The Next Step

Who to contact when you are first diagnosed?

Ideally your Consultant Neurologist or GP will refer you to local services provided by the HSE or your local health centre. Services vary from area to area.

Some people aren’t offered a point of contact when they are diagnosed and are left to find their way around a complex system for help and advice. If this is the case, talk to your GP as they should be able to guide you and ensure you can access the services you need.

MND affects people differently. Below is a list of professionals (they can be hospital or community based) and how they can help you.

Difficulty with & Which Professional can help you

• Everyday activities /home environment : Occupational therapist
• Swallowing food and drink : Speech & Language Therapist
• Speaking : Speech & Language Therapist
• Coughing : Speech & Language Therapist/ GP
• Nutrition (including weight loss, lack of appetite) : Dietician
• Mobility (e.g. walking, climbing stairs) : Occupational Therapist / Physiotherapist
• Support for you & your family : Social Worker

How the IMNDA can help you?

The Association functions mainly as a support organisation for people who have MND and their carers and families. This work entails home visiting, financial assistance for home nursing and supply of specialised equipment on loan to patients. These services are provided to registered patients of the association. The association also supports research into the causes and treatment of Motor Neurone Disease.

As MND progresses, everyday tasks may become more difficult. It could be something as simple as getting out of a chair or problems with communicating. There is a whole range of equipment that can make a real difference to maintaining your independence and quality of life. Some key equipment items are available through our Equipment Loaning Service, and can be requested by an appropriate medical professional such as an occupational therapist or speech therapist.

The association also provides financial assistance towards home caring which can be requested by contacting the office.