo label maker sounds like a good idea too as does the lanyard.

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1

Thank you, Spangle2000 I’m glad it helped. X

thedjsupreme profile image
thedjsupreme

How is the towelling going? I'm lucky I can get out with my sticks, dreading the day I can't

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1

it’s amazing! I’ve bought a towelling robe! I get out on my scooter on SalisburyPlain and locally - I hate not being a good mum to my dogs x I hope you are well. X

Frenchoak profile image
Frenchoak

Dear Monkeyfeet1, now, I hope you're not causing issues by going out in your towelling robe on your scooter on Salisbury Plain!! Imagine!! 🤣🤣🤣🤔😱🥰

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1 in reply toFrenchoak

I could try it - now there’s an idea! We rarely see other’s up there! But it would cause heads to turn if we did! 🤣🤣🤣

FredaE profile image
FredaE in reply toFrenchoak

especially in a high wind

Monkeyfeet1 profile image
Monkeyfeet1 in reply toFredaE

🤣

Ruffner profile image
Ruffner

Any one using a towel warmer? If so, recommendations would be helpful as I was thinking this might make a good gift for my husband.

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