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How To Visit With An MSA Patient

Updated: Sep 29, 2023


Dear friends and family,


I always appreciate when friend

s and family come to visit. I noticed lately that some people struggle knowing how to talk with me as my ability to communicate decreases. I have brainstormed a few things to help…


1) I enjoy socializing even tho

ugh I cannot speak back. I’m interested and am listening when others tell me about themselves. I like to hear about how people are doing, their families, hobbies, vacations, experiences, weekend activities, etc.


2) I wish to be spoken to as a person and an adult. Please speak to me normally by not using slower or louder speech, or a reduced vocabulary and sentence structures. I like to be part of the conversation by making eye contact and being spoken to directly.


3) It’s easier/quicker for me to be asked ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions.


4) When we’re together you can talk or not talk, either is fine. I’m comfortable with quiet too.


5) I use a piece of cardboard w


ith the alphabet written out to communicate, we call it a Ouija Board. I can point to letters to spell out words. I need someone else to hold the cardboard and adjust it as I go. It can take a while for me to spell out sentences so I appreciate everyone’s patience. It’s ok if you don’t understand a word the first few times, as Tom and Adrianne can attest to.


6) When I’m using the Dynovox communication device it’s ok to fix letters/autocorrect for me.


7) A symptom of MSA is excessive drooling. If you’re comfortable doing so you can use a tissue or washcloth to wipe my mouth.


8) The best way to contact me to make plans is on Tom’s cell phone through call or text. I check my email and Facebook messenger every couple of days and am happy to get messages there too.


I hope this list is helpful for everyone! I love having friends and family visit and appreciate all of our time together!


With Love, Jackie



Posted to MSA NJ website with written consent of Jackie Vandenberg.

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