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- Title
(DAM03) Complexity of Aging with Multiple Sclerosis: Graceful Concessions or Kicking and Screaming?
- Authors
Richardson, Emma V.; Motl, Robert W.
- Abstract
Background: Over the past 3 decades there have been significant advances in the development of pharmaceutical and rehabilitative treatments for persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), such that life expectancy is continuing to increase. As a result of these advancements, there is a "graying" phenomenon within the global MS population and a demographic shift of the aging landscape. While these advancements are exciting, there also concerns and unknowns regarding what it is like to age with MS. Objectives: The objectives of this research were to explore the experiences of aging in conjunction with having MS, and the different ways persons older than 60 with MS interpreted this phenomenon. Methods: Semistructured interviews with 40 persons with MS older than 60 years were conducted. Thereafter data were subject to a pluralistic analysis approach utilizing phenomenological and narrative traditions. Results: This research highlighted the complexity of aging with MS and the various ways persons older than 60 with MS experience and interpret this phenomenon. Most participants experienced a continued progression of physical and cognitive deficits, however aging narratives and what is culturally expected as a person older than 60 allowed for positive interpretations of this stage of life. For example, participants diagnosed in early adulthood stated having health problems was "normal" over 60, resulting in a sense of belonging that they had not experienced since being diagnosed. Some participants also perceived they were aging more successfully than peers without MS as they had engaged in healthenhancing behaviors from an earlier age, while others believed they had "aged out" of MS and were experiencing a peak of health and wellness. Participants who were diagnosed in middle age, however, noted a sharp progression of age-related and MS symptoms, but stated "everyone has something" and perceived the diagnosis of MS was less impactful in older age with regards to what is expected at this life stage. Concerns remained, however, regarding whether a new physical or cognitive experience was aging or MS, what the future holds regarding losing independence, losing spouses and caregivers, and growing "too old" such that quality of life is completely diminished. Conclusions: This qualitative research has highlighted the complexity of aging with MS. All participants noted a continued progression of health, physical function, and cognitive ability but stated that they felt a sense of normality and were living a life that culturally aligned with aging narratives. Fears about the future do remain as participants were concerned about living too long for being able to thrive. More research must be done that focuses on maintaining quality of life among older person with MS as quantity of life continues to increase.
- Subjects
MULTIPLE sclerosis; MENTAL health; CONFERENCES &; conventions; EXPERIENCE; QUALITY of life; ATTITUDES toward aging; ATTITUDES toward illness; OLD age
- Publication
International Journal of MS Care, 2020, Vol 22, Issue S2, p1
- ISSN
1537-2073
- Publication type
Article