A Wellness Approach In Multiple Sclerosis Care; Integration Of a Case Study

Background: Individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) are faced with the challenge of living with the unpredictable process of a neurodegenerative disease. Psychological and social adaptation to this process can be optimized with adequate resources, support, and education. Accordingly, an outpatient wellness program was developed at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation to address the specific biopsychosocial/spiritual needs of individuals living with MS.  A case study is presented here to highlight the importance of a wellness approach in improving quality of life outcomes for individuals living with MS. 

Objectives: The overall aim of the wellness program was to improve quality of life experience by increasing awareness of the various social, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual factors that can impact one’s overall well-being. 

Methods: A biopsychosocial model and wellness approaches were utilized in the development and administration of the wellness program to: 1) complement and support medical treatment; 2) teach individuals how to develop lifestyle strategies to enhance quality of living; and 3) put emphasis on personal responsibility.  A 56 year old African American female with a 20 year history of MS participated in a clinical diagnostic interview, a neuropsychological evaluation (inclusive of self-report questionnaires) and a ten week Multiple Sclerosis Wellness Program.

Results: Self report questionnaires from the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Inventory (MSQLI) were administered at baseline (T1) and completion of the ten week program (T2).  Findings showed a decrease in self report of anxiety, depression, pain experience, and perceived cognitive deficits from T1 to T2.  Additionally, at completion of the program, this individual discussed that she was in a place of empowerment and able to implement many of the skills and information she had gathered during the course of the program. Quotes from this individual reflecting the positive impact on her overall quality of life were: 1) My quality of life has changed. I love it! 2) It was a spiritual connection of mind, body, and soul based on facts; 3) I now have tools for understanding my process of healing; and 4) It allowed me to understand the wide range of choices [available to me] about how to tackle the disease. 

Conclusions: Wellness is a philosophy focused on empowerment, taking responsibility, and using a positive approach.  Healthcare professionals focused on how to increase the sense of control and quality of life for individuals living with MS can empower these individuals to integrate newly learned knowledge, coping strategies, and self advocacy.  This presentation is primarily focused on discussing qualitative and functional outcomes, as well as integration of the importance of a multidisciplinary team in the approach to MS care.