Evaluation of a teleconference-delivered energy conservation education program for people with multiple sclerosis.
BACKGROUND
Little is known about the strengths and limitations of teleconference delivery for energy conservation education for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study evaluated such a program to address this gap.


METHODS
Data were collected from 28 individuals with MS who participated in a teleconference-delivered energy conservation education program. Participants shared their perspectives on the course and its delivery format. Session notes from the three occupational therapists who delivered the program were also reviewed.


RESULTS
Participants found the format to be convenient and relaxed, and the content to be relevant to their everyday lives. Technical issues, lack of time for sharing, and lack of time to practice strategies were limitations. Although the format challenged the occupational therapists' group leadership skills, they were surprised at the extent of group cohesion that developed using this format.


CONCLUSIONS
Feedback from both people with MS and occupational therapists suggests that providing energy conservation education by teleconference is acceptable, practical, and worth pursuing in the future.
Finlayson
Marcia
M
Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 60612-7250, USA. marciaf@uic.edu
Holberg
Christa
C
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D004734:Energy Metabolism; D005221:Fatigue / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D013685:Telecommunications