Accommodations for Lou Gehrig's Disease

Lou Gehrig's Disease, also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), is a neurodegenerative disease that attacks the motor neurons in the brain. Due to the devastating effects on the muscles, living with the disease is extremely difficult for ALS patients. While the disease is fatal, there are accommodations to help patients.

History

• Jean-Marie Charcot was the first to record the traits of ALS. In 1874, Charcot used his research when coming up with the name--amyotrophic, which is from ancient Greek, meaning "muscle without nourishment."

ALS Clinics

• The ALS Association has set up ALS Clinics throughout the United States and feature ALS-specific physicians. The staff works closely with patients and their families to provide clinical as well mental and emotional care.

Communication

• ALS patients can find help communicating as speech becomes impaired. Augmentative and Alternative Communication can be taken by patients with ALS. AAC teaches writing with electronic devices and speech with computer software.

Local Accommodations

• Local communities often offer a variety of accommodations including a nationwide network of support groups directed by a professional staff. Also, the ALS Association offers a network of health care clinics with specific regard to patients with the disease.

Clinical Trials

• According to its website, the ALS Association sponsors a Clinical Management Research Grant Program in order to improve care and living with ALS. The program awards funds in order to research ALS cures and treatments.