Pilot study of a cognitive intervention program for persons with multiple sclerosis.
View
or print this bulletin in its original format.
Medical Update Memo
August 18, 2009
Summary
People with MS may develop cognitive decline which can interfere with normal daily activities. Since no pharmacological treatments have been proven to be effective for cognitive symptoms, rehabilitation strategies aimed at reducing the impact of cognitive decline in daily life are crucial. The authors developed a programme to increase participants' knowledge of their cognitive difficulties and boost their confidence in using self-management strategies. The results of this study were positive, highlighting the potential benefits of programmes designed to teach people with MS how to self-manage cognitive impairments. Health Educ Res. 2009 Aug 3
Details
Cognitive impairments are prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS) and can significantly limit participation in daily activities. Although the clinical depiction of cognitive impairments in MS has been well investigated, strategies to manage cognitive difficulties are less well studied. This pilot study tested a 5-week, group-based community program addressing strategies to self-manage MS cognitive changes. The goals of the program were to increase participants' knowledge of cognitive impairments, increase levels of self-efficacy to manage cognitive difficulties and increase use of management strategies. Participants were taught various cognitive compensatory strategies and practiced their implementation between sessions. Thirty-five individuals with MS with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairments participated in the program. All participants exhibited increased knowledge of cognitive impairments and their daily impact. Participants significantly increased levels of self-efficacy in their ability to manage cognitive difficulties. Self-efficacy scores were maintained at follow-up Although the number of strategies participants used did not change significantly), they reported increased effectiveness of strategies and being able to generalize strategies to other activities. Study results point to the potential benefits of self-management programs to address cognitive symptoms in MS. Study limitations include no control group and use of non-standardized outcome measures.
National Research and Programs
Offert en français.
Disclaimer
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is an independent, voluntary health
agency and does not approve, endorse or recommend any specific product or therapy,
but provides information to assist individuals in making their own decisions.
Back
to top  |
