What condition was Jared diagnosed with?
Limb onset Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
What degree did Jared recently complete?
Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology.
Where does Jared live?
With his parents and younger sister in a three-story home.
What motor skills are most impacted for Jared?
Leg strength, balance, and fine motor control in his hands.
What is Jared’s primary mobility goal?
Ambulate safely with adaptive support to maintain independence.
What were Jared’s first symptoms?
Muscle weakness, cramping, and falling while playing soccer.
What were Jared’s career aspirations before his diagnosis?
To become a dentist.
How does Jared’s family support him?
They provide emotional support, and his parents help with ADLs.
What fine motor task has become difficult for Jared?
Cutting food and brushing his teeth.
What fine motor goal is Jared focused on?
Improve dexterity for self-feeding and grooming.
How does Jared describe his current symptoms?
Ongoing muscle weakness, cramping, difficulty with fine motor tasks.
How has ALS impacted Jared’s work abilities?
Difficulty with fine motor tasks and lifting at his grocery job.
Why might Jared’s living environment become challenging?
Three-story layout may limit accessibility as his mobility declines.
How does Jared’s ALS impact his social participation?
Difficulty attending social events due to mobility challenges and emotional fatigue.
How does Jared want to stay socially active?
Meet up with friends to watch soccer games.
What aspect of ALS is Jared most focused on?
Poor prognosis and fear of being a burden to his family.
What leisure activity was most important to Jared?
Playing soccer, which he can no longer do.
What role do Jared’s friends play in his social life?
They are a source of social support but may struggle with his diagnosis.
What is a major risk for Jared during exercise?
Muscle cramping and potential falls.
Why is self-advocacy an important goal for Jared?
He needs to communicate his needs to family and caregivers.
Why is emotional support critical for Jared?
He struggles with grief over lost independence and life goals.
Why is recognizing Jared’s athletic identity important in therapy?
It connects to his self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Why is consistent family communication important for Jared?
It helps his family understand his needs and support his mental health.
Why is body image a concern for Jared?
He is distressed by visible muscle wasting.
What long-term goal remains most important to Jared?
Maintain his ability to connect with friends and family.