Multiple perspectives on the health service need, use, and variability among older adults with multiple sclerosis.
SUMMARY The purpose of this paper is to present the findings from the first phase of a large study that is examining the unmet health-related service needs of people aging with MS. Fifty-one volunteers participated in seven focus groups-five with individuals with MS and their family members, and two with health care professionals. Content analysis indicated health promotion (both physical and social), community accessibility, and support to remain at home as the most commonly identified health-related service needs. Differences were observed between the groups of individuals with MS/family members and health professionals. Findings point to the importance of using a client-centered approach when working with persons with multiple sclerosis and their family members.
Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1919 W. Taylor Street (MC 811), Chicago, IL, 60612 marciaf@uic.edu.
Marcia
M
Finlayson
Toni Van
TV
Denend
Eynat
E
Shevil