Living with MS: smart tech that helps independence last longer

I’m an ICT specialist (not a health professional). Always chat with your GP/neurologist and allied health team (e.g., OT, speech pathologist) about symptoms and safety. I focus on set-up, configuration and training for smart/assistant tech that supports daily life.

MS symptoms you can target with tech

Common MS symptoms include fatigue; cognitive changes (memory, attention, planning); mobility problems; tremor/spasticity; vision changes; speech and swallowing changes; bladder/bowel issues; pain; mood changes; and heat sensitivity. These vary person to person, day to day.

What I set up (and why)

Fatigue & brain fog (memory/organisation)

• Voice-first routines: “Good morning” runs a checklist, reads your diary, medications and weather; “Good night” locks doors, turns lights off.

• Visual + spoken reminders: calendar on a smart display, plus spoken alerts you can acknowledge by voice.
  Why it helps: automation reduces energy spent on remembering and sequencing tasks.

Mobility limits, spasticity or tremor

• Hands-free control: lights, plugs, thermostat, TV and door locks by voice or large on-screen buttons.

• Simplified phone access: big tiles to “Call Mum”, “Call Support Coordinator”, or “I need help”.
  Why it helps: fewer get-ups and less fine-motor effort.

Vision changes

• Smart display with large font, high contrast and audible read-out of messages.

• Seeing AI/Lookout on phone to read labels and mail; audiobook/voice assistants for reading.
  Why it helps: converts print to speech and reduces visual strain.

Speech changes

• Personal speech models that learn your voice and “quick phrases” buttons for frequent needs (“Wait please”, “I need water”).
  Why it helps: keeps communication fast on “bad speech” days.

Heat sensitivity & fatigue management

• Smart thermostat/fans you can trigger by voice or routine (“cool me down”).

• Scene buttons: one tap sets blinds, fans and lights to a low-glare, cool environment.
  Why it helps: reduces symptom flare from overheating; saves steps when fatigued.

Safety, doors and answering from the couch/bed

• Video doorbell with inside smart display for two-way talk; voice commands to answer or unlock.

• “Help” routine that sends an SMS to nominated contacts if devices drop offline.
  Why it helps: screen visitors and stay seated; get notified if something needs fixing.

Staying connected & less isolated

• Easy video calls (“Call my sister”) and group reminders (“Join physio Zoom”).

• Managed communication/monitoring so devices are checked remotely and you get help fast if something drops out.
  Why it helps: fewer tech failures, more social contact and telehealth.

When I bring in clinical teammates

• OT/physio: seating/positioning, falls risk, home mods, fatigue management strategies.

• Speech pathologist: dysarthria/dysphagia, voice banking, AAC setup and training.
  Tech complements therapy—it doesn’t replace it.

My setup checklist (what I actually install/configure)

1. Smart display + voice assistant with large text and custom routines (morning/evening/“cool me down”).

2. Doorbell & smart locks for safe answering and no-key entry.

3. Lighting & plugs on voice scenes (low glare, fatigue-friendly).

4. Seeing AI/Lookout + audiobook apps for reading tasks.

5. Phone shortcuts/AAC tiles for quick phrases and one-tap calls.

6. Managed connectivity so devices are monitored and you get help fast if something drops offline.