Recreation is important for people with motor neurone disease (MND). Where possible, activities enjoyed before the disease should be kept up or modified so that they can still be enjoyed.
Rest and recreation is also important for carers. Carers should seek support from other people and make sure they take regular breaks from their caring role.
Reading
To make it easier for the person with motor neurone disease to enjoy reading:
- Use an adjustable table or bookstand and a non-slip mat to stop books from slipping.
- Use a stationer’s rubber thimble or a short wooden rod to turn pages more easily.
- Have steel paper clips attached to each page and use a small magnet attached to the end of a short stick to make page turning even easier.
- Use an electric page-turner if it is easy to operate and effective.
Talking books
Audio books are available from local libraries or from Vision Australia. Library members of Vision Australia can borrow a wide range of titles in a variety of formats including audiotapes and CDs. These are free for loan through postal delivery across Australia. A catalogue is available.
TV, video, radio and cassette players
When using electronic equipment:
- Use remote controls.
- Use a video recorder, if possible, to see programs at the time you choose.
- Preset tuning buttons on radios.
- Use cassette players with light-touch controls.
Painting
People who cannot paint with their hands may be able to paint by holding the brush or pen in the mouth. Ask your dentist about a special mouthpiece.
Watercolour pens and pencils are cleaner to use than conventional brushes and paints.
Writing
To make writing easier:
- Build the pen or pencil up with elastic bands, pimple rubber or foam, special pen grips or high-density foam tubing.
- Push the pen through the holes in a practice golf ball.
- Use a pad of paper rather than loose sheets.
- Use a non-slip mat to prevent the paper slipping.
- Use a felt-tip pen.
- Markers are easy to hold and make bold strokes.
Typewriters and computers
Word processors need minimal finger pressure and a rest can be used to support the arms. Computers are great if you do a lot of writing. They can also be used to keep the household or business accounts. They can be fun, too.
Computers are being used as communication aids by people whose speech is affected. Some models can operate environmental controls. Get advice before buying a computer and choose one that can be adapted to meet your changing needs. You can also seek advice from the Independent Living Centre (details below).
Sewing and craftwork
To help with sewing and crafts:
- Use long dressmaking pins with large heads.
- Anchor your pincushion with a suction cup.
- Use needle threaders for both hand and machine needles.
- Try electric or lightweight scissors.
- Clamp embroidery frames to a table.
- Seek assistance from an occupational therapist or the Independent Living Centre.
Cards and board games
You can still enjoy cards and board games if you:
- Use a cardholder.
- Display cards in an upturned clothes or scrubbing brush.
- Use an automatic card shuffler.
- Use large cards.
- Play games for which large size pieces are available (chess, draughts, scrabble, dominoes).
- Play computer chess and draughts – you can even play alone.
Sport
Many people with MND participated in sport before the onset of their illness. Although further active participation may be limited, you can keep up your interest and commitment by maintaining links with local clubs and enjoying companionship and support.
Birds
The Bird Observers Club of Australia produces leaflets about bird feeders and the right food to attract a variety of wild birds to your garden or your windowsill.
Parks
Many parks have wheelchair access. Contact Parks Victoria for further information.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- Your local community health centre
- Your local council
- Local sporting and hobby clubs and organisations
- Motor Neurone Disease Association of Victoria Tel. 1800 806 632
- Independent Living Centre Tel. (03) 9362 6111
- Parks Victoria Tel. 131 963
Things to remember
- Recreation and leisure are very important for all people, including people with MND and their carers.
- Activities should be continued after onset of the illness, where possible, and modified if necessary.
- Even if participation in sport or leisure activities is limited, it is good to remain involved in clubs and organisations to keep up interest and companionship.
You might also be interested in:
Motor neurone disease - help with daily activities.
Motor neurone disease - independence at home.
Motor neurone disease - personal care.
Motor neurone disease explained.
Want to know more?
Go to More information for support groups, related links and references.
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