Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a condition passed down genetically caused by an abnormality in the nerve cells called peripheral nerves. The disease can affect walking and balance, making it more difficult to do simple tasks. Don’t worry if you do not know exactly how to help your friends. While you may not be able to help them with everything, you can still help them feel better and loved. Here are five ways you can help your friend with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
1. Get to Know the Disease
A little understanding of this disease is important. Learn about the symptoms of the disease and why your friend may have fallen or suffered from this problem. This can help you to understand the situation better and offer support accordingly.
Having knowledge of the disease and how it affects the body can help you understand more about it. Understanding basic symptoms can go a long way in helping you understand what is happening to your friend and make changes that may reduce symptoms in the future. Research organizations have provided information about CMT and what it is by raising its awareness.
2. Learn to Adapt Tasks to Their Situation
A little flexibility and practicality is a good way to let your friend know that you care without making them feel like they are a burden. If someone needs help getting out of bed and into the bathroom, make it quick, easy and pain-free. Over time, your friend could develop trust in you, which can be a great source of relief.
3. Offer Physical Support
Sometimes all someone needs is a hand. If your friend is having trouble walking, consider helping them walk. Building up strength, balance, and coordination can go a long way in helping your friend to be more independent. Offer simple support, such as handing them items, changing their clothes, or helping them out of the shower.
4. Offer Financial Support
Financial costs can be very high for your friend to handle. Some medications and treatments can be very expensive to sustain, so you should offer money if you wish to help. It is good to offer an amount they could use if they need it most, especially if they are having trouble paying bills or living independently.
5. Help Them with Daily Chores
Chances are, your friend has not always been so independent. Helping them with the ordinary things they used to do alone can help. While you cannot go back and fix everything they used to do, you can find out how to help them keep up with things like laundry, cooking food, and cleaning their house. This could make a big difference in helping them feel better and take on accomplishments that help their brain relax.
Friends can be your best allies in the fight against this disease. Be there for them, and offer as much support as possible. A little understanding and caring go a long way, and you can make a big difference in helping your friend become more comfortable and independent. They will appreciate you for it, and your relationship will grow stronger.
