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Finsel J, Rosenbohm A, Peter RS, Bäzner H, Börtlein A, Dempewolf S, Schabet M, Hecht M, Kohler A, Opherk C, Nägele A, Sommer N, Lindner A, Rothenbacher D, Ludolph AC, Nagel G, Lulé DE. Coping as a resource to allow for psychosocial adjustment in fatal disease: results from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1361767. [PMID: 38638511 PMCID: PMC11024296 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1361767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disorder, which imposes a severe emotional burden on patients. Appropriate coping mechanisms may alleviate this burden and facilitate wellbeing, with social support known to be a successful coping strategy. This observational study aimed to determine the interplay of general coping traits of hope for success and fear of failure, coping behavior of social activity, and patients' wellbeing. Methods In this cross-sectional study, patients with ALS from a clinical-epidemiological registry in Southwestern Germany were interviewed regarding coping traits (achievement-motivated behavior: hope for success and fear of failure), coping behavior of social activity, and psychosocial adjustment, determined using measures of depressiveness, anxiety [both measured by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)], and quality of life [Anamnestic Comparative Self-Assessment (ACSA)]. Demographics, clinical [ALS Functional Rating Scale revised version (ALSFRS-R)], and survival data were recorded. Results A total of 868 patients [60.70% male patients, mean age: 64.70 (±10.83) years, mean ALSFRS-R: 37.36 ± 7.07] were interviewed. Anxiety in patients was found to be associated with a high fear of failure. In contrast, a generally positive attitude in patients exemplified in high hopes for success was associated with better wellbeing. Finally, coping behavior of social activity explained up to 65% of the variance of depressiveness among the patients with ALS. Conclusion In this study, we present evidence that the wellbeing of patients with ALS is not an immediate fatalistic consequence of physical degradation but rather determined by coping traits and behavior, which may be trained to substantially increase the wellbeing of patients with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Finsel
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Raphael S. Peter
- Institute for Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hansjörg Bäzner
- Department of Neurology, Katharinenhospital Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Axel Börtlein
- Department of Neurology, Katharinenhospital Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Silke Dempewolf
- Department of Neurology, RKH Klinikum Ludwigsburg, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Martin Schabet
- Department of Neurology, RKH Klinikum Ludwigsburg, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Martin Hecht
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum Kaufbeuren, Kliniken Oberallgäu-Kaufbeuren, Kaufbeuren, Germany
| | - Andreas Kohler
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum am Gesundbrunnen Heilbronn, Heilbronn, Germany
| | - Christian Opherk
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum am Gesundbrunnen Heilbronn, Heilbronn, Germany
| | - Andrea Nägele
- Department of Neurology, Christophsbad Göppingen, Göppingen, Germany
| | - Norbert Sommer
- Department of Neurology, Christophsbad Göppingen, Göppingen, Germany
| | - Alfred Lindner
- Department of Neurology, Marienhospital Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Albert C. Ludolph
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Ulm Site, Ulm, Germany
| | - Gabriele Nagel
- Institute for Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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Wilcke H, Glaubitz S, Kück F, Anten C, Liebetanz D, Schmidt J, Zschüntzsch J. Female sex and overweight are associated with a lower quality of life in patients with myasthenia gravis: a single center cohort study. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:366. [PMID: 37817097 PMCID: PMC10563278 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03406-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) affects individuals as a chronic autoimmune disease for many years. Commonly, chronic diseases significantly reduce the patients' quality of life. Aiming to improve the future quality of life in MG, this study assessed the factors impacting quality of life. As gender-specific medicine is becoming increasingly important, this study also focused on understanding gender differences in the outcome of MG. METHODS The study is a combined monocentric, retrospective and prospective database analysis of patient records based on 2,370 presentations of 165 patients with clinically, serologically and/or electrophysiologically confirmed MG over an observation period of up to 47 years. The data collection included the following parameters: antibody status, disease severity, age, medication use, gender, and disease duration. In addition, a prospective survey was conducted on the quality of life using the Myasthenia gravis-specific 15-item Quality of Life scale (MG-QoL15) and on the activities of daily living using the MG-specific Activities of Daily Living scale (MG-ADL). RESULTS Of the 165 patients, 85 were male (51.5%) and 80 were female (48.5%). The remaining baseline characteristics (e.g. age and antibody status) were consistent with other myasthenia gravis cohorts. A high body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.005) and a high disease severity (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with lower disease-specific quality of life. Additionally, the quality of life in women with MG was significantly reduced compared to male patients (19.7 vs. 13.0 points in the MG-QoL15, p = 0.024). Gender differences were also observable in terms of the period between initial manifestation and initial diagnosis and women were significantly more impaired in their activities of daily living (MG-ADL) than men (4.8 vs. 3.0 points, p = 0.032). CONCLUSION Women with MG had significantly poorer disease specific quality of life compared to men as well as patients with a higher BMI. In order to improve the quality of life, gender-specific medicine and further investigation regarding a modification of the quality of life by lowering the BMI are essential and necessary. TRIAL REGISTRATION Study approval by the Ethics Committee of the University Medical Center Göttingen was granted (number 6/5/18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Wilcke
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Glaubitz
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Fabian Kück
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Anten
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - David Liebetanz
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jens Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Pain Treatment, Immanuel Clinic Rüdersdorf, University Hospital of the Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
| | - Jana Zschüntzsch
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
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Sethi A, Everett E, Mehta A, Besbris J, Burke C, Pedowitz E, Kilpatrick M, Foster L, Maiser S. The Role of Specialty Palliative Care for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:865-873. [PMID: 34583569 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211049386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and incurable neurodegenerative disease resulting in the loss of motor neurons, eventually leading to death. ALS results in complex physical, emotional, and spiritual care needs. Specialty Palliative Care (SPC) is a medical specialty for patients with serious illness that provides an extra layer of support through complicated symptom management, goals of care conversations, and support to patients and families during hard times. Using MEDLINE, APA Psychinfo, and Dynamed databases, we reviewed the literature of SPC in ALS to inform and support an expert opinion perspective on this topic. This manuscript focuses on several key areas of SPC for ALS including insurance and care models, advance care planning, symptom management, quality of life, caregiver support, and end-of-life care. Recommendations to improve specialty palliative care for patients with ALS are reviewed in the discussion section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anish Sethi
