Housing and homes for people living with multiple sclerosis

Homes and housing for people living in the 21^st century is at somewhat of a crisis point. This is due to a multitude of issues including affordability, insufficient social housing stock and high private sector rental costs.

For anyone who has a physical disability, impairment or long-term health condition such as multiple sclerosis (MS) these issues are also amplified by the fact that there is a shortage of accessible housing.

According to the homes for life report from the centre for better ageing, 91 per cent of homes in the UK do not have even the lowest level of accessibility, leaving fewer than one in ten properties suitable for older or disabled people.

People affected by MS often have worries over their condition and how it will affect their future. This includes worries over how MS will impact on their ability to live independently and on the long term suitability of their home and living arrangements.

The UK government says that providing suitable housing can enable disabled people to live more independently and safely, with greater choice and control over their lives. Without accessible and adaptable housing, disabled people risk facing discrimination and further disadvantages.

What housing options are there for MSers?

It is often said that moving home is one of the most stressful and difficult challenges we face in life. We have done our best to make sure we have information to help reduce stresses and make choices that are right for you.

We have updated our information on preparing for an uncertain future with MS to include information on housing and multiple sclerosis.

Our updated webpage has detailed information on adapting your current home, finding an accessible property to rent or buy and applying for accessible social housing.

If you feel you may need some kind of extra care housing to maintain your independence as much as is possible, we also have information on different types of supported housing, extra care housing, sheltered living or assisted living homes.

Our information about ‘preparing for the future’ is split into two parts. The first part is all about ‘Preparing for an uncertain future with MS’ and has information on psychological therapies, peer support, meaningful activities, benefits, talking with family and friends, falls prevention and more.

The second part covers ‘Planning for a future with advanced MS’. Aswell as the new information about housing and MS, this section contains information about care and support services, expert legal and estate planning, changing places toilets, independent living aids, support for family carers and making plans for future treatment and care.