10 Ways Smart Speakers Can Make Life Easier with MS

Managing a chronic illness can feel all-consuming: scheduling the doctor’s appointments, calling the insurance company, and going for the scans and infusions. This of course is on top of normal life and everyday responsibilities. Then top it off with fatigue and brain fog.

The real struggle comes in that multiple sclerosis is often an invisible disease. So to the outside world, you should be operating at full capacity, when in reality it feels like you’re forever running on low battery.

So how do you make it all happen?

Where smart speakers can come in

You don’t just need an extra set of hands; you need someone walking alongside you throughout the day. You need a personal assistant to manage it all. For most of us though, that luxury doesn’t quite fit into our budget.

However, what if you could use something that may already be in your home to help you? I’m talking about smart speakers such as the Alexa from your Amazon Echo or Dot.

They might not be able to drive you to your doctor’s appointments, but I've found they certainly can help with reminders, to-do lists, and lots of other creative options. The idea inspired me to think of the top 10 ways we could use smart speakers to make life with multiple sclerosis easier.

What they can help us do

Train your brain

We’re often encouraged to do brain-training activities, so we can ask a smart speaker to help us in doing so. They can share some fun and interactive activities like quizzes, trivia games, or memory exercises to help keep your mind sharp despite the brain fog.

Schedule daily reminders

Set up reminders for medication schedules, appointments, and important tasks. You can say something like, "Remind me to take my medication at 10 a.m. every day."

Manage your home

You could also leverage the voice prompts to manage other smart devices in your home, such as setting the thermostat, turning off lights, or locking doors. This can be tremendously helpful if you’re dealing with mobility issues and getting around the house becomes challenging.

Set timers

Use timers to manage your time and energy. You can set a timer that reminds you about the pot of water that you have boiling on the stove. You could also set a timer for 10 minutes as your window of time to complete a project like cleaning up a room when you’re trying to manage your energy. Just say, "Set a timer for 10 minutes."

Manage your calendar

Sync your calendar with a smart speaker and ask it about your schedule for the day, upcoming events, and to add new events. For example, "What's on my calendar for tomorrow?"

Create shopping and to-do lists

You can capture all those to-do’s that pop up in your head by simply saying things like, "Add eggs to my shopping list."

Feel connected

Play music, listen to a podcast, audio book, or sermon. This is especially helpful for days that you feel like you need a little pick-me-up or connection with others, but you’re not ready or able to go out for an activity.

Take phone calls and send messages

Is your phone on the other side of the room when it rings or when you need to send a message? No worries, a smart speaker can help take care of that, too!

Create a relaxing environment

For the days when the nervous system feels like it’s overstimulated, or you simply need help prepping for a restful night sleep, you can listen to a guided meditation or breathing exercises. Simply ask, “Start a five-minute guided meditation."

Get a laugh

Laughter is medicine! Ask a smart speaker to share some jokes or riddles with you to bring a smile to your face and to brighten your day.

What did I miss?

These ideas were the ones that came to mind for me. I’m curious to know what you found helpful. Share below so we can learn from you, too!