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CC BY V4.0, Open Access
Journal article
Exploring COVID-19 experiences for persons with multiple sclerosis and carers: An Australian qualitative study
Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy, Vol.26(2), pp.785-794
2023
PMID: 36639883
Abstract
Objective
The COVID‐19 pandemic continues to impact communities around the world. In this study, we explored the COVID‐19 experiences of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) and carers.
Methods
Using a qualitative approach, interviews were undertaken with 27 participants residing in Australia (10 persons with MS, 10 carers and 7 MS service providers). Demographic and background data were also collected. Interviews were analysed using an inductive iterative thematic analysis.
Results
Across all groups, participants consistently recognized pandemic challenges and impacts for persons with MS and carers, especially due to disruption to routines and services. Emotional and mental health impacts were also highlighted, as anxiety, fear of contracting COVID‐19 and stress, including relationship stress between persons with MS and carers and family members. Some persons with MS also mentioned physical health impacts, while for carers, the challenge of disruptions included increased demands and reduced resources. In addition to acknowledging challenges, persons with MS and carers also gave examples of resilience. This included coping and adapting by finding new routines and creating space through rest and breaks and through appreciating positives including the benefits of access to telehealth.
Conclusion
Additional support is required for persons with MS and carers in navigating the impacts of COVID‐19 as the pandemic progresses. In addition to addressing challenges and disruptions, such support should also acknowledge and support the resilience of people with MS and carers and enhance resilience through supporting strategies for coping and adaptation.
Patient and Public Contribution
Service user stakeholders were consulted at the beginning and end of the study. They provided feedback on interview questions and participant engagement, as well as service user perspectives on the themes identified in the current study. Participants were provided with summaries of key themes identified and invited to provide comments.
Details
- Title
- Exploring COVID-19 experiences for persons with multiple sclerosis and carers: An Australian qualitative study
- Authors/Creators
- Helen Correia - Psychological Sciences, Australian College of Applied Professions, Perth, Western Australia, AustraliaPamela Martin-Lynch - College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, AustraliaMarcia Finlayson - School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, CanadaYvonne C Learmonth - Murdoch University, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics
- Publication Details
- Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy, Vol.26(2), pp.785-794
- Publisher
- John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
- Identifiers
- 991005567368407891
- Copyright
- © 2023 The Authors.
- Murdoch Affiliation
- Centre for Healthy Ageing; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article
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- Collaboration types
- Domestic collaboration
- International collaboration
- Citation topics
- 1 Clinical & Life Sciences
- 1.203 Neuromuscular Disorders
- 1.203.147 Multiple Sclerosis
- Web Of Science research areas
- Health Care Sciences & Services
- Health Policy & Services
- Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
- ESI research areas
- Social Sciences, general