Cognitive Changes with Multiple Sclerosis

One of the most common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is cognitive changes; in fact, more than 50% of individuals with the disease experience some form of cognitive decline. Cognitive impairment may impact the following areas:(1)

• Information processing: making sense of information brought in from the outside world
• Memory: retrieving and retaining information
• Attention to tasks
• Executive functioning: planning and organizing information

While these symptoms are common, you do not have to suffer alone; Speech Language Pathologist’s (SLP) are here to help. SLPs are skilled at implementing strategies to combat these difficulties. SLPs can also implement exercises and establish carry over programs to help improve difficulties that are being experienced and prevent them from getting worse. 

Sometimes what can be difficult is getting therapy established. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with MS and have been experiencing cognitive difficulties or a decline in function, reach out to us.  Speech-language pathology services can help you. 

Live Your Life also offers wellness, rehabilitative and preventative type of SLP sessions in person or via Telehealth. These services are private pay. In addition we offer a free consultation to determine which is most convenient for you and your loved ones.

If you have questions in regards to cognitive therapy and multiple sclerosis, Live Your Life is here to help! Contact us today!

Rachel Wieneke graduated from the University of South Dakota in 2012 with a Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology and currently holds a Certificate of Clinical Competency from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She has experience in providing speech therapy to adolescents and adults, with increased focus in providing intervention for a receptive-expressive language, swallowing and cognition. Rachel is also certified in VitalStim Therapy which allows her to utilize neuromuscular electrical stimulation with her swallowing therapy. As a therapist, Rachel values a patient centered approach and involves both the caregiver and patient when creating goals for intervention, as well as during her treatment sessions. She appreciates the relationships she builds with her patients and their families, as well as generalizing therapy to the home setting. Rachel believes that these aspects are vital in helping her patients succeed. Rachel enjoys being outside with her husband and exploring the Twin Cities on their road bikes. She also enjoys spending time with both of their families, traveling, running and yoga.

References

(1) Cognitive Changes. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms/Cognitive-Changes Accessed 3/16/2020.