title: [Psychological management of patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their caregivers].
abstract: Psychological management of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their caregivers is a relatively recent concern, probably because there was previously a tendency to consider only physical functioning. Recent work have focused more on psychological well-being concerning patient and their close relative and have highlighted the great need for considering psychological reactions after such a diagnosis. The needs and goals of the patients cannot be limited to functional factors and should be considered in their psychological, social and familial settings. Currently, we consider that close relatives should benefit from psychological support just like patients with ALS. This review suggests different ways to improve management of patients with ALS, while considering personal for strategies coping with the disease, the familial and social context, and individual factors that could improve quality of life (QOL). Studies have demonstrated the significant role of psychological, existential and support factors in determining QOL in these patients.
authors.affiliation: Unité de Neuropsychologie, Département de Neurologie, CHU d'Angers.
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Havet
mesh_terms: D000690:Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / Q000628:therapy*; D017028:Caregivers; D005192:Family Health; D006801:Humans; D011613:Psychotherapy