The physical impact of living with ALS presents many challenges, especially as the disease progresses. With the help of assistive technologies, people living with ALS can maintain their independence and pursue their passions for as long as possible.
To help educate the public and raise awareness of the growing issues people with ALS and their families struggle with, ALS Association CEO Calaneet Balas recently shared her views about insurance denials in an op-ed published by the International Business Times, specifically relating to the use of ventilators and assistive technology.
The ALS Association and The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) are launching a research funding opportunity to support collaborative development of digital assessment tools for both ALS and frontotemporal degeneration (FTD).
This last year has seen incredible progress in the fight to create a world without ALS. The FDA approval of Relyvrio (AMX0035) in 2022 and Qalsody (tofersen) last month are significant steps in the effort to make ALS a livable disease. As we celebrate the success of these long-term investments, we continue to fund the next generation of possible treatments, as well as the researchers that are searching for them.
Taking the time to understand the disease’s progression and make plans to deal with the physical impact can help ease the burdens faced by people living with ALS and their caregivers, helping them live longer, stronger, more independent lives.
Dr. Andrew Geronimo is a talented young investigator using brain computer interface (BCI) technology to improve the lives of people living with ALS by enhancing their ability to communicate. He and his mentor Dr. Zachary Simmons, also at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, have received a grant from The ALS Association to develop new opportunities for BCI technology.