- University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Elyse Everett
- John T. Milliken Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ambereen Mehta
- Department of Medicine, John Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jessica Besbris
- Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christa Burke
- Division of Palliative Medicine, John T. Milliken Department of Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Elizabeth Pedowitz
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Molly Kilpatrick
- Palliative Care and Supportive Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Laura Foster
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Sam Maiser
- University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Department of Neurology, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Bambini V, Bischetti L, Bonomi CG, Arcara G, Lecce S, Ceroni M. Beyond the motor account of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Verbal humour and its relationship with the cognitive and pragmatic profile. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2020; 55:751-764. [PMID: 32725835 DOI: 10.1111/1460-6984.12561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) was traditionally described as a disease restricted to the motor system. However, recent findings suggested that it also affects cognition, especially executive functions, social cognition, language and pragmatics. A relevant issue in current research is thus the description of the cognitive phenotype of ALS and the identification of the most vulnerable aspects. AIMS The focus was on a communicative phenomenon placed at the crossroads of pragmatic and other cognitive domains, namely humour, which till now has been poorly explored in ALS. The first aim was to investigate whether ALS is associated with impairments in understanding and appreciating jokes. The second aim was to explore the predictors of humour comprehension and appreciation in patients, to confirm the involvement of pragmatic skills and to explore the role of other cognitive and clinical aspects. METHODS & PROCEDURES A total of 30 non-demented patients with ALS and 27 controls were assessed with a task of verbal humour comprehension and appreciation, including two types of jokes: phonological and mental. We also administered a battery of pragmatic and other language tasks, and cognitive and socio-cognitive tasks. Mixed-effects models were used to test differences in the humour task between the two groups. Multiple regressions determined the best predictors of humour comprehension and appreciation in patients. OUTCOMES & RESULTS Patients obtained lower comprehension accuracy scores than controls in the humour task, independently of the type of joke. Conversely, patients and controls did not differ in joke appreciation and both rated mental jokes as funnier than the phonological ones. Patients' comprehension accuracy was predicted by pragmatic skills and ALS severity, whereas appreciation was predicted by several clinical variables and, to a smaller extent, by language skills. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS The findings suggest that humour is a very vulnerable aspect in ALS, and that impairment in humour comprehension might be part of the larger cognitive impairment, being linked to pragmatic impairment. Clinical variables were also important, especially in relation to humour appreciation. More generally, these data speak in favour of pragmatics as a relevant aspect to sketch the cognitive phenotype of ALS. On the practical level, these findings point to the need of supporting communication at large, not only motor-related aspects such as dysarthria but also social-pragmatic aspects such as understanding jokes, to increase well-being in ALS. What this paper adds What is already known on this subject The literature of the last decades has shown that ALS comes with impairment in several cognitive domains, affecting especially executive functions as well as language. There is also initial evidence that the pragmatics of communication and humour comprehension are impaired, although non-serious talk has been documented in conversational interaction among people with ALS. What this paper adds to existing knowledge This study offers compelling evidence of an impairment in the comprehension of jokes in ALS, whereas the appreciation of joke funniness seems to be spared. The study also highlights the interplay of cognitive factors (especially pragmatics) and clinical factors (related to disease severity) in predicting the patients' performance in the humour task. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? The study's findings call for the need of increased awareness among scholars as well as practitioners and caregivers of the profile of humour comprehension and appreciation in ALS. On a practical level, we highlight the need of assessing humour comprehension and adapting the communicative style accordingly. Second, we recommend that intervention programmes targeting communication in ALS go beyond speech-related difficulties and include pragmatic aspects such as humour. Considering the important communicative and social function of humour, as well as its use as a coping strategy, humour interventions are key to improve the quality of life of individuals with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Bambini
- Center for Neurocognition, Epistemology and Theoretical Syntax, University School for Advanced Studies IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Luca Bischetti
- Center for Neurocognition, Epistemology and Theoretical Syntax, University School for Advanced Studies IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Serena Lecce
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mauro Ceroni
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Neurological Institute Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
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Abreu Filho AG, Tardivo LSPC, Oliveira ASB, Silva HCAD. Brazilian Nursing and Psychology students' visits to patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: prospective analysis. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2019; 77:782-791. [PMID: 31826134 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20190134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease without a cure, but multidisciplinary treatment can maintain the quality of life (QOL) of persons with ALS (PALS). Despite health professionals possibly being affected by ALS in their care roles, little is known about the impact of ALS care on these professionals. OBJECTIVE To analyze the effects of interactions between PALS and Nursing/Psychology students. METHODS Over 12 weeks, 16 student pairs performed weekly 60-minute home visits to 16 PALS. Instruments used for analyses were the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire for the PALS; and the Draw-a-Person test and the Desiderative Questionnaire for the students. All instruments were applied twice: at the beginning (pre-first visit) and at the end of the study (post-12 visits). RESULTS After 12 weeks, there was not a significant change in total QOL or its five domains (existential wellbeing, physical wellbeing, psychological wellbeing, physical symptoms, and support). Existential wellbeing/support domains contributed most to the QOL of the PALS (pre-first visit and post-12 visits). Students showed anxiety/impulsivity but preserved adequacy to reality, logical thinking and global perception with regard to the PALS. We found that students were psychologically fragile in some subgroups/moments. CONCLUSIONS Students' visits to PALS may contribute to the maintenance of the QOL of the patients. Additionally, visits, with psychological support for the students, seem safe and could contribute to the students' psychological maturation as health professionals. Additional psychological support may be necessary for some students in fragile subgroups/moments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Geraldo Abreu Filho
