Development and Evaluation of a Cognitive Rehabilitation Program for Persons With Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological disease that affects over 2.5 million people worldwide. Up to 50% of persons with MS (PwMS) will experience some form of cognitive impairment as a result of the disease including disturbances in memory, attention, concentration, information processing, and executive functions such as problem solving, and self-monitoring. MS-related cognitive impairments negatively affect many aspects of functioning and independent participation in everyday life. Thus, PwMS who experience cognitive impairments face a wide array of recurring barriers that pose grave challenges to carrying out everyday activities while trying to maintain multiple life roles and as they age. Management of cognitive symptoms can be addressed through rehabilitation which has the potential to reduce disability, prevent complications of the disease, and enhance participation, independence, and quality of life. Considering the high frequency of cognitive impairments in MS and their significant, complex impact on functioning and independence, it is critical that cognitive interventions be an essential component of MS rehabilitation. The overarching goal of this study is to develop and test a self-management, group-based cognitive rehabilitation program designed specifically for PwMS.

Multiple Sclerosis, Cognitive impairment, Self-management programs, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation

8-week cognitive rehabilitation program facilitated by an occupational therapist. Program goals include increased knowledge of cognitive impairments in multiple sclerosis, increased self-efficacy to manage cognitive changes and increased use of cognitive compensatory strategies.

Inclusion Criteria: Diagnosis of MS 18 years of age or older Self-report of cognitive difficulties Exclusion Criteria: Exacerbation of symptoms in past 3 months History of TBI, CVA, epilepsy, Psychiatric condition, drug/alcohol abuse