Motor neurone disease (MND) - recreation and leisure

Motor neurone disease (MND) often begins with weakness in the muscles of the hands, feet or voice. Recreation remains important, just as it is for everyone. Where possible, continue to take part in the activities you enjoyed before the onset of your illness, modifying them where necessary.

Support for carers#

Rest and recreation are also important for carers of people with MND. If you are caring for someone with MND, seek support from other people and make sure you take regular breaks from your caring role.

Reading#

To make reading easier:

• Use an adjustable table or bookstand and a non-slip mat to stop books from slipping.
• Use a rubber thimble or a short wooden rod to turn pages more easily, or a stylus for e-book readers and tablets.
• Attach steel paper clips to each page and use a small magnet on the end of a short stick to help turn pages.
• Use an electric page-turner. These can be operated by a variety of switches, but bear in mind that they are bulky and can be temperamental, and not all models take newspapers.
• Use an e-book reader. These portable electronic devices are designed mainly for reading digital books and periodicals. Some portable multimedia players and smartphones also include a text viewer and can be used as an e-book reader.

Audio books are available from many local libraries. Services for people with vision impairment may also let members borrow a wide range of titles for free, in a variety of formats, including digitized newspapers and magazines, ebooks and podcasts.

Painting#

People who cannot paint with their hands may be able to paint by holding the brush or pen in their mouth. Ask your dentist about a special mouthpiece. Watercolor pens and pencils are cleaner to use than conventional brushes and paints.

Writing#

To make writing easier:

• Build up the pen or pencil with elastic bands, pimple rubber or foam, special pen grips, or high-density foam tubing.
• Use a pad of paper rather than loose sheets.
• Use a non-slip mat to stop the paper slipping.
• Use a felt-tip pen, or try markers, as they are easy to hold and make bold strokes.

Computers#

Computers need minimal finger pressure, and a rest can be used to support the arms. They can also be used as communication aids by people whose speech is affected. Computer games and social media platforms can be a way to connect with other people. Get advice before buying a computer and choose one that can be adapted to meet your changing needs.

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.

You can seek help or advice from an occupational therapist or an independent living center.

Cards and board games#

You can still enjoy cards and board games if you:

• Use a cardholder.
• Use an automatic card shuffler.
• Use large cards.
• Play games for which large pieces are available, such as chess, drafts, Scrabble and dominoes.
• Play computer versions of games such as chess and drafts.

Sport#

Many people with MND took part 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 the companionship and support they offer.

Parks and the outdoors#

Many parks have wheelchair access. Some even provide all-terrain wheelchairs and accessible or modified cabins for visitors who need them. Check with your local parks service for further information.

Where to get help#