The child may ignore requests for help from the parent and physical abuse can occur. Miss Devine said that basic training was needed for volunteers. There should be definitions of abuse and neglect, information about legal responsibilities, and how to report abuse. Information about community and professional resources should be available. Volunteers should be aware of the difficulty of breaking confidentiality, and should have knowledge of the professionals working in this field who can provide support.
Most people live with their families at home, although some live in group homes.
Support groups for carers could help by providing information about MS, finance, transport, respite care or daily help, and by providing emotional support for everyone. While the majority of people and their families cope well, some do not. If abuse occurs to a vulnerable adult there must be a strategy for dealing with this. Children in the family can feel guilty about what is happening to both parents and feel sad or angry at their family having changed from what it was. Providing education sessions for all people in the family can help to prevent further deterioration in the relationship.