Quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Although quality of life is difficult to define clearly, a number of instruments and questionnaires have been developed and applied to patients who have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This article reviews the spectrum of quality-of-life questionnaires and instruments used for ALS and the data generated from them. It discusses positive and negative factors that can affect quality of life for the patient and caregiver and concludes with suggestions for ongoing management to enhance quality of life.