Each month clinics are held in Reno and Las Vegas with a neurologist, respiratory therapist, occupational therapist, speech language pathologist, dietitian, social worker, and a representative from ALS of Nevada at the clinic. All Nevada patients are eligible to attend and are scheduled every 3-6 months depending on their rate of progression.
This is one of the many valuable services provided by ALS of Nevada, which also include:
AUGUMENTATIVE COMMUNICATION
Many technological devices that allow patients to better communicate when the ability of speech has been lost are loaned free. Dynavox, alphabet boards and Tobii are among a few of the communication devices for loan.
AIDS FOR DAILY LIVING (ADL) PROGRAM
ALS of Nevada offers a loan closet of ergonomic aids, including eating utensils, speech enhancers, button fasteners, long straws, and an automatic feeding station to assist patients in compensating for the loss of basic functions due to the disease’s progression.
HOME VISITS
Patient Service Staff meet with the patient and family to discuss life-style changes necessitated by the disease offering suggestions for home adaptations. Staff also provides help with insurance forms, Social Security, Medicare paperwork, and coordination of doctor appointments – ALS of Nevada staff serve as an advocate for ALS patients.
SUPPORT GROUP
ALS Staff facilitate the Reno Support Group held the first Thursday of each month. Meetings are open to patients, caregivers and family members. Unfortunately, due to lack of funds, there is no support group in Las Vegas at the present time.
EQUIPMENT LOAN PROGRAM
Manual and power wheel chairs are loaned free of charge until a patient receives his or her own. Commodes, shower benches, toilet risers, four-wheel walkers, canes, Hoyer lifts are loaned as well.
IN-SERVICES
Training is provided to home health agencies and medical professionals focusing on various aspects of disease and care management.
RESOURCE LIBRARY
Videos and books specific to each phase of the disease are provided. Books and videos on care giving and an assortment of books specifically for children dealing with loss and grief are also available.
