Ataxia Tips

Real advice from real people living with Ataxia.

Living with Ataxia means adapting every day—and sometimes, it’s the little tips that make a big difference.

This series features real advice from real people in the Ataxia community—simple things they’ve done to make life a little easier. Follow us on social media for #AtaxiaTipTuesday – we’re we will feature a new tip each week!

Got a tip that’s helped you? Share it here!

Submit a Tip

Short and simple tips work best! 2-3 sentences is recommended. We welcome longer tips, but may need to edit for social media. We encourage you to share a photo of yourself along with your tip. If your tip involves a product or device, a photo of it is helpful (but not required).

Questions? Contact us at naf@ataxia.org.

Recent Tips

Check out some of the latest tips shared by the Ataxia community!

We update this page regularly, but the most up-to-date tips are shared each week on our social media channels. Be sure to follow us to stay inspired and see new ideas as they’re posted!

Charles N.

My doctor recommended that I look down rather than straight ahead while walking. Helps with the balance.

Anonymous

Electric toothbrush helped me brush more thoroughly without constantly stabbing myself.

Anonymous

Grippy stickers on my phone help me drop it less.

Nancy Quackenbush Bennet

For swallowing pills, my doctor recommended putting your chin down when you swallow meds with water. Counter intuitive, because I always put my head back. It’s so much better as he directed!

Patricia Graham

Another thing I found valuable is that when I do balance exercises, music really helps with tapping and heal raises in monster walking. I’ve tried all different kinds of music and found Fleetwood Mac and any kind of country western music, which I usually don’t particularly like, help a lot. I swear, the movement and coordination, especially is helped by listening to music with a good beat while exercising.

Shawn Davis

Tennis wrap works great as a way to add grip to a cane or walking stick. If you get padded under wrap you can just change out the thinner over wrap when it gets old.

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Download a printable list of past Ataxia Tips.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in these tips are those of the individual and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Ataxia Foundation (NAF). Any medical information shared is based on personal experience and has not been reviewed or endorsed by NAF or a medical professional. Always consult with your own physician or qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your care or treatment plan.

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Want more tips, stories, and updates from the Ataxia community? Follow us on social media! A new Ataxia Tip is shared every Tuesday, so don’t miss out—join the conversation, share your own experiences, and help spread awareness every time you like, comment, or share.