- Universidade de São Paulo, APOIAR (Laboratório de Saúde Mental e Clínica de Psicologia Social), São Paulo SP Brasil.,Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Departmento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brasil
| | | | - Acary Souza Bulle Oliveira
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Departmento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brasil
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Ando H, Cousins R, Young CA. Exploring and Addressing 'Concerns' for Significant Others to Extend the Understanding of Quality of Life With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Qualitative Study. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2019; 11:1179573519859360. [PMID: 31312086 PMCID: PMC6614934 DOI: 10.1177/1179573519859360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The absence of curative medication for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) makes palliative care and understanding quality of life (QoL) in ALS a clinical priority. Previous qualitative research has explored the concept of QoL in terms of illness impact on life perspectives and sense of self. Objective In this research, we explored 'concerns' - one of the four aspects in the World Health Organisation's conceptualisation of QoL - towards adding to the literature. Methods In-depth interviews with 26 individuals with ALS were subjected to thematic analysis involving both inductive and deductive approaches to explore participant's concerns, and to evaluate the relevance of their concerns for understanding QoL in ALS. Findings The analysis showed that concerns for significant others contribute to participant's QoL because of their existential value. It was important for participants to minimise the impact of limitations and burdens associated with ALS on significant others, even at a cost to self. Discussion The current study supports a holistic approach in service provision, ensuring the inclusion of relevant significant others. It is further suggested that clinicians explore the specifics of burdens perceived by patients in order to support them in minimising the burdens for their significant others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikari Ando
- Respiratory Laboratory, Aintree University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rosanna Cousins
- Department of Psychology, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, UK
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Narrative Medicine in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and a Rehabilitation Project Based on International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2018; 97:832-838. [DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000000978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Foley G. What are the Care Needs for People with Motor Neurone Disease and How Can Occupational Therapists Respond to Meet These Needs? Br J Occup Ther 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/030802260707000108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Motor neurone disease is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder and from disease onset health care intervention is palliative in nature. Numerous studies on wellbeing in motor neurone disease are consistent with the palliative care literature, where the values assigned to non-physical life domains increase with disease progression. Occupational therapists should consider all components of wellbeing for people with motor neurone disease and not physical disability alone. A better understanding of motor neurone disease and an awareness of the service needs important to this client group are necessary to improve the quality of care and to assist occupational therapists in meeting care needs.
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Carter GT, Weiss MD, Lou JS, Jensen MP, Abresch RT, Martin TK, Hecht TW, Han JJ, Weydt P, Kraft GH. Modafinil to treat fatigue in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: An open label pilot study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2016; 22:55-9. [PMID: 15736608 DOI: 10.1177/104990910502200112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An open label trial of modafinil was conducted to determine whether it would be tolerated and effective in treating fatigue for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Fifteen patients with ALS were treated for two weeks with either 200 mg or 400 mg of modafinil. Reported side effects of the medication were mild and included diarrhea, headache, nervousness, and insomnia. Side effects did not result in any study dropouts. Following treatment, mean scores on the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) decreased from 51.3 (SD 9.2) to 42.8 (SD 10.2). On the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), mean scores decreased from 8.2 (SD 2.0) to 4.5 (SD 2.4). Reductions in both the FSS and the ESS were significant at p < 0.001. Mean scores on the self-report version of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM-SR) increased from 115.2 (SD 5.6) to 118.1 (SD 5.4), with p < 0.01. This pilot study suggests that modafinil is well-tolerated and may reduce symptoms of fatigue in ALS. Further blinded, controlled studies of modafinil in larger numbers of ALS patients are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory T Carter
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Rousseau MC, Baumstarck K, Billette de Villemeur T, Auquier P. Evaluation of quality of life in individuals with severe chronic motor disability: A major challenge. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2016; 5:83-9. [PMID: 27195190 PMCID: PMC4869587 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2016.01017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse conditions causing a very heavy and chronic motor disability, such as an advanced amyotrophic lateral, advanced form of multiple sclerosis, high spinal cord injury or a locked-in syndrom, are now getting better medical care and benefit of life support technology with consequent prolonged survival. Quality of life (QoL) assessment is being considered increasingly important to globally apprehend their general well-being. However, the motor disability that affects them appears as a substantial limitation for the assessment of their QoL and consequently a major challenge for all the community that carries an interest for them. This review discussed several avenues to provide to patients and caregivers, clinicians and researchers, and health decision making authority: i) elements to determine the most appropriate QoL measure with regard to the interest of patient's point of view, the QoL instruments suitable for this category of patients and their acceptability, ii) some arguments of the clinical relevance and accuracy of QoL assessment: interpretations of the questionnaires, QoL determinants, particularity of QoL evaluation for individuals with cognitive impairment and the caregivers perceptions of patients QoL. In conclusion, evaluation of QoL in patients with severe chronic motor handicap is a challenge of major interest, with major ethical issues. It needs to use adapted QoL scales and longitudinal following because of adaptive phenomena to the degree of handicap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Christine Rousseau
- Hôpital San Salvadour (Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris), Paris, France
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Marie-Christine Rousseau, Hôpital San Salvadour (Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris), BP 30 080, 83 407 Hyères cedex, France. E-mail:
| | - Karine Baumstarck
- EA3279 Santé Publique: Maladies Chroniques et Qualité de Vie, Faculté de Médecine Timone Marseille, Paris, France
| | | | - Pascal Auquier
- EA3279 Santé Publique: Maladies Chroniques et Qualité de Vie, Faculté de Médecine Timone Marseille, Paris, France
