Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is the name given to a group of diseases in which nerve cells (neurones) controlling the muscles that enable us to move, speak, breathe and swallow fail to work normally. With no nerves to activate them, muscles gradually weaken and waste. The patterns of weakness vary from person to person. Usually the neurones which control intellect and memory are not affected, nor are those which control the bladder and bowels.
MND is also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
It is not an easy illness to live with but, with appropriate care and management, it may be less overwhelming.
Most people with MND continue to live at home with the support of a variety of community services.
The Palliative Care Service has expertise in helping people to live as independently as possible with MND and works closely with general practitioners, consultant neurologists and a network of community services including:
- MND Tasmania
- Occupational therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Speech pathology
- Home based nursing care
- Hospice care volunteers
- Community equipment scheme
- Commonwealth carer respite centre
We also offer equipment, support and counselling in adapting changes in lifestyle.
Palliative Care and Hospice volunteers are available to support people at home with practical help, respite for carers, companionship and emotional support.
The MND Tasmania association offers support and some equipment for people with MND for more information visit their website www.mndatas.asn.au
Family Support Service Project
MND Tasmania has entered into a cooperative partnership with MND Victoria with the aim of enhancing services for people living with MND in Tasmania.
The partnership includes:
- Access for Tasmanians to free call 1800 806 632 number direct to MND Victoria, enabling people living with MND to have immediate professional advice and information;
- The opportunity for carers to participate in monthly Telelinks providing support and contact with other carers in Tasmania and Victoria;
- Six weekly MND Victoria Newsletter with Tasmanian insert; and
- Access to a visiting MND regional advisor.
For further information, please contact:
Regional Advisor, Tasmania MND Victoria PO Box 23 Cantebury 3126 Freecall: 1800 806 632 Fax: (03) 9830 2228 Email: info@mndatas.asn.au