People with MS have access to a wide range of age-appropriate care services that enable them to function as independently as possible.

Continuing care refers to nursing home care, respite care, home health care, personal care, adult day care, and other services designed to address functional impairments, such as the inability to eat, bathe, or dress oneself. Continuing care services allow people with MS who have disabilities to function more independently. QOL for people with MS is greatly enhanced when principles for home and community based care, residential care, and adequate financial remuneration for care-givers are supported.

3.1. People with MS must have access to a wide range of home, community based and respite care services that help individuals reside in their homes as long as possible.Ref 4,8,10,20,35,42,47,81,86,103,115,153,154

3.2. Institutional or residential services, such as nursing homes, should be used only if home and community based care is no longer appropriate. Services in these institutional facilities must be designed to take account of the interests and needs of people with MS, who are typically younger than other residents. Ref 35,42,47,103,155-157

3.3. Paid professional continuing care providers must receive adequate training in the specific features of MS, and adequate pay, fringe benefits, and supervision.