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Jakobsson Larsson B, Nordin K, Nygren I. Coping with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; from diagnosis and during disease progression. J Neurol Sci 2016; 361:235-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.12.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Matuz T, Birbaumer N, Hautzinger M, Kübler A. Psychosocial adjustment to ALS: a longitudinal study. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1197. [PMID: 26441696 PMCID: PMC4568392 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For the current study the Lazarian stress-coping theory and the appendant model of psychosocial adjustment to chronic illness and disabilities (Pakenham, 1999) has shaped the foundation for identifying determinants of adjustment to ALS. We aimed to investigate the evolution of psychosocial adjustment to ALS and to determine its long-term predictors. A longitudinal study design with four measurement time points was therefore, used to assess patients' quality of life, depression, and stress-coping model related aspects, such as illness characteristics, social support, cognitive appraisals, and coping strategies during a period of 2 years. Regression analyses revealed that 55% of the variance of severity of depressive symptoms and 47% of the variance in quality of life at T2 was accounted for by all the T1 predictor variables taken together. On the level of individual contributions, protective buffering, and appraisal of own coping potential accounted for a significant percentage in the variance in severity of depressive symptoms, whereas problem management coping strategies explained variance in quality of life scores. Illness characteristics at T2 did not explain any variance of both adjustment outcomes. Overall, the pattern of the longitudinal results indicated stable depressive symptoms and quality of life indices reflecting a successful adjustment to the disease across four measurement time points during a period of about two years. Empirical evidence is provided for the predictive value of social support, cognitive appraisals, and coping strategies, but not illness parameters such as severity and duration for adaptation to ALS. The current study contributes to a better conceptualization of adjustment, allowing us to provide evidence-based support beyond medical and physical intervention for people with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Matuz
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Neurobiology, Eberhard-Karls-University Tübingen Tübingen, Germany
| | - Niels Birbaumer
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Neurobiology, Eberhard-Karls-University Tübingen Tübingen, Germany ; Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Ospedale San Camillo Venezia, Italy
| | - Martin Hautzinger
- Department of Psychology, Eberhard-Karls-University Tübingen Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andrea Kübler
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Neurobiology, Eberhard-Karls-University Tübingen Tübingen, Germany ; Institute of Psychology, University of Würzburg Germany
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Rousseau MC, Baumstarck K, Alessandrini M, Blandin V, Billette de Villemeur T, Auquier P. Quality of life in patients with locked-in syndrome: Evolution over a 6-year period. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2015; 10:88. [PMID: 26187655 PMCID: PMC4506615 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-015-0304-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Improved knowledge of the quality of life (QoL) of locked-in syndrome (LIS) patients have implications for managing their care, and assists clinicians in choosing the most appropriate interventions. We performed a survey of a population of LIS patients to describe the course of the QoL of LIS patients over a 6-year period and to determine the potential predictive factors of QoL changes over time. Method This is a study performed over a 6-year period in patients with a LIS diagnosis. Questionnaires were sent in 2007 and 2013. The following data were recorded: i) sociodemographic data; ii) clinical data related to LIS, physical/handicap status, psychological status; iii) self-reported QoL: Anamnestic Comparative Self-Assessment (ACSA); iv) Integration in life: French Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI). Results Among the 67 patients included in 2007, 39 (58 %) patients returned their questionnaire in 2013. The LIS etiology was stroke in 51 individuals. The QoL of the patients was relatively satisfactory compared to populations in other severe conditions. Twenty-one (70 %) individuals reported a stable/improved QoL between 2007 and 2013. The physical/handicap statuses in 2007 and 2013 were not related to the QoL 6 years later, with the exception of one communication parameter: the individuals who used yes-no code reported significantly lower QoL levels than those who did not in 2013. Discussion In opposition to a widespread opinion, LIS persons report a relatively satisfactory QoL level that stays stable over time, suggesting that life with LIS is worth living. Preservation of autonomy and communication may help them to live as normal life as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Christine Rousseau
- Fédération des Hôpitaux de Polyhandicap et Multihandicap Hôpital San Salvadour, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, BP 30 080, 83 407, Hyères, Cedex, France. .,EA 3279 Self-Perceived Health Assessment Research Unit, School of Medicine, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
| | - Karine Baumstarck
- EA 3279 Self-Perceived Health Assessment Research Unit, School of Medicine, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France. .,Methodologic and Clinical Research Plateform, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France.
| | - Marine Alessandrini
- EA 3279 Self-Perceived Health Assessment Research Unit, School of Medicine, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
| | | | - Thierry Billette de Villemeur
- Fédération des Hôpitaux de polyhandicap et Multihandicap Hôpital Trousseau, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.
| | - Pascal Auquier
- EA 3279 Self-Perceived Health Assessment Research Unit, School of Medicine, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France. .,Methodologic and Clinical Research Plateform, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France.
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Gladman M, Zinman L. The economic impact of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2015; 15:439-50. [DOI: 10.1586/14737167.2015.1039941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Gladman
- 1Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lorne Zinman
- 2Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Spirituality and/or religious faith: A means for coping with the effects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease? Palliat Support Care 2015; 13:1603-14. [PMID: 25851240 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951515000097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The notion of spirituality/religious belief is recognized internationally as a domain within end-of-life care and is important in patients' and carers' quality-of-life. When faced with incurable illness, patients often become more philosophical about their life; many seek comfort in spiritual or religious philosophies. Our intention was to understand how personal spirituality and religious faith might help those living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease (ALS/MND) cope with their impending death. METHOD Unsolicited narratives (internet and print-published) written by individuals diagnosed with the terminal condition of ALS/MND were analyzed thematically. Narratives from 161 individuals diagnosed with ALS/MND written over a period of 37 years (from 1968 to 2005) were included. RESULTS Our findings reveal that religious faith sustains and helps people to avoid despair, and personal spirituality helps them make sense of what is happening to them. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The use of personal narratives by people with ALS/MND has provided a vehicle for sharing their deepest spiritual and religious thoughts with others. The place of spirituality and religious faith within ALS/MND care should not be underestimated. Assessment of religious or spiritual needs should become a routine part of practice and is the responsibility of all members of the multidisciplinary team.
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Bakker M, Creemers H, Schipper K, Beelen A, Grupstra H, Nollet F, Abma T. Need and value of case management in multidisciplinary ALS care: A qualitative study on the perspectives of patients, spousal caregivers and professionals. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2015; 16:180-6. [DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2014.971811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Gladman M, Dharamshi C, Zinman L. Economic burden of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a Canadian study of out-of-pocket expenses. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2014; 15:426-32. [PMID: 25025935 DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2014.932382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
This study quantifies the 'out-of-pocket' expenses incurred by individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their families, explores cost-driving factors and describes the current state of financial support in a Canadian cohort. We performed structured cost-of-illness interviews with 50 consecutive ALS patients and family members detailing disease-specific factors, direct and indirect costs. Direct costs were divided into 'out-of-pocket' and 'government/non-profit organization (NPO) supported'. Results showed that the average annual direct cost per patient was $32,337, of which $19,574 (61%) was paid for out-of-pocket. The most significant direct cost was disease-related home renovations, which garnered minimal government or NPO support. The costs of mobility aids, medical expenses, and private personal support workers were also substantial. Higher out-of-pocket costs were associated with an ALS Functional Rating Scale gross motor subscore of ≤ 6 (p = 0.03), limb-predominant symptoms (p = 0.04) and > 4 h/week of personal support care (p = 0.005). Annual indirect costs (lost wages) for patients with ALS and family members providing care were $56,821. In conclusion, this study quantified the substantial personal economic impact of ALS as measured by non-reimbursed, out-of-pocket expenses. Mobilization of additional resources for ALS patients and families is required to soften the economic burden of this disabling disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Gladman
- Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto , Ontario , Canada
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Rousseau MC, Pietra S, Nadji M, Billette de Villemeur T. Evaluation of quality of life in complete locked-in syndrome patients. J Palliat Med 2014; 16:1455-8. [PMID: 24215251 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2013.0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are few studies where quality of life (QOL) and contributive factors are assessed in locked-in syndrome (LIS) patients with complete physical and functional disability and dependence on caregivers. OBJECTIVE The study's objective was evaluation of QOL in LIS patients. DESIGN We have compared QOL in LIS patients with QOL in healthy controls (control group). SETTING/SUBJECTS We have included 19 LIS patients, most of them with vascular etiologies or terminal course of ALS, and 20 healthy controls comparable with LIS patients for age; none of them was in a caregiving position. MEASUREMENTS Administered to patients and controls were the McGill Quality of Life Single Item Scale (MQOL-SIS) Part A; Short Form survey (SF-36), Mental Component Summary (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS); Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II); and Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS). RESULTS Mean MQOL-SIS and MCS SF-36 were not significantly different between the LIS group and healthy controls. PCS SF-36 score was significantly higher in controls. There were no significant differences between the two groups for TAS scores. Frequency of depressive symptoms was significantly higher in LIS patients than in controls. CONCLUSION In our study, QOL in LIS patients was not significantly altered compared to control subjects in MQOL-SIS and in the MCS SF-36 scale; these results match previous studies published in the literature. Several factors may have an impact on QOL in LIS patients, such as family support and patient-computer communication devices; these may have contributed to improve QOL in LIS patients in this study.
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Developing an item bank to measure economic quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2014; 96:604-13. [PMID: 24736400 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2014.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of an item set measuring economic quality of life (QOL) for use by individuals with disabilities. DESIGN Survey. SETTING Community settings. PARTICIPANTS Individuals with disabilities completed individual interviews (n=64), participated in focus groups (n=172), and completed cognitive interviews (n=15). Inclusion criteria included the following: traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or stroke; age ≥18 years; and ability to read and speak English. We calibrated the items with 305 former rehabilitation inpatients. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Economic QOL. RESULTS Confirmatory factor analysis showed acceptable fit indices (comparative fit index=.939, root mean square error of approximation=.089) for the 37 items. However, 3 items demonstrated local item dependence. Dropping 9 items improved fit and obviated local dependence. Rasch analysis of the remaining 28 items yielded a person reliability of .92, suggesting that these items discriminate about 4 economic QOL levels. CONCLUSIONS We developed a 28-item bank that measures economic aspects of QOL. Preliminary confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch analysis results support the psychometric properties of this new measure. It fills a gap in health-related QOL measurement by describing the economic barriers and facilitators of community participation. Future development will make the item bank available as a computer adaptive test.
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Pizzimenti A, Aragona M, Onesti E, Inghilleri M. Depression, pain and quality of life in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a cross-sectional study. FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY 2014; 28:115-9. [PMID: 24125561 DOI: 10.11138/fneur/2013.28.2.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The complications related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) include pain. A higher risk of depression and a negative effect on quality of life (QoL) might be expected in ALS patients with pain. The aims of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of pain in ALS patients, to compare measures of depression and QoL in patients with and without pain, and to study the influence of depression scores and pain on the QoL of ALS patients with pain. Forty ALS patients were enrolled, and 36 were included in the analysis. Seventy-two percent of patients reported pain. Pain intensity was significantly related to a worsening of QoL (p<.05). This effect was no longer significant after considering depression scores as a covariate. Depression scores significantly decreased QoL (p<.02) and this effect remained significant after considering pain intensity as a covariate (p<.05). Our study suggests that pain is frequent in ALS patients and that depressive symptoms are significantly related to poorer QoL. Clinicians should pay more attention to both pain and depressive symptoms in ALS patients considering their effect on QoL.
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Jakobsson Larsson B, Nordin K, Askmark H, Nygren I. Coping strategies among patients with newly diagnosed amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Clin Nurs 2014; 23:3148-55. [DOI: 10.1111/jocn.12557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Karin Nordin
- Department of Public Health and Caring Science; University of Uppsala; Uppsala Sweden
- Department of Global Health and Primary Care; University of Bergen; Norway
| | - Håkan Askmark
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology; Uppsala University Hospital; Uppsala Sweden
| | - Ingela Nygren
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology; Uppsala University Hospital; Uppsala Sweden
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Sánchez-López C, Perestelo-Pérez L, Ramos-Pérez C, López-Bastida J, Serrano-Aguilar P. Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud en pacientes con esclerosis lateral amiotrófica. Neurologia 2014; 29:27-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2013.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2012] [Revised: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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Health-related quality of life in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2013.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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24
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Govindarajan R. Can the combination of ALSFRS and survival time analysis impact the outcome in phase IIIALS clinical trials? Muscle Nerve 2013; 47:779. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.23728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2012] [Revised: 10/20/2012] [Accepted: 11/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Montel S, Albertini L, Spitz E. Coping strategies as related to medical and demographic data in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Acta Neurol Scand 2012; 125:136-41. [PMID: 21470190 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2011.01513.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to examine the coping strategies of 49 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their relationships with medical and demographic data. METHODS A total of 49 subjects were asked to fill out a document that would provide their demographic and medical data. Then, each one was asked to complete a questionnaire of coping strategies called the Brief COPE. RESULTS Regarding age groups, we noticed several significant differences concerning emotional support, venting, positive reframing, planning and humour. All these strategies were used significantly more often by younger patients. As for medical variables, the clinical form (bulbar vs spinal ALS), and participation or non-participation in a clinical trial proved to affect the coping style. The correlation analysis showed that disease duration was positively and significantly related to acceptance, positive reframing and humour. Only one significant correlation was observed between coping strategies and ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS) scores. It concerned blame, which was negatively correlated with ALSFRS scores. DISCUSSION Our study clearly demonstrated the relationships between coping strategies and medical as well as demographic variables. These results encourage us to develop further investigations to better understand these relationships and to offer better adapted psychological interventions for patients with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Montel
- Department of Psychology, Laboratory APEMAC, EPSaM, University of Metz, France.
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26
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Peters M, Fitzpatrick R, Doll H, Playford ED, Jenkinson C. The impact of perceived lack of support provided by health and social care services to caregivers of people with motor neuron disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 13:223-8. [DOI: 10.3109/17482968.2011.649759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Hogden A, Greenfield D, Nugus P, Kiernan MC. What influences patient decision-making in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis multidisciplinary care? A study of patient perspectives. Patient Prefer Adherence 2012; 6:829-38. [PMID: 23226006 PMCID: PMC3514070 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s37851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are required to make decisions concerning quality of life and symptom management over the course of their disease. Clinicians perceive that patients' ability to engage in timely decision-making is extremely challenging. However, we lack patient perspectives on this issue. This study aimed to explore patient experiences of ALS, and to identify factors influencing their decision-making in the specialized multidisciplinary care of ALS. METHODS An exploratory study was conducted. Fourteen patients from two specialized ALS multidisciplinary clinics participated in semistructured interviews that were audio recorded and transcribed. Data were analyzed for emergent themes. RESULTS Decision-making was influenced by three levels of factors, ie, structural, interactional, and personal. The structural factor was the decision-making environment of specialized multidisciplinary ALS clinics, which supported decision-making by providing patients with disease-specific information and specialized care planning. Interactional factors were the patient experiences of ALS, including patients' reaction to the diagnosis, response to deterioration, and engagement with the multidisciplinary ALS team. Personal factors were patients' personal philosophies, including their outlook on life, perceptions of control, and planning for the future. Patient approaches to decision-making reflected a focus on the present, rather than anticipating future progression of the disease and potential care needs. CONCLUSION Decision-making for symptom management and quality of life in ALS care is enhanced when the patient's personal philosophy is supported by collaborative relationships between the patient and the multidisciplinary ALS team. Patients valued the support provided by the multidisciplinary team; however, their focus on living in the present diverged from the efforts of health professionals to prepare patients and their carers for the future. The challenge facing health professionals is how best to engage each patient in decision-making for their future needs, to bridge this gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Hogden
- Centre for Clinical Governance Research, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia
- Correspondence: Anne Vaughan Hogden, Centre for Clinical Governance Research, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Level 1, AGSM Building, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia, Tel +612 9385 3071, Fax +612 9663 4926, Email
| | - David Greenfield
- Centre for Clinical Governance Research, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Nugus
- Centre for Clinical Governance Research, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, and Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Montel S, Albertini L, Spitz E. Coping strategies in relation to quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Muscle Nerve 2011; 45:131-4. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.22270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Stromberg SF, Weiss DB. Depression and quality of life issues in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2011; 8:410-4. [PMID: 16901380 DOI: 10.1007/s11940-006-0030-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor neuron disease that usually results in death secondary to respiratory failure. The psychological reaction to the diagnosis of ALS in patient and caregiver has received increasing attention. Reports are highly variable as to the severity of depressive symptoms in patients with ALS. When they exist, depressive symptoms can be managed with pharmacologic interventions. Recognizing cognitive impairment is essential in the management of patients with ALS. Quality of life assessments have been used to further evaluate the reaction to the disease. Maintaining a meaningful quality of life centers on psychological, supportive, and spiritual factors, as opposed to physical status. In addition to the patient's reaction, there are a variety of responses experienced by caregivers. Clinicians should provide appropriate support to the caregivers of the patients during the course of the illness and after death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon F Stromberg
- Department of Behavioral Health, Denver Health Medical Center, 777 Bannock Street, Denver, CO 80204, USA.
