LiveWiseMS: A New Online Resource for People Living with MS

A new online resource, LiveWiseMS.org, aims to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis (MS) and provide patients and caregivers information about the disease’s symptoms and conditions. The platform, developed by the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses (IOMSN), hopes to promote healthy living and improve quality of life for MS patients and their families.

“LiveWiseMS is a ‘high level’ educational experience for all those affected by multiple sclerosis providing knowledge and expertise in one location,” June Halper, executive director of IOMSN and CEO of the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers, said in a press release.

The goal is to make it easier for the public to research current information on symptoms and symptom management. LiveWiseMS resources include educational videos, graphics and patient summaries — taken from IOMSN peer-reviewed medical articles — that offer practical and direct information on how to manage life with MS. Other resources include “patient template letters” for patients wishing to contact health insurance companies or elected officials.

Symptom topics help patients with tips on how to manage their symptoms, from bladder and bowel conditions to cognitive changes like emotional health, dizziness/vertigo, fatigue, spasticity and vision problems.

Community services include a dedicated area where MS patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals can interact, share insights and offer support. Patients may also submit questions to an expert panel.

MS blogs like “Cold Temps, Multiple Sclerosis, and I — Not a good combo!” and “Are you planning for the future?” give guest editors, IOMSN nurses and MS patients the chance to discuss emotional, physical, social and financial topics that touch everyone who lives with MS.

The online platform also includes a sitemap to help navigate the website, frequently asked questions (FAQs), a glossary of MS-related terms and a contact page. Subscriptions to the eNewsletter are free.

“LiveWiseMS was designed to be a ‘go-to resource’ for people living with MS and to empower them and provide support so that they can live their best life possible,” said Lori Mayer, an MS-certified nurse on the LiveWiseMS.org editorial board.

In the video below, “Are you Planning for the Future?” author Kim Fryling-Resare invites her audience to join the website: