Work performance by persons with multiple sclerosis: conditions that impede or enable the performance of work

This study queried 508 persons diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) regarding what conditions made performing their work or tasks ‘difficult’ and ‘easier’. The subjects represented four groups: employed outside the home, homemakers, unemployed, and retired. Their written responses were content analysed. Conditions reported to impede the performance of work and tasks were related to three categories: physical restrictions, person-environment interaction, and MS-related symptoms. Conditions reported to enhance the performance of work and tasks were related to five categories: assistive devices, human support, personal attributes, health promotion behaviors, and person-environment adjustment. Study findings provide useful information for families, health service providers and employers of persons with MS in assisting them enhance their ability to perform work or tasks.