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Identification of personal factors in motor neurone disease: a pilot study. Rehabil Res Pract 2011; 2011:871237. [PMID: 22110980 PMCID: PMC3195318 DOI: 10.1155/2011/871237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neurone disease (MND) is a devastating condition. This preliminary study aims to identify relevant personal factors affecting the experience of living with MND from the perspective of persons with MND (pwMND) in an Australian cohort. A prospective cross-sectional survey of pwMND (n = 44) using an open-ended questionnaire identified personal factors that were categorised thematically. Standardised questionnaires assessed disease severity: depression, anxiety, and stress and coping strategies. Personal factors identified included demographic factors (socioeconomic status), emotional states (depression, anxiety, and fear), coping strategies (problem-based coping and denial), personality, beliefs (religious and personal values), attitudes (of the patient), and others (such as perceived support). An understanding of personal factors by treating clinicians is essential in the provision of optimal care in MND. This study may assist in the development of personal factors within the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health for improved consensus of care and communication amongst treating clinicians.
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Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive disorder characterized by degeneration of motor neurons. Given the severe nature of ALS, many believed that patients would suffer from a high level of depression and a low quality of life. However, research into the psychological health of patients with ALS has shown that this is not the case. This article reviews the state of current knowledge as it pertains to the psychological health of ALS patients in four broad areas: quality of life, personality characteristics, emotional reactions, and end-of-life choices.
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Olsson AG, Markhede I, Strang S, Persson LI. Well-being in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their next of kin over time. Acta Neurol Scand 2010; 121:244-50. [PMID: 20028340 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2009.01191.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The well-being and physical function among patients with ALS and their next of kin was studied over time. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-five patients with ALS and their next of kin were studied with respect to physical, general and psychological well-being by the visual analogue scale (VAS) every 4-6 months. Physical function in patients was rated by the ALSFRS-R and the Norris scale. Patients and next of kin rated the well-being of themselves and their counterpart. RESULTS The well-being was stable and there was a relation between the well-being of patients and next of kin throughout the time studied. Next of kin rated the well-being of the patients worse than patients rated themselves, while patients rated the well-being of their next of kin at the same level as their counterpart. CONCLUSIONS The basic state of well-being as well as the interaction between patient and next of kin seem to be factors that influence the well-being of both patients and their next of kin.
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De groot IJM, Post MWM, Heuveln TV, Van den berg LH, Lindeman E. Cross‐sectional and longitudinal correlations between disease progression and different health‐related quality of life domains in persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 8:356-61. [DOI: 10.1080/17482960701553949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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The dynamics of quality of life in ALS patients and caregivers. Ann Behav Med 2009; 37:197-206. [PMID: 19350337 DOI: 10.1007/s12160-009-9092-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2007] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quality of life (QOL) in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their caregivers may depend on disease progression, premorbid characteristics (e.g., personality or demographics), or idiosyncratic effects (e.g., life events unrelated to the disease). Furthermore, effects may differ for patients and caregivers; physical decline may impact the caregiver more than the patient. PURPOSE The present study examined QOL in ALS patients and their caregivers over the course of the illness. METHODS Longitudinal data from ALS patients (N = 55) and caregivers (N = 53) yielded estimates of the sources of and changes over time in total QOL as well as individual domains (psychological existential, physical, and social) as measured by the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire. RESULTS For both patients and caregivers, about half of QOL variance emerged from stable individual differences. Passage of time did not affect QOL in patients, but total QOL and particularly QOL related to physical symptoms declined over time in caregivers. Gender was mostly unrelated to QOL in patients and caregivers, but younger caregivers had lower QOL across a number of domains. CONCLUSIONS Low QOL among ALS patients is likely due to pre-existing individual differences, whereas both individual differences such as demographics (e.g., age) and disease progression are likely to affect QOL among caregivers.
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HIRANO Y, YAMAZAKI Y. Illness experiences of invasive mechanical ventilator-dependent amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients in Japan : A study of trajectories and correlates of psychological well-being. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.3861/jshhe.75.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Krampe H, Bartels C, Victorson D, Enders CK, Beaumont J, Cella D, Ehrenreich H. The influence of personality factors on disease progression and health-related quality of life in people with ALS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 9:99-107. [PMID: 18428002 DOI: 10.1080/17482960701875805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to perform a prospective long-term follow-up of health-related quality of life (QOL) in ALS and to investigate the relationship of personality factors with changes in QOL and disease progression. Data on QOL were collected prospectively for 12 months from 31 ALS patients. Personality factors were studied using the NEO-FFI (NEO Five Factor Inventory). Monthly self-ratings of global QOL, and seven health-related QOL functions, as well as ALSFRS (ALS Functional Rating Scale) scores were analyzed using a linear mixed model approach. QOL and ALSFRS scores decreased during follow-up. Patients who scored higher on the agreeableness personality dimension, despite similar total duration of disease, had higher QOL at the beginning of the follow-up period but the reduction of QOL over time was significantly steeper than in patients who scored lower on agreeableness, associated with faster disease progression. These findings suggest that being less agreeable might serve as a protective factor with respect to QOL and disease progression in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henning Krampe
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Goettingen, Germany.
