What devices and technologies are available to help people with ALS?
In the beginning stages of ALS, patients may use walkers or canes before progressing to a wheelchair. There are power wheelchairs available that can be controlled by the head or chin or by a “sip-and-puff” mouth device. Transfer boards and patient lifts are also available to help maneuver the patient’s body. And there are a multitude of devices — from elastic shoelaces to silverware aids — available to help with daily tasks. When swallowing becomes too difficult, patients may opt to have a feeding tube placed directly into the stomach. Through the tube, they are given water and special liquid supplement formulas designed to meet all nutritional needs. After the feeding tube is inserted, patients can still eat orally, so long as they can safely chew and swallow. Some individuals, including Stephen Heywood, make this decision proactively, as weight loss can exacerbate other effects of the disease. Ventilators are typically used by ALS patients having difficulty breathing. There are sev
