Living with MS doesn't mean giving up on a fulfilling career — around 61% of people diagnosed with MS remain employed. That said, symptoms like fatigue, cognitive changes, and mobility challenges can make certain jobs harder over time. Planning ahead can make a big difference.
Here are some job types that tend to work well Show Full Answer
Living with MS doesn't mean giving up on a fulfilling career — around 61% of people diagnosed with MS remain employed. That said, symptoms like fatigue, cognitive changes, and mobility challenges can make certain jobs harder over time. Planning ahead can make a big difference.
Here are some job types that tend to work well with MS:
- Remote or work-from-home roles (writer, customer support, call center)
- Library or bookstore positions (calmer, lower-stimulation environments)
- Flexible or part-time roles that allow for rest
- Hobby-based work that aligns with personal interests and physical capacity
Jobs that involve heavy physical demands, long commutes, high stress, or rely heavily on memory and speed may become more challenging as symptoms progress. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), U.S. employers with 15 or more employees are legally required to provide reasonable workplace accommodations for people with MS. Here are some examples of accommodations that can help:
- Large computer monitors or screen magnification software
- Talk-to-type (speech-to-text) software
- Modified or ergonomic computer mouse
- Adjustable or standing desks
- Flexible work schedules
- Remote work options
- Accessible parking
- Reduced travel requirements
- Additional training time or refreshers
As a MyMSTeam member shared, an organization came in to assess their workstation and provided more suitable equipment to make working easier. It's worth knowing your rights and resources. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are also options worth exploring if work becomes unmanageable.
Some helpful resources include:
- Job Accommodation Network (JAN) — lists accommodations by MS symptom
- ADA National Network — guidance on your legal rights
- Your neurologist or MS care team — can help prepare you for workplace conversations
- Vocational rehabilitation therapists — can help explore career options suited to your needs
As one MyMSTeam member wisely put it: *"Whatever your choice, evaluate your true physical and psychological capacity. Having strong strategies in place will help with all your ambitious goals."*
April 27
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