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Using focus groups to inform the Neuro-QOL measurement tool: exploring patient-centered, health-related quality of life concepts across neurological conditions. J Neurosci Nurs 2008; 39:342-53. [PMID: 18186419 DOI: 10.1097/01376517-200712000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Measurement of health-related quality of life (HRQL) is of particular importance in neurology clinical trials, where differences in clinical measurements or laboratory data may not translate into significant benefit to the patients. A fundamental consideration in the development and use of an HRQL instrument is whether the instrument's conceptual framework accurately reflects the HRQL experience of the population of interest. This study details the findings from formative research that focused on the identification of content area for an HRQL measurement system in neurology. Specifically, 11 focus groups were conducted with caregivers and patients diagnosed with 7 neurological conditions that represented a range of symptomatology and ages. Through an analytic process using techniques derived from grounded theory, several themes emerged that describe the complexity of HRQL issues and the impact of neurological disorders on multiple areas of life functioning and experience. Findings suggest that although HRQL is comparable across neurological disorders, the contribution of specific domains to overall HRQL may differ among disorders.
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Averill AJ, Kasarskis EJ, Segerstrom SC. Psychological health in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 8:243-54. [PMID: 17653923 DOI: 10.1080/17482960701374643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease with no known effective treatment or cure. Clinicians often expect that ALS patients will experience depression following the diagnosis because ALS is a terminal disease. The objective of the current study was to examine the evidence from the literature on psychological health in ALS patients in order to determine the prevalence and severity of depression in this population. Twenty-eight studies of ALS patients, conducted over the past 20 years, were reviewed and evaluated. The cumulative evidence suggests that clinically significant depression is neither as prevalent nor as severe as might be expected. Methodological limitations that are inherent to the measurement of depression in ALS, including the lack of appropriate instruments, small sample sizes, and reliance on cross-sectional data, have contributed to the wide range of reported results. We conclude that ALS patients are more likely to present with hopelessness and end-of-life concerns than clinically significant depression. It is important to assess a broad range of potential psychological distress early in the course of ALS, rather than focus specifically on depression, because the manner in which patients cope with their disease can affect their longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa J Averill
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, USA
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Carter GT, Han JJ, Mayadev A, Weiss MD. Modafinil reduces fatigue in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A: a case series. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2007; 23:412-6. [PMID: 17060310 DOI: 10.1177/1049909106292169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, the most common hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy, is a slowly progressive disorder characterized by diffuse muscle weakness and prominent distal atrophy that predominantly involves the intrinsic muscles of the feet and the peroneal muscles. It results in marked reduction in functional aerobic capacity during exercise and fatigue is commonly reported. To date, no pharmacologic treatment has been shown to be effective for treating fatigue in Charcot-Marie-Tooth. Modafinil is used to treat the symptoms of fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy. However, fatigue and subsequent excessive daytime sleepiness secondary to fatigue are common symptoms in many neurologic disorders. Prior reports on patients with myotonic muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, have shown beneficial effects of modafinil in treating fatigue. We report 4 patients with genetically confirmed Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease who had significant fatigue that was almost completely relieved by modafinil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory T Carter
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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Havet V. Évaluation psychologique et psychopathologique du patient atteint de sclérose latérale amyotrophique (SLA). Rev Neurol (Paris) 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(06)75181-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To continuously assess overall quality of life (QOL) and disease progression in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at different stages of the disease and compare the results between these two variables. DESIGN/SUBJECTS Twenty-six patients with ALS were interviewed with a questionnaire to assess their QOL from 0 to 10, where 10 is the highest QOL and questions concerning physical function, psychological status, and civil status. Their disease progression was estimated by ALS Functioning Rating Scale (ALS FRS). Nine patients were interviewed only once and 17 patients were interviewed 2-7 times. The interviews were repeated every second visit (range, 4-7 months). All values were ranked and linear regression was used to calculate the slope of QOL and ALS FRS. RESULTS The mean QOL value for all 26 patients was 5.8 (0-10-point scale). For the 17 patients interviewed 2-7 times, which correspond to a follow-up period of 5-28 months, there was no significant change in QOL-value (p = 0.247) among the interviews despite a significant disease progression (p = 0.0001). CONCLUSION It can be concluded that ALS does not necessarily result in a low overall QOL and that despite disease progression overall QOL changes only slightly over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingela Nygren
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology, Uppsala University Hospital, Sweden.
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Hirano YM, Yamazaki Y, Shimizu J, Togari T, Bryce TJ. Ventilator dependence and expressions of need: A study of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Japan. Soc Sci Med 2006; 62:1403-13. [PMID: 16263201 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2005.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2004] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This research examined the experience of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients who depend on an invasive mechanical ventilator in Japan. We investigated their difficulties in expressing their needs, their desires and wishes, and their sources of support and happiness. We examined the relationship between these factors and patient demographics, and hope as an indicator of successful adaptation to the illness experience (assessed by the Herth Hope Index). Interview results guided the formation of an anonymous questionnaire distributed to patients by mail. We interviewed 27 patients and their families and surveyed 157 respondents with a questionnaire. Most patients experienced multiple categories of difficulties, which correlated with reduced hope. More severe physical symptoms correlated with more emotional and social difficulties. Notable findings included a high prevalence of unalleviated pain, fear or experience of ventilator difficulties, and fear of burdening others. Having more sources of psychosocial support and happiness was associated with greater hope. Living at home was associated with fewer social difficulties. No patients claimed additional sources of support without claiming family or professional caregiver support, suggesting their mediation may be crucial in maintaining other social connections. Users of computer communication reported more sources of support and happiness and less frustration from difficulty expressing themselves. The most common reported desires, following a cure for ALS, related to the happiness of the patients' families, and a desire not to burden them. We also found that invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) had been initiated emergently in 30.1% of patients without patient or family consent. Our results provide an insight into the world of this challenged population, elucidating the difficulties they face, and clarifying the role of support and other factors in maintaining hope. We identify concrete areas to which increased attention should be directed in patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Mandai Hirano
- Department of Health Sociology